Thepetstoreonline.com Sorry Return Policy Internet, Internet

My complaint is this company's sorry return policy. We purchased an electronic dog training collar about a year ago.  Our dog developed some health issues and we decided against causing any more stress to her.  We traveled some during the summer and it was about three or four months, I think, after the purchase when I tried to return the collar to the company.  The company has a 30 day return policy that seems reasonable but the return process itself is no better than the words that are written on the company's website.  The company has a "gate keeper" from whom you must obtain a Return Authorization Number (RA#) in order for the company to accept a return.  The company states "Our goal is the complete satisfaction of each and every one of our customers ... However, if the rare situation occurs when you are not, then we want to invite you to return the item to us."  My invitation consisted of a refusal to provide a RA#.  I sent the item back anyway via U.S. mail and it was returned stamped "refused".  The item was unopened in its original box and I included a note simply requesting a credit in lieu of a cash refund.  I order products from companies such as Lands' End, Napa Valley, etc. and have had to return items on occasion - there has never been an issue.   I have returned items with a handwritten note, no receipt or record of purchase, and on every occasion have had a representative call me and received at least a credit.  This company's return policy is breath-taking in its short-sightedness.  I guess they would rather book one purchase than worry about cultivating a potential long-term customer.  In conclusion, i will never buy another product from this company and caution all customers to BEWARE of the company's sorry customer service.