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Documentation

Processing Adoption Returns

Return an adoption while preserving the pet and adopter history

In this guide

Key sections from this documentation page.

Start a ReturnComplete the DialogWhat PawPlacer Changes

Start a Return

Open a completed adoption receipt and either:

  • Click the receipt status.
  • Open the action menu and choose Return Adoption.

For a specific adopted pet, the pet-profile footer can also offer Return Adoption when PawPlacer can resolve its adoption record.

Complete the Dialog

  1. Review the listed effects.
  2. Enter the required return reason.
  3. Click Confirm.

The return reason should record relevant behavior, health, household, or situational context without judgment or unnecessary personal detail.

What PawPlacer Changes

  • The adoption is marked Returned.
  • The return date and reason are retained.
  • The returned pet is moved back to the configured available status.
  • The pet stays linked to the adopter and adoption history.
  • The original fee, donation, payment, contract, notes, documents, and follow-ups remain on the receipt.

For a multi-pet receipt, a return started from the receipt applies to the adoption; a return started from a pet profile can target that pet.

After a Return

  • Review the pet's health and behavior.
  • Update the pet profile, public description, photos, and fee when needed.
  • Add formal medical records or internal notes in the appropriate pet sections.
  • Review remaining follow-ups on the adoption receipt.

Refunds

PawPlacer does not issue a payment-provider refund as part of the return workflow. Process any refund in Stripe, Square, or the external financial system according to your policy. The PawPlacer receipt retains the original ledger context.

Related

  • Managing Adoption Records
  • Pet History

Keep reading

Move through the documentation in order.

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