Hi @Dave1515 when you go to make a booking it does show you the cancellation policy you book under and what the penalties are if you cancel a booking.
you are also offered travel insurance if you don't have your own.
I am not sure why you wouldn't be happy at a host for honouring the cancellation policy you booked under ? He hasn't misled you. And it doesn't l my she him a bad host.
Why did you need to cancel? If it's a reason covered by your travel insurance use that .
I agree they should provide a refund on the pet fee .
personally I do offer to refund as a gesture of good will IF I am able to get a replacement booking . You could suggest that.