I personally don't believe that it is for their own financial gain. If I saw a dog being raised in a pen, I'd probably take him/her too.

I wouldn't let one show sway your opinions. If you hear this from many sources, then that might be a concern. Maybe I am biased because I worked for the SPCA and am deeply involved in rescue. But I'm not going to believe they steal dogs for profit.

Which SPCA in specific were they talking about? The ASPCA?