Privacy Policy
Last Updated: January 2026
1. Introduction
We are committed to protecting your privacy. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, disclose, and safeguard your information when you use our pet adoption platform (the "Service").
Please read this policy carefully. By using the Service, you consent to the practices described in this policy.
2. Information We Collect
2.1 Personal Information
We collect personal information that you voluntarily provide:
Account Information:
- Name and username
- Email address
- Password (encrypted)
- Phone number
- Profile photo
Adoption-Related Information:
- Address and location
- Housing information (ownership/rental, yard, etc.)
- Household composition
- Pet ownership history
- References
- Employment information
- Income information (for adoption qualification)
Communication Data:
- Messages with other users
- Support inquiries
- Feedback and surveys
2.2 Automatically Collected Information
We automatically collect:
- Device information (IP address, browser type, operating system)
- Usage information (pages visited, time spent, click patterns)
- Location information (general location, with consent)
2.3 Cookies and Similar Technologies
We use cookies, web beacons, and similar technologies to remember your preferences, maintain your session, analyze usage patterns, and serve relevant content. You can control cookie settings through your browser.
3. How We Use Your Information
We use your information to:
- Create and maintain your account
- Facilitate pet adoption processes
- Connect adopters with pet providers
- Verify user identities
- Process adoption applications
- Communicate about adoptions
- Provide customer support
- Analyze usage patterns and improve Service functionality
- Detect and prevent fraud
- Comply with legal obligations
5. Information Shared Between Users
During the adoption process, information may be shared between adopters and pet providers. This may include contact information, application details, home information, and references.
You control what information you share with other users. We recommend sharing only necessary information and using platform messaging initially.
6. Data Retention
We retain information for as long as necessary:
- Account data: While your account is active plus 7 years
- Adoption records: 7 years after adoption completion
- Communication data: 3 years
- Analytics data: 2 years
- Deleted accounts: 30 days for full removal
You may request deletion of your data by contacting us at privacy@petservice.com.
7. Data Security
We implement reasonable security measures including:
- Encryption in transit and at rest
- Access controls and authentication
- Regular security assessments
- Employee training
- Incident response procedures
No security measure is perfect. You are responsible for maintaining password confidentiality and securing your devices.
8. Your Privacy Rights
You have the following rights:
- Access: Request a copy of your data
- Correction: Update your profile or request corrections
- Deletion: Delete your account or remove specific information
- Portability: Receive your data in structured format
- Opt-Out: Opt out of marketing communications and non-essential cookies
To exercise your rights, email privacy@petservice.com. We will respond within 30 days.
9. Children's Privacy
The Service is not intended for children under 18. We do not knowingly collect data from children. If we discover we collected data from a child, we will delete the information promptly and terminate the account.
10. International Data Transfers
Your information may be transferred to countries with different privacy laws. We use appropriate safeguards including standard contractual clauses when required. By using the Service, you consent to transfer of your information.
11. Third-Party Links and Services
The Service may contain links to partner organization websites, veterinary resources, pet care information, and social media platforms. We are not responsible for third-party privacy practices or content on external sites.
12. Changes to This Policy
We may update this Privacy Policy to reflect legal changes, improve transparency, address new practices, or enhance user rights. For material changes, we will notify you via email and post notices on the Service.
13. California Privacy Rights (CCPA/CPRA)
If you are a California resident, you have additional rights:
- Right to know what data is collected
- Right to know if data is sold/shared
- Right to opt out of sale/sharing
- Right to limit sensitive data use
- Right to non-discrimination
We do not sell personal information as defined by CCPA. California residents may submit requests via privacy@petservice.com.
14. European Privacy Rights (GDPR)
If you are in the EU or UK, you have additional rights:
- Right to lawful basis information
- Right to object to processing
- Right to restrict processing
- Right to withdraw consent
- Right to lodge complaints
We process data based on contract performance, legitimate interests, legal obligations, or your consent. Contact our DPO at dpo@petservice.com.
15. Contact Information
For privacy questions or concerns:
- Email: privacy@petservice.com
- Address: [Your Business Address]
- Phone: [Your Phone Number]
If you have unresolved concerns, you may contact your local data protection authority or file a complaint with relevant regulators.