Terms & Conditions

Introduction

This website (https://petsconnected.com) and the Pets Connected mobile application (collectively, the “Platform”) are owned and operated by Pets Connected Ltd (“Pets Connected”, “we”, “us”, or “our”), a company registered in England and Wales under company number 12345678, with our registered office at 123 Pet Lane, London, EC1A 1AA. These Terms and Conditions (“Terms”) govern your access to and use of the Platform, including browsing, creating listings, purchasing, selling, rehoming animals, or promoting pet-related services. By accessing or using the Platform, you agree to be bound by these Terms and our Privacy Policy. If you do not agree, you must immediately cease using the Platform.

We reserve the right to amend these Terms at any time without prior notice. Changes are effective upon posting on the Platform. Your continued use after such changes constitutes acceptance of the updated Terms. Please review these Terms periodically.

1. Ownership and Intellectual Property

1.1. Platform Content

All content on the Platform, including text, images, graphics, logos, videos, software, and other materials, is owned by Pets Connected or licensed to us with appropriate permissions. You may view or download a single copy for personal, non-commercial use, retaining all copyright, trademark, and proprietary notices.

1.2. Restrictions on Use

You are prohibited from copying, reproducing, modifying, distributing, or using Platform content for commercial purposes without prior written consent. Creating derivative works, framing, or linking to content without permission is not allowed. Unauthorized use may result in legal action and account termination.

1.3. Trademarks

No license is granted to use trademarks, service marks, or logos of Pets Connected, its affiliates, or third parties. Unauthorized use is strictly prohibited.

1.4. Data Mining and Scraping

Text or data mining, web scraping, or automated data collection (e.g., using robots, spiders, or algorithms) is prohibited. Violations may lead to legal action.

1.5. User-Generated Content

Content you upload, such as listings or images (“User Content”), remains your property or that of the rightful owner. By uploading, you grant Pets Connected a non-exclusive, worldwide, royalty-free, perpetual license to use, reproduce, display, and distribute it for Platform operations. You warrant that your content does not infringe third-party rights.

1.6. Prohibited Use of User Content

Copying or distributing another user’s content without permission is prohibited and may result in content removal and account termination.

2. Your Account

2.1. Registration

To access features like creating listings or rehoming animals, you must register with accurate and complete information (e.g., name, email, contact details).

2.2. Account Security

You are responsible for:

• Maintaining the confidentiality of your account credentials.
• Restricting device access to prevent unauthorized use.
• Notifying us immediately at https://petsconnected.com/support-ticket if your account is compromised.

You are liable for all activities under your account.

2.3. Accuracy of Information

Ensure all provided information is accurate and updated promptly. Inaccurate information may lead to account suspension.

2.4. Age Restriction

You must be at least 18 to register or engage in transactions. Minors may use the Platform only with parental consent and supervision.

2.5. Account Suspension and Termination

We may decline registration, suspend, or terminate accounts for breaches, including prohibited activities or false information. Terminated accounts forfeit fees or credits.

2.6. Pets Connected Loyalty Program

Participation in the Loyalty Program offers benefits like discounts. It is subject to these Terms and program-specific conditions. We may modify or terminate the program without notice.

3. Animal Legality and Jurisdictional Compliance

3.1. Compliance with Laws

You must comply with all applicable laws regarding pet ownership, sale, rehoming, breeding, transport, and licensing.

3.2. Prohibited Animals

You may not list animals that are:

• Banned or restricted by local, national, or international law.
• On dangerous or restricted breed lists.
• Endangered or protected under CITES or equivalent frameworks.

3.3. Verification

You must verify your legal right to sell, rehome, or advertise animals, including obtaining necessary permits or licenses.

3.4. Consequences of Non-Compliance

Non-compliance may result in account suspension, legal action, and cooperation with authorities.

4. Zero Tolerance Policy

4.1. Policy Overview

We enforce a zero-tolerance policy for violations of animal welfare laws, breed restrictions, or these Terms, including:

• Listing prohibited animals.
• Misrepresenting breeds or legal status.
• Bypassing legal requirements.

4.2. Consequences

Violations result in:

• Permanent account suspension.
• Forfeiture of fees or credits.
• No right to appeal.
• Potential reporting to authorities.

5. User Responsibility

5.1. Content Accuracy

You are responsible for the accuracy, legality, and appropriateness of User Content, including accurate animal descriptions and legal compliance.

5.2. Legal Compliance

Ensure compliance with all applicable laws and obtain necessary licenses. Pets Connected does not verify User Content.

5.3. User Interactions

You are responsible for all interactions with other users. We do not mediate disputes but may enforce these Terms.

6. Platform Liability Waiver

6.1. No Liability for User Content

We are not liable for:

• Fraudulent or unlawful User Content.
• Disputes or damages from user interactions.
• Harm resulting from Platform activities.

6.2. Investigation and Removal

We may investigate and remove prohibited content and take further action, including account suspension.

6.3. No Endorsement

User Content does not imply our endorsement or verification.

7. Reporting and Enforcement

7.1. Reporting Mechanism

Report violations at https://petsconnected.com/support-ticket with detailed information.

7.2. Enforcement Process

We review reports, may request additional information, and take action such as content removal or account suspension. We cooperate with authorities when required.

7.3. User Cooperation

You must cooperate with investigations, or risk account suspension.

8. Refund and Termination Policy

8.1. Termination for Violations

Violating accounts are terminated without refunds.

8.2. Voluntary Termination

You may terminate your account via https://petsconnected.com/support-ticket. No refunds are issued.

8.3. Effect of Termination

Termination results in loss of access and forfeiture of benefits.

9. Indemnity

You agree to indemnify Pets Connected against claims arising from your use of the Platform, User Content, or violations of laws or these Terms.

10. Governing Law and Dispute Resolution

10.1. Governing Law

These Terms are governed by the laws of England and Wales, with disputes subject to their courts.

10.2. International Enforcement

International users must comply with local laws, and these Terms apply to the fullest extent permitted.

10.3. Arbitration

Disputes not resolved through negotiation are subject to binding arbitration under LCIA rules in London, England.

10.4. Class Action Waiver

Disputes must be resolved individually, with no class actions.

11. Website Information and Availability

11.1. Accuracy of Information

We strive for accuracy but cannot guarantee third-party content. Verify information before relying on it.

11.2. Service Availability

Access may be restricted for maintenance. Report issues at https://petsconnected.com/support-ticket.

11.3. Internet Risks

The Platform is provided “as is” with no warranties for errors or interruptions.

12. Prohibited Uses

You may not:

• Transmit unlawful or objectionable material.
• Violate laws or intellectual property rights.
• Disrupt the Platform or other users’ access.

13. Promotions and Loyalty Program

13.1. General

Promotions and the Loyalty Program offer benefits subject to specific terms.

13.2. Restrictions

Promotions are subject to availability and cannot be combined unless specified.

13.3. Loyalty Program

Participation is voluntary, and benefits may be forfeited upon program termination.

14. Transactions and Payments

14.1. Ordering Services

Orders are confirmed via email, forming a contract upon confirmation.

14.2. Pricing

Prices include VAT where applicable. We may correct pricing errors.

14.3. Payment

Payments are processed at order submission. Failed payments may lead to order cancellation.

14.4. Refunds

Refunds follow Section 8. No refunds for services rendered or terminated accounts.

15. Force Majeure

We are not liable for delays due to events beyond our control (e.g., natural disasters, strikes).

16. Consumer Rights

16.1. Cancellation Rights

Consumers may cancel services within 14 days if not fully performed. Contact https://petsconnected.com/support-ticket.

16.2. Defective Services

Report defective services for investigation and potential refunds.

17. Complaints Procedure

17.1. Submitting a Complaint

Contact us at https://petsconnected.com/support-ticket, support@petsconnected.com, or 123 Pet Lane, London, EC1A 1AA.

17.2. Escalation

Request escalation if unsatisfied with our response.

17.3. Independent Resolution

Seek consumer protection or arbitration if unresolved.

18. General

18.1. Compliance with Local Laws

Using the Platform where its content is illegal is prohibited.

18.2. Third-Party Rights

No third-party rights are granted under these Terms.

18.3. Severability

Invalid provisions are severed, and remaining Terms remain valid.

18.4. Assignment

We may assign our rights; you may not without consent.

18.5. Waiver

Failure to enforce Terms is not a waiver.

18.6. Entire Agreement

These Terms and the Privacy Policy are the entire agreement.

19. Electronic Communications

19.1. Communication Method

You consent to electronic communications (e.g., email, in-app notifications).

19.2. Email Accuracy

Ensure your email is accurate and monitored.

19.3. Opting Out

Opt out of promotional communications, but transactional messages are mandatory.

20. Notices

20.1. User Notices to Pets Connected

Send notices to support@petsconnected.com or 123 Pet Lane, London, EC1A 1AA.

20.2. Pets Connected Notices to Users

Notices are sent via email, post, or Platform postings.

21. Reviews and Feedback

21.1. Submission of Reviews

Reviews must be honest and relevant.

21.2. Moderation

We may edit or remove inappropriate reviews.

21.3. Ownership of Feedback

Feedback grants us a perpetual license to use it.

22. Accessibility

22.1. Commitment to Accessibility

We aim to comply with WCAG standards.

22.2. Reporting Accessibility Issues

Report issues at https://petsconnected.com/support-ticket.

23. Third-Party Links and Services

23.1. External Links

Links to third-party sites are for convenience only.

23.2. Third-Party Terms

Third-party services are subject to their terms.

23.3. Third-Party Advertisements

We do not endorse advertisements.

24. Data Protection and Privacy

24.1. Privacy Policy

Data is handled per our Privacy Policy.

24.2. Data Security

We use reasonable measures but cannot guarantee absolute security.

24.3. International Data Transfers

Data may be transferred internationally, subject to our Privacy Policy.

25. Limitation of Liability

25.1. General Limitation

We are not liable for indirect or consequential damages.

25.2. Consumer Liability Cap

Liability is limited to three times the amount paid for services.

25.3. Business Liability Cap

Liability is limited to the amount paid.

25.4. Exclusions

Liability for death, injury, or fraud is not excluded.

26. Subscription Services

26.1. Subscription Plans

Subscriptions offer premium features, subject to additional terms.

26.2. Automatic Renewal

Subscriptions renew automatically unless canceled.

26.3. Cancellation of Subscriptions

Cancel via account settings or https://petsconnected.com/support-ticket. No refunds for unused periods.

27. Dispute Between Users

27.1. User Responsibility

You resolve disputes directly with other users.

27.2. Platform Assistance

We may assist at our discretion.

27.3. Release

You release us from claims arising from user disputes.

28. Termination of Platform Services

28.1. Right to Terminate

We may terminate the Platform or portions thereof without notice.

28.2. Data Retention

Data may be retained per legal requirements.

28.3. Survival of Terms

Certain provisions survive termination.

30. Pet Advertising and Listing Rules

30.1. General Advertising Requirements

• Ownership or Breeding: Pets must be owned or bred by you, unless you’re a verified charity.
• Licensing Compliance: Upload valid licenses for breeding or sales.
• Age Restrictions: Dogs, cats, rabbits, ferrets (8 weeks); chinchillas (12 weeks); foals (6 months).
• Litter Advertising: Litters must be advertised together with a photo including the mother.
• Single Advert: One advert per animal or litter.
• Accurate Categorization: Use correct categories (e.g., Sale, Adoption).
• Photo Authenticity: Use real, unaltered photos of the pet.
• No Gift Promotions: Do not promote pets as gifts.
• Location Requirement: Pets must be in the listed country.
• Rescue Pets from Abroad: Must be in the destination country with proper documentation.
• No Imported Pets for Sale: Only personal pets can be rehomed.
• No Pregnant Pets: Pregnant animals cannot be advertised.
• No Swaps or Exchanges: Prohibited.
• No “Free to Good Home”: Not allowed for cats and dogs in Sale category.
• Health Disclosure: Disclose health issues.
• No Delivery Services: Pets must be collected, except approved invertebrates.
• No Large-Scale Breeding: Prohibited.

30.2. Dog and Cat Specific Rules

• Microchipping: Dogs (8 weeks), cats (20 weeks).
• Litter Viewing: Show puppies/kittens with their mother.
• Prohibited Descriptions: No “Micro,” “Teacup,” or “Designer” terms.
• Banned Breeds: Prohibited per jurisdiction (e.g., UK: Pit Bull Terrier, XL Bully).
• No Guard or Hunting Dogs: Only family pets.
• No Cropped Ears: Prohibited for sale or stud.
• No AI or Spay/Neuter Ads: Not permitted.
• No Puppy/Kitten Yoga: Prohibited.
• Stud Age Restrictions: Minimum 12 months.
• No Double Dapple or Merle: Prohibited.
• Governing Body Registration: Provide documentation if registered.
• Scottish Cat Breeders: License required for 3+ litters annually.

30.3. Other Animals

• No Live Vertebrates as Food: Prohibited.
• CITES Compliance: Provide Article 10 certificate for Annex A animals.
• No Primates or Wild Animals: Prohibited.
• Prohibited Reptiles: Includes anacondas, Burmese pythons, etc.
• Equine Requirements: Horses need microchips and passports; riders must wear safety gear.

30.4. Enforcement

Violations may lead to advertisement rejection, account suspension, or reporting to authorities.

31. Payment Services

31.1. Fees for Services

Fees apply for advertising, promotions, or premium features, quoted in local currency.

31.2. Payment Processing

Processed via Stripe (https://stripe.com).

31.3. Data Security

Payment data is securely processed by Stripe.

31.4. Non-Refundable Payments

No refunds for rendered services or terminated accounts.

31.5. AML and KYC

Provide documentation for verification as required.

32. Pet Payments Service

32.1. Overview

Secure payments via Stripe for user transactions.

32.2. User Obligations

Provide accurate information and comply with AML/KYC.

32.3. Liability

We are not liable for payment provider issues.

32.4. Non-Refundable Transactions

No refunds for terminated accounts.

33. Account Verification and Security

33.1. Verification Requirements

Provide ID, address, or licenses if requested.

33.2. Single Account Rule

One account per user; duplicates may be closed.

33.3. Account Confidentiality

Secure your credentials; you’re liable for unauthorized use.

33.4. Address Verification

Provide and verify full address.

34. Messaging and Communication

34.1. Secure Messaging

Use the Platform’s messaging system only.

34.2. Prohibited Messaging Practices

No offensive, spammy, or commercial messages.

34.3. User Verification

Verify other users’ legitimacy before transacting.

35. Breeder and Rescue Accounts

35.1. Breeder Accounts

Register as a breeder, upload licenses, and comply with regulations.

35.2. Rescue and Charity Accounts

Use official email and post in Adoption category.

35.3. Restrictions

Volunteers must use Individual accounts.

36. Consumer Contracts Regulations

36.1. No Right to Cancel

Bespoke services have no cancellation right once performed.

36.2. Statutory Rights

Your statutory rights remain unaffected.

37. Monitoring and Compliance

37.1. Platform Monitoring

We monitor activity for compliance.

37.2. Cooperation with Authorities

We may share information for legal investigations.

37.3. Local Compliance

Violations of local laws may lead to action.

38. Disclaimers

38.1. No Warranties

Platform is “as is” with no guarantees.

38.2. General Advice

Advice is for guidance only.

38.3. Third-Party Content

We do not verify User Content.

38.4. System Disruptions

No liability for technical issues.

39. Governing Law and Jurisdiction

39.1. Operative Law

Governed by England and Wales law.

39.2. International Users

Comply with local laws.

39.3. Arbitration

Disputes go to LCIA arbitration.

40. Contact Information

For questions or reports:

• Website: https://petsconnected.com/support-ticket
• Email: support@petsconnected.com
• Address: Pets Connected Ltd, 123 Pet Lane, London, EC1A 1AA

40. Contact Information

For questions or reports:

• Website: https://petsconnected.com/support-ticket
• Email: support@petsconnected.com
• Address: Pets Connected Ltd, 123 Pet Lane, London, EC1A 1AA

41. Competitions, Subscriber Giveaways & Prize Draws

41.1. Overview

Pets Connected Ltd operates periodic competitions, prize draws, and giveaways (collectively “Competitions”). Competitions are free-to-enter skill-based prize promotions (or prize competitions with a genuine free entry route) designed to fully comply with the UK Gambling Act 2005, the CAP Code, the Consumer Rights Act 2015, and all other applicable legislation.

41.2. Subscription Requirement & Automatic Entry

Active paid monthly subscribers are automatically entered into every Competition upon correctly answering the qualifying skill-based question. To remain eligible, users must:

• Hold an active paid subscription (currently £10 per month or applicable promotional rate);
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date contact information;
• Correctly answer the skill-based qualifying question for each Competition.

Full details and current Competitions are always available at: https://petsconnected.com/competition

41.3. Nature of the Subscription

The subscription fee provides access to premium digital services and member-only features. Entry into Competitions is supplied entirely free of additional charge as a goodwill benefit and is not the purpose or dominant reason for the subscription purchase.

41.4. Eligibility

Competitions are open worldwide to individuals aged 18+. Entrants are solely responsible for ensuring their participation complies with local laws. We may request proof of age, identity, or eligibility at any time. Failure to provide satisfactory proof may result in disqualification.

41.5. Skill-Based Entry Requirement

Every Competition includes a qualifying question requiring knowledge or skill. Only correct answers result in a valid entry.

41.6. Entry Period

Opening and closing dates are stated on the individual Competition page. Late entries (including postal) are not accepted.

41.7. Prize Description

Unless otherwise stated, the winner may choose between:

• A bespoke animal transport trailer (value up to £50,000 GBP); or
• A cash alternative of £10,000 GBP.

We reserve the right to substitute a prize of equal or greater value if the advertised prize becomes unavailable for reasons beyond our control.

41.8. Winner Selection

One winner is selected at random from all valid entries within 7 days of the closing date using a verifiable, independently-auditable random method.

41.9. Winner Notification & Claim Period

The winner will be notified via the email address linked to their account. If the winner does not respond within 7 days, we reserve the right to select an alternative winner.

41.10. Prize Fulfilment & Verification

Winners must provide satisfactory identification and any legally-required documentation. Cash prizes are paid by bank transfer within 30 days of successful verification. Physical prizes are coordinated directly with the winner.

41.11. Fraud, Abuse and Disqualification

We reserve the right to disqualify entries and/or cancel Competitions if we suspect fraud, multiple accounts, system tampering, or any attempt to manipulate outcome.

41.12. Publicity

Winners agree (unless they opt out in writing) to reasonable promotional use of their first name and general location (e.g. “John from Spain”).

41.13. Data Protection

Competition data is processed in accordance with UK GDPR and our Privacy Policy.

41.14. International Participants & Tax

Non-UK entrants are responsible for any local taxes, import duties, or legal restrictions on prize receipt.

41.15. Subscription Cancellation

Cancellation of subscription removes eligibility for future Competitions but does not affect entries already submitted.

41.16. Free Entry Route (Mandatory Legal Compliance)

A genuine free entry route is always available. To enter without subscription, send your full name, postal address, email address, and the correct answer to the qualifying question on a plain postcard or sealed envelope to:

Pets Connected Ltd – Competition Entry
Ground Floor 6&7 Eastway Business Village
Olivers Place, Preston, Lancashire, United Kingdom, PR2 9WT

Postal entries must be received by the stated closing date. Only one postal entry per person per Competition.

41.17. Limitation of Liability

To the fullest extent permitted by law, Pets Connected Ltd excludes liability for any loss or damage arising from participation in Competitions except where caused by our negligence.

41.18. Governing Law

Competitions and these rules are governed by the laws of England and Wales.