Privacy Policy

1. Introduction

Me & My Doggy ("we," "our," or "us") is committed to protecting your privacy. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, disclose, and safeguard your information when you use our platform.

This policy applies to all users of our website, mobile applications, and services (collectively, the "Platform").

2. Information We Collect

Personal Information

We collect information that you provide directly to us, including:

• Name, email address, and phone number
• Profile photo and bio
• Address and location information
• Payment information (processed securely by Stripe)
• Identity verification documents (for sitters)
• DBS check results (for sitters)

Pet Information

For pet owners, we collect:

• Dog's name, breed, age, and size
• Medical information and vaccination records
• Behavioral information and special needs
• Photos of your dog

Usage Information

We automatically collect:

• Device information (type, operating system, browser)
• IP address and location data
• Pages viewed and actions taken on the Platform
• Search queries and booking history
• Communication between users (for safety and quality)

Cookies and Tracking

We use cookies and similar technologies to enhance your experience. You can control cookies through your browser settings.

3. How We Use Your Information

We use your information to:

• Provide and improve our services
• Process bookings and payments
• Verify user identity and conduct background checks
• Facilitate communication between users
• Send booking confirmations, reminders, and updates
• Provide customer support
• Prevent fraud and ensure platform safety
• Comply with legal obligations
• Send marketing communications (with your consent)
• Analyze usage patterns to improve the Platform

4. Information Sharing and Disclosure

With Other Users

When you book a service or offer services as a sitter, we share relevant information with the other party, including contact details, location, and pet information.

Service Providers

We share information with third-party service providers who help us operate, including:

• Payment processors (Stripe)
• Identity verification services
• DBS checking services
• Email and messaging services
• Cloud hosting providers
• Analytics services

Legal Requirements

We may disclose information if required by law or to:

• Comply with legal processes
• Respond to government requests
• Protect our rights and property
• Ensure user safety
• Investigate fraud or security issues

Business Transfers

If Me & My Doggy is involved in a merger, acquisition, or sale of assets, your information may be transferred. We will notify you before this occurs.

5. Data Security

We implement appropriate technical and organizational measures to protect your information, including:

• Encryption of data in transit and at rest
• Secure payment processing through Stripe
• Regular security audits and updates
• Access controls and authentication
• Employee training on data protection

However, no method of transmission over the internet is 100% secure. We cannot guarantee absolute security.

6. Data Retention

We retain your information for as long as necessary to:

• Provide our services
• Comply with legal obligations
• Resolve disputes
• Enforce our agreements

After account deletion, we may retain certain information for legal compliance and legitimate business purposes.

7. Your Rights (GDPR Compliance)

Under UK GDPR, you have the right to:

• Access your personal data
• Correct inaccurate information
• Request deletion of your data
• Object to processing of your data
• Request data portability
• Withdraw consent at any time
• Lodge a complaint with the ICO

To exercise these rights, contact us at privacy@meandmydoggy.com or use the settings in your account.

8. Children's Privacy

Our Platform is not intended for children under 18. We do not knowingly collect information from children. If you believe we have collected information from a child, please contact us immediately.

9. International Data Transfers

Your information may be transferred to and processed in countries outside the UK. We ensure appropriate safeguards are in place to protect your data in accordance with UK GDPR.

10. Marketing Communications

With your consent, we may send you marketing emails about new features, promotions, and updates. You can opt out at any time by:

• Clicking the unsubscribe link in emails
• Updating your notification preferences in settings
• Contacting our support team

11. Third-Party Links

Our Platform may contain links to third-party websites. We are not responsible for the privacy practices of these sites. We encourage you to read their privacy policies.

12. Changes to This Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. We will notify you of significant changes via email or platform notification. Your continued use after changes indicates acceptance of the updated policy.

13. Contact Us

For questions about this Privacy Policy or to exercise your rights, contact us:

• Email: privacy@meandmydoggy.com
• Phone: [To be added]
• Address: [To be added]

Data Protection Officer: [To be added]

14. ICO Registration

Me & My Doggy is registered with the UK Information Commissioner's Office (ICO). Registration number: [To be added]