HomeWagger Code of Ethics

HomeWagger exists to make dog rehoming kinder, safer and more transparent. This Code of Ethics sets out the principles that everyone using HomeWagger agrees to follow: adopters, rehomers, shelters and supporters.

1. Dogs are not commodities

Dogs are living beings, not items to be traded. On HomeWagger:

  • We treat dogs as family members who deserve respect, care and stability.
  • We do not sell dogs or use the platform for commercial breeding or profit-driven trading.

2. Welfare comes first

Every decision made through HomeWagger should put the dog’s welfare at the centre. Users agree to:

  • be honest about a dog’s history, health and behaviour;
  • only list dogs who genuinely need a new home;
  • consider the long-term needs of the dog, not just immediate convenience;
  • seek professional help (e.g. vets, behaviourists, welfare organisations) where appropriate.

3. Honesty and transparency

Trust depends on truthful communication. Users agree to:

  • provide accurate, up-to-date information about themselves and their circumstances;
  • share relevant information about a dog’s needs, challenges and any known risks;
  • avoid exaggerating, hiding or misrepresenting any important facts.

4. Respect and non-judgement

Rehoming is often emotionally difficult. HomeWagger is a stigma-free space. Users agree to:

  • treat others with kindness, empathy and respect;
  • avoid shaming or blaming people who need to rehome a dog;
  • not use abusive, harassing, discriminatory or threatening language;
  • recognise that many people seeking help are under stress or facing complex challenges.

5. Safe and responsible contact

Users agree to follow safe, sensible steps when meeting others or handing over a dog. This includes:

  • arranging introductions in a safe way and suitable environment for the dog;
  • respecting boundaries and agreeing expectations clearly;
  • not pressuring anyone into a decision they are not comfortable with;
  • using HomeWagger’s reporting tools to flag concerning behaviour or welfare risks.

6. No exploitation or harm

The platform must never be used to exploit people or animals. Users must not:

  • seek dogs for fighting, status or illegal activity;
  • use HomeWagger to advertise stolen dogs or unlawful activity;
  • encourage or normalise neglect, abuse or harmful training methods.

7. Working with shelters and welfare organisations

We aim to complement, not replace, the work of rescues and welfare organisations. Users agree to:

  • respect the policies and decisions of partner shelters and rescues;
  • follow any additional checks required by those organisations;
  • cooperate with welfare professionals where there are concerns.

8. Commitment to learning and improvement

Responsible rehoming is a learning process. We encourage users to:

  • engage with the educational resources available on HomeWagger;
  • ask questions when unsure, rather than guessing or hiding concerns;
  • share feedback that helps us improve the platform and its safeguards.

9. Breaches of this Code

Serious or repeated breaches of this Code of Ethics may result in warnings, restrictions, removal of content or suspension of your account, in line with our Terms of Use and any relevant policies.

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