HomeWagger App Starter Guides

Guide 1

Getting Started with HomeWagger

For all users – adopters, rehomers, and shelters

Welcome to HomeWagger, the ethical dog rehoming app built for compassionate connections. Signing up takes only a few minutes.

Start by creating an account with your email and password. During sign-up, you’ll choose your role: Adopter, Rehomer, or Shelter. This shapes your dashboard and tools.

Before continuing, you’ll agree to our Code of Ethics. This is our promise that every user puts dog welfare first. No selling, no pressure, no exceptions.

Guide 2

Listing a Dog for Rehoming

For rehomers and shelters

If you’re rehoming a dog, we know this is a difficult and emotional decision. HomeWagger is here to help you do it safely, responsibly, and without judgement.

When creating a listing, you’ll be asked to provide:

• Basic details: name, age, breed, size, gender.
• Personality & needs: temperament, activity level, any special requirements.
• Reason for rehoming: honesty helps adopters understand the situation.
• Photos and video: a clear main photo is required; extras help show personality.

All listings begin as drafts. Once submitted, they go through a quick admin review before appearing in the Dog Gallery. Remember: HomeWagger does not allow sales. This is about rehoming only.

Guide 3

Adopting a Dog

For adopters

Adopting a dog is exciting, but it’s also a big commitment. HomeWagger helps you find the right match in a safe, supportive way.

Start by browsing the Dog Gallery, where you can filter by breed, size, age, temperament, or location. Each listing includes details plus photos or video.

When you find a dog you’re interested in, you can express interest through the app. Depending on the listing, this may connect you with a rehomer, shelter, or admin team.

If your interest is accepted, you may need to complete a vetting process. Shelters may use their own checks; individuals use HomeWagger’s built-in safeguards.

Guide 4

Your Dashboard Explained

For all users

Your dashboard is the heart of your HomeWagger experience. It’s tailored to your role:

• Adopters: Update details, set preferences, and track applications.
• Rehomers: Add, edit, and submit dog listings; manage drafts and messages.
• Shelters: Manage multiple listings and your shelter profile.

Profile status indicators show whether you’re ready for public view. Adopters must complete required fields; rehomers must submit listings for review.

Guide 5

Code of Ethics & Safety

For all users

At HomeWagger, our Code of Ethics protects dogs, adopters, and rehomers. Every user agrees at sign-up. The principles are simple:

• No sales — this is for rehoming, not profit.
• Welfare first — every decision should prioritise the dog’s needs.
• Compassion — no judgement for rehomers, respect for adopters.
• Transparency — honesty builds trust.
• Safety — listings and reports are reviewed by our team.

Guide 6

Reporting a Problem

For all users

If you see something that doesn’t look right — whether it’s a listing, profile, or message — you can report it directly in the app.

To report: tap the “Report” button, select a reason, and (optionally) add details. Your report goes straight to our admin team, who aim to respond within 2 business days.

Depending on the issue, we may warn or suspend a user, remove a listing, or escalate serious cases to partners or authorities.

Guide 7

If You’re Struggling After Adoption

For adopters

Adoption is rewarding but can be challenging. Many dogs need time to adjust. Common issues include chewing, barking, toilet accidents, or separation anxiety.

Your first steps:

• Check our behaviour guides.
• Speak to your vet to rule out health issues.
• Consider a certified trainer or behaviourist.

If things feel overwhelming, you can reach out through HomeWagger for support. In rare cases where a match isn’t right, rehoming again may be the best option for the dog.

Guide 8

HomeWagger & Rehoming Responsibility

For all users

It’s important to be clear about HomeWagger’s role. We are a platform — not a rescue centre. We don’t physically take dogs in or guarantee returns.

What we do provide is:

• Safe connections between adopters, rehomers, and shelters.
• Admin checks and moderation for ethical standards.
• Guides and resources to support before, during, and after adoption.
• Support pathways if problems arise.

Rehomers and shelters remain responsible for their listings. Adopters remain responsible for their choices. HomeWagger facilitates and safeguards the process.