Safeguarding & Welfare Policy

HomeWagger CIC is committed to safeguarding the welfare of dogs and supporting the safety of people who use our platform. This Safeguarding & Welfare Policy explains our welfare-first approach, how concerns are identified, and how they can be raised.

This Policy should be read alongside our Terms & Conditions, Acceptable Use Policy, and Policies & Governance.

1. Welfare-first principles

Our work is guided by the following principles:

  • Dogs should be rehomed thoughtfully, not traded as commodities.
  • Rehoming decisions should consider a dog’s needs, the adopter’s capacity, and long-term stability.
  • Honest, full and transparent information supports safer outcomes.
  • Harmful or exploitative practices, including irresponsible breeding, are not tolerated.
  • People using the platform deserve a safe and respectful experience.

2. What we do

Through the HomeWagger platform, we:

  • provide guided forms encouraging full and honest disclosure about each dog;
  • signpost users to welfare guidance and responsible rehoming information;
  • offer tools to help adopters reflect on suitability and long-term commitment;
  • operate moderation and reporting systems to address harmful or unsafe content;
  • collaborate with welfare organisations and professionals where appropriate.

3. What we are not able to do

HomeWagger is not a rescue centre, inspectorate, or enforcement authority. We cannot:

  • physically assess every dog listed on the platform;
  • guarantee the behaviour, health or legal status of any dog;
  • carry out home checks or in-person assessments;
  • intervene directly in private arrangements between users.

Where serious concerns arise, we may suspend listings, restrict accounts, and—where appropriate—share information with relevant welfare bodies or authorities.

4. Recognising welfare concerns

Welfare or safeguarding concerns may include (but are not limited to):

  • credible reports of neglect, abuse or intentional harm;
  • patterns of repeated or exploitative rehoming;
  • irresponsible or potentially illegal breeding activity;
  • requests for dogs for unsafe or unsuitable purposes;
  • situations indicating risk to people or animals.

5. Reporting welfare or safeguarding concerns

If you are concerned about the welfare of a dog or the safety of a person, please:

  • use the reporting tools within the platform where available; and/or
  • email us at hello@homewagger.org.uk with as much detail as possible.

If an animal or person is at immediate risk, contact the appropriate emergency services or animal welfare authority without delay.

6. Our response to concerns

Depending on the information available, we may:

  • review relevant profiles, listings and messages;
  • request clarification from users;
  • remove or amend content that breaches policy;
  • restrict, suspend or close accounts;
  • share information with appropriate welfare bodies or authorities where lawful and necessary.

7. Safer rehoming guidance

  • Ask detailed questions and request relevant documentation.
  • Avoid rushed decisions.
  • Use safe and neutral meeting arrangements.
  • Trust your instincts and pause if anything feels unsafe.
  • Seek professional advice where needed.

8. Children and vulnerable adults

HomeWagger is intended for adults aged 18 and over. Where we become aware of risks involving children or vulnerable adults, we may restrict access and signpost concerns to appropriate services.

9. Review and updates

This policy is reviewed regularly and updated as needed. The most current version will always be available on this page.

10. Contact

Questions about this policy can be sent to hello@homewagger.org.uk.

Last updated: 10 December 2025

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