Privacy Policy

1. Introduction

VetNearMe Limited ("we", "our", or "us") is committed to protecting your privacy and personal data. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, and protect your information when you use our website and services.

This policy complies with the UK General Data Protection Regulation (UK GDPR) and the Data Protection Act 2018.

2. Data Controller

3. Information We Collect

3.1 Information You Provide

• Contact information (name, email address, phone number)
• Location data (postcode, city) for finding nearby veterinary clinics
• Pet information (type, age, medical history) when relevant to searches
• Communication preferences
• Feedback and reviews

3.2 Information We Collect Automatically

• IP address and location data
• Browser type and version
• Device information
• Usage data and website analytics
• Cookies and similar tracking technologies

4. How We Use Your Information

We use your personal data for the following purposes:

4.1 Service Provision (Legal Basis: Contract)

• Connecting you with veterinary clinics in your area
• Providing price comparison information
• Facilitating communication between you and veterinary clinics

4.2 Legitimate Interests

• Improving our website and services
• Analytics and usage monitoring
• Fraud prevention and security
• Customer support

4.3 Consent

• Marketing communications (only with your explicit consent)
• Non-essential cookies
• Newsletter subscriptions

5. Sharing Your Information

We may share your information with:

• Veterinary Clinics: Contact details when you request information or book appointments
• Service Providers: Third-party companies that help us operate our website and services
• Legal Requirements: When required by law or to protect our rights
• Business Transfers: In the event of a merger, acquisition, or sale of assets

We do not sell your personal data to third parties for marketing purposes.

6. Cookies and Tracking

We use cookies and similar technologies to improve your experience. You can manage your cookie preferences through our cookie banner or browser settings.

Types of Cookies We Use:

• Essential Cookies: Required for the website to function properly
• Analytics Cookies: Help us understand how visitors use our website
• Marketing Cookies: Used to show relevant advertisements (with your consent)

7. Your Rights Under UK GDPR

You have the following rights regarding your personal data:

• Right of Access: Request a copy of your personal data
• Right to Rectification: Correct inaccurate or incomplete data
• Right to Erasure: Request deletion of your personal data
• Right to Restrict Processing: Limit how we use your data
• Right to Data Portability: Receive your data in a structured format
• Right to Object: Object to processing based on legitimate interests
• Right to Withdraw Consent: Withdraw consent for processing

To exercise these rights, contact us at privacy@vetnearme.pet. We will respond within one month.

8. Data Security

We implement appropriate technical and organisational measures to protect your personal data:

• SSL encryption for data transmission
• Secure data storage with access controls
• Regular security assessments and updates
• Staff training on data protection
• Incident response procedures

9. Data Retention

We retain your personal data only for as long as necessary to fulfill the purposes outlined in this policy, comply with legal obligations, or resolve disputes. Specific retention periods vary depending on the type of data and our legal obligations.

10. International Transfers

We primarily process data within the UK. If we transfer data outside the UK, we ensure appropriate safeguards are in place, such as adequacy decisions or standard contractual clauses.

11. Children's Privacy

Our services are not directed to children under 16. We do not knowingly collect personal data from children under 16. If you believe we have collected such information, please contact us immediately.

12. Changes to This Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. We will notify you of any material changes by posting the new policy on this page and updating the "Last updated" date. For significant changes, we may provide additional notice.

13. Contact Us

If you have any questions about this Privacy Policy or our data practices, please contact us:

You also have the right to lodge a complaint with the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) if you believe your data protection rights have been breached. Visit www.ico.org.uk for more information.