Terms of Service

1. Acceptance of Terms

By accessing or using the HoundBound mobile application and website ("Service"), you agree to be bound by these Terms of Service. If you do not agree to these terms, please do not use our Service.

HoundBound reserves the right to update these terms at any time. Continued use of the Service after changes constitutes acceptance of the updated terms.

2. Description of Service

HoundBound is a platform that connects dog owners ("Owners") with runners ("Runners") who provide dog running services. HoundBound facilitates bookings, payments, and communication but is not itself a dog running service.

Runners are independent contractors, not employees of HoundBound.

3. User Accounts

• You must be at least 18 years old to create an account
• You are responsible for maintaining the security of your account
• You must provide accurate and complete information
• You may not use the Service for any illegal purposes
• HoundBound may suspend or terminate accounts that violate these terms

4. For Dog Owners

• You are responsible for providing accurate information about your dog(s)
• You must disclose any health conditions, behavioral issues, or special needs
• You agree to ensure your dog is up-to-date on vaccinations
• You are responsible for providing a secure leash and any necessary equipment
• You agree to the cancellation policy and associated fees
• You acknowledge that dog running involves inherent risks

5. For Runners

• You represent that you are capable of safely running with dogs
• You agree to complete any required background checks
• You agree to follow all safety guidelines provided by HoundBound
• You are an independent contractor, not an employee of HoundBound
• You are responsible for your own taxes and insurance
• You agree to treat all dogs with care and respect
• You agree to communicate promptly with Owners about any issues

6. Payments

Payments are processed through Stripe. By using our Service, you also agree to Stripe's terms of service.

• Owners are charged when a booking is confirmed
• Runners receive payment after runs are marked complete
• HoundBound charges a platform fee on each transaction
• Refunds are subject to our cancellation policy

7. Cancellation Policy

• 24+ hours before run: Full refund
• 12-24 hours before run: 50% refund
• Less than 12 hours: No refund
• Runners who cancel may face account restrictions for repeated cancellations

8. Liability and Assumption of Risk

IMPORTANT: Running with dogs involves inherent risks including but not limited to injury to the dog, runner, or third parties. By using HoundBound:

• Owners assume responsibility for their dog's behavior and health
• Runners assume responsibility for their own safety during runs
• HoundBound is not liable for injuries, damages, or losses arising from runs
• Users agree to indemnify HoundBound from any claims related to their use of the Service

We strongly encourage all Runners to maintain appropriate liability insurance.

9. Privacy Policy

Your privacy is important to us. We collect and use information as follows:

Information We Collect

• Account information (name, email, phone number)
• Profile information (photos, bio, location)
• Pet information (name, breed, health details)
• Payment information (processed securely via Stripe)
• Usage data and device information
• Location data (for matching Owners with nearby Runners)

How We Use Information

• To provide and improve our Service
• To facilitate bookings and payments
• To communicate with you about your account
• To ensure safety and prevent fraud

Information Sharing

We share information between Owners and Runners as necessary to facilitate runs. We do not sell your personal information to third parties.

10. Intellectual Property

The HoundBound name, logo, and all content on the Service are the property of HoundBound and protected by copyright and trademark laws. You may not use our branding without written permission.

11. Dispute Resolution

Any disputes arising from these Terms or your use of the Service shall be resolved through binding arbitration in accordance with the rules of the American Arbitration Association. You waive any right to participate in class action lawsuits.

12. Contact Us

If you have questions about these Terms, please contact us at:

Email: legal@houndbound.dog