Paws2PeopleTerms & Conditions

Last updated: July 2026

1. General Terms

(Applicable to All Users)

Platform Role:

Paws2People is an independent technology platform providing digital management, verification, and connection tools. We act solely as a facilitator of information. Paws2People is not an agency, kennel, or regulatory body, and is not a party to any sale, contract, or agreement between Breeders and Buyers.

Intellectual Property:

All proprietary technology, software code, user interface designs, database structures, workflows, and content are the exclusive intellectual property of Paws2People. Users are strictly prohibited from copying, reproducing, or reverse-engineering any portion of the platform.

Data Scraping:

The manual or automated extraction of data, directory listings, or user information ("data scraping") is strictly prohibited. Any unauthorized use of our intellectual property will result in an immediate, permanent ban and may lead to legal action for damages and interdictory relief.

Limitation of Liability:

Paws2People's total liability for any claim arising from the use of the platform is strictly limited to the amount of the service fee (Platform & Processing Fee or Subscription Fee) actually paid by the user.

Force Majeure:

Paws2People is not liable for platform downtime, system failures, or service interruptions caused by events outside of our reasonable control, including, but not limited to, server outages or internet connectivity issues.

No Medical Advice:

Information provided on this platform regarding dog health or breed traits is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute veterinary advice.

POPIA Compliance:

We process personal data in strict accordance with the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA). While we employ industry-standard security measures, we cannot guarantee the absolute security of data transmission over the internet.

Jurisdiction:

These Terms are governed by the laws of South Africa. Any legal disputes arising from these Terms shall be resolved within the jurisdiction of the courts of Gauteng.

2. Breeder Terms & Conditions

Verification Requirements:

To maintain "Verified" status, Breeders must provide valid industry-recognized credentials, which may include recognized kennel registry registration, official veterinary health certifications, and proof of identity. Paws2People reserves the right to update these requirements at its discretion.

Definition of "Verified" Status:

"Verified" status on Paws2People signifies that the Breeder has successfully submitted documentation that has been manually reviewed by Paws2People. "Verified" status does not constitute a guarantee, endorsement, or warranty of the Breeder's individual animal husbandry practices, the health of a specific animal, or the Breeder's ongoing compliance with animal welfare regulations. Buyers are strictly required to conduct their own independent due diligence.

Code of Ethics:

All Breeders agree to abide by the Paws2People Breeder Code of Ethics, including the mandatory "8-week rule" for rehoming and the prohibition of cosmetic docking or cropping.

Marketing Services:

The subscription fee covers platform hosting and inclusion in Paws2People social media marketing. Subscription fees are non-refundable once your Verified Breeder status has been activated, in recognition of the identity verification, kennel registration audit, and Code of Ethics review already completed and rendered as part of that activation.

Accuracy:

Breeders are solely responsible for the accuracy of their listings, health claims, and the availability of litters.

3. Buyer Terms & Conditions

The Platform & Processing Fee:

A service fee (Platform & Processing Fee) is payable per puppy purchase. This fee is non-refundable once the transaction facilitation process has been initiated, as it covers the cost of verification and secure connection services.

Early Care Release:

Shortly after your deposit is funded, 20% of the deposit amount (or R800, whichever is greater) is released directly to the Breeder to cover early-stage care costs, including veterinary checks, deworming, and vaccinations. This portion is non-refundable once released. The remainder of your deposit, together with any balance payment, is held securely in escrow until you confirm receipt of your puppy.

CPA Disclosure:

Paws2People operates as an online marketplace and intermediary hosting service. Each Breeder listing, description, and health disclosure is content created and submitted by the Breeder, not by Paws2People. In accordance with the Electronic Communications and Transactions Act 25 of 2002, Paws2People acts as a hosting intermediary in respect of this content and, where a Breeder is acting in the ordinary course of their business, is recognised as the "Supplier" of the animal under the Consumer Protection Act 68 of 2008. Paws2People will act expeditiously to remove or amend any listing found to contain false, misleading, or unlawful content once notified. All guarantees, warranties, and purchase refunds regarding the health or quality of the animal are the sole responsibility of the Breeder.

Independent Due Diligence:

While Paws2People verifies credentials, Buyers are encouraged to perform their own due diligence, including visiting the breeder's premises before final payment.

4. Dispute Resolution & Conduct

Mediation Support:

In the event of a dispute, Paws2People may provide communication assistance to help both parties reach a resolution.

Platform Integrity:

Users agree not to circumvent the platform to avoid fees. Bypassing the secure payment system for the Platform & Processing Fee may result in a permanent ban from the community.

By signing up to Paws2People, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agree to these Terms & Conditions.