Looking after the pack.

A good community gives people time to get to know each other. Start with a walk together and let trust grow at your own pace.

Meet first. Keep dogs comfortable.

Choose a public place in daylight for your first meeting. Keep dogs on leads, allow space, and tell the other person about any behaviour or handling needs. Leave any meeting that doesn't feel right.

Before someone cares for your dog.

Meet more than once if you need to. Discuss experience, the environment, lead rules, food, medication, emergency contacts and what to do if plans change. Begin with a short arrangement that everyone is comfortable with.

Be clear about protection.

DogWelly connects members. We do not provide professional dog care, background checks, insurance or veterinary cover. Email sign-in confirms access to an email address; it does not verify someone's identity or suitability to care for a dog. Check your own cover and any local requirements before arranging care.

Be a good neighbour.

Keep plans realistic, turn up when agreed, and give notice when you need to cancel. Respect differences in dogs and people. Never pressure someone to help, share personal details, or hand over their dog.

When something isn't right.

Use the report controls on member profiles, walks, circle conversations and care requests. You can block a member and manage that choice in your account. Blocking hides profiles and messages between you; it cannot prevent someone attending the same public place.

Reports go to community moderation. DogWelly is not an emergency service. For immediate danger, contact the appropriate local emergency service; for an animal emergency, contact a vet.