1. Introduction

This Privacy Policy explains how Happy Paws Veterinary Clinic Ltd "Happy Paws" collects, uses, stores, and protects the personal information you provide through our website, in-person visits, or other business interactions. We are committed to protecting your privacy and handling your information responsibly. If we ask you to provide identifiable personal information, it will only be used in accordance with this Privacy Policy and applicable legal requirements. This policy is effective as of the date listed at the bottom and may be updated periodically to reflect changes in practices, legal requirements, or other factors.

2. Information We Collect

We may collect the following categories of personal information:

1. Personal Identification Data: Name, title, address, date of birth.
2. Contact Details: Phone number, email address.
3. Pet Information: Animal name, species, breed, registration details, medical history, and treatment records.
4. Payment Information: Financial data related to payments for our services.
5. Communication Records: Details from emails, phone calls (which may be recorded), and in-person conversations
6. Online Usage Data: Information gathered via cookies and similar tracking technologies on our website.

3. How We Use Your Information

Your personal information is collected and processed for the following purposes:

1.  To deliver veterinary services, including diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care foryour pet.
2. To schedule appointments and send reminders or follow-ups.
3. To maintain accurate treatment records and comply with professional and legal obligations.
4. To communicate service updates, newsletters, or promotional materials (only with your explicit consent).
5. For internal operations, such as record-keeping, staff training, and quality assurance.
6. To ensure security through monitoring and audio/video recordings (as outlined in our Terms and Conditions).
7. We will never sell, lease, or share your information with third parties unless: Explicit consent is provided.
8. It is required to deliver veterinary care (e.g., referrals to specialists).
9. Mandated by law or regulatory authorities.

4. Data Security

Happy Paws Veterinary Clinic Ltd takes the protection of your data seriously. We implement rigorous technical, physical, and administrative measures to safeguard against unauthorized access, loss, or misuse of your information. This includes:

1. Secure storage systems with restricted access.
2. Encrypted communication channels for online data.
3. Regular staff training on data protection and confidentiality.
4. Comprehensive monitoring and regular audits of our security practices.

5. Cookie Policy

Our website uses cookies to optimize user experience, track website performance, and deliver personalized content. A cookie is a small text file stored on your device that helps us understand user behaviour. Types of Cookies We Use:

1.  Essential Cookies: Necessary for website functionality.
2. Performance Cookies: Help us analyse website usage and improve services.
3. Preference Cookies: Remember your preferences for future visits.

You can control cookie preferences through your browser settings. However, disabling cookies may impact your ability to access certain features of our website.

6. Links to Other Websites

Our website may include links to external websites. Happy Paws Veterinary Clinic Ltd has no control over the content, security, or privacy practices of these third-party sites. We recommend reviewing their privacy policies before sharing personal information.

7. Call and Communication Recording

To ensure quality service and for training and security purposes, Happy Paws Veterinary Clinic Ltd may record phone calls and monitor email communications. By contacting us, you consent to the recording and secure storage of these interactions in accordance with this Privacy Policy.

8. Your Rights

Under the UK General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), you have the following rights regarding your personal information:

1.  Access: Request a copy of your personal data.
2. Correction: Rectify inaccuracies in your data.
3. Erasure: Request the deletion of your data when legally permissible.
4. Restriction: Limit processing of your data under certain circumstances.
5. Portability: Receive your data in a structured, commonly used format.
6. Objection: Object to the processing of your data, including for direct marketing.

If you wish to exercise any of these rights, please contact us using the details provided below. We will respond to requests promptly and in compliance with applicable laws.

9. Data Retention

We retain your personal information only for as long as necessary to fulfil the purposes outlined in this Privacy Policy, comply with legal obligations, and resolve disputes. When no longer required, your data will be securely deleted or anonymized.

10. Updates to This Privacy Policy

Happy Paws Veterinary Clinic Ltd may update this policy from time to time to reflect changes in legal requirements, our practices, or operational needs. Significant changes will be communicated through updates on our website, with at least 30 days notice prior to implementation.

11. Contact Us

For any questions about this Privacy Policy, concerns about your data, or to exercise your rights, please contact us:

1. Email: [Insert Email Address]
2. Phone: 01685 481 265
3. Address: Happy Paws Veterinary Clinic Ltd, 22b Lewis Street Aberdare RCT CF44 6PY

Effective Date: 26th November 2024

Thank you for entrusting Happy Paws Veterinary Clinic Ltd with your information. We are dedicated to protecting your privacy and providing a secure, personalized experience for you and your pets.