1. Introduction

1.1. Alternative Pet Services is committed to protecting the privacy and security of your personal information. 1.2. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, and protect your personal data in accordance with the UK General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and the Data Protection Act 2018. 1.3. By using our website and services, you consent to the practices described in this policy.

2. Information We Collect

2.1. We collect personal information when you: * Place an order: Name, address, email address, phone number, payment details. * Create an account: Username, password, contact details. * Contact us: Name, email address, and any information you provide in your communication. * Browse our website: IP address, browser type, cookies (see our Cookie Policy). 2.2. The legal basis for processing your data includes: * Contractual necessity (to fulfil orders). * Legitimate interests (to improve our services). * Consent (for marketing communications). * Legal obligation (to comply with laws).

3. How We Use Your Information

3.1. We use your personal information to: * Process and fulfil your orders. * Provide customer support. * Manage your account. * Send you order confirmations and updates. * Send you marketing communications (with your consent). * Improve our website and services. * Comply with legal obligations. 3.2. Data retention: We retain your personal information for as long as necessary to fulfil the purposes outlined in this policy, or as required by law.  

4. Data Sharing and Disclosure

4.1. We may share your personal information with: * Payment processors (to process payments). * Shipping companies (to deliver your orders). * Third-party service providers who assist us with website hosting, data analysis, and marketing. * Law enforcement or regulatory authorities (when required by law). 4.2. We may transfer data outside of the UK, in such cases we will ensure that appropriate safeguards are in place. 4.3. We will never sell your personal data to third parties.

5. Cookies and Tracking Technologies

5.1. We use cookies and other tracking technologies to improve your browsing experience and analyse website traffic. 5.2. Please refer to our Cookie Policy for more information on how we use cookies and how you can manage your preferences.  

6. Data Security

6.1. We take appropriate technical and organisational measures to protect your personal information from unauthorised access, disclosure, or destruction. 6.2. In the event of a data breach, we will notify the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) and affected individuals as required by law.  

7. Your Rights

7.1. You have the right to: * Access your personal information. * Rectify inaccurate personal information. * Erase your personal information (the "right to be forgotten"). * Restrict the processing of your personal information. * Object to the processing of your personal information. * Data portability. * Withdraw your consent (for marketing communications). 7.2. To exercise your rights, please contact us using the contact details provided below. 7.3. You have the right to lodge a complaint with the ICO if you believe we have not complied with data protection laws.  

8. Changes to the Privacy Policy

8.1. We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. Any changes will be posted on our website. 8.2. We encourage you to review this policy periodically.  

9. Contact Information

9.1. If you have any questions or concerns about this Privacy Policy, please contact us through the contact page on our website.