Website Terms and Conditions

Maureen Gray Foundation
MGF – Associação Protectora de Animais Abandonados
Registered Non-Profit Association: 517105390 | NIF: 517105390

Last Updated: 09/12/2025

1. Introduction and Acceptance

1.1 About These Terms

These Terms and Conditions (“Terms”) govern your use of the Maureen Gray Foundation website at www.maureengrayfoundation.com (“Website”) and all services provided through it. By accessing or using this Website, you agree to be bound by these Terms.

1.2 Who We Are

MGF – Associação Protectora de Animais Abandonados (“MGF”, “we”, “us”, “our”) is a registered non-profit association that coordinates international animal rescue and adoption services across Europe and the UK, connecting rescue shelters with adopters and providing transport and logistics support.

1.3 Changes to Terms

We may update these Terms from time to time. Changes become effective when posted on this page. Your continued use of the Website after changes are posted constitutes acceptance of the updated Terms.

1.4 Contact Information

For questions about these Terms, contact us at:
Email: info@maureengrayfoundation.com

2. Use of the Website

2.1 Eligibility

You must be at least 16 years of age to submit an adoption application. All other Website functions may be used by individuals of any age, though we recommend parental supervision for minors.

2.2 User Accounts

While you can access most Website features without creating an account, certain functions may require registration. You are responsible for maintaining the confidentiality of your account credentials and for all activities under your account.

2.3 Acceptable Use

You agree not to:

• Provide false or misleading information
• Use the Website for any unlawful purpose
• Attempt to interfere with the Website’s functionality or security
• Copy, reproduce, or redistribute Website content without permission
• Use automated systems to access the Website without our consent

2.4 Intellectual Property

All content on this Website, including text, images, logos, and design elements, is owned by MGF or used with permission. You may not reproduce, distribute, or create derivative works without our written consent.

3. Animal Adoption Services

3.1 Adoption Application Process

Submitting an adoption application through our Website does not create a binding commitment to adopt. The application is an expression of interest and the beginning of our adoption process.

You acknowledge and agree that:

• A home visit is required prior to final placement
• Arranging a home visit does not guarantee an adoption
• Information provided in your application must be true and current to the best of your knowledge
• MGF reserves the right to refuse any adoption application

3.2 Adoption Agreement

If your application is approved following a successful home check, you will be asked to review and sign our separate Animal Companion Adoption Agreement. That agreement governs the actual adoption and contains additional terms and conditions specific to animal care and welfare.

3.3 Role of MGF and Partner Shelters

MGF facilitates adoptions by:

• Coordinating communication between adopters and rescue shelters
• Organizing veterinary requirements and health checks
• Arranging customs clearance and transportation through our partners
• Providing ongoing support and follow-up

The animals are in the care and legal custody of our partner rescue shelters until the adoption is completed. MGF coordinates the process but does not directly own or house the animals.

3.4 No Warranties on Animal Characteristics

MGF makes no warranties or representations, expressed or implied, about the temperament, health, or behavioral characteristics of any animal available for adoption. We provide all known information about each animal, but rescued animals may have unknown backgrounds and may display unanticipated behaviors in new environments.

3.5 Geographic Service Area

We primarily facilitate adoptions within the European Union and the United Kingdom. Availability for adoptions to other countries will be assessed on a case-by-case basis.

4. Payment Services

4.1 Payment Processor

All payments on this Website are processed securely through Stripe. MGF does not store your complete payment card details. By making a payment, you also agree to Stripe’s terms of service and privacy policy.

4.2 Accepted Payment Regions

We accept payments from individuals in all countries, with primary operations in Europe and the UK.

4.3 Payment Security

We use industry-standard encryption and security measures to protect your payment information. However, no method of transmission over the internet is 100% secure, and we cannot guarantee absolute security.

5. Adoption Fees

5.1 Fee Structure

Adoption fees consist of two components:

• Fixed Adoption Service Fee: €75, which covers administrative costs and adoption support
• Animal Transfer Fee: Variable amount depending on the specific animal, covering medical, transport, and documentation costs

5.2 Purpose of Fees

All adoption fees directly support our rescue work and ensure the ongoing welfare of animals in our care and in the care of our partner shelters.

5.3 When Payment is Required

Following a successful home check, you will be asked to review and sign the Adoption Agreement and pay the adoption fees before proceeding to the final stage. Payment must be received before any transportation services are arranged.

5.4 Cancellation and Refund Policy for Adoptions

Our cancellation and refund policy is set out in detail in the Animal Companion Adoption Agreement. Key points include:

Pre-Adoption Cancellation by Adopter:

• Cancellation more than 30 days before scheduled transport: Full deposit refund
• Cancellation within 14 days of scheduled transport: 50% of deposit retained to cover administrative and cancellation costs
• If transport has occurred or significant non-recoverable expenses incurred: Portion or all of those costs may be retained

Cancellation by MGF:

• If MGF cancels for any reason: Full refund of all deposits and fees paid

Meet and Greet Incompatibility:

• If incompatibility is identified during initial meeting: No penalty, deposit transferable to different animal within 90 days

Post-Adoption Returns:

• Adoption fees are non-refundable after adoption is completed
• If you can no longer care for an animal, you must contact MGF first to arrange return

5.5 Special Circumstances

In exceptional circumstances, we may consider refund requests outside these standard terms. Contact us at info@maureengrayfoundation.com to discuss your situation.

6. Donations

6.1 One-Time and Recurring Donations

Our Website allows you to make both one-time donations and set up recurring donations to support our rescue work.

6.2 Purpose and Use of Donations

Donations support MGF’s animal rescue operations, including funding for shelter improvements, medical care, transport logistics, and administrative costs. Donations are used at MGF’s discretion to further our charitable mission.

6.3 Tax Deductibility

Donations to MGF may be eligible for tax deduction in Portugal. We are not able to confirm tax deductibility in other jurisdictions. We recommend consulting with a tax professional in your country regarding the deductibility of charitable donations.

6.4 No Refund Policy for Donations

All donations are final and non-refundable once processed. Donations are voluntary contributions to support our charitable work and do not entitle you to any goods, services, or benefits.

6.5 Cancelling Recurring Donations

You may cancel a recurring donation at any time by contacting us at info@maureengrayfoundation.com or by managing your payment settings through Stripe. Cancellation will take effect for future scheduled payments but will not refund payments already processed.

7. Sponsorships

7.1 Sponsorship Programs

We offer sponsorship opportunities that allow you to provide ongoing support for specific animals or programs. Sponsorships may be one-time or recurring.

7.2 Nature of Sponsorships

Sponsorships are charitable contributions and do not create any ownership rights, custody, or special access to sponsored animals. They help cover the costs of care for animals in our network.

7.3 Sponsorship Benefits

Depending on the sponsorship level, you may receive updates, photos, or other acknowledgments. Specific benefits will be described on the relevant sponsorship pages.

7.4 Refunds and Cancellations

The same refund and cancellation policies that apply to donations also apply to sponsorships:

• One-time sponsorships are non-refundable once processed
• Recurring sponsorships may be cancelled at any time for future payments
• Already-processed payments are not refundable

8. Third-Party Links and Services

8.1 External Links

Our Website may contain links to third-party websites, including social media platforms, partner organizations, and service providers. We are not responsible for the content, privacy practices, or terms of service of these external sites.

8.2 Third-Party Payment Processing

Payment processing is handled by Stripe, a third-party service provider. Your use of Stripe’s services is subject to their terms and privacy policy, available at stripe.com.

9. Limitation of Liability

9.1 Website Availability

While we strive to maintain continuous Website availability, we do not guarantee uninterrupted access. The Website may be unavailable due to maintenance, technical issues, or circumstances beyond our control.

9.2 Information Accuracy

We make reasonable efforts to ensure information on the Website is accurate and current. However, we do not warrant the completeness or accuracy of any information, particularly regarding animal profiles which are based on observations and information provided by partner shelters.

9.3 Disclaimer of Warranties

The Website and all services are provided “as is” without warranties of any kind, either express or implied, including but not limited to warranties of merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose, or non-infringement.

9.4 Limitation of Damages

To the fullest extent permitted by law, MGF shall not be liable for any indirect, incidental, special, consequential, or punitive damages, or any loss of profits or revenues, whether incurred directly or indirectly, or any loss of data, use, goodwill, or other intangible losses resulting from:

• Your use or inability to use the Website
• Any conduct or content of any third party on the Website
• Unauthorized access, use, or alteration of your transmissions or content

9.5 Maximum Liability

In no event shall MGF’s total liability to you for all damages, losses, and causes of action exceed the amount you have paid to MGF in the six months prior to the claim.

9.6 Consumer Rights

Nothing in these Terms excludes or limits our liability for death or personal injury caused by negligence, fraud, or any other liability that cannot be excluded or limited under applicable law. These Terms do not affect your statutory rights as a consumer.

10. Indemnification

You agree to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless MGF, its directors, officers, volunteers, employees, and partners from any claims, liabilities, damages, losses, costs, or expenses (including reasonable legal fees) arising from:

• Your use of the Website
• Your violation of these Terms
• Your violation of any rights of another party
• Any false or misleading information you provide

11. Privacy and Data Protection

11.1 Privacy Policy

Our collection, use, and protection of your personal information is governed by our separate Privacy Policy, which complies with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and applicable EU data protection laws. Please review our Privacy Policy to understand our practices.

11.2 Your Data Rights

Under GDPR, you have rights regarding your personal data including the right to access, correct, delete, restrict processing, data portability, and to object to processing. Contact us at info@maureengrayfoundation.com to exercise these rights.

12. Governing Law and Dispute Resolution

12.1 Governing Law

These Terms shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of Portugal. Where applicable EU regulations (including consumer protection laws and data protection laws) provide additional protections, those regulations shall also apply.

12.2 Jurisdiction

The courts of Portugal shall have jurisdiction over any disputes arising from these Terms, without prejudice to any mandatory consumer protection provisions that may grant jurisdiction to courts in your country of residence.

12.3 Dispute Resolution

Before initiating any legal proceedings, we encourage you to contact us at info@maureengrayfoundation.com to attempt to resolve any disputes through good faith negotiation.

12.4 EU Online Dispute Resolution

If you are a consumer based in the European Union, you may also use the EU Online Dispute Resolution platform at ec.europa.eu/consumers/odr to resolve disputes.

13. General Provisions

13.1 Entire Agreement

These Terms, together with our Privacy Policy and (where applicable) the Animal Companion Adoption Agreement, constitute the entire agreement between you and MGF regarding use of the Website.

13.2 Severability

If any provision of these Terms is found to be invalid or unenforceable, that provision shall be limited or eliminated to the minimum extent necessary, and the remaining provisions shall remain in full force and effect.

13.3 Waiver

Our failure to enforce any right or provision of these Terms shall not constitute a waiver of such right or provision.

13.4 Assignment

You may not assign or transfer these Terms or your rights under them without our prior written consent. We may assign these Terms without restriction.

13.5 Language

These Terms are provided in English. If we provide a translation, the English version shall prevail in case of any conflict or discrepancy.

13.6 Force Majeure

We shall not be liable for any failure or delay in performance due to circumstances beyond our reasonable control, including but not limited to acts of God, war, terrorism, civil unrest, pandemic, or government action.

14. How to Contact Us

For questions, concerns, or requests regarding these Terms or our services:

Maureen Gray Foundation
MGF – Associação Protectora de Animais Abandonados

Email: info@maureengrayfoundation.com
Website: www.maureengrayfoundation.com

Registered Details:
Registered Non-Profit Association: 517105390
NIF: 517105390

By using this Website, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agree to be bound by these Terms and Conditions.