StableMates, LLC’s Terms of Service:

Terms of Service

Effective: Jan 1, 2021

1. Acceptance of Terms; Modifications. These Terms of Service (the “Terms”) are a binding legal agreement between you and StableMates, LLC, Inc., a company incorporated under the laws of Ohio with a registered office at 63 Murnane Street, Westerville, OH 43081 (“StableMates, LLC,” “we,” “us” and “our”). The Terms govern your use of our software applications, resources and services for pet owners (customers) and pet service providers (caretakers) to find each other, communicate with each other, and arrange for the provision of pet care services (collectively, our “StableMates, LLC Service”). The Terms govern all use of the StableMates, LLC Service, whether you access it from our website at https://www.StableMates.org (or any localized version) (the “Site”), our mobile applications and mobile websites, our Facebook application, our online or phone support offerings, or any other access point we make available to you. Our StableMates, LLC Terms and other Policies applicable to your use of the StableMates, LLC Service are incorporated into these Terms of Service. BY AGREEING TO THESE TERMS DURING THE ACCOUNT SIGN-UP PROCESS OR ACCESSING OR USING THE StableMates, LLC SERVICE WITHOUT AN ACCOUNT, YOU ACCEPT THESE TERMS. IF YOU DO NOT AGREE WITH THESE TERMS, YOU SHOULD NOT ACCEPT THEM, IN WHICH CASE YOU DO NOT HAVE THE RIGHT TO USE THE STABLEMATES, LLC SERVICE.

You understand and agree that we may change the Terms from time to time, and that any such changes will be effective (except as otherwise described in Section 17.10 below) when we post the modified Terms on the StableMates, LLC Service, unless otherwise required by applicable law. Your continued access and use of the StableMates, LLC Service after we post the modified Terms will constitute your consent to be bound by the modified Terms.

2. StableMates, LLC Service.

2.1 Nature of the StableMates, LLC Service. StableMates, LLC Service consists of a desktop Web application, mobile applications, and other related tools, support and services that pet owners (“Pet Owners”) and (“Customers”) and providers of pet-related services (“Service Providers”) and (“Caretakers”) and  can use to find, communicate with and interact with each other. StableMates, LLC Service includes our emergency support services, educational materials for Service Providers, and other services. We charge fees for some aspects of the StableMates, LLC Service, as described below in Section 9.

2.2 StableMates, LLC does not provide Pet Care Services.. StableMates, LLC is a neutral venue for Service Providers and Pet Owners. StableMates, LLC is not a Service Provider and, except for emergency phone support and other resources and support specifically described in the StableMates, LLC Service, does not provide pet care services. We make no representations or warranties about the quality of boarding, pet sitting, dog walking, house sitting, or other services provided by Service Providers (“Pet Care Services”), or about your interactions and dealings with users. Service Providers listed on StableMates, LLC are not under the direction or control of StableMates, LLC, and Service Providers determine in their own discretion how to provide Pet Care Services. Though we provide general guidance on our Site to Service Providers about safety and pet care and to Pet Owners about selecting and engaging Service Providers, StableMates, LLC does not employ, recommend or endorse Service Providers or Pet Owners, and, to the maximum extent permitted by applicable law, we will not be responsible or liable for the performance or conduct of Service Providers or Pet Owners, whether online or offline. We conduct an initial review of Service Provider profiles and we facilitate Background Checks or Identification Verifications (each as described in Section 10, below) on Service Providers conducted by a third party, but, except where explicitly specified in the StableMates, LLC Service (and then only to the extent specified), do not otherwise screen Service Providers or Pet Owners. You should exercise caution and use your independent judgment before engaging a Service Provider, providing Pet Care Services, or otherwise interacting with users via the StableMates, LLC Service. Pet Owners and Service Providers are solely responsible for making decisions that are in the best interests of themselves and their pets. For example, each user of the StableMates, LLC Service is responsible for keeping current his or her own pet’s vaccinations, and we will have no liability for anyone’s failure to vaccinate his or her pet.

2.3 Release. Subject to Section 16 below, our liability for any claims, injuries, loss, harm and/or damages arising from and/or in any way related to your interactions or dealings with other users and the acts and/or omissions of Service Providers and Pet Owners, whether online or offline, is limited to the amounts and obligations set forth in the StableMates, LLC Guarantee. You acknowledge and agree that, except to the extent we have liability under the StableMates, LLC Guarantee, and to the maximum extent permitted by the applicable law, YOUR USE AND/OR PROVISION OF PET CARE SERVICES IS AT YOUR SOLE AND EXCLUSIVE RISK.

2.4 Transactions are between Pet Owners and Service Providers. The StableMates, LLC Service may be used to find and offer Pet Care Services and to facilitate payment, but all transactions conducted via the StableMates, LLC Service are between Pet Owners and Service Providers. Except for the limited refunds and “Reservation Protection” specified in Section 9.6 and the StableMates, LLC Guarantee, you agree that StableMates, LLC has no liability for damages associated with Pet Care Services (which may include bodily injury to, or death of, a pet) or resulting from any other transactions between users of the StableMates, LLC Service.

2.5 Bookings. Pet Owners and Service Providers transact with each other on the StableMates, LLC Service when they both agree to a “booking” that specifies the fees, time period, cancellation policy, and other terms for provision of Pet Care Services via the booking mechanism provided on the StableMates, LLC Service (a “Booking”). A Booking may be initiated by either a Service Provider or a Pet Owner by selecting the type(s) of Pet Care Services to be provided and then following the prompts that appear on-screen. If you are a Pet Owner and you initiate a Booking, you agree to pay for the Pet Care Services described in the Booking when you click “Request & Pay.” If you are a Pet Owner and a Service Provider initiates a Booking, you agree to pay for the Pet Care Services described in the Booking when you click “Pay Now.” All requests are subject to acceptance by the receiving party. The receiving party is not obligated to accept your (or any) request and may, at their discretion, decline for any reason. You acknowledge that, once you complete a Booking, you agree to honor the price and other terms of that Booking, as acknowledged in the Booking confirmation.

2.6 Pet Owners are Solely Responsible for Evaluating Service Providers. Pet Owners are solely responsible for evaluating the suitability of Service Providers for the services they offer to provide. Please visit the Help Center for guidance about making informed decisions about engaging Service Providers. Though StableMates, LLC performs a limited review of Service Provider profiles and facilitates Service Provider Background Checks or Identity Verifications conducted by a third party, any such screening is limited, and StableMates, LLC does not warrant that any such screen is accurate, complete, conclusive or up-to-date. Similarly, StableMates, LLC does not endorse reviews of Service Providers by other Pet Owners that may be available via the StableMates, LLC Service, and StableMates, LLC makes no commitments that such reviews are accurate or legitimate.

2.7 Abandoned Pets; Re-homing. Pet Owners who arrange for Pet Care Services and fail to retrieve their pet after the service period identified in a Booking agree that StableMates, LLC (or the Service Provider) may, in its (or his or her) sole discretion, place the pet in foster care, transfer care to animal control or other law enforcement authorities, or find other alternate care. Pet Owner agrees to reimburse StableMates, LLC and/or the Service Provider for all costs and expenses associated with such actions. Further, StableMates, LLC expressly reserves the right, in its sole discretion, to remove a Pet Owner’s pet from a Service Provider’s care should StableMates, LLC deem it necessary for the safety of a pet, the Service Provider, or any persons living with the Service Provider. Prior to removing a pet from the care of a Service Provider, StableMates, LLC will use reasonable efforts during its normal business hours to contact the Pet Owner and/or the Pet Owner’s emergency contact (if provided) to arrange alternative care. Should StableMates, LLC not be able to contact the Pet Owner or the emergency contact, StableMates, LLC will use its best judgment to find alternative care for the pet until the Pet Owner is able to retrieve his/her pet. If you are a Pet Owner, you authorize your pet’s veterinarian(s) to release your pet’s veterinary records to StableMates, LLC in connection with any such relocation or re-homing of your pet. In addition, you are responsible for and agree to pay all costs and expenses incurred by StableMates, LLC in connection with such transfer.

2.8 Emergencies. We recommend that Pet Owners give their Service Providers contact information where they can be reached in the event medical care for a pet becomes necessary. Service Providers agree to immediately contact Pet Owners in the event such care becomes necessary or, if the Pet Owner is not available, to contact StableMates, LLC at the applicable telephone number or email address listed in the table at the end of these Terms. If you are a Pet Owner, you hereby authorize your Service Provider and StableMates, LLC to obtain and authorize the provision of veterinary care for your pet if you cannot be reached to authorize care yourself in an emergency situation. In such case, you also authorize your pet’s veterinarian(s) to release your pet’s veterinary records to StableMates, LLC. If your Service Provider reaches you with a request to authorize medical care for your pet and you refuse, you release the Service Provider and StableMates, LLC for any injury, damage or liability arising from failure to seek such care, including from reimbursement that may otherwise have been available under the StableMates, LLC Guarantee. Pet Owners are responsible for the costs of any such medical treatment for pets and, if you are a Pet Owner, you hereby authorize StableMates, LLC to charge your credit card or other payment method for such costs. In certain circumstances, a Pet Owner may be eligible for reimbursement under the StableMates, LLC Guarantee. StableMates, LLC recommends that all users have adequate pet insurance to cover the costs of veterinary care.

2.9 Consultation Services. StableMates, LLC may offer Pet Owners and Service Providers phone, chat, or email veterinary consultation services from a third party to provide an educational resource for decisions you make about your own pets or pets in your care. These consultation services are provided by a third party, and are not a part of the StableMates, LLC Service. If you use these third party consultation services, you should use them only in conjunction with, and not as a substitute for, professional veterinary care. You agree to resort solely to the applicable third party consultation service in the event of any claims arising from their services.

2.10 Google Maps. Use of the StableMates, LLC Service requires use of Google Maps features and content, which are subject to the current (1) Google Maps/Google Earth Additional Terms of Service at https://maps.google.com/help/terms_maps.html (including the Acceptable Use Policy at https://cloud.google.com/maps-platform/terms/aup/); and (2) Google Privacy Policy at https://www.google.com/policies/privacy/ (collectively, the “Google Terms”). By using the StableMates, LLC Service, you acknowledge and agree to the Google Terms as they apply to you (e.g., as an “End User”). Any unauthorized use of the Google Maps features and content may result in your suspension or termination from the StableMates, LLC Service.

3. Compliance with Applicable Law. By accessing and using the StableMates, LLC Service, you certify that you: (1) are at least 18 years of age or the age of majority in your jurisdiction, whichever is higher, and (2) will comply with all laws and regulations applicable to your activities conducted through, or related to, the StableMates, LLC Service.

• For Pet Owners, this means, among other things, that you will ensure that your pets are vaccinated, licensed, identification-tagged and/or microchipped as required by local laws or regulations; that you have obtained and will maintain any mandatory insurance policies concerning the pets whose care you entrust to Service Providers (and that such policies will benefit third parties, including Service Providers, to the same extent they benefit you).
• For Service Providers, this includes that you are legally eligible to provide Pet Care Services in the jurisdiction where you provide Pet Care Services; that you have complied and will comply with all laws and regulations that are applicable to you; that you have obtained all business licenses and permits necessary to legally provide Pet Care Services; and that, when providing Pet Care Services, you will comply with applicable leash, pet waste disposal, and similar laws.

You acknowledge that StableMates, LLC is entitled to rely on these commitments from you, is not responsible to ensure that all users have complied with applicable laws and regulations, and will not be liable for a user’s failure to do so.

4. Use of the StableMates, LLC Service; Suspension.

4.1 Your Conduct on the StableMates, LLC Service. When you use the StableMates, LLC Service, you agree:

• To use the StableMates, LLC Service only in a lawful manner and only for its intended purposes.
• Not to use the StableMates, LLC Service to arrange for the care of: (a) exotic or inherently dangerous pets such as venomous snakes or constrictors, primates, wolves or wolf hybrids, non-domesticated cats, alligators, horses or other livestock; (b) any animal whose ownership or third-party care is prohibited under applicable law; or (c) any animal that has a history of, or which has been trained for, attacks on pets or people.
• Not to submit viruses or other malicious code to or through the StableMates, LLC Service.
• Not to use the StableMates, LLC Service, or engage with other users of the StableMates, LLC Service, for purposes that violate the law.
• Not to use the StableMates, LLC Service to arrange for the provision and purchase of services with another user, then complete transactions for those services outside of the StableMates, LLC Service.
• Not to use the StableMates, LLC Service for purposes of competing with StableMates, LLC or to promote other products or services.
• Not to post reviews about Service Providers that aren’t based on your personal experience, that are intentionally inaccurate or misleading, or that violate these Terms.
• Not to post content or materials that are pornographic, threatening, harassing, abusive, or defamatory, or that contain nudity or graphic violence, incite violence, violate intellectual property rights, or violate the law or the legal rights (for example, privacy rights) of others.
• Not to post “spam” or other unauthorized commercial communications.
• To use the StableMates, LLC Service only for your own purposes, and not to impersonate any other person.
• Not to transfer or authorize the use of your account for the StableMates, LLC Service by any other person, or to engage in fraudulent transactions.
• Not to provide false information in your profile on, or registration for, the StableMates, LLC Service, or to create multiple or duplicate accounts.
• Not to interfere with our provision of, or any other user’s use of, the StableMates, LLC Service.
• Not to solicit another user’s username and password for the StableMates, LLC Service or any other sensitive personal information, including bank details.

4.2 Suspension and Termination. You understand and agree that we have no obligation to provide the StableMates, LLC Service in any specific location or territory, nor to continue providing it once we have begun. We reserve the right to suspend or terminate your access to the StableMates, LLC Service: (1) if in our discretion your conduct on the Site or StableMates, LLC Service is inappropriate, unsafe, dishonest, or in breach of these terms; or (2) if necessary in our discretion to protect StableMates, LLC, its users, pets, or the public. You may suspend or terminate your use of the StableMates, LLC Service at any time and for any reason. If you wish to deactivate your account, please contact StableMates, LLC. Note that if you have any outstanding payment obligations, those will survive suspension or termination of your account.

5. Registration; Account Security. In order to use some aspects of the StableMates, LLC Service, you will be required to create a username, password, and user profile. If you elect to use the StableMates, LLC Service, you agree to provide accurate information about yourself and keep this information up-to-date. You agree not to impersonate anyone else and not to maintain more than one account (or, if StableMates, LLC suspends or terminates your account, not to create additional accounts). You are responsible for maintaining the confidentiality of your username and password for the StableMates, LLC Service and are responsible for all activity under your account. You agree to notify us promptly of any unauthorized use of your account.
6. Privacy. Our collection and use of your personal information on the StableMates, LLC Service is described in our Privacy Statement. By accessing or using the StableMates, LLC Service, you acknowledge that you have read and understand the Privacy Statement.
7. Your Content.

7.1 Your Content. We may require or allow you (or someone else on your behalf) to submit or upload text, photographs, images, videos, reviews, information and materials to your profile on the StableMates, LLC Service or otherwise in connection with using the StableMates, LLC Service and/or participating in promotional campaigns we conduct on the Site (collectively, “Your Content”). For example, Service Providers are invited to create a profile page with a photograph and other information and to transmit photos of the dogs under their care to Pet Owners, while Pet Owners may submit reviews of Service Providers.

7.2 License. Except for the limitations on our use and disclosure of personal information described in our Privacy Statement, to the maximum extent and duration permitted under any applicable law, you grant StableMates, LLC an irrevocable, perpetual, non-exclusive, fully paid worldwide license to use, copy, perform, publicly display, reproduce, adapt, modify, transmit, broadcast, prepare derivative works of, and/or distribute Your Content in connection with providing and/or promoting the StableMates, LLC Service, and to sublicense these rights to third parties.

7.3 Release. If your name, voice, image, persona, likeness, or performance is included in any of Your Content, you hereby waive, and release StableMates, LLC and its users from, any claim or cause of action, whether known or unknown, for defamation, copyright infringement, invasion of the rights of privacy, publicity, or personality, or any similar claim arising out of the use of Your Content in accordance with the license in Section 7.2 and the other provisions of these Terms.

7.4 Your Representations and Warranties about Your Content. You represent and warrant that (1) you are the owner or licensor of Your Content, and that you have all rights, consents and permissions necessary to grant the license in Section 7.2 and make the release in Section 7.3 with respect to Your Content, (2) that you have any necessary consents and releases from individuals who appear or whose pets appear in Your Content; and (3) Your Content does not violate the law or these Terms.

7.5 Right to Remove or Screen Your Content. Though we are not obligated to do so, we reserve the right to monitor, screen, edit and/or remove Your Content on the StableMates, LLC Service. Our enforcement of these Terms with respect to Your Content is at our discretion, and failure to enforce the Terms in one instance does not create a waiver of our right to enforce them in another instance. We have no obligation to retain or provide you with copies of Your Content, nor will we have any liability to you for any deletion, disclosure, loss or modification to Your Content. It is your sole responsibility to maintain backup copies of Your Content.

7.6 Reviews. The StableMates, LLC Service may provide the ability to leave public and/or private reviews of users or their pets. You acknowledge that even private reviews may be shared with third parties in accordance with applicable law and our Privacy Statement and that StableMates, LLC has no obligation to preserve or indefinitely store any reviews. If you are a Service Provider, we have no obligation to provide you with the content of any reviews about you submitted by other users of the StableMates, LLC Service, whether before or after termination of your account for the StableMates, LLC Service. We will have no liability to you for any deletion, disclosure, loss or modification of these reviews. We reserve the right to screen, edit or remove these reviews from the StableMates, LLC Service at any time.

8. Phone, Text and Mobile Communications.

8.1 Consent to Autodialed Text Messages This section 8.1 applies only to users in the United States. You consent to StableMates, LLC communicating with you about the StableMates, LLC Service by SMS, text message, email and other electronic means, including autodialed text messages containing service information and/or marketing messages, even if your phone number is on the do-not-call list. Your carrier’s normal messaging, data and other rates and fees will apply to these communications. You are not required to provide this consent to receive marketing messages as a condition of purchasing anything or using the StableMates, LLC Service, and you may opt-out of receiving these messages at any time as described in our Privacy Statement (though you may continue to receive messages while StableMates, LLC processes your request).

8.2 Phone Number Changes. In the event you deactivate a mobile phone number provided to us, you agree to update your StableMates, LLC account information promptly to ensure that messages are not sent to the person who acquires your old number.

9. Fees & Payment.

9.1 Currency. All fees, deductible amounts and other payments referenced on, or charged through, the StableMates, LLC Service are listed and payable in local currency.

9.2 Fees for Pet Owners. Pet Owners may purchase Pet Care Services from a Service Provider by completing a Booking as described in Section 2.5. If you are a Pet Owner, you enter into a transaction with the Service Provider when you accept a Booking, and you agree to pay the total fees indicated in the Booking. As described in Sections 9.3 and 9.4, the total amount Pet Owners are charged for a Booking may also include a service fee payable to StableMates, LLC. Where required by law, the amount charged will also be inclusive of applicable taxes. The Service Provider, not StableMates, LLC, is responsible for performing the Pet Care Services.

9.3 Fees for Service Providers. Service Providers may agree to provide Pet Care Services to a Pet Owner by agreeing to a Booking as described in Section 2.5. If you are a Service Provider, you must confirm the Booking before it expires or the Pet Owner will have no obligation to complete the transaction. Once the Booking is completed by both parties, you agree to honor the price set forth in your Booking. The purchase of Pet Care Services is a transaction between the Pet Owner and the Service Provider. StableMates, LLC’s role is to facilitate the transaction. We will (either directly or indirectly through an authorized third party) collect payment from the Pet Owner at the time of Booking and (except to the extent of any payment hold pursuant to Section 9.7) initiate payment to the Service Provider’s account 48 hours after completion of the service period indicated in the Booking. Service Providers are charged a service fee as described in Section 9.4. Where required by law, the amount charged will also be inclusive of applicable taxes.

9.4 Service Fees. We charge service fees for some aspects of the StableMates, LLC Service. If you are a Service Provider, except where otherwise specified via the StableMates, LLC Service, our service fee is calculated as a percentage of the fees a Pet Owner agrees to pay to you in a Booking and is collected from each Booking. Our service fees are described here.

9.5 Late Fees and Additional Charges. If you are a Pet Owner, you acknowledge and agree that, if you fail to retrieve your pet at the end of the service period agreed in a Booking, you will be charged for additional service time (pro rata for each partial late day) at the daily rate established in the Booking. In addition, you agree to indemnify StableMates, LLC from, and agree that we may charge your credit card or other payment method for, any additional costs and expenses we or the Service Provider incur as a result of your failure to retrieve your pet at the end of the service period agreed in a Booking.

9.6 Cancellations & Refunds.

• Reservation Protection. As more fully described on StableMates, LLC’s Reservation Protection page, StableMates, LLC can help you find replacement Service Providers when Service Providers cancel Bookings near the start date of the service period identified in the Booking. The availability of the Reservation Protection depends on the timing of the cancellation and the type of Pet Care Services provided; consult the Reservation Protection page for details.
• Cancellations by Service Provider. If a Service Provider cancels a Booking prior to or during the service period identified in the Booking, we will refund the fees paid by the Pet Owner for Pet Care Services not provided, as well as any service charge paid to StableMates, LLC. If you are a Service Provider, you can appoint a substitute Service Provider (as agreed by the Pet Owner and so long as the substitute has an active account on the StableMates, LLC Service and has agreed in writing to accept a Booking) by contacting StableMates, LLC to modify the Booking. If you do not find a substitute and repeatedly cancel accepted Bookings without justification, StableMates, LLC may terminate your account.
• Cancellations by Pet Owner. If a Pet Owner cancels a Booking prior to or during the service period specified in a Booking, we will refund fees in accordance with the cancellation policy selected by the Service Provider on the StableMates, LLC Service. All Service Providers are required to select a cancellation policy prior to completing a Booking so that Pet Owners are aware of the cancellation policy prior to Booking. For more information about cancellation policies, please visit the Help Center.
• Force Majeure. The cancellation policies described herein may not apply in the event of certain emergency situations beyond the control of Service Providers and/or Pet Owners that make it impossible or impractical to perform agreed Bookings, such as evacuations resulting from earthquake, hurricane, wildfire, flood, war, riots or other similar disaster. In such cases StableMates, LLC may, in its reasonable discretion, issue refunds under terms that vary from a Service Provider’s selected cancellation policy.
• Refunds for Failure to Perform. If we determine in our reasonable discretion that a Service Provider has failed to provide Pet Care Services as agreed with the Pet Owner or is otherwise in breach of these Terms, then we may, in our reasonable discretion, cancel a Booking and/or issue a full or partial refund to a Pet Owner.
• General Terms for Cancellations. If you wish to cancel a Booking, you should use the mechanisms available through the StableMates, LLC Service to do so. For purposes of the policies and terms in this Section 9.6, the date of cancellation is the date that a user cancels through the StableMates, LLC Service, regardless of any separate communications between users outside of the StableMates, LLC Service.
• Payment Disputes; Payment Outside of the StableMates, LLC Service. StableMates, LLC initiates payments to Service Providers 48 hours after completion of a Booking. Once these amounts have been disbursed, any further payment disputes are between the Pet Owner and Service Provider, and StableMates, LLC has no obligation to mediate or facilitate any resolution. Further, StableMates, LLC has no responsibility or liability with respect to any tips, bonuses, or other payments made outside of the StableMates, LLC Service.

9.7 Payment Holds. If you are a Service Provider, StableMates, LLC reserves the right to issue a hold on amounts otherwise payable to you pursuant to Section 9.3 if there is a reasonable suspicion of fraudulent activity involving your account(s) or for other similarly compelling reason involving protection of StableMates, LLC, the StableMates, LLC community or third party rights. We may also recommend that third party payment service providers restrict your access to funds in your account under the same circumstances.

9.8 Authorization to Charge. When you pay for Pet Care Services or for other services on the StableMates, LLC Service, you will be required to provide us with valid, up-to-date credit card or other payment information and to maintain that payment information (or an acceptable alternative payment method) on file with your account so long as you have any outstanding, confirmed Bookings. StableMates, LLC’s role is to facilitate payments from Pet Owners to Service Providers as limited payment agent for the Service Provider. You authorize us to charge your credit card or other payment method for fees you incur on the StableMates, LLC Service as they become due and payable, and to charge any alternative payment method StableMates, LLC has on record for you in the event your primary payment method is expired, invalid, or otherwise not able to be charged. You are responsible for maintaining up-to-date payment information. If we cannot charge you for fees when due because your payment information is no longer valid, or if we do not receive your payment when due, then you understand that neither StableMates, LLC nor the Service Provider will be responsible for any failure to provide services associated with those fees. Except as expressly provided in these Terms, all fees paid via the StableMates, LLC Service are non-refundable once paid.

9.9 Taxes. Except for taxes on StableMates, LLC’s income and gross receipts or where StableMates, LLC is otherwise required to collect taxes, you acknowledge that you are solely responsible to pay any applicable taxes that arise as a result of your purchase, provision, or use of Pet Care Services via the StableMates, LLC Service. This includes, without limitation, any form of sales tax, VAT, or income tax on fees paid or received by you through the StableMates, LLC Service.

10. Background Checks and Identity Verifications.

StableMates, LLC may provide Service Providers with access to third party consumer reporting agencies that perform, among other things, personal identification verification services (“Identity Verification”) or criminal records checks, sex offender registry checks, motor vehicle records checks and/or identification verifications (collectively, “Background Checks”). Outside of the United States, these services are limited to Identity Verification. We do not provide, and are not responsible or liable in any manner for, the Background Checks or Identity Verifications, and we do not endorse or make any representations or warranties regarding the reliability of such Background Checks or Identity Verifications or the accuracy, timeliness or completeness of any information in the Background Checks or Identity Verifications. We do not independently verify information in the Background Checks or Identity Verifications.

If you undergo a Background Check or Identity Verification via the StableMates, LLC Service, you hereby consent to the collection, use and disclosure of the information in the Background Check or Identity Verification, and you agree to provide complete and accurate information for your Background Check or Identity Verification. You understand and agree that StableMates, LLC may, in its sole discretion, review and rely on the information in the Background Check or Identity Verification in deciding whether to suspend or terminate or investigate a complaint about a Service Provider, but also that we are not obligated to do so, and are not responsible or liable in any way in the event that any information in any Background Check or Identity Verification is not accurate, timely or complete. If you are the subject of a Background Check or Identity Verification, you may contact the applicable third-party consumer reporting agency to dispute the accuracy, timeliness or completeness of such information. You agree that StableMates, LLC’s rights and obligations under the Arbitration Agreement to the benefit of the consumer reporting agency used for Background Checks or Identity Verification in respect of any claim that would be subject to the Arbitration Agreement if brought against us. StableMates, LLC reserves the right to suspend or terminate your access to the StableMates, LLC Service based on information in the Background Check or Identity Verification or for any other reason, or no reason, in our sole discretion.

Pet Owners remain fully responsible to evaluate and investigate their Service Providers. Be aware of the following limitations in Background Checks: Except as otherwise expressly provided in these Terms or through the Service, StableMates, LLC does not automatically run Background Checks on any Users. Background Checks may vary by type, breadth and depth. Records not available to third-party Background Check agencies will not be included in the results. Not all arrest logs and records, conviction and correction records, sex offender registries and motor vehicle records are available in all jurisdictions. In many jurisdictions there is a delay before arrest logs and records, conviction and correction records, sex offender registries and motor vehicle records are included in Background Checks. Juvenile records and offenses for minors may not appear in the public record and are therefore not included in the results. Dismissed cases, arrests not resulting in convictions, arrests or convictions in foreign countries and nolle prosequi (abandonment of prosecution) may not be reported. Traffic violations are not included unless a jurisdiction reports them as criminal offenses. In the jurisdictions where traffic violations are reported as criminal offenses, such traffic violations may be included in the results as misdemeanors or felonies.

12. Third Party Services, Links. The StableMates, LLC Service may contain links to third party websites or resources. You acknowledge and agree that we are not responsible or liable for: (i) the availability or accuracy of such websites or resources; or (ii) the content, products, or services on or available from such websites or resources. Links to such websites or resources do not imply any endorsement of such websites or resources, or the content, products, or services available from such websites or resources. You acknowledge sole responsibility for and assume all risk arising from your use of any such websites or resources.
13. Indemnity. TO THE MAXIMUM EXTENT PERMITTED UNDER ANY APPLICABLE LAW AND EXCEPT AS OTHERWISE PROHIBITED BY APPLICABLE LAW, YOU AGREE TO DEFEND, INDEMNIFY AND HOLD StableMates, LLC HARMLESS FROM AND AGAINST ANY AND ALL CLAIMS, DEMANDS, CAUSES OF ACTION, LOSSES, EXPENSES, DAMAGES AND/OR LIABILITIES, INCLUDING REASONABLE ATTORNEYS’ FEES AND COURT COSTS, THAT ARE IN ANY WAY RELATED TO YOUR: (1) transactions and interactions, online or offline, with other users of the StableMates, LLC Service; (2) breach of these Terms; (3) disputes with other users of the StableMates, LLC Service; (4) your misstatements, misrepresentations, or violation of applicable law; (5) property damage or personal injury to third parties caused by your pet or pets in your care; (6) Your Content; or (7) your use of any Background Check or Identify Verification information in violation of any applicable law. YOU FURTHER AGREE THAT YOU WILL COOPERATE WITH US IN THE DEFENSE OF SUCH CLAIMS. WE RESERVE THE RIGHT TO ASSUME THE EXCLUSIVE DEFENSE AND CONTROL OF ANY MATTER SUBJECT TO INDEMNIFICATION UNDER THIS SECTION, AND YOU WILL NOT SETTLE ANY SUCH CLAIM OR MATTER WITHOUT OUR ADVANCE WRITTEN CONSENT.
14. Intellectual Property.

14.1 StableMates, LLC Service. StableMates, LLC and its licensors retain all right, title and interest in and to the StableMates, LLC Service, the technology and software used to provide it, all electronic documentation and content available through the StableMates, LLC Service (other than Your Content), and all intellectual property and proprietary rights in the StableMates, LLC Service and such technology, software, documentation and content. Except for your rights to access and use the StableMates, LLC Service set forth in these Terms, nothing in these Terms licenses or conveys any of our intellectual property or proprietary rights to anyone, including you. You agree that we will have a perpetual right to use and incorporate into the StableMates, LLC Service any feedback or suggestions for improvement that you provide to us concerning the StableMates, LLC Service, without any obligation of compensation.

14.2 StableMates, LLC Trademarks. StableMates, LLC owns all rights in and to its trademarks, service marks, brand names and logos (the “StableMates, LLC Marks”). If you are a Service Provider, StableMates, LLC grants you, for so long as you are in good standing on the StableMates, LLC Service, a limited, revocable, non-exclusive, non-transferable license to use the StableMates, LLC Marks solely: (1) in the form incorporated into goods, including customizable marketing collateral (promo cards, signage etc.), made available for purchase via the StableMates, LLC Store and/or (2) in any other manner specifically authorized in writing via the StableMates, LLC Service. As a condition of exercising such license, you agree that (1) all goodwill associated with your use of the StableMates, LLC Marks inures solely to the benefit of StableMates, LLC, and (2) such license immediately terminates upon your ceasing to be a Service Provider in good standing, whether at your own option or because StableMates, LLC suspends or terminates your rights to use the StableMates, LLC Service.

15. Warranty Disclaimer for the StableMates, LLC Service. The information and materials found on the StableMates, LLC Service, including text, graphics, information, links or other items, are provided “as is” and “as available.” Reviews, profiles, advice, opinions, statements, offers, or other information or content made available through the StableMates, LLC Service, but not directly by StableMates, LLC, are those of their respective authors, who are solely responsible for such content. TO THE MAXIMUM EXTENT PERMITTED BY APPLICABLE LAW, StableMates, LLC DOES NOT: (1) WARRANT THE ACCURACY, ADEQUACY OR COMPLETENESS OF INFORMATION AND MATERIALS ON THE StableMates, LLC SERVICE; (2) ADOPT, ENDORSE OR ACCEPT RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ACCURACY OR RELIABILITY OF ANY OPINION, ADVICE, OR STATEMENT MADE BY ANY PARTY OTHER THAN StableMates, LLC; (3) WARRANT THAT YOUR USE OF THE SERVICES WILL BE SECURE, FREE FROM COMPUTER VIRUSES, UNINTERRUPTED, ALWAYS AVAILABLE, ERROR-FREE OR WILL MEET YOUR REQUIREMENTS, OR THAT ANY DEFECTS IN THE StableMates, LLC SERVICE WILL BE CORRECTED. TO THE EXTENT PERMITTED BY APPLICABLE LAW, StableMates, LLC EXPRESSLY DISCLAIMS ALL WARRANTIES, WHETHER EXPRESS, IMPLIED OR STATUTORY, WITH RESPECT TO THE StableMates, LLC SERVICE, AND SPECIFICALLY DISCLAIMS ALL IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY, FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, NON-INFRINGEMENT, AND ACCURACY. IN ADDITION AND WITHOUT LIMITING THE FOREGOING, WE MAKE NO REPRESENTATION OR WARRANTY OF ANY KIND, WHETHER EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, REGARDING THE SUITABILITY OF ANY SERVICE PROVIDER THAT OFFERS PET CARE SERVICES VIA THE StableMates, LLC SERVICE.
16. Limitation of Liability.

16.1 Exclusion of Certain Types of Damages. To the maximum extent permitted under applicable law, in no event will StableMates, LLC be liable to you for any indirect, special, incidental, or consequential damages, or for any business losses, or loss of profit, revenue, contracts, data, goodwill or other similar losses or expenses that arise out of or relate to the use of or inability to use the StableMates, LLC Service, including without limitation damages related to any information received from the StableMates, LLC Service, removal of your profile information or review (or other content) from the StableMates, LLC Service, any suspension or termination of your access to the StableMates, LLC Service, or any failure, error, omission, interruption, defect, delay in operation or transmission of the StableMates, LLC Service, even if we are aware of the possibility of any such damages, losses or expenses. SOME JURISDICTIONS DO NOT ALLOW THE EXCLUSION OR LIMITATION OF LIABILITY FOR CONSEQUENTIAL OR INCIDENTAL DAMAGES, SO THE ABOVE LIMITATION MAY NOT APPLY TO YOU.

16.2 Limit on Our Liability to You. IN NO EVENT WILL STABLEMATES, LLC’S AGGREGATE LIABILITY TO YOU OR ANY THIRD PARTY IN ANY MATTER ARISING FROM OR RELATING TO THE STABLEMATES, LLC SERVICE OR THESE TERMS EXCEED THE AMOUNTS PAID BY YOU TO STABLEMATES, LLC (SPECIFICALLY EXCLUDING AMOUNTS PAID TO SERVICE PROVIDERS) DURING THE TWELVE (12) MONTHS PRECEDING THE EVENT THAT GAVE RISE TO LIABLITY OR, IF YOU HAVE NOT PAID STABLEMATES, LLC FOR THE USE OF ANY SERVICES, THE AMOUNT OF $100.00 USD (OR EQUIVALENT IN LOCAL CURRENCY).

16.3 No Liability for non-StableMates, LLC Actions. TO THE MAXIMUM EXTENT PERMITTED BY APPLICABLE LAW, IN NO EVENT WILL STABLEMATES, LLC BE LIABLE FOR ANY DAMAGES WHATSOEVER, WHETHER DIRECT, INDIRECT, GENERAL, SPECIAL, COMPENSATORY, AND/OR CONSEQUENTIAL, ARISING OUT OF OR RELATING TO THE CONDUCT OF YOU OR ANYONE ELSE IN CONNECTION WITH THE STABLEMATES, LLC SERVICE, INCLUDING WITHOUT LIMITATION, BODILY INJURY, DEATH, EMOTIONAL DISTRESS, AND/OR ANY OTHER DAMAGES RESULTING FROM RELIANCE ON INFORMATION OR CONTENT POSTED ON OR TRANSMITTED THROUGH THE STABLEMATES, LLC SERVICE, OR FOR ANY INTERACTIONS WITH OTHER USERS OF THE STABLEMATES, LLC SERVICE, WHETHER ONLINE OR OFFLINE. THIS INCLUDES ANY CLAIMS, LOSSES OR DAMAGES ARISING FROM THE CONDUCT OF USERS WHO ATTEMPT TO DEFRAUD OR HARM YOU.

IF YOU HAVE A DISPUTE WITH A CARETAKER OR PET OWNER, YOU AGREE TO RELEASE STABLEMATES, LLC FROM ALL CLAIMS, DEMANDS AND DAMAGES OF EVERY NATURE, KNOWN AND UNKNOWN, ARISING OUT OF OR IN ANY WAY CONNECTED WITH SUCH DISPUTES, EXCEPT TO THE EXTENT STATED IN THE STABLEMATES, LLC GUARANTEE. IN NO EVENT WILL STABLEMATES, LLC BE LIABLE FOR DIRECT OR INDIRECT CONSEQUENCES OF A PET OWNER OR CARETAKER FAILING TO COMPLY WITH APPLICABLE LAWS AND REGULATIONS.

17. Arbitration Agreement.

PLEASE READ THIS SECTION CAREFULLY BECAUSE IT REQUIRES YOU TO ARBITRATE CERTAIN DISPUTES AND CLAIMS WITH STABLEMATES, LLC AND LIMITS THE MANNER IN WHICH YOU CAN SEEK RELIEF FROM US. 

17.1 Arbitration Agreement; Claims. This Section 17 is referred to as the “Arbitration Agreement” in these Terms. Unless you opt out of the Arbitration Agreement in accordance with the procedure described in Section 17.9 below, you and StableMates, LLC (together, the “Parties”) agree that any and all disputes or claims that arise between you and StableMates, LLC relating to the StableMates, LLC Service, interactions with others on the StableMates, LLC Service, and/or these Terms (including any alleged breach of these Terms) (collectively, “Claims”), except for Excluded Claims (defined in the following sentence), will be resolved as set forth in this Arbitration Agreement. As used herein, “Excluded Claims” means (1) individual claims brought in small claims court (if your claims qualify), (2) claims arising out of or related to a violation of Section 4.1, above, (3) claims in which either party seeks injunctive or other equitable relief for the alleged unlawful use of intellectual property (including, without limitation, copyrights, trademarks, trade names, logos, trade secrets or patents), and (4) claims that, as a matter of applicable law, cannot be made subject to arbitration.

17.2 Agreement to Arbitrate. Unless you opt out of the Arbitration Agreement in accordance with the procedure described in Section 17.9 below, you agree that any and all Claims (other than Excluded Claims) will be resolved exclusively on an individual basis through final and binding arbitration, rather than in a court, in accordance with this Arbitration Agreement, and your rights in connection with all Claims (other than Excluded Claims) will be determined by a neutral arbitrator, not by a judge or jury. The Federal Arbitration Act governs the interpretation and enforcement of this Arbitration Agreement. To the extent that the Parties’ dispute involves both timely filed Excluded Claims and other Claims subject to this Agreement, the Parties agree to bifurcate and stay for the duration of the arbitration proceedings any such Excluded Claims.

17.3 Prohibition of Class and Representative Actions and Non-Individualized Relief. YOU AND StableMates, LLC AGREE THAT, UNLESS YOU OPT OUT OF THE ARBITRATION AGREEMENT IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 17.9 BELOW, EACH OF US MAY BRING CLAIMS (EXCEPT TO THE EXTENT THAT THE RIGHT TO BRING A CLAIM IN A PURPORTED CLASS OR REPRESENTATIVE ACTION CANNOT BE WAIVED AS A MATTER OF LAW) AGAINST THE OTHER ONLY ON AN INDIVIDUAL BASIS AND NOT AS A PLAINTIFF OR CLASS MEMBER IN ANY PURPORTED CLASS OR REPRESENTATIVE ACTION OR PROCEEDING. UNLESS BOTH YOU AND STABLEMATES, LLC AGREE OTHERWISE (OR TO THE EXTENT THAT THE RIGHT TO BRING A CLAIM IN A PURPORTED CLASS OR REPRESENTATIVE ACTION CANNOT BE WAIVED AS A MATTER OF LAW), THE ARBITRATOR MAY NOT CONSOLIDATE OR JOIN MORE THAN ONE PERSON’S OR PARTY’S CLAIMS AND MAY NOT OTHERWISE PRESIDE OVER ANY FORM OF A CONSOLIDATED, REPRESENTATIVE, OR CLASS PROCEEDING. ALSO, THE ARBITRATOR MAY AWARD RELIEF (INCLUDING MONETARY, INJUNCTIVE, AND DECLARATORY RELIEF) ONLY IN FAVOR OF THE INDIVIDUAL PARTY SEEKING RELIEF AND ONLY TO THE EXTENT NECESSARY TO PROVIDE RELIEF NECESSITATED BY THAT PARTY’S INDIVIDUAL CLAIM(S). ANY RELIEF AWARDED CANNOT AFFECT OTHER STABLEMATES, LLC SERVICE USERS.

17.4 Pre-Arbitration Dispute Resolution. Before you commence arbitration, we suggest that you contact us to explain your complaint. Our preference will always be to resolve complaints amicably and efficiently, without the need for arbitration. You may contact us via email at legal.stablemates.org@gmail.com or by mail at StableMates, LLC., Attn: Legal,4384 Green Cook Road, Westerville, OH 43082. If the issue is not resolved and results in arbitration, we will need to mutually select and agree upon an arbitrator and the rules and procedures to govern the arbitration.

17.5 Arbitration Procedures. The Parties will try in good faith to mutually select and agree upon an arbitrator and rules and procedures to govern the arbitration. If we cannot agree, then the arbitration will be conducted in English by a neutral arbitrator in accordance with your choice of the JAMS Streamlined Arbitration Rules and Procedures (the “JAMS Rules”) or the Rules of the International Center for Dispute Resolution (the “ICDR Rules”), as modified by this Arbitration Agreement. The rules that apply are those in effect when arbitration is demanded by either of the Parties. The JAMS Rules are available at https://www.jamsadr.com/rules-streamlined-arbitration, and the ICDR Rules are available at https://www.icdr.org/rules_forms_fees, and both Rules are incorporated in these Terms by reference. You either acknowledge and agree that you have read and understand the Rules or waive your opportunity to read the Rules and any claim that the Rules are unfair or should not apply for any reason. If there is any inconsistency between the Rules and this Arbitration Agreement, the terms of this Arbitration Agreement will control unless the arbitrator determines that the application of the inconsistent Arbitration Agreement terms would not result in a fundamentally fair arbitration. The arbitrator must also follow the provisions of these Terms as a court would, including without limitation, the limitation of liability provisions in Section 16. Although arbitration proceedings are usually simpler and more streamlined than trials and other judicial proceedings, the arbitrator can award the same damages and relief on an individual basis that a court can award to an individual under the Terms and applicable law. The arbitrator shall submit a decision in writing, specifying the findings of fact and the conclusions of law on which the decision is based. Decisions by the arbitrator are binding and enforceable in court and may be overturned by a court only for very limited reasons.

The arbitration will be held in the county in which you reside or at another mutually agreed location. If the value of the relief sought is $10,000 USD (or equivalent in local currency) or less, you or StableMates, LLC may elect to have the arbitration conducted by telephone or based solely on written submissions, which election will be binding on you and StableMates, LLC subject to the arbitrator’s discretion to require an in-person hearing, if the circumstances warrant. Attendance at any in-person hearing may be made by telephone by you and/or StableMates, LLC, unless the arbitrator requires otherwise.

The arbitrator will decide the substance of all claims in accordance with the laws of the State of Ohio, including recognized principles of equity, and will honor all claims of privilege recognized by law. The arbitrator will not be bound by rulings in prior arbitrations involving different StableMates, LLC users, but is bound by rulings in prior arbitrations involving the same StableMates, LLC user to the extent required by applicable law. As limited by applicable law, these Terms and the applicable JAMS Rules, the arbitrator will have (1) the exclusive authority and jurisdiction to make all procedural and substantive decisions regarding a Claim, including the determination of whether a Claim is arbitrable, and (2) the authority to grant any remedy that would otherwise be available in court.

17.6 Costs of Arbitration. Payment of all filing, administration, and arbitrator fees (collectively, the “Arbitration Fees“) will be shared equally by you and StableMates, LLC, except where prohibited by applicable law. Each party will be solely responsible for all other fees it incurs in connection with the arbitration, including without limitation, all attorney fees. In the event the arbitrator determines the claim(s) you assert in the arbitration to be frivolous, you agree to reimburse StableMates, LLC for all fees associated with the arbitration paid by StableMates, LLC on your behalf that you otherwise would be obligated to pay under the JAMS or ICDR Rules.

17.7 Confidentiality. All aspects of the arbitration proceeding, and any ruling, decision or award by the arbitrator, will be strictly confidential for the benefit of all parties.

17.8 Severability. If any term, clause or provision of this Section 17 is held invalid or unenforceable, it will be so held to the minimum extent required by law, and all other terms, clauses and provisions of this Section 17 will remain valid and enforceable.

17.9 Opt-Out Procedure. You can choose to reject this Arbitration Agreement by mailing us a written opt-out notice (“Opt-Out Notice“) in accordance with the terms of this Section 17.9. The Opt-Out Notice must be postmarked no later than 30 days after the date you accept these Terms for the first time. You must mail the Opt-Out Notice to StableMates, LLC, Inc., Attn: Legal, 63 Murnane Street, Westerville, OH 43081. The Opt-Out Notice must state that you do not agree to the Arbitration Agreement and must include your name, address, phone number, and the email address(es) used to register for the StableMates, LLC Service to which the opt-out applies. You must sign the Opt-Out Notice for it to be effective. This procedure is the only way you can opt out of the Arbitration Agreement. If you opt out of the Arbitration Agreement, the entire Arbitration Agreement will not apply with respect to you, but the remainder of these Terms will continue to apply. Opting out of this Arbitration Agreement has no effect on any previous, other, or future arbitration agreements that you may have with us. By opting out of binding arbitration, you are agreeing to resolve Claims (including Excluded Claims) in accordance with Section 18.

17.10 Future Changes to this Arbitration Agreement. Notwithstanding any provision in these Terms to the contrary, you agree that if we make any change to this Arbitration Agreement (other than a change to any notice address or website link provided herein) in the future, that change will not apply to any claim that was filed in a legal proceeding against StableMates, LLC prior to the effective date of the change. Moreover, if we terminate this Arbitration Agreement by removing it from these Terms, such termination will not be effective until 30 days after the version of these Terms not containing the Arbitration Agreement is posted to the Site, and will not be effective as to any claim that was filed in a legal proceeding against StableMates, LLC prior to the effective date of removal.

18. Governing Law and Jurisdiction.

18.1 For users in the United States these Terms, and any dispute between you and StableMates, LLC, will be governed by the laws of the State of Ohio, without regard to principles of conflicts of law, except that the Federal Arbitration Act will govern the interpretation and enforcement of Section 17 (the Arbitration Agreement). Unless you and we agree otherwise, or except where prohibited by applicable law, in the event that the Arbitration Agreement is found not to apply to you or to a particular claim or dispute, you agree that any claim or dispute that arises between you and StableMates, LLC must be resolved exclusively by a state or federal court located in the State of Ohio. You and StableMates, LLC agree to submit to the personal jurisdiction of the courts located within Westerville, Ohio for the purpose of litigating all such claims or disputes.

19. Miscellaneous. Nothing in these Terms will be construed as making either party the partner, joint venturer, agent, legal representative, employer, worker, or employee of the other. Neither party will have, or hold itself out to any third party as having, any authority to make any statements, representations or commitments of any kind, or to take any action, that will be binding on the other, except as provided for herein or authorized in writing by the party to be bound. These Terms are non-exclusive and do not prohibit Service Providers from offering pet care services via other means or third parties. The invalidity, illegality or unenforceability of any term or provision of these Terms will in no way effect the validity, legality or enforceability of any other term or provision of these Terms. In the event a term or provision is determined to be invalid or unenforceable, the parties agree to replace such term or provision with a term or provision that is valid and enforceable and that comes closest to expressing the intention of the invalid or unenforceable term or provision, and these Terms will be enforceable as so modified. To the maximum extent possible under applicable local law, this Agreement will be binding on and will inure to the benefit of the legal representatives, successors and assigns of the parties hereto.

For questions or concerns about the StableMates, LLC Service or these Terms, please contact us through our website.