Terms of Use

Last Updated: November 2025

Welcome to www.stcne.org (the “Site”). The Site is operated by the Scottish Terrier Club of New England, Inc. (“STCNE,” “we,” “us,” or “our”), a nonprofit organization recognized as a 501(c)(3) public charity. STCNE’s mission is to raise awareness about the Scottish Terrier breed, promote responsible ownership, and provide support through rescue, education, fundraising, membership programs, and volunteer opportunities.

By accessing or using the Site, you (“you,” “your,” or “user”) agree to be bound by these Terms of Use (“Terms”). If you do not agree, please do not use the Site.

1. Eligibility

You must be at least 13 years old to use the Site. If you engage in donations, memberships, or purchases, you must be at least 18 years old or have the permission of a parent or legal guardian.

2. Use of the Site

You may use the Site for lawful, personal, and non-commercial purposes related to STCNE’s mission. You agree not to:

  • Use the Site to violate any law or regulation

  • Interfere with Site operations or security

  • Upload harmful, misleading, or infringing content

  • Use automated systems (bots, scrapers, etc.) without our permission

  • Misrepresent yourself when communicating with STCNE

We may suspend or restrict access to the Site without notice for violations of these Terms.

3. Donations, Memberships & Payments

The Site may allow online donations, membership renewals, event registrations, or merchandise purchases.

  • All payments are processed through third-party payment providers. STCNE does not store full payment card information.

  • Donations may be tax-deductible to the extent allowed by U.S. law. Please consult a tax professional.

  • All transactions are final unless otherwise stated.

  • STCNE reserves the right to refuse or refund donations or memberships at its discretion.

4. Rescue, Adoption & Volunteer Programs

Information provided through STCNE’s rescue or volunteer pages is for general guidance only. STCNE:

  • Does not guarantee the availability, suitability, behavior, or health of any animal

  • May require applications, screening, and approval for participation

  • May decline or remove applicants at its sole discretion

Users agree to provide accurate information when applying for adoption, fostering, or volunteering.

5. Intellectual Property

All content on the Site—including text, images, logos, graphics, videos, and other materials—is owned by or licensed to STCNE and protected under U.S. and international copyright laws.

You may not copy, reproduce, distribute, modify, or publicly display any content without our prior written consent, except for personal, non-commercial use.

6. User-Submitted Content

If you submit content (e.g., photos, forms, stories, volunteer applications), you grant STCNE a non-exclusive, royalty-free license to use such content for organizational purposes.

You agree that content you submit:

  • Is your original work or properly licensed

  • Does not infringe on others’ rights

  • May be used in STCNE publications, social media, or promotional materials (unless you request otherwise in writing)

7. Privacy

Your use of the Site is also governed by our Privacy Policy, which explains how we collect, use, and protect personal information. By using the Site, you consent to STCNE’s data practices.

8. Third-Party Links

The Site may contain links to third-party websites or services. STCNE does not control or endorse those sites and is not responsible for their content, security, or practices. Accessing them is at your own risk.

9. Disclaimers

The Site and its content are provided “as is” without warranties of any kind, including:

  • Accuracy or completeness of information

  • Fit for a particular purpose

  • Availability or security of the Site

STCNE is not liable for errors, interruptions, delays, or actions taken based on Site information. Rescue and care recommendations are educational and should not replace professional veterinary guidance.

10. Limitation of Liability

To the fullest extent permitted by law, STCNE and its officers, directors, volunteers, and agents are not liable for any damages arising from use of the Site, including:

  • Loss of data

  • Loss of profits

  • Damages resulting from misinformation or third-party actions

  • Issues related to rescue, adoption, or volunteering programs

Certain jurisdictions may not allow these limitations, so some may not apply to you.

11. Indemnification

You agree to indemnify and hold STCNE harmless from any claims, damages, liabilities, and expenses arising from your use of the Site or violation of these Terms.

12. Changes to the Terms

We may update these Terms at any time. Changes will be posted on this page with a revised “Last Updated” date. Continued use of the Site means you accept the updated Terms.

13. Governing Law

These Terms are governed by the laws of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, without regard to conflict-of-law principles.