Privacy Policy

Last updated: 15 April 2026

BarkTrail ("the App") is a dog day out planner for the United Kingdom. We are committed to protecting your privacy. This policy explains what data the App collects, how it is used, and your rights.

1. Data We Collect

The App collects the following information when you create your profile:

• Your name - used to personalise the app experience
• Dog name(s) - used to personalise the app experience

If you choose to use location features, the App may access your device's GPS location to show routes near you. This is optional and only used while the App is open.

If you use the Community features, your display name and post content are shared with other users via Firebase Firestore.

2. How Your Data Is Stored

Profile data is stored locally on your device. The App does not transmit your personal information to any server except when using Community features.

• Profile information is stored in a local database on your device
• Saved walks, photos, and preferences are stored locally
• Community posts and replies are stored in Google Firebase Firestore
• No advertising SDKs or tracking tools are used

3. Community Features

When you post to the Community (walk comments, hazard reports, lost dog alerts), the following data is sent to Firebase Firestore:

• Your display name (chosen by you)
• Your post content
• Your approximate location (used to show posts to nearby users)
• An anonymous user ID (no email or real identity)

Community data is visible to other BarkTrail users within your local area.

4. Map Data

The App uses OpenStreetMap (OSM) map tiles to display maps. When you view the map, your device downloads map tile images from OpenStreetMap's servers. This is subject to OpenStreetMap's privacy policy. No personal data is sent to OpenStreetMap.

5. Photos

If you add photos of walks, these are stored locally on your device in the App's private storage. Photos are not uploaded to any server or shared with any third party.

6. Children's Privacy

The App is not directed at children under 13. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children under 13.

7. Your Rights

You have full control over your data:

• Delete your data - uninstalling the App removes all locally stored data
• Clear app data - Settings > Apps > BarkTrail > Clear Data
• Community posts can be managed through the app

8. Data Security

Your local data is protected by your device's built-in security. Community data in Firebase is secured by Google's infrastructure and encrypted in transit.

9. Third-Party Services

• OpenStreetMap - map tile display
• Google Firebase - community features (Firestore, Anonymous Auth)
• Open-Meteo - weather data
• Google Play Store - app distribution and payment processing

10. Changes to This Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. Changes will be reflected in the "Last updated" date above.

11. Contact Us

BarkTrail is developed in the United Kingdom and complies with UK GDPR and the Data Protection Act 2018.