Terms of Service

Effective Date: March 2025

Welcome to Bark by Smudge. By accessing or using our website, services, or products, you agree to the following terms and conditions. Please read them carefully before using our site or making a purchase.

1. General Use

By using our website (www.barkbysmudge.com), you agree to comply with these Terms of Service and all applicable laws and regulations. If you do not agree, please do not use our website or services.

2. Products & Services

We offer handcrafted dog treats and merchandise for purchase. All treats are made in small batches with natural ingredients. We do not guarantee any specific results or health outcomes from using our products, and they are not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any medical condition.

Always consult your veterinarian before introducing new treats or dietary products to your pet.

3. Orders & Payment

All prices are listed in Canadian Dollars (CAD) unless otherwise specified. We reserve the right to change pricing or product availability at any time without notice. Payment must be received in full before your order is processed and shipped.

We reserve the right to cancel or refuse any order for any reason, including suspected fraud or misuse.

4. Shipping & Delivery

Shipping timelines are estimates and may vary based on location and external factors. We are not responsible for delays caused by postal services or weather events.

Once an order is shipped, responsibility for the product transfers to the customer. Please refer to our Shipping Policy for full details.

5. Returns & Refunds

Please see our Return Policy for detailed information about how we handle refunds, exchanges, and product concerns.

6. Intellectual Property

All content on this website—including text, logos, product names, photos, and designs—is the property of Bark by Smudge and may not be copied, reproduced, or used without written permission.

7. Privacy

Your privacy is important to us. Please refer to our Privacy Policy for how we collect, use, and store your information.

8. Limitation of Liability

To the fullest extent permitted by law, Bark by Smudge is not liable for any direct, indirect, incidental, or consequential damages that may result from the use of our website or products. This includes, but is not limited to, allergic reactions, shipping delays, or service interruptions.

9. Modifications

We reserve the right to update or change these Terms of Service at any time. Continued use of our website after changes constitutes acceptance of those changes. We recommend reviewing this page periodically for updates.

10. Contact Us

For questions about these Terms of Service, please contact us at:

Email: info@barkbysmudge,com
Mailing Address: PO Box 1120, Richmond ON K0A 2z0

Return & Refund Policy

At Bark by Smudge, we’re committed to delivering high-quality, wholesome dog treats and thoughtfully crafted merchandise that you and your pup can enjoy. Because of the nature of our products, our return policy varies slightly between perishable and non-perishable items.

Dog Treats (Perishable Items)

All of our dog treats are made in small batches using natural, preservative-free ingredients. Due to their perishable nature and for the health and safety of all our customers, we cannot accept returns or exchanges on any edible products.

However, if your order arrives damaged, incorrect, or if there is a concern about quality, please reach out to us within 5 days of delivery. Email us at info@barkbysmudge.com with your order number, a brief description of the issue, and clear photos of the item(s) and packaging. We’ll be happy to offer a replacement, store credit, or a full refund depending on the situation.

Merchandise (Non-Perishable Items)

We accept returns or exchanges on merchandise (such as apparel, accessories, or gift items) within 7 days of delivery, provided the item is unused, unworn, unwashed, and in its original packaging.

To initiate a return, please email us ati nfo@barkbysmudge.com with your order number and reason for return. Once your return is approved, we’ll provide return instructions. Please note that return shipping costs are the responsibility of the customer unless the item was defective or sent in error.

Refunds will be processed once the returned item is received and inspected. Original shipping charges are non-refundable.

Need Help?

We’re a small business, and your satisfaction means the world to us!

If you have any questions about your order or our policies, don’t hesitate to reach out. We're always happy to help make things right.

Thank you for supporting Bark by Smudge and for treating your pup with love!

Privacy Policy

Effective Date: March 2025

At Bark by Smudge, your privacy matters. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, protect, and share your information when you visit our website or make a purchase from us.

By using our website (www.barkbysmudge.com), you agree to the practices outlined in this policy.

1. Information We Collect

We collect personal information that you voluntarily provide when you:

  • Place an order

  • Subscribe to our newsletter

  • Contact us via email or contact forms

  • Engage with us on social media or promotions

This information may include your name, email address, shipping/billing address, phone number, and payment details.

We may also collect non-personal data such as your browser type, IP address, device type, and browsing behavior through cookies or analytics tools to help us improve our website and services.

2. How We Use Your Information

We use your information to:

  • Process and fulfill orders

  • Communicate order updates or respond to inquiries

  • Send marketing emails (only with your consent)

  • Improve our website, products, and services

  • Detect and prevent fraud or unauthorized activity

  • Comply with legal obligations

3. How We Share Your Information

We do not sell or rent your personal information to third parties. We may share your data with trusted third parties only as necessary, including:

  • Payment processors (e.g., Stripe, PayPal)

  • Shipping carriers (e.g., Canada Post)

  • Email service providers (e.g., Mailchimp)

  • Website analytics providers (e.g., Google Analytics)

These partners are only given the information required to perform their services and are obligated to protect your data.

4. Cookies and Tracking

We use cookies and similar tracking tools to enhance your browsing experience, remember your preferences, and collect usage data. You can control cookie settings through your browser preferences.

5. Your Rights

You have the right to:

  • Access or correct your personal information

  • Request deletion of your data (subject to legal or transactional obligations)

  • Withdraw consent to marketing communications at any time

To exercise these rights, contact us at info@barkbysmudge.com

6. Data Security

We take reasonable precautions to protect your information. Sensitive data (like payment details) is encrypted and processed securely. However, no method of transmission over the internet is 100% secure, so we cannot guarantee absolute protection.

7. Children's Privacy

Our website is not intended for children under 13. We do not knowingly collect personal data from children. If you believe a child has submitted personal information to us, please contact us immediately.

8. Changes to This Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. Changes will be posted on this page with the updated effective date. Continued use of our website after changes indicates acceptance of the new terms.

9. Contact Us

For questions or concerns about this policy, or to request data access or changes, contact us at:

Email: info@barkbysmudge.com

Delivery Policy

Effective Date: March 2025

At Bark by Smudge, we proudly offer local delivery to dog lovers across Ottawa and surrounding areas. All of our treats are made fresh in small batches, and we handle every order with care to ensure it arrives in great condition.

1. Delivery Area

We currently offer local delivery only within Ottawa and nearby regions. If you're unsure whether your address qualifies, feel free to contact us at info@barkbysmudge before placing your order.

We do not offer shipping outside this area at this time.

2. Order Processing Time

Orders are processed within 2–5 business days after payment is received. Once your order is ready, we’ll reach out via email or text to confirm your delivery window.

During busy seasons or holidays, processing times may be slightly longer—but we’ll always keep you informed.

3. Delivery Timing

Deliveries are made Monday to Saturday, typically between 10 AM and 6 PM. If you have specific delivery preferences (such as leaving the package at your door or with a concierge), please leave instructions at checkout.

Please ensure someone is available to receive perishable items, or that a shaded and secure drop-off spot is available.

4. Delivery Fees

Delivery fees are calculated at checkout based on your location. We may offer free local delivery for orders over a certain amount—check our homepage or banners for any active promotions.

5. Missed Deliveries & Issues

If we’re unable to complete your delivery due to an incorrect address or no safe place to leave the package, we’ll contact you to reschedule. A redelivery fee may apply.

If your order arrives damaged or incomplete, contact us at info@barkbysmudge.com within 48 hours and include your order number and a photo if applicable. We’ll be happy to make it right.

6. Questions?

For delivery inquiries or special requests, reach out to:

Email: info@barkbysmudge.com
Phone: 613-884-2669

Thank you for shopping local and supporting Bark by Smudge!