Responsible Gaming
Gambling Should Be Entertainment
At dogwalkingpoole.co.uk, we believe that gambling should only ever be viewed as a form of entertainment, not as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. While betting can be enjoyable, it's important to understand that all casino and betting games are designed with a house edge, meaning the odds always favour the operator in the long run.
Please gamble responsibly and only with money you can afford to lose.
Age Verification
In Great Britain, all gambling must be conducted by individuals who are 18 years of age or older. This is a legal requirement under UK gambling law.
If you are under 18, please do not attempt to register with any betting operator. Parents and guardians are encouraged to discuss gambling risks with young people and use parental controls where available.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Problem gambling can develop gradually. If you recognize any of the following warning signs in yourself or someone you know, it may be time to seek help:
- Chasing losses by gambling more to try to recover money lost
- Gambling with money intended for essential expenses (bills, rent, food)
- Hiding gambling activities or lying about the amount spent
- Neglecting family, friends, work, or other responsibilities due to gambling
- Experiencing mood swings, irritability, or anxiety related to gambling
- Needing to gamble with increasing amounts of money to feel the same excitement
- Failed attempts to reduce or stop gambling
- Borrowing money to fund gambling activities
- Physical symptoms such as sleep problems or stress-related health issues
- Feeling unable to enjoy life without gambling
Self-Help Tools & Safer Gambling Features
Most reputable betting operators offer tools to help you maintain control over your gambling:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specific time period (daily, weekly, monthly)
- Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to lose over a given timeframe
- Betting Limits: Control the maximum stake you can place on individual bets
- Reality Checks: Receive periodic notifications reminding you of how long you've been gambling and how much you've spent
- Time-Out (Cool-Off Period): Temporarily suspend your account for a period you choose (typically 24 hours to several weeks)
- Self-Exclusion: Permanently close your account and request to be blocked from reopening it for a set period (usually 6 months to 5 years)
Take advantage of these tools when available. Using them is a sign of responsible gambling, not weakness.
Support Organizations & Resources
If you need help or support with problem gambling, the following organizations offer free, confidential assistance:
United Kingdom
- GamCare – Free information, advice, and support for problem gamblers and their families
Website: www.gamcare.org.uk
Phone: 0808 8020 133 (free and confidential) - GamStop – National self-exclusion scheme allowing you to self-exclude from all licensed online gambling operators in Great Britain
Website: www.gamstop.co.uk - National Problem Gambling Clinic – NHS-funded treatment for problem gambling
Phone: 0203 314 8790
Other Countries
- Australia: Gambling Help Online – www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
- Canada: Responsible Gambling Council – www.responsiblegambling.org
- United States: National Council on Problem Gambling – www.ncpgambling.org
- Germany: Bundeszentrale für gesundheitliche Aufklärung – www.bzga.de
All of these organizations offer free, confidential support and can provide information about treatment options in your area.
If You Need Help
Reaching out is the first step toward recovery. If you think you or someone you know may have a gambling problem, please contact one of the support organizations listed above immediately. These services are free, confidential, and available 24/7.
Remember: problem gambling is not a moral failing—it is a treatable condition. Help is available.