Reporting and Editorial Standards
reporting standards
HomeFetch is an independent newsroom covering dog policy, news and culture. Its reporting is grounded in verification, fairness and transparency.
ethics
HomeFetch follows the Society of Professional Journalists Code of Ethics and adheres to AP Style for grammar and usage. Reporting is conducted with the goals of seeking truth, minimizing harm, acting independently and remaining accountable to readers.
Reporting and Verification
HomeFetch relies on primary sources whenever possible, including interviews, public records, court documents, government reports and peer-reviewed research.
Factual claims are verified independently; quoting a source does not replace verification. When information cannot be fully confirmed but is in the public interest, the story will disclose what was verified and what could not be independently confirmed.
Source documents are linked whenever possible.
Sources and Attribution
All substantial claims are attributed. Individuals and organizations referenced in coverage are given an opportunity to comment, particularly when allegations or criticism are involved.
Anonymous sources are granted only when there is a clear risk of harm and the information is of significant public interest. When anonymity is granted, the reason is explained in the story.
Corrections
HomeFetch corrects errors promptly and transparently. Substantive corrections are noted at the bottom of the article with the date of the update.
Requests for corrections can be sent to corrections@homefetch.co.
Conflicts of Interest and Independence
HomeFetch is independently owned and operated. Editorial decisions are made without influence from advertisers, donors or outside organizations. Any relevant financial or personal conflicts will be disclosed within the story.
Use of AI
AI tools may be used for transcription, organization or research assistance. AI is not used to generate published reporting. All reporting is conducted, written and edited by a human journalist.