Responsible Gaming
Gaming Should Be Entertainment
At Friendly Paws Walks, we believe that online pokies and casino gaming should be enjoyed as a form of entertainment only, never as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. While gaming can be fun and exciting, it's important to approach it responsibly and within your means.
Always remember: the odds favour the house. Only gamble with money you can afford to lose.
Age Verification
Gaming is strictly for adults only. In Australia, you must be 18 years of age or older to participate in online pokies and casino gaming. If you are under 18, please do not access gaming services.
It is illegal for minors to gamble in Australia. If you suspect someone underage is accessing gaming platforms, please report it to the relevant authorities.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
If you recognise any of the following signs in your own behaviour, you may be developing a gambling problem:
- Chasing losses: Trying to win back money you've lost by gambling more
- Hiding your gambling: Being secretive about the time or money spent gaming
- Neglecting responsibilities: Spending less time on work, family, or hobbies due to gaming
- Increasing stakes: Needing to gamble with larger amounts to get the same excitement
- Loss of control: Inability to stop or limit your gaming sessions
- Financial strain: Borrowing money or going into debt to fund gaming
- Withdrawal symptoms: Feeling anxious or irritable when unable to gamble
- Failed attempts to stop: Repeatedly trying and failing to reduce or quit gaming
- Relationship conflicts: Gaming is causing problems with family or friends
- Using gaming to escape: Gambling to cope with stress, anxiety, or depression
Self-Help Tools & Safer Gaming Features
Most reputable gaming platforms offer tools to help you stay in control:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit in a specific time period (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Restrict the maximum amount you're willing to lose in a set timeframe
- Time Limits: Set session time limits to prevent extended play
- Reality Checks: Receive periodic reminders during gaming sessions about time and money spent
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from accessing gaming platforms
Use these tools proactively to maintain control of your gaming habits.
Support & Help Resources
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, help is available. Here are trusted Australian and international organisations:
Australia
- Gambling Help Online — Free, confidential counselling and support
Website: www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
Phone: 1800 858 858 (free call) - Lifeline Australia — Crisis support and counselling
Phone: 13 11 14 (24/7) - Beyond Blue — Mental health and wellbeing support
Phone: 1300 224 636 (24/7)
United Kingdom
- GamCare — Free support, advice, and counselling
Website: www.gamcare.org.uk - GamStop — National self-exclusion scheme
Website: www.gamstop.co.uk
Canada
- Responsible Gambling Council — Education and support resources
Website: www.responsiblegambling.org
United States
- National Council on Problem Gambling — Helpline and referral services
Website: www.ncpgambling.org
Phone: 1-800-522-4700 (24/7)
Germany
- Bundeszentrale für gesundheitliche Aufklärung (BZgA) — Federal Centre for Health Education
Website: www.bzga.de
Take Action Today
If you're concerned about your gambling or that of someone close to you, please reach out for help today. There is no shame in seeking support — problem gambling is a recognised condition, and recovery is possible.
Your wellbeing is more important than any game. Contact one of the organisations listed above, or speak to a trusted friend, family member, or healthcare professional.
Remember: Gaming should be fun. If it's not, it's time to seek help.