Online Auction Frequently Asked Questions
When does the silent auction open and close?
The silent auction will open Saturday, September 26th at Noon EST and will close Saturday, October 3rd at 6:00pm EST.
Is a credit card required to participate in the silent auction?
Yes, a pre-registered credit card is required to begin bidding. Credit cards on file will be processed on Monday, October 5th. If you would like to complete payment through another method (i.e. - check), please contact PPanos@ThinkingOutsideTheCage.org prior to October 5th. We accept all major credit cards.
How can I keep active and know if I am outbid or have won an item?
You will be notified via text if you have been outbid. Keep an eye on your favorite items! If you are NOT receiving the text messages, make sure you have the correct mobile number under your profile. The texts will continue to notify you when you have been outbid or reached your maximum bid. When the silent auction closes, you will also receive a text message if you won any items.
What happens if I do not pay for my winning item(s)?
All balances must be paid in full before winning item(s) can be collected. Items left unpaid after seven days will be sold to the next highest bidder.
How will I collect my winnings?
Physical Items: Winners must pick up items from the Animal Friends office in Pittsburgh, PA. As Animal Friends is currently open by appointment only, we ask that you schedule a time to pick up your winnings. Winners will be notified of pick-up details and time slots via email on file. Winner is responsible for associated shipping costs, should he/she live outside of the greater Pittsburgh region and be unable to pick up item(s) at the Animal Friends office. If you have questions about item pick up options please contact PPanos@ThinkingOutsideTheCage.org
Certificates: Animal Friends will email electronic certificates to email on file. When appropriate, Animal Friends will mail physical certificate(s) to desired location within two weeks of the close of the auction. If the winner wishes to pick up certificate(s), he/she will be notified of the pick-up details and instructions via email on file.
Alcohol: Packages containing alcohol may not be shipped and must be picked up by an individual 21+ years of age with valid ID. Winners will be notified of pick-up details and time slots via email.
Are there any items that are not eligible for shipping?
Yes. Some items, including alcohol, are not eligible for shipping, regardless of the location of the winner. Items that are not eligible for shipping will be marked as such on their item description page.
What happens if I do not pick up my winnings?
Any item(s) left unclaimed after 30 days, without prior arrangements, will be sold and proceeds will go to Animal Friends.