Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get set up to participate in the auction?
Register online! Click the 'REGISTER NOW' button on the auction homepage and fill out your bidder information. Create a password, check the boxes for terms and conditions and text messages (you will want be notified about items you bid on), and then just click 'Create my GiveSmart account'!
If you already have a GiveSmart account, simply click to register and log into your existing account.
How can I bid on items, make a donation, and purchase raffle tickets or instant items?
Bidding is easy! View Detailed Bidding Instructions, or check out this 3 minute video on How To Bid
Do I have to use a phone to bid or can I participate using my computer?
You can participate in the auction from a computer, tablet or phone, it's up to you! After you sign in to your GiveSmart account, click "items" to view the auction and start bidding. You can filter these by type of item by clicking the 'categories' button.
Click the item you'd like to bid on, then enter your bid in the open text field (make sure it is higher than the current minimum amount) and click "Bid". If you have opted in to receive text messages, you will receive a text if you are outbid.
Can I view items before deciding if I want to bid?
Yes! Starting on Monday, October 5th at 12:00pm PDT, you will be able to click "items" at the top of this page and preview our fabulous auction items.
Will you need my credit card information?
Yes, a credit card number will be required to bid. Go to MY INFO to add a card on file now
I'm not very tech-savvy, will I have a hard time participating?
We don't think so! The bidding platform is very user-friendly and will walk you through the entire process. If you need help, though, please contact the Operation Freedom Paws Marketing team at marketing@operationfreedompaws.org.
If I win, how will I get my items?
If you win an item in the auction, we will contact you to determine how you will receive your item(s). Some items will qualify to be emailed or mailed to your home, others will require you to schedule a pick up time. Please be patient as pick-up arrangements are dependent upon local COVID-19 restrictions. Thank you for your understanding. If you have a question, please contact the Operation Freedom Paws Marketing team at marketing@operationfreedompaws.org.
How does Checkout work?
If you are the lucky winner of an auction item, you can securely checkout. Click the PAY tab to pay your balance at any time.
A text with the link to pay will also be sent to all users with a balance on file at the end of the auction.
Any unpaid balances will be charged to the card on file beginning Monday, October 12 at 10am. Email marketing@operationfreedompaws.org to arrange alternate form of payment before that time.
What if I can't use my item because of COVID-19?
Funds raised through this event are critical for our continued operation, so consideration of a fully tax-deductible donation in lieu of an auction item purchase would be gratefully received. When possible, we will work to extend redemption deadlines or provide replacement items or tickets. Otherwise, if your item is impacted by COVID-19 in a way that makes it unusable, you will be refunded the full amount of your purchase.