Cookie Policy

Last updated: 14 May 2026

This Cookie Policy explains how the EquiOS Project (“we”, “us”, or “our”) uses cookies and similar technologies on the website hosting links to an epidemiological survey conducted as part of the PhD research of Dr Marga Mas. This policy should be read together with our Privacy Notice and Participant Information Sheet.

1. Purpose of the Website

This website is operated for academic research purposes in connection with a doctoral (PhD) epidemiological research project conducted by Dr Marga Mas, affiliated with Universidad de Cordoba (Spain). The website’s primary purpose is to:

  • provide information about the research project;

  • host links to the online survey;

  • facilitate participant access to study materials; and

  • ensure secure and reliable operation of the website.

2. What Are Cookies?

Cookies are small text files stored on your device when you visit a website. They help websites function properly, improve user experience, and provide information about website usage. Cookies may be:

  • Session cookies — deleted when you close your browser; or

  • Persistent cookies — remain on your device until they expire or are deleted.

3. Types of Cookies We Use

A. Strictly Necessary Cookies

These cookies are essential for the operation and security of the website and do not require consent under applicable law. They may include cookies used for:

  • page navigation;

  • security and fraud prevention;

  • load balancing;

  • remembering cookie consent preferences; and

  • maintaining secure access to survey links.

Without these cookies, the website may not function correctly.

B. Analytics Cookies (Optional)

With your consent, we may use analytics cookies to understand how visitors interact with the website. This helps improve accessibility, usability, and research dissemination. Examples may include:

  • number of visitors;

  • pages visited;

  • time spent on pages; and

  • referral sources.

Where analytics tools are used, data will be aggregated wherever possible and will not intentionally identify individual users. Possible providers may include: Google (e.g., Google Analytics). If Google Analytics is used, IP anonymisation features will be enabled where available.

4. Legal Basis for Cookie Use

Where required under applicable data protection law, we rely on legitimate interests for strictly necessary cookies; and consent for optional analytics or non-essential cookies. You may withdraw consent at any time through the cookie settings banner or your browser settings.

5. Managing Cookies

You can control or delete cookies through your browser settings. Most browsers allow you to block cookies; delete stored cookies; or receive notifications before cookies are placed. Please note that disabling certain cookies may affect website functionality. Browser guidance is available from:

6. Data Protection and Research Ethics

The research project is conducted in accordance with applicable research ethics requirements set by the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) and data protection legislation, including, where applicable: the UK General Data Protection Regulation; the Data Protection Act 2018; and/or the General Data Protection Regulation. Cookie-related information will not be used to make automated decisions about participants.

7. Contact Information

For questions about this Cookie Policy or the research project, please contact:

Researcher: Dr Marga Mas MRCVS
Institution: Universidad de Cordoba
Email: m.mas.fiol@gmail.com

8. Changes to This Policy

We may update this Cookie Policy from time to time to reflect legal, technical, or operational changes. Any updates will be posted on this page with a revised “Last updated” date.