Responsible Gambling at Spindog: Limits, Breaks and Support begins with agreements about how much money and time you want to spend on gambling.
We encourage you to choose a limit in advance, not chase losses and seek help if gambling becomes difficult to control.
Gambling as entertainment
See gambling as a paid form of entertainment, not as a way to earn income. The outcome of a game is not predetermined.
Below we explain four types of games so that you can recognise how they work before choosing a game and wagering money.
- Slots — In slots, reels with symbols spin. The payout table shows which combinations produce a prize according to the game rules.
- Live table games — In a live table game, you follow a streamed game host. Read in advance how to place a bet and when a round closes.
- Roulette — In roulette, you bet on possible outcomes of a spin. Different bets have different payouts and probabilities.
- Blackjack — In blackjack, you make decisions during a card game against the house. Read the table rules before making a decision.
Set gambling rules for yourself
Make your agreements before you begin and write them down. This allows you to rely during play on a decision you made without time pressure.
If you want to play a slot, you can use this sequence to first understand the game rules and then make a deliberate choice.
- Find a slot — Choose a slot you want to understand and open the game information. First read the rules and payout table before considering a bet.
- Check the RTP — Look for the theoretical return-to-player percentage in the game's information panel. Remember that this average does not predict the result of your session.
- Determine your stake — Choose a stake in advance that fits within your gambling budget. Take into account the number of rounds you may play consecutively.
- Practise and decide — Use a demo mode if the game offers one. Then decide whether you want to play with real money and stop at your agreed limit.
A fixed monthly budget
Only choose money that remains after fixed expenses and necessary costs have been paid. When your budget is used up, stop playing.
Set fixed playing times
Decide in advance when you will start and stop. Set an alarm outside the game so that you are reminded of your agreement even during an exciting round.
Never chase losses
A new bet does not undo previous losses. Stop when you notice that you are mainly playing to win back lost money.
Do not play under the influence or when stressed
Alcohol, drugs and stress can affect your judgement. Postpone gambling and first choose an activity that helps you calm down.
Gambling limits at Spindog
A personal limit helps you determine in advance the maximum amount you want to spend. We recommend adjusting that limit to your own financial situation.
Set a deposit limit
A deposit limit restricts how much money you can deposit within a selected period. Choose an amount that fits within your available gambling budget.
Set a loss limit
A loss limit focuses on the amount you are willing to lose. Determine that amount in advance and stop once your limit has been reached.
Set a betting limit
A betting limit helps you restrict the size of individual bets. Also keep track of how many bets you place consecutively.
Session limit and playing time
With a time limit, you determine in advance how long a gambling session may last. An alarm can help you stop at the agreed time.
Taking a break at Spindog
A break gives you distance from gambling and space to review your spending. Choose another activity and discuss your situation with someone you trust.
Activate a time-out
A time-out is a temporary break from gambling. Use that time to check whether you have kept to your own agreements.
Request self-exclusion
Self-exclusion is a step to take when you need a longer break from gambling. In the Netherlands, you can register for this through CRUKS.
Close your account permanently
If you no longer want to play with us, ask us to close your account. Keep your own records of transactions before taking that step.
Keep track of your gambling behaviour
After each session, record your playing time, deposits and result. Compare this information with your agreements so that you can see when you deviate from them.
Review transaction and gambling history
Use your own bank statements and notes to list deposits and gambling expenses. Include small amounts as well.
Signs of gambling problems
Problems can develop gradually. Take changes in your behaviour seriously, especially when you repeatedly fail to keep agreements or try to hide your gambling.
Behavioural signs
Playing longer than planned repeatedly or cancelling other activities in order to gamble may indicate that you are losing control. Discuss this with someone you trust.
Financial signs
Borrowing money to gamble or postponing bills are clear reasons to stop and seek help. First make an overview of your necessary expenses.
Signs in emotions and relationships
Restlessness when you are not playing, secrecy or arguments about money may be consequences of gambling. Tell someone what is happening and ask for support.
Large bonuses and temptation
A bonus is not a reason to deposit more than your budget allows. Read any wagering requirements and determine whether you can meet them without additional spending.
Fast games and sports betting
In fast rounds, bets can follow each other quickly. With sports betting, there may also be a tendency to place another bet immediately after a loss.
Before choosing a game, you can review the following characteristics in the game information and compare them with your own budget and agreements.
- RTP — The theoretical return-to-player percentage describes an average over many game rounds. It does not predict what you will receive back in a single session.
- Volatility — Volatility describes how payouts may be distributed. A game with higher volatility may have longer periods without a prize.
- Bonus features — Read in the game information how a bonus feature is activated and what happens when you reach that feature.
- Betting range and demo — Check the minimum and maximum stake before playing. A demo mode, if available, allows you to explore how the game works without a real-money stake.
Spindog, the KSA and CRUKS
The Dutch Gambling Authority, abbreviated as KSA, supervises gambling in the Netherlands. CRUKS is the Dutch register that allows you to exclude yourself from participating in certain forms of gambling.
Help with gambling problems in the Netherlands
You do not have to solve gambling problems alone. You can discuss with a support professional which assistance is suitable for your situation and that of the people close to you.
Loket Kansspel
At Loket Kansspel, you can get information and support regarding gambling problems. People close to you can also discuss what kind of help may be available.
AGOG
AGOG offers self-help to people with gambling problems and those close to them. Contact with others can help you share experiences and keep to agreements.
General practitioner and addiction care
Your general practitioner can discuss with you which care is needed and refer you to addiction treatment if necessary. Bring an overview of your gambling expenses.
Tips for family and friends
Start a conversation without blame and describe specifically what you are noticing. Protect your own finances and seek support yourself if the situation is affecting you.
Protecting minors
Keep your login details and payment methods out of reach of children. Do not allow a minor to gamble through your account and discuss the risks of gambling.
Self-test: how do you gamble?
Ask yourself whether you stay within your budget, stop on time and are open about your gambling behaviour. A negative answer is a reason to seek help.