# LLMs.txt - Sitemap for AI content discovery # DaySmart Pet > --- ## Pages - [Reputation Management and Website Builder](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/reputation-management-and-website-builder/): Boost Your Grooming Business Online In today’s digital world, a strong online presence is essential for your pet grooming business. That’s... - [https://www.daysmart.com/pet/affiliate-program-application-page/](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/https-www-daysmart-com-pet-affiliate-program-application-page/): - [Become an Affiliate](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/become-an-affiliate/): - [Pet Care - Request a Demo](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/request-demo-pet-care/): Trusted by over 5,000 pet care pros to help run and grow their business  - [Grooming - Request a Demo](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/request-demo-grooming/): Trusted by over 5,000 groomers to help run and grow their pet care business  - [The Leading Pet Care Software](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/features/pet-care-software/): DaySmart's pet care management software lets you manage and grow your pet care business. Start your free trial today with the best pet care app for 2025. - [Operations](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/solution/operations/): DaySmart Pet's pet business operations software and app simplify business management and help you save time and money. Start your free trial today! - [Scheduling](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/solution/scheduling-software/): DaySmart Pet's dog grooming booking system and appointment software helps groomers streamline scheduling and calendar management. Start a free trial! - [Communications](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/solution/communications/): DaySmart Pet's communication and marketing software helps groomers and other pet care businesses improve client relationships and grow. Get a free trial! - [Payments](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/solution/payments/): DaySmart Pet's pet business payment processing solution makes it easy to collect payments and minimize lost revenue from no-shows. Start your free trial! - [Create A Modern Website in Minutes](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/create-a-modern-website-in-minutes/): DaySmart’s Simple Website Builder allows you to effortlessly create and manage your business website with customizable features that enhance your... - [Pet Business Software for Groomers | DaySmart Pet](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/): DaySmart Pet's pet business management software is trusted by 5,000+ users to manage and grow their pet care businesses. Start your free trial today! - [Affiliate Landing Page - Free Trial](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/affiliate-landing-page-free-trial/): Features That Fetch Results Ready to see how DaySmart Pet can transform your business? Sign up for 50% off your... - [Affiliate Landing Page - Demo](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/affiliate-landing-page-demo/): Features That Fetch Results Ready to see how DaySmart Pet can transform your business? Sign up for 50% off your... - [Customer Referral Program](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/customer-referral-program/): Refer and Save! Know someone looking for pet care management software? Refer them to DaySmart Pet and earn a $100... - [Referral Thank You](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/referral-thank-you/): Thanks for your referral to DaySmart Pet! A dedicated DaySmart Pet representative will reach out to them very soon. After... - [123Pet Is Now DaySmart Pet](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/123pet/): New name, same great software. DaySmart Pet’s platform makes it easy for pet care businesses to schedule more bookings online, improve client communication, and see fewer missed appointments. Try DaySmart Pet FREE for 14 days! - [Holiday Promo 2024](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/holiday-promo-2024/): Holiday Gift: Propel your pet care business to success during the busy holiday season with a free payment device on us! - [More Texts, Merrier Holidays](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/more-texts-merrier-holidays/): Take advantage of our special holiday deal to stock up on additional marketing texts! - [Cyber Month Promo 2024](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/cyber-month-promo/): Cyber Month Gifts: Propel your pet care business to success during the busy holiday season with a free payment device and free data migration on us! - [Favorite Things Giveaway](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/favorite-things-giveaway/): Try DaySmart FREE – and get 10% off your monthly subscription for the first year if you love it! No... - [Pet Care Management System](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/pet-care-management-system/): DaySmart's pet care management system has the features your business needs. Schedule, manage clients, and accept payment in one platform. Get a free trial. - [Professional Pet Sitting Software](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/pet-sitting-software/): DaySmart pet sitting software helps manage and grow your pet sitting business. Streamline scheduling, payments, and more in one platform. Get a free trial. - [Reputation Management Demo](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/reputation-management-demo/): Grow Your Customer Base with Reputation Management In today’s competitive landscape, your online reputation can make or break your business.... - [Free Trial LP - Active](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/free-trial/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for 14-days! - [Take a Tour - App](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/take-a-tour-app/): More Ways We’re Simplifying Business Management Easily Manage Clients & Pets Keep your client and pet details like vaccination status,... - [Take a Tour - Sales](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/take-a-tour-outreach/): More Ways We’re Simplifying Business Management Easily Manage Clients & Pets Keep your client and pet details like vaccination status,... - [Tap to Pay](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/tap-to-pay/): Simplify Your Payments with Tap to Pay Lengthy payment processing can disrupt schedules, reduce revenue, and impact customer satisfaction. That’s... - [Take a Tour - Paid](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/take-a-solution-tour/): More Ways We’re Simplifying Business Management Easily Manage Clients & Pets Keep your client and pet details like vaccination status,... - [Pet - Demo](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/demo/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for 14-days! - [Take a Tour](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/take-a-tour/): More Ways We’re Simplifying Business Management Easily Manage Clients & Pets Keep your client and pet details like vaccination status,... - [Mobile Pet Grooming Software | DaySmart Pet](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/features-mobile-grooming-software/): Simplify your operations and boost client satisfaction with DaySmart’s mobile pet grooming software. Streamline appointments, payments, and more on the go. - [DaySmart Pet - Starbucks Coffee](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/starbucks-coffee/): Industry News and Content Three Reasons Why Clients Aren’t Booking Your Business and How To Fix It How to Advertise... - [Dog Grooming Software | DaySmart Pet](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/dog-grooming-software/): Dog grooming software that helps you manage and grow your business. Schedule appointments and manage inventory with DaySmart Pet. Learn more today! - [Dog Daycare Software | DaySmart Pet](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/dog-daycare-software-daysmart-pet/): Manage your dog daycare business in one simplified platform. Streamline your operations and make scheduling a breeze with DaySmart Pet. Learn more today! - [Dog Boarding Software | DaySmart Pet](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/dog-boarding-software/): Modernize your boarding facility with our all-in-one dog boarding software to grow and manage your dog boarding business efficiently. Learn more today! - [The Top 5 Reports That Have Helped Our Customers Grow](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/infographic-top-5-reports/): Want to know how our users track all the work they're putting into their business? The secret is in our... - [Friends and Family Referral Program](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/friends/): Simplify scheduling, streamline workflows, and improve client communication with our cloud-based pet care software. Start your free trial today. - [Groom Expo West Lead Capture](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/groom-expo-west/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for 14-days! - [Enjoy Your Webinar Recording](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/connections-web-rec/): https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=CwLN_86h0RwClick to Download the Webinar Deck - [Building Better Connections Through the Holidays](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/webinar-building-better-connections-through-the-holidays/): - [Customer Retention Workshop](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/customer-retention-workshop-gated/): - [Credit Card Processing](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/credit-card-processing/): Payments Made Simple Don’t waste your time working across multiple systems, paying higher fees, and waiting for your funds to... - [Recording - Customer Retention Workshop: How to Get More Regulars](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/customer-retention-workshop-how-to-get-more-regulars/): https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=KlBraHbSjPIClick to Download the Deck - [Tips to Keep Your Customers Coming Back](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/workshop-customer-retention/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for 14-days! - [Ungated Webinar - Enhance Your Pet Services with Mobile Grooming](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/webinar-recording-enhance-your-pet-services-with-mobile-grooming/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for 14-days! - [Gated Webinar: How to Scale Your Business with DaySmart Pet](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/gated-webinar-scale-your-business/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for 14-days! - [Webinar: How to Scale Your Business with DaySmart Pet](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/webinar-scale-your-business/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for 14-days! - [Gated Webinar: Enhance Your Pet Services with Mobile Grooming](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/gated-webinar-mobile-pet-grooming/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for 14-days! - [Gated Webinar - DaySmart Pet: Drive Revenue with Text Marketing](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/gated-webinar-drive-revenue-with-text-marketing/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for 14-days! - [Gated Webinar - Pet Business Tips for You: How Simple Solutions Helped Our Customer](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/gated-webinar-pet-business-tips/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for 14-days! - [Gated Webinar: Time Saving Tips to Help You Navigate the Busy Season](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/webinar-time-saving-tips-to-help-you-navigate-the-busy-season-2/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for 14-days! - [Pet- Post webinar form](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/pet-post-webinar-form/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for 14-days! - [Capterra DaySmart Pet](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/capterra/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for 14-days! - [PPC- Free Trial](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/discover-daysmart-pet/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for 14-days! - [Pet - Demo LP](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/request-a-demo/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for 14-days! - [Customer Appreciation Day 2023](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/customer-appreciation-day-2023/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for 14-days! - [Webinar Recording: Scale Your Business With DaySmart Pet](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/webinar-recording-scale-your-business/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for 14-days! - [Ungated Webinar - DaySmart Pet Drive Revenue with Text Marketing](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/ungated-webinar-daysmart-pet-drive-revenue-with-text-marketing/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for 14-days! - [Ungated webinar: Pet Business Tips for You - How Simple Solutions Helped Our Customer](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/ungated-webinar-pet-business-tips-for-you-how-simple-solutions-helped-our-customer/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for 14-days! - [Ungated Webinar: Time Saving Tips](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/ungated-webinar-time-saving-tips/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for 14-days! - [Support](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/support/): You have questions, we have answers! Check out our frequently asked questions page for details for your business DaySmart Pet account. - [Training Videos](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/support/training-videos/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [Downloads and Drivers](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/support/downloads-drivers/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [Support Center](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/support-center/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [License Agreements](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/license-agreements/): DaySmart Pet Software appreciates the trust you place in us, read on to see the Daysmart Pet license agreements. - [Privacy Policy](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/privacy-policy/): DaySmart Pet Software appreciates the trust you place in us, read on to see how we are committed to respecting your privacy. - [Policies](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/policies/): DaySmart Pet Software appreciates the trust you place in us. Here are the Daysmart Pet policies. - [Resources](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/): Dive into the latest blogs, industry studies, news & more. Be sure to check out all the Daysmart Pet resources available here. - [Request A Free Trial](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/request-a-free-trial/): No obligation. No set up fees. No credit cards. Choose your 14 day free trial today and start growing your pet grooming business! - [Pricing](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/pricing/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [Partners](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/partners/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [Contact](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/contact/): You don't have to do it all by yourself with DaySmart Pet software. Just give us some basic information and we'll contact you to answer all your questions. ## Posts - [Infographic: Go Beyond the Shears](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/infographic-go-beyond-the-shears/): How to attract, train, and retain top grooming talent In today’s competitive pet grooming industry, staffing shortages are more than... - [Spring Into Action: A Groomer’s Guide to Prepping for the Busy Season ](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/spring-clean-checklist/): Spring has sprung! That means it’s the perfect time to refresh your grooming salon for the busy summer ahead. Download our Spring Cleaning Checklist for Pet Groomers today! - [Customer Spotlight: The Charleston Cat Groomer](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/customer-spotlight-the-charleston-cat-groomer/): Hear from Whitney Bullock, Certified Feline Master Groomer, on her passion for feline grooming and how DaySmart Pet has helped run her business - [Unleash a New Look with DaySmart’s Simple Website Builder ](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/unleash-a-new-look-with-daysmarts-simple-website-builder/): Having a great website is essential for small businesses. With DaySmart’s Simple Website Builder, you can create a professional, modern website that makes your pet grooming business shine without the high costs of hiring a developer or designer. - [The Essential Guide to Pet Grooming Licensing: What Every Groomer Needs to Know](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/the-essential-guide-to-pet-grooming-licensing-what-every-groomer-needs-to-know/): Dreaming of turning your passion for pets into a thriving grooming career? Whether you’re planning to work at a salon... - [The Doodle Dilemma: Why Communication is Key for Groomers ](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/the-doodle-dilemma-why-communication-is-key-for-groomers/): Doodles have increased in popularity over the last decade, with new mixes popping up all the time. Essentially, any poodle... - [Solutions Guide: Pet Care Business Software Simplified](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/solutions-guide-pet-care-business-software-simplified/): When it comes to software built for small businesses, one size doesn't fit all. So how can you continue your... - [Choosing Your Pet Grooming Business Name ](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/choosing-your-pet-grooming-business-name/): The perfect name for your pet grooming business is the first impression potential clients will have of your brand and services. - [The Ultimate Off-Season Success Guide for Pet Groomers ](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/the-ultimate-off-season-success-guide-for-pet-groomers/): The slow season doesn't have to be scary! Check out the Ultimate Off Season Success Guide to keep your business thriving year-round. - [2025 Pet Care Business Software Buyer's Guide](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/2025-pet-care-business-software-buyers-guide/): You have a great pet care business idea and you want to make it official! We’ve compiled a guide of the biggest financial to-dos to help you get started. - [How to Build a Pet Care Business Website That Wins](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/how-to-build-a-pet-care-business-website-that-wins/): In today’s digital world, your website is a 24/7 marketing tool that can help attract new clients to your pet... - [Growing a Successful Pet Grooming Business](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/growing-a-successful-pet-grooming-business/): Jayme Montero takes us behind the scenes at pet grooming spa Purrdy Paws, and explains the role DaySmart Pet has... - [Unlock Your Online Presence: The Ultimate Checklist for Pet Businesses](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/unlock-your-online-presence-the-ultimate-checklist-for-pet-businesses/): You have a great pet care business idea and you want to make it official! We’ve compiled a guide of the biggest financial to-dos to help you get started. - [Best Pet Care Software 2024](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/best-pet-care-software/): The proper pet care software can help grow your pet care business, save time, and streamline management. See the top pet care management systems ranked. - [Pet Care Business Calculator](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/new-pet-care-business-calculator/): You have a great pet care business idea and you want to make it official! We’ve compiled a guide of the biggest financial to-dos to help you get started. - [Five Effective Ways to Fetch New Pet Business Clients](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/five-effective-ways-to-fetch-new-pet-business-clients/): Without your ability to multitask, is there any way you could accomplish all that you do in a single day?... - [Marketing 101 for Small Businesses](https://www.daysmart.com/blog/marketing-101-for-small-businesses/): Marketing 101 for Small Businesses Get insights and new ideas on marketing your business so you can boost revenue, build... - [4 Tips for Minimizing Pet Business Stress Every Summer](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/4-tips-for-minimizing-pet-business-stress-every-summer/): Discover expert tips to reduce summer business stress, stay cool with some helpful strategies from DaySmart Pet! - [Streamlining the Booking Process to Increase Small Business Productivity](https://www.daysmart.com/blog/streamlining-the-booking-process-to-increase-small-business-productivity/): Cost-effectively acquire and retain more fitness customers by monitoring marketing campaign ROI using these key metrics and strategies - [Protect your brand, finances, and future with pet care business insurance](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/protect-your-brand-finances-and-future-with-pet-care-business-insurance/): The experience of owning a business is unlike any other. It’s a journey that reveals many valuable lessons in flexibility... - [How to Create a Rewards Program for Your Small Business in 2024](https://www.daysmart.com/blog/how-to-create-a-rewards-program-for-your-small-business-in-2024/): Learn about the benefits, types, and strategies of loyalty programs, and find out how DaySmart’s small business solutions can help you build and maintain customer loyalty. - [5 Customer Service Complaints Solved by User-Friendly Booking Software](https://www.daysmart.com/blog/customer-complaints-solved-by-software/): The right software can be great for your business and your customers! Learn about common customer service complaints. - [Solving Staffing Struggles in the Pet Care Industry](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/solving-staffing-struggles-in-the-pet-care-industry/): With hiring now providing a challenge for pet care business owners, let's look at ways we can help you reduce your administrative workload. - [Integrated Payments: 5 Things Every Business Owner Should Know ](https://www.daysmart.com/blog/integrated-payments-for-your-business/): Looking to optimize your payment system? Get crucial insights and tips to enhance your business's financial operations. - [3 Reasons Why Clients Aren’t Booking with Your Business and How To Fix It ](https://www.daysmart.com/blog/3-reasons-why-clients-arent-booking-with-your-business-and-how-to-fix-it/): Daysmart Pet shares three reasons why clients aren’t booking with your pet care business and the steps you can take to fix them. - [How to Advertise Your Business Locally](https://www.daysmart.com/blog/advertising-small-business-locally/): Daysmart Software provides several ways to build an audience for your local business, and marketing strategies to target locals. - [DaySmart Acquires Time To Pet](https://www.daysmart.com/blog/daysmart-acquires-time-to-pet/): The combination of Time To Pet and DaySmart’s solutions within the pet care space encompasses grooming, boarding, daycare, vet care, etc. - [The Benefits of Deposits for Your Pet Grooming Business ](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/the-benefits-of-using-deposits-at-your-pet-care-business/): Learn more about the benefits of deposits and how they can help your business reduce no shows and generate more revenue. - [Video Library | DaySmart Pet](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/video-library-daysmart-pet/): Check out all of Daysmart Pet's videos here. - [Best Dog Grooming Software for 2024](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/best-dog-grooming-software-for-2024/): Get a full breakdown of the top pet grooming software to help you run your business more efficiently. - [What You Should Know About the Canine Respiratory Illness](https://www.daysmart.com/vet/blog/canine-respiratory-illness/): The illness, atypical canine respiratory illness, was first seen in the western US during the summer and has spread to as many as 14 states. - [What Pet Business Owners Need to Know When Evaluating Booking and Management Software](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/pet-care-need-to-know-when-evaluating-booking-and-management-software/): A short guide on how you as a pet business owner can find the best pet care software for you and your growing business. - [How DaySmart Pet Can Help You Run the Day-to-Day Tasks at Your Pet Care Business](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/how-daysmart-pet-can-help-you-run-the-day-to-day-tasks/): Daysmart Pet business software allows pet business owners to automate much of the mundane day-to-day tasks and focus on what matters most. - [7 Ways to Increase Sales on Small Business Saturday](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/7-ways-to-increase-your-sales-on-small-business-saturday/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for 14-days! - [7 Ways Your Pet Software Can Help Your Pet Care Business Grow](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/7-ways-your-pet-software-can-help-your-pet-care-business-grow/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [Tips for Taking Care of Yourself During Busy Season](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/4-tips-for-taking-care-of-yourself-during-the-busy-season/): Daysmart Recreation gives you the best tips on taking care of yourself during the busy recreation season. - [A Paws-itive New Business Venture: From Banking to Pet Grooming](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/wet-paws-mobile-pet-grooming/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [Electric Grooming Table: Knowing Your Options](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/electric-grooming-table/): Learn the benefits of using an electric grooming table as a pet grooming professional, from Daysmart Pet. - [SMS Marketing Best Practices](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/sms-marketing-best-practices/): DaySmart Pet gives you the latest on using SMS marketing appropriately to market to your audience without overdoing it. - [Switching Your Pet Business From Pen & Paper Bookkeeping to Software](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/switching-your-pet-business-from-pen-paper-bookkeeping-to-software/): As a pet business owner, managing the finances and records of your business can be overwhelming. Fortunately, with Daysmart Software, you can change that. - [Managing Burnout And Work-Life Balance as a Pet Care Business Owner](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/managing-burnout-and-work-life-balance-as-a-pet-care-business-owner/): Burnout is possible whether you manage your pet care business alone, or with a team. Here's all you need to know about burnout, and work-life balance. - [8 Brand Loyalty Program Ideas for Your Pet Care Business](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/8-brand-loyalty-program-ideas-for-your-pet-care-business/): Daysmart offers several brand loyalty solutions to elevate your pet care business or pet grooming business. - [Helping Dogs Relax at Boarding: A Definitive Guide](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/helping-dogs-relax-at-boarding-a-definitive-guide/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [Poodle Grooming: 15 Tips for Grooming Your Poodle](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/poodle-grooming-15-tips-for-grooming-your-poodle/): Poodle grooming may be a more time intensive breed than other common breeds, but Daysmart Pet will help you get the job done. - [7 Reasons Your Pet Business Needs Text Marketing](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/pet-text-marketing/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [Dog Instagram Captions to Use On Your Next Post](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/dog-instagram-captions/): Looking for fun and creative dog Instagram captions? Elevate your posts with these catchy and engaging caption ideas. - [The 2022 Pet Industry Goldmine: Trends and Stats to Know](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/pet-industry-trends-2/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [Dog Grooming Business Plan: Tips For Running A Pet Grooming Business](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/dog-grooming-business-plan/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [Introducing Boarding by DaySmart Pet](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/introducing-boarding-by-daysmart-pet/): We’re excited to announce the launch of Boarding by DaySmart Pet! With this new solution, you can manage all aspects... - [Boarding a Dog: 10 Things To Know Before](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/boarding-a-dog/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [What to Expect When Taking Your Cat to a Cat Groomer](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/cat-groomer/): Ensure your cat's well-being with regular grooming. Daysmart Pet outlines what to expect when taking your cat to a professional cat groomer. - [How To Start a Dog Grooming Business](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/start-dog-grooming-business/): Starting a dog grooming business can be an undertaking, learn more from DaySmart Pet on how to operate your dog grooming business. - [7 Reasons to Use Cloud Applications for Your Pet Business](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/cloud-solutions-for-business/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [Starting Off On the Right Paw: What You Need to Know About Starting a Doggie Daycare Business](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/starting-a-doggie-daycare/): Starting a doggie daycare business is hard work; learn about what you can lean on to give yourself time to focus on the important stuff. - [Vital Information about Dog Prosthetics](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/dog-prosthetics/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [A List of Pet Supplies Companies](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/pet-supplies-companies/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [What Every Dog Groomer Needs to Know about Pet Grooming Tools](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/dog-grooming-tools/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [Dog Grooming Shampoos in 2021 Trends](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/dog-grooming-shampoo/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [Customer Spotlight: Emma Marie’s](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/customer-spotlight-emma-maries/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. 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Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [Customer Spotlight: Scrubbers Dog Wash](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/customer-spotlight-scrubbers/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [Protect Your Reputation With Daysmart Pet Reputation Management!](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/dog-grooming-reviews/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [The Future of Dog Grooming is Pre-Teen Gwendolyn Z](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/gwendolyn-grooming-series/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [Everything You Need to Know About Adopting Senior Dogs](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/adopting-senior-dogs/): Adopting senior dogs can be equal parts rewarding and effortful. Daysmart Pet provides some key tips on how to care for your aging pet. - [The 10 Funniest Dog Kennel and Dog Grooming Names](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/dog-kennel-and-dog-grooming-names/): Standing out as a business means being bold and naming your business something wild; here are the best dog kennel names from all around. - [Supercharge Your Email Marketing With Recurring Campaigns](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/email-marketing-examples/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [Setting up a Loyalty Program in Your Pet Grooming Business](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/small-business-loyalty-program-2/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [How to Start a Mobile Pet Grooming Business](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/mobile-pet-grooming-business/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [Notable Dog Competitions in the USA](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/dog-competitions/): Learn about the different types of dog competitions, from AKC-focused shows to dog grooming competitions, and other events and activities. - [8 Priceless Dog Mom Gifts for Mother's Day](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/dog-mom-gifts/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [Customer Spotlight: DogFX](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/customer-spotlight-dogfx/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [Dogs Around the World: New Dog Breeds from Europe](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/new-dog-breeds/): Discover new dog breeds from Europe and their unique qualities. Learn about Bolognese, Hovawart, Czechoslovakian Wolfdog, and more. - [7 Safe and Fun Dog Run Ideas Perfect for Any Breed](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/dog-run-ideas/): Discover 7 safe and fun dog run ideas perfect for any breed. Explore innovative dog run layouts to create the best place for your dogs. - [A Complete Guide on How to Choose the Right Pet Nail Grinder](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/pet-nail-grinder/): Daysmart Pet provides several tips on choosing a good pet nail grinder for your pet care business, and how to use and care for it. - [7 Ways Grooming Software Makes It Easier To Work From Home](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/work-from-home/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [Weighing the Options of Dog Grooming Harnesseses](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/dog-grooming-harness/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [How to Appear On Searches for Local Dog Groomers Near Me](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/how-to-appear-local-dog-groomers-near-me/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [Tips for Expanding Your Pet Business](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/pet-business-ideas/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [Customer Spotlight: Haute Dogge](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/customer-spotlight-haute-dogge/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [Looking for a Breath Mint for Dogs? 7 Ways to Reduce Fido’s Foul Odors](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/breath-mint-for-dogs/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [Why Brand Loyalty Is So Important for Dog Groomers](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/brand-loyalty/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [TV for Dogs: 7 Reasons Television Might Be Beneficial for Your Dog](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/tv-for-dogs/): TV for Dogs? Learn more about how your furry friend interacts with television and their television preferences. - [Customer Spotlight: Wet Paws Dog Grooming](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/customer-spotlight-wet-paws/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [Customer Spotlight: Dogs Paw Inc.](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/customer-spotlight-dogs-paw/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [Integrate Payment Processing with Speedy Client Checkout](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/processing-services/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [Customer Spotlight: All Fur Pet Grooming](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/customer-spotlight-all-fur-pet-grooming/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [How to Submit Your Grooming Business for an Award](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/grooming-awards/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [Leave it to the Professionals: Options for Grooming a Golden Retriever](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/grooming-a-golden-retriever/): Golden retrievers are naturally obedient dogs; you'll find as a pet groomer that with the right tools they'll be a cinch to groom. - [It’s Tax Time – Automate Financial Management With QuickBooks Connect!](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/quickbooks-connect-integration/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [To Clip or Not to Clip? A Guide to Popular Double Coat Dog Breeds](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/double-coat-dog-breeds/): Learn how to properly care for double coat dog breeds as a dog business owner from Daysmart Pet. - [Customer Spotlight: Pet-Agree Pet Services](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/customer-spotlight-pet-agree/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [Groomers Lung: 6 Tips to Help Groomers Stay Safe and Healthy](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/groomers-lung/): If you own a dog grooming business, you're aware of Groomer's Lung. Read on to learn how to protect yourself against Groomer's Lung. - [Cost of Dog Grooming: How Much Should I Charge?](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/dog-grooming-prices/): The cost of dog grooming varies market to market. Daysmart Pet covers more about how to determine your pet grooming prices. - [It's a Date! 7 Ways to Celebrate With Your Doggy Valentine](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/doggy-valentine/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [National Mentoring Month: Meet the Owners of Mucky Pup](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/professional-mentoring-mucky-pup/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [A Guide to Selecting and Caring for Professional Dog Grooming Shears](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/dog-grooming-shears/): Upgrade your grooming kit with our professional dog grooming shears. Find the perfect pair for your grooming needs. - [Benefits of Integrated Credit Card Processing](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/credit-card-processing/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [Boosting the Performance of your Staff and Retail](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/staff-retail-performance/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [2021 Pet Industry Trends Groomers Should Explore](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/pet-industry-trends-2021/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [A Step by Step Guide on How to Open Your Own Mobile Cat Grooming Van Services](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/mobile-cat-grooming/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [This Is What to Look for When Choosing a Spa for Dogs](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/spa-for-dogs/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [9 Grooming Products for Your Salon Goals](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/grooming-products/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [The 2020 Small Business Saturday Marketing Checklist](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/small-business-saturday-marketing-checklist/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [10 Essential Traits You’ll Need to Become a Successful Pet Groomer](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/successful-pet-groomer/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [How Dog Groomers Can Use a Small Business Gift Card to Boost Revenue](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/small-business-gift-cards/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [Pet Businesses: Ditch Pen & Paper for Maximum Efficiency and Success](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/pet-businesses-ditch-pen-paper/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [Love Animals? Check Out These Amazing Careers with Dogs](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/careers-with-dogs/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [How to Sell More Gift Cards in Your Grooming Salon This Holiday Season](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/sell-gift-cards/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [7 Ways To Prepare Your Groomers For Small Business Saturday](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/small-business-saturday/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [Get Acquainted With Dog Massage Therapy](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/dog-massage-therapy-2/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [What’s the Best Dog Calming Aid On the Market Today?](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/dog-calming-aid-2/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [How To Make a Dog First Aid Kit](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/dog-first-aid-kit/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [October is Adopt a Dog Month: Why You Should Adopt a Shelter Pet](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/adopt-a-shelter-pet/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [Safe Dog Dryers Your Customers Will Appreciate](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/dog-dryers/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [World Rabies Day is September 28 – Make Sure Pets Are Protected](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/world-rabies-day/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [Customer Spotlight: National Women’s Small Business Month](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/women-small-business/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [Why Strong Brand Development is Vital for a Grooming Business](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/dog-grooming-business-2/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [Best Practices for Sharpening Your Grooming Shears](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/sharpening-shears/): Keep your grooming shears in top condition through routine cleaning and proper storage. Discover essential maintenance tips here. - [Our Favorite Grooming Smocks That Deliver Professionalism With Flare](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/grooming-smocks-2/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [Guide to Becoming a Certified Pet Care Professional](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/pet-certifications/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [9 Surprising Health Benefits To Owning a Dog](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/owning-a-dog/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [Learning More About The Yorkie Haircut](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/yorkie-haircut/): Learn about the popular Yorkie haircut styles and find the perfect one for your pet. Get expert tips on grooming your Yorkie here. - [Cultivate Loyal Customers with Consistent Communication](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/loyal-customers/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [Why You Need a Dog Temperament Test for Your Pet Care Facility](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/dog-temperment-test/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [Why Work Friends Are the Best Friends](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/friends-work/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [Do’s and Don’ts of Re-Strategizing Your Business Post-Pandemic](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/dos-and-donts-of-re-strategizing-your-business-post-pandemic/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [The Future of Grooming: A Fireside Chat with Victor Rosado](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/the-future-of-grooming-a-fireside-chat-with-victor-rosado/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [5 Tips On Being a Successful Mobile Dog Groomer](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/mobile-dog-groomer-tips/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [Dog Apparel Trends, Selling Pet Fashion at Your Salon](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/pet-apparel-2/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [Workaholics Day: Important Ways Entrepreneurs Can Achieve Work-Life Balance](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/entrepreneur/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [10 Tips For Running A Pet Grooming Business](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/10-tips-for-running-a-pet-grooming-business/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [What Happens When You Don’t Groom Your Dog?](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/groom-your-dog/): Did you know that there are more reasons to groom your dog other than odor? Learn more about the benefits of routine dog grooming. - [Do You Tip Dog Groomers? 5 Reasons Why You Should Be](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/do-you-tip-dog-groomers/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [The Pawfect Dog Dad Gifts for Father’s Day](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/dog-dad-gifts-2/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [How to Become a Dog Groomer in One Year](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/how-to-become-dog-groomer-one-year/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [Groomer Shares Tips for Success with Dog Grooming Van](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/dog-grooming-van/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [How Groomers Can Prepare For Dog Grooming Competitions](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/dog-grooming-competitions/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [How to Future-Proof Your Pet Grooming Shop Post-COVID-19](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/future-proof-your-pet-grooming-shop-post-covid-19/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [Increasing the Cost of Dog Grooming at Your Salon](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/cost-of-dog-grooming-2/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [Re-evaluate Your Dog Grooming Pricing Plan](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/dog-grooming-pricing/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [How to Prepare Clients for your Re-Opening](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/reopen-grooming-salon-communication/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [9 Eco-Friendly Pet Products Every Groomer Should Know About](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/natural-products-pets/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [One Groomer’s Tips for Handling a Nervous Dog](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/nervous-dog-2/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [The CARES Act – Just the Facts!](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/the-cares-act/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [Prep Your Puppy For Its First Groom!](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/puppy-grooming/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [Is Your Grooming Business Ready for Tax Day?  ](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/tax-day/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [Could COVID-19 Help You Prepare Better Marketing?](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/small-business-marketing/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [How Dog Groomers are Addressing COVID-19](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/dog-groomers-addressing-covid-19/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [Staying Informed with COVID-19: Resources for Small Businesses](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/small-business-owners-covid-19-resources/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [Supporting Women-Run Businesses](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/women-run-businesses/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [Dog Spa & Resort: Learn More About This New Pet Trend](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/dog-spa-resort/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [How to Grow Your Business with Instagram](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/how-to-grow-on-instagram/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [8 Websites Every Dog Owner Should Bookmark](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/dog-website/): Having a dog means knowing all there is about the dog world. Here are a few dog websites to follow for all of the dog owners out there. - [The Risks of DIY Dog Grooming: 5 Reasons to visit a Pro](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/diy-dog-grooming/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [Customer Spotlight: Victor Rosado & The Puerto Rican Cup](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/spotlight-victor-rosado/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [What is the Cost of Cat Boarding and is it Worth it?](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/cost-of-cat-boarding/): The cost of cat boarding is an important factor in how your business handles boarding. Learn what to charge for cat boarding here. - [How to Brush Your Dog's Teeth (And Why You Should Make It a Priority!)](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/brush-dogs-teeth/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [Choosing The Right Leash For Your Dog](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/walk-a-dog/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [Pets with Purpose: Why Is Training Your Dog So Important?](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/training-for-dogs/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [Do Dogs Dream? Everything You Need To Know About The Science Of Doggie Sleep](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/dogs-dream/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [Canine Wisdom: 9 Intriguing Facts About Dogs You Probably Didn’t Know](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/facts-about-dogs/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [Customize Loyalty Programs to Reward & Retain Clients](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/customize-loyalty-programs-reward-retain-clients/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [What to Pack When Boarding Your Dog? Find Out Here!](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/dog-bag/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [Jumpstart January with the Latest Pet Technology](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/jumpstart-january-pet-technology/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [Boarding Cats and Dogs That Are Part of Same Family](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/dog-cat-boarding/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [Your Grooming Business New Year’s Resolutions for 2020](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/new-years-dog-grooming-business/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [New Years Goal Setting for Grooming Salon Owners](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/new-years-grooming-salon/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [Celebrating Strategies for Entrepreneurial Success](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/celebrating-strategies-for-entrepreneurial-success/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [National Mutt Day is Coming – Everything You Need to Know!](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/national-mutt-day/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [Every Pet Groomer’s Christmas Wish List](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/dog-groomer-christmas/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [Decorating Your Grooming Salon For The Holiday Season](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/decorating-grooming-salon-holiday-season/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [Maintain Morale During the Holidaze!](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/grooming-morale/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [Bring in More Clientele to Your Kennel by Offering These Activities](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/dog-activities/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [These Funky, Modern Dog Beds Your Dog Is Sure To Love](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/dog-beds/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [Bring People into Your Groomers with a Halloween Dog Costume Contest](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/dog-halloween-events/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [How Much Exercise Does A Dog Need Everyday?](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/dog-exercise/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [A Calm Dog Is a Happy Dog & Most Effective Dog Calming Aid](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/dog-calming-aid/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [How to Make Your Dog Instagram Famous!](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/dog-instagram/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [Daysmart Pet Teams up with Groomers to Clear Shelters](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/clear-the-shelters/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [Can Dogs See Ghosts and Other Supernatural Beings? Find Out The Facts](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/can-dogs-see-ghosts/): Can your furry friend see ghosts or other supernatural beings? Learn more about your pets instincts from this Daysmart Pet blog. - [Brain Games for Dogs: Promoting a Happy Disposition](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/brain-games-for-dogs/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [Adorable Dog Wedding Ideas](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/dog-wedding/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [What To Expect When Working At A Dog DayCare](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/dog-daycare-job/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [Lost Dog! How to Avoid the Unthinkable (And What to Do If it Happens)](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/lost-dogs/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [Promote Your Dog Groomers In Preparation For Bring Your Dog To Work Day](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/take-your-dog-to-work-day/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [Unique Dog Names – Creative Names For Your New Pup!](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/unique-dog-names/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [Be Aware of How Your Kennel is Being Evaluated by Prospective Boarders](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/dog-boarding-facility/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [Customer Spotlight: Rachel Ann’s Country Clips](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/customer-spotlight-rachel-anns-country-clips/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [Daysmart Pet Employees: Adopt a Shelter Pet Day Stories](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/shelter-dog-employee-stories/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [Dog Grooming Fails and How to Avoid Them As a Groomer](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/dog-grooming-fails/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [7 Common Toxins to Keep Away From Pets | National Poison Prevention Week](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/what-is-toxic-to-dogs/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [What’s New With Daysmart Pet groom? Find Out Here!](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/whats-new-q1/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [How To Start A Kenneling Business](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/how-to-start-a-dog-kennel/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [If Pets Had Thumbs Day is March 3rd: What Would Your Dog Do?](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/if-pets-had-thumbs/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [How to Run a Successful Kennel Facility](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/running-a-successful-kennel/): Interested in starting your own pet boarding business. Learn what it takes to run a successful kennel facility. - [Doggie Daycare: Everything You Need To Know](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/everything-doggie-daycare/): Thinking of signing your pup up for doggie daycare? Here's everything you need to know. - [9 Places All Dog-Lovers Need To Visit At Least Once](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/dog-friendly-vacations/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [National Dress Up Your Pet Day: The Best Pet Costumes!](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/dog-in-costume/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [Year-End Review for your 2018 Goals](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/dog-grooming-review/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [Business Software: Your Pet Groomer’s Holiday Season Secret Weapon](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/pet-groomer-holidays/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [2018 Marketing Campaigns Review & Plan for 2019](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/marketing-campaigns-review/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [Set Your Grooming Shop up for Success](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/grooming-success-2019/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [Looking for a Pet Bathtub? Here Are the 10 Best Products On The Market](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/pet-bathtub/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [Reasons Why Cost of Dog Grooming is Greater Than Your Own Haircut](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/cost-of-dog-grooming-3/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [7 Pet Business Ideas for the Animal-Obsessed](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/animal-groomer/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [National Pet Memorial Day: 9 Unique Ways to Honor a Lost Pet](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/honor-lost-pet/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [8 Professional Dog Grooming Supplies You Need In Your Grooming Salon](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/dog-grooming-supplies/): Set up your grooming salon for success with these 8 must-have tools for pet grooming! Plus expert tips and advice from DaySmart Pet... - [7 Top Tips To Keep Your Canine Cool This Summer](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/canine-summer/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [World Environment Day: Simple Ways To Make Your Grooming Salon More Green](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/green-groomers/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [Dog Shedding: The Optimal Brush For Your Breed](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/dog-shedding/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [5 Trends in the Pet Food Market to Watch in 2018](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/pet-food-market/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [Daysmart Pet Software: Top Sponsor of Atlanta Pet Fair & Conference 2018](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/123pet-software-top-sponsor-atlanta-pet-fair-conference-2018/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [How Investing in a Grooming App Can Help Your Business](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/grooming-app/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [Grooming Salon Management Overview](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/grooming-salon-management-overview/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [Business Basics 1 – Planning Your Opening](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/business-basics-planning-your-opening/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [Pet Grooming Tips: How To Have Success in 2018](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/pet-grooming-tips-18/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [10 Great Benefits of Enrolling in Dog Grooming Classes](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/dog-grooming-courses/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [New Mobile App Features: Flexibility on the Go!](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/new-mobile-app-features/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [5 Pet-Friendly Instagram Photo Ideas for Groomers](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/5-pet-friendly-instagram-photo-ideas/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [3 Pet Product Marketing Tips for Dog Grooming Products](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/pet-product-marketing-tips-for-grooming/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [How to Set up a Marketing Campaign with Yelp](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/yelp-marketing/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [Top 7 Advantages of Pet Grooming Software](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/top-7-advantages-pet-grooming-software/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [Track Performance Statistics to Strengthen Your Business](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/track-performance-statistics-strengthen-business/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [How to Use Email Marketing to Boost Client Retention & Sales](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/email-marketing-boosts-client-retention-sales/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [Daysmart Pet Version 12: Built with your work style](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/123pet-version-12-built-with-your-work-style-in-mind/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [New: Email Marketing for Cloud Users](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/new-email-marketing-for-cloud-users/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [New: Importing Data for Daysmart Pet Cloud!](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/new-importing-data-for-123pet-cloud/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - [New: Features, Including Appointment Reminders!](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/appointment-reminders-and-notifications/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… ## Partners ## Tesimonials - [Truly changed my world.](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/testimonial/truly-changed-my-world/): Johnelle Ciano, owner of Emma Marie’s Grooming & Daycare, used to dread all the paperwork and hassles of business management... - [Very happy to have made the switch.](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/testimonial/very-happy-to-have-made-the-switch/): Jayme Montero of Purrdy Paws says, “I always had a deep connection with animals and knew I would follow my... - [Simple, user friendly.](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/testimonial/simple-user-friendly/): Mike Conners trusts DaySmart Pet to manage Haute Dogge: “Being able to text or email to confirm has been a... - [It saves me tons of money!](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/testimonial/it-saves-me-tons-of-money/): With DaySmart Pet, we can send clients prompts to write reviews about their experience with us. The positive reviews help... - [They really listen.](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/testimonial/they-really-listen/): The team behind DaySmart Pet always tries to navigate the challenges of the industry and figure out what functions would... ## Support Resources - [Database Password Recovery](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/support/forms/database-password-recovery/): Online Form – Serial Number Recovery Authorization - [Serial Number Recovery](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/support/forms/serial-number-recovery/): Online Form – Serial Number Recovery Authorization - [Reset Password](https://daysmartsoftware.formstack.com/forms/password_reset_form): Forgot your password? Click here to request a reset. - [Updating DaySmart Pet Software](https://downloads.daysmart.com/123Pet/123PetUpdate.exe): - [DaySmart Pet Version 13](https://downloads.daysmart.com/123Pet/123PetSetupV13.exe): - [Remotely Connect To My Business](https://get.teamviewer.com/8938zc2): - [Transferring Data](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/support/forms/transferring-data/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for 14-days! - [Update Account Information](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/support/forms/update-account-information/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for 14-days! - [Hardware Requirements](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/support/forms/hardware-requirements/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for 14-days! - [Transfer of Ownership](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/support/forms/transfer-of-ownership/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for 14-days! - [Support Account Password](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/support/forms/account-password/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for 14-days! - [Rebate Request](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/support/forms/rebate-request/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for 14-days! - [Domain Name Transfer](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/support/forms/domain-name-transfer/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for 14-days! - [Data Retrieval Request](https://www.daysmart.com/pet/support/forms/data-retrieval-request/): Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for 14-days! - [Online Gift Cards](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9xD_M_uKEXc): - [Running Reports](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uhqZm3nCbLo): - [Resources](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ENh6Hd4K-78): - [Payroll](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sZebR_rE83Y): - [Online Booking Service List](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yuUCLb6ekmg): - [Bulk Void](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LRY-9Gisvl0): - [Closing a Ticket](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-g8vKCzWLRg): - [Email & Text Marketing](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oOFDmUqlIHg): - [Employee Access](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KqcopRze9c0): - [Loyalty Points](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WdEPoUTwbdY): - [Merging Clients](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=heZoxHJS2TE): - [Multi-Ticket Checkout](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3qDPk7w-f1g): - [Online Booking Employee Display Options](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HofaAvZS1LQ): - [Online Booking Passwords](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IesiHUNSGZA): - [Getting Started](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jyqLxnIptQQ): - [Adding Products](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yQbu3NrOJRE): - [Adding Notes](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c-mtJtmd3OU): - [Adding Employees](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ThaWgiTH29M): - [Adding Clients & Pets](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gCDQkvr9aiM): - [Adding a Tender Type](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ckhowGhN5jg): - [Adding a Service](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HtCaKfnH1bI): --- # # Detailed Content ## Pages ### Reputation Management and Website Builder - Published: 2025-04-21 - Modified: 2025-04-21 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/reputation-management-and-website-builder/ Boost Your Grooming Business Online In today’s digital world, a strong online presence is essential for your pet grooming business. That’s where DaySmart Pet comes in – designed to help you work smarter, not harder!   🌟 Reputation Management  Boost your online credibility and visibility by gathering more 5-star reviews, showing you're the go-to choice for pet owners in our area.   💻 Website Builder  Create a professional website in under 10 minutes – no tech skills required. Offer a seamless, user-friendly experience that keeps customers coming back.   Ready to grow your business? Submit this form to connect with our team and learn how these tools can work for you! 👉  --- ### https://www.daysmart.com/pet/affiliate-program-application-page/ - Published: 2025-03-27 - Modified: 2025-03-27 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/https-www-daysmart-com-pet-affiliate-program-application-page/ --- ### Become an Affiliate - Published: 2025-03-27 - Modified: 2025-03-27 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/become-an-affiliate/ --- ### Pet Care - Request a Demo - Published: 2025-03-20 - Modified: 2025-04-17 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/request-demo-pet-care/ Software for Pet Care Pros—Made by Pet Lovers DaySmart Pet understands why you started your business—to bring joy to pets and their parents. Our solutions make running and growing your pet care business easier, so you can focus on providing exceptional care. Trusted by over 5,000 pet care pros to help run and grow their business Get More Tails Wagging and Pet Parents Smiling  Modernize scheduling with digital appointments.   Engage with customers and manage your online presence. Streamline payments for you and your customers. Simplify running your business with easy-to-use pet care software. Request a DemoManage Your Business Better with Enhanced Scheduling  Digital Appointment Book makes it simple to schedule, change, and view appointments.   Automated Reminders reduce no-shows with text and email reminders for your customers.   24-7 Online Booking lets pet parents request appointments—and gives you control over scheduling.   Digital Forms sent via text or email mean faster check-ins—and less paperwork.   Request a DemoEngage More Pet Parents With Enhanced Communication  Text & Email Marketing lets customers receive messages about promotions, events, and more.   Two-Way Texting saves time with a convenient, instant way to stay in touch with pet parents.   Reputation Management means more 5-star reviews with automatic review requests from happy customers.   Website Builder gives you the power to easily create a professional, engaging website.   Request a DemoSimple, Powerful & Fast Payment for Your Clients—and Team  Seamless Checkouts let your customers pay via chip, swipe or tap with cards, Apple Pay, and Google Pay.   No-Show Protection lets you collect deposits and securely store card info to cover cancellation fees.   Streamlined Invoices save time and reduce errors with a single system for automated payments and reconciliations.   Low-Cost Processing & Fast Payouts save you money and let you access funds faster.   Request a DemoIncrease Efficiency with Extensive Operations Features  Client & Pet Profiles give you instant access to preferences and histories.   Real-Time Reporting offers over 50 reports to help you make informed business decisions.   Our Mobile Pet Care App makes it easy to access info and appointments—anytime, anywhere.   Employee Management is a breeze with simple scheduling, payroll, commissions, time clocks, and more.   Request a Demo --- ### Grooming - Request a Demo - Published: 2025-03-20 - Modified: 2025-04-17 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/request-demo-grooming/ Pet Grooming Software—Made by Pet Lovers DaySmart Pet understands why you started your grooming business—to bring joy to pets and their parents. Our solutions make running and growing your business easier, so you can focus on providing exceptional care. Trusted by over 5,000 groomers to help run and grow their pet care business Get More Tails Wagging and Pet Parents Smiling  Modernize scheduling with digital appointments.   Engage with customers and manage your online presence. Streamline payments for you and your customers. Simplify running your dog grooming business with easy-to-use pet grooming software. Request a DemoManage Your Business Better with Enhanced Scheduling  Digital Appointment Book makes it simple to schedule, change, and view appointments.   Automated Reminders reduce no-shows with text and email reminders for your customers.   24-7 Online Booking lets pet parents request appointments—and gives you control over scheduling.   Digital Forms sent via text or email mean faster check-ins—and less paperwork.   Request a DemoEngage More Pet Parents With Enhanced Communication  Text & Email Marketing lets customers receive messages about promotions, events, and more.   Two-Way Texting saves time with a convenient, instant way to stay in touch with pet parents.   Reputation Management means more 5-star reviews with automatic review requests from happy customers.   Website Builder gives you the power to easily create a professional, engaging website.   Request a DemoSimple, Powerful & Fast Payment for Your Clients—and Team  Seamless Checkouts let your customers pay via chip, swipe or tap with cards, Apple Pay, and Google Pay.   No-Show Protection lets you collect deposits and securely store card info to cover cancellation fees.   Streamlined Invoices save time and reduce errors with a single system for automated payments and reconciliations.   Low-Cost Processing & Fast Payouts save you money and let you access funds faster.   Request a DemoIncrease Efficiency with Extensive Operations Features  Client & Pet Profiles give you instant access to preferences and histories.   Real-Time Reporting offers over 50 reports to help you make informed business decisions & manage your pet grooming business plan. Our Mobile App makes it easy to access info and appointments—anytime, anywhere. Employee Management is a breeze with simple scheduling, payroll, commissions, time clocks, and more.   Request a Demo --- ### The Leading Pet Care Software > DaySmart's pet care management software lets you manage and grow your pet care business. Start your free trial today with the best pet care app for 2025. - Published: 2025-03-11 - Modified: 2025-03-11 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/features/pet-care-software/ The Leading Pet Care Software Sometimes, the simplest tasks take the most time, but setting up appointments for pet parents—and managing relationships with them—doesn’t have to. As a pet care business, you deserve a solution that eases daily operations, allowing you to focus on what matters most: your clients and their furbabies. We know how time-consuming and challenging it can be to stay on top of appointments and employee schedules, not to mention client intake, pet profiles, payment processing, mobile services, and all the other aspects of your pet care business. So, we developed a platform that combines your most monotonous tasks into a few simple clicks, with automation and other helpful tools. Who let the power of pet care management out? DaySmart did, and now your business can, too. With DaySmart's all-in-one pet business software, you can transform your pet care operations and grow. Start Your Free TrialPet Care Software Makes Managing Your Pet Care Business EasyDaySmart pet care software simplifies scheduling, communication, payments, and everyday operations with the help of a single, user-friendly interface—making it easy for anyone, regardless of technical expertise, to navigate. No matter your business size, DaySmart’s pet care business software supports solopreneurs, small businesses, and more extensive pet care operations with growing teams. Whether you’re a groomer, doggie daycare facility, or boarding kennel, DaySmart Pet can streamline your daily operations while improving client communication and satisfaction, too. Automate Your Pet Care Business’ ScheduleAutomate your schedule with DaySmart Pet’s appointment booking capabilities, which are customizable to fit the unique needs of your business. Through our software, you can schedule client appointments, manage variations, and address cancellations effortlessly. You can also address appointment-related headaches and get more time back in the day. Rather than manually handling appointments, our software automatically sends clients appointment reminders ahead of their appointments, reducing the chance of a no-show on the day of service. And, when an appointment is confirmed, digital forms are automatically sent to clients—speeding up the check-in process once they arrive with their pet. DaySmart Pet also maintains a centralized database of client information, including pet profiles and appointment histories, helping to streamline management. With this, pet businesses can access and update records quickly. By organizing data in one place, DaySmart Pet enhances overall operational efficiency and contributes to a more robust and organized business. DaySmart Pet Care Software Simplifies Client ManagementDaySmart pet care software simplifies client management by enabling professionals to access appointment histories, client preferences, pet profiles, vaccine statuses, and behavioral information with ease. All the while, clients can stay in the loop and communicate with professionals as they need through two-way texting features. This accessibility not only creates happy clients; it allows pet businesses to personalize the customer experience and develop lasting relationships with pets and owners alike. With DaySmart Pet, managing client interactions becomes streamlined and hassle-free, enhancing the overall experience for everyone involved. Paw-rents can find comfort in knowing their pets’ needs are being met, while professionals can ensure they have... --- ### Operations > DaySmart Pet's pet business operations software and app simplify business management and help you save time and money. Start your free trial today! - Published: 2025-02-25 - Modified: 2025-03-06 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/solution/operations/ Discover a Pet Business Operations Software that Supports Your Growth DaySmart Pet makes managing your business easier—saving time, money,and headaches. Start Free TrialTry Interactive DemoSee Why Over 5,000 Pet Groomers Trust Us to HelpSimplify and Streamline Their Business Operations. DaySmart Pet Operations Solutions Get More Efficient and Lighten Your Administrative Load With Simple, Proven Operations Solutions. Explore DaySmart Pet  Explore this interactive demo to see how DaySmart Pet can help simplify managing and growing your business, so you can focus on making more pets happy. --- ### Scheduling > DaySmart Pet's dog grooming booking system and appointment software helps groomers streamline scheduling and calendar management. Start a free trial! - Published: 2025-02-25 - Modified: 2025-03-21 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/solution/scheduling-software/ Grooming Appointment Software to Keep You On Track to Success DaySmart Pet delivers scheduling solutions to make it easier to manage and grow your business. Start Free TrialTry Interactive DemoSee Why Over 5,000 Pet Groomers Trust Us toSimplify Appointment and Calendar Management. DaySmart Pet Scheduling Solutions Manage Schedules. Save Time. See More Tails Wagging.   Explore DaySmart Pet  Explore this interactive demo to see how DaySmart Pet can help simplify managing and growing your business, so you can focus on making more pets happy. --- ### Communications > DaySmart Pet's communication and marketing software helps groomers and other pet care businesses improve client relationships and grow. Get a free trial! - Published: 2025-02-25 - Modified: 2025-03-21 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/solution/communications/ Pet Business Marketing & Communications to Foster Connection Communications solutions from DaySmart Pet put you and your customers on a first-name basis.  Start Free TrialTry Interactive DemoSee Why Over 5,000 Pet Groomers Trust Us. Customized for You, Your Customers, and Their Pets. DaySmart Pet Communication Solutions Grow Your Business & Keep More Customers with Proven Engagement Features Explore DaySmart Pet  Explore this interactive demo to see how DaySmart Pet can help simplify managing and growing your business, so you can focus on making more pets happy. --- ### Payments > DaySmart Pet's pet business payment processing solution makes it easy to collect payments and minimize lost revenue from no-shows. Start your free trial! - Published: 2025-02-25 - Modified: 2025-03-21 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/solution/payments/ Pet Business Payment Software for Smoother Checkouts Enjoy more streamlined, automated, and simple payments so you have more time for pet care! Start Free TrialTry Interactive DemoSee Why Over 5,000 Pet Groomers Trust Us to HelpManage Their Payment Processing. DaySmart Pet Payment Solutions Enjoy Fast, Simple, Secure Payments and Processing You and Your Customers Will Love. Explore DaySmart Pet  Explore this interactive demo to see how DaySmart Pet can help simplify managing and growing your business, so you can focus on making more pets happy. --- ### Create A Modern Website in Minutes - Published: 2025-02-24 - Modified: 2025-02-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/create-a-modern-website-in-minutes/ DaySmart’s Simple Website Builder allows you to effortlessly create and manage your business website with customizable features that enhance your brand and help you stand out from the competition. Our AI-powered builder enables you to launch a modern website on your own in under 10 minutes, offering a cost-effective solution that saves time and requires no web development experience. Speak to a representative today to learn more!   --- ### Pet Business Software for Groomers | DaySmart Pet > DaySmart Pet's pet business management software is trusted by 5,000+ users to manage and grow their pet care businesses. Start your free trial today! - Published: 2025-02-24 - Modified: 2025-03-26 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/ Software for Pet Groomers—Made by Pet Lovers DaySmart Pet understands why you started your grooming business—to bring joy to pets and their parents. Our solutions make running and growing your business easier, so you can focus on providing exceptional care. Start Free TrialTry Interactive DemoTrusted by over 5,000 groomers to help run and grow their pet care business Get More Tails Wagging and Pet Parents Smiling  Modernize scheduling with digital appointments.  Learn More. Engage with customers and manage your online presence. Learn More. Streamline payments for you and your customers. Learn More. Simplify running your business with easy-to-use software.  Learn More. Start Free TrialManage Your Business Better with Enhanced Scheduling  Digital Appointment Book makes it simple to schedule, change, and view appointments.   Automated Reminders reduce no-shows with text and email reminders for your customers.   24-7 Online Booking lets pet parents request appointments—and gives you control over scheduling.   Digital Forms sent via text or email mean faster check-ins—and less paperwork.   Start Free TrialLearn moreEngage More Pet Parents With Enhanced Communication  Text & Email Marketing lets customers receive messages about promotions, events, and more.   Two-Way Texting saves time with a convenient, instant way to stay in touch with pet parents.   Reputation Management means more 5-star reviews with automatic review requests from happy customers.   Website Builder gives you the power to easily create a professional, engaging website.   Start Free TrialLearn moreSimple, Powerful & Fast Payment for Your Clients—and Team  Seamless Checkouts let your customers pay via chip, swipe or tap with cards, Apple Pay, and Google Pay.   No-Show Protection lets you collect deposits and securely store card info to cover cancellation fees.   Streamlined Invoices save time and reduce errors with a single system for automated payments and reconciliations.   Low-Cost Processing & Fast Payouts save you money and let you access funds faster.   Start Free TrialLearn moreIncrease Efficiency with Extensive Operations Features  Client & Pet Profiles give you instant access to preferences and histories.   Real-Time Reporting offers over 50 reports to help you make informed business decisions.   Our Mobile App makes it easy to access info and appointments—anytime, anywhere.   Employee Management is a breeze with simple scheduling, payroll, commissions, time clocks, and more.   Start Free TrialLearn moreAccess the DaySmart Pet Report One Size Fits You You started your business to care for pets—not be a management guru. See how we can help with customized solutions.  ACCESS NOWNews and Insights --- ### Affiliate Landing Page - Free Trial - Published: 2025-02-14 - Modified: 2025-02-20 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/affiliate-landing-page-free-trial/ Jumpstart Your Grooming Business's Success Sign up today for 50% off your first month! *Effortlessly grow profits with an all-in-one solution that keeps clients coming back while reducing overhead costs. From appointment booking and communication to payments and operations, DaySmart Pet streamlines your day-to-day to make your grooming business's success a sure thing. Learn MoreWhy Customers Love UsTry DaySmart Pet free for 14 days! No credit card needed. Features That Fetch ResultsUntangle Scheduling Challenges Keep your calendar full and organized with flexible scheduling built for your business—whether you run a brick-and-mortar salon or a mobile grooming service. Easily manage appointments, track key details, and streamline the check-in process with digital forms. Request a Free TrialKeep Clients Happy Effortlessly stay connected with clients with automated appointment reminders, confirmations, and review requests. Plus, send special promotions via text and email to keep them coming back. Request a Free TrialSimplify Payments Built-in credit card processing speeds up checkout, automates reconciliation, and boosts revenue with gift cards. Appointment deposits help minimize no-shows and late cancellations—plus, we commit to meeting or beating your current rates. Request a Free TrialStreamline Operations Stay organized with detailed client and pet profiles, manage your business on-the-go with our mobile app, and track performance with customizable reports to make >Request a Free TrialThe team behind DaySmart Pet always tries to navigate the challenges of the industry and figure out what functions would be most helpful to users. They pay attention to what customers have to say and are able to stay ahead of our needs by developing new solutions to our problems. Every so often, I call with feedback, and they really listen. I’ve also met the staff at trade shows and they’re amazing. DaySmart Pet is very simple, user-friendly, and allows us to store useful information on both clients and their pets. Being able to text or email to confirm appointments has been a lifesaver for us, especially with the mobile unit. To top it all off, their customer service is fantastic. We’ve had some pretty silly questions along the way, and they’re the nicest, most patient people. They help me run my business successfully. DaySmart Pet’s system was so easy to set up and truly changed my world. I’m able to groom two extra dogs per day and save hundreds of hours each year by allowing technology to fill in for me with those behind-the-scenes activities. My favorite DaySmart Pet feature is its ability to create pop-up notes in clients’ profiles so that you have no choice but to read them. Is the dog allergic to a certain treat? Pop up! I’m able to be aware of everything that’s important to know to make the care I provide better. It’s a game-changer. We love the mobile app because we can upload pictures of client preferences right into their profiles and better understand their expectations. We also use the texting capabilities to communicate with clients, which saves us time from having to call to confirm appointments and... --- ### Affiliate Landing Page - Demo - Published: 2025-02-11 - Modified: 2025-02-20 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/affiliate-landing-page-demo/ Jumpstart Your Grooming Business's Success Sign up today for 50% off your first month! *Effortlessly grow profits with an all-in-one solution that keeps clients coming back while reducing overhead costs. From appointment booking and communication to payments and operations, DaySmart Pet streamlines your day-to-day to make your grooming business's success a sure thing. Learn MoreWhy Customers Love Us Features That Fetch ResultsUntangle Scheduling Challenges Keep your calendar full and organized with flexible scheduling built for your business—whether you run a brick-and-mortar salon or a mobile grooming service. Easily manage appointments, track key details, and streamline the check-in process with digital forms. Request a DemoKeep Clients Happy Effortlessly stay connected with clients with automated appointment reminders, confirmations, and review requests. Plus, send special promotions via text and email to keep them coming back. Request a DemoSimplify Payments Built-in credit card processing speeds up checkout, automates reconciliation, and boosts revenue with gift cards. Appointment deposits help minimize no-shows and late cancellations—plus, we commit to meeting or beating your current rates. Request a DemoStreamline Operations Stay organized with detailed client and pet profiles, manage your business on-the-go with our mobile app, and track performance with customizable reports to make >Request a DemoThe team behind DaySmart Pet always tries to navigate the challenges of the industry and figure out what functions would be most helpful to users. They pay attention to what customers have to say and are able to stay ahead of our needs by developing new solutions to our problems. Every so often, I call with feedback, and they really listen. I’ve also met the staff at trade shows and they’re amazing. DaySmart Pet is very simple, user-friendly, and allows us to store useful information on both clients and their pets. Being able to text or email to confirm appointments has been a lifesaver for us, especially with the mobile unit. To top it all off, their customer service is fantastic. We’ve had some pretty silly questions along the way, and they’re the nicest, most patient people. They help me run my business successfully. DaySmart Pet’s system was so easy to set up and truly changed my world. I’m able to groom two extra dogs per day and save hundreds of hours each year by allowing technology to fill in for me with those behind-the-scenes activities. My favorite DaySmart Pet feature is its ability to create pop-up notes in clients’ profiles so that you have no choice but to read them. Is the dog allergic to a certain treat? Pop up! I’m able to be aware of everything that’s important to know to make the care I provide better. It’s a game-changer. We love the mobile app because we can upload pictures of client preferences right into their profiles and better understand their expectations. We also use the texting capabilities to communicate with clients, which saves us time from having to call to confirm appointments and pickups. Reputation management has also been the greatest resource. With it, we can send... --- ### Customer Referral Program - Published: 2025-01-29 - Modified: 2025-04-25 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/customer-referral-program/ Refer and Save! Know someone looking for pet care management software? Refer them to DaySmart Pet and earn a $100 credit towards your subscription. * PLUS, the referred business will receive 50% off their first month. There's no limit to how much you can save! Learn more about how it works below, and start referring your network today. How it works Fill out the form above with the referred business information. We'll reach out to talk through the product with your referral. After they sign up to become a DaySmart customer, you'll automatically receive a $100 credit towards your DaySmart subscription* and the referred business will receive 50% off their first month for signing up through the referral program! Finding Your DaySmart Customer ID Login to your account. Navigate to the 'My Info' tab. Copy the 'Customer ID' value under 'Account Overview'. Finding Your DaySmart Customer ID Login to your account. Navigate to the 'More... ' section. Copy the 'Customer ID' seen at the footer. * Disclaimer: the $100 credit applies to your subscription once the referred business becomes a customer. Transactional fees are not included. *Pet Grooming Software That'll Make Your Tail Wag Our customers only hand out this deal to the best in the business, so that must mean you're pretty cool! If you haven’t heard of us before, hey 👋 we’re DaySmart Pet – the software solution that’s helping pet groomers simplify the way they schedule, take payment, communicate, and manage daily operations. Sound like something you'd benefit from? Complete this form and receive 50% off your first month if you love us. * Learn more about how it works below, and claim your discount! How it works Fill out the form above with your business information. We'll reach out to share more about the product. Once you sign up to become a DaySmart customer, you'll automatically receive 50% off your first month for signing up through the referral program! ** Transactional fees are not included. ** --- ### Referral Thank You - Published: 2025-01-29 - Modified: 2025-01-29 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/referral-thank-you/ Thanks for your referral to DaySmart Pet! A dedicated DaySmart Pet representative will reach out to them very soon. After they sign up to become a DaySmart customer, you'll automatically receive a $100 credit towards your DaySmart subscription* and the referred business will receive 50% off their first month for signing up through the referral program! ** Disclaimer: the $100 credit applies to your subscription once the referred business becomes a customer. Transactional fees are not included. ** --- ### 123Pet Is Now DaySmart Pet > New name, same great software. DaySmart Pet’s platform makes it easy for pet care businesses to schedule more bookings online, improve client communication, and see fewer missed appointments. Try DaySmart Pet FREE for 14 days! - Published: 2024-12-17 - Modified: 2024-12-17 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/123pet/ 123Pet Is Now DaySmart Pet! New name, same great software. DaySmart Pet's platform makes it easy for pet care businesses to schedule more bookings online, improve client communication, and see fewer missed appointments. Why wait? Schedule a free demo today! Eliminate no-shows Simply set up reminders and automatically send your clients text and/or email reminders about upcoming appointments. Stay open with 24/7 booking Create a free, customizable online booking website for your business that automatically connects to your appointment book. 50,000+ Pet Groomers Love DaySmart Pet The DaySmart Pet team pays attention to what customers say and can stay ahead of our needs by developing new solutions to our problems. Being able to text or email to confirm appointments has been a lifesaver for us, especially with the mobile unit. I knew DaySmart Pet was the software for me, and it has paid for itself. It’s been a lifesaver coming from the shop’s original pen and paper model. --- ### Holiday Promo 2024 > Holiday Gift: Propel your pet care business to success during the busy holiday season with a free payment device on us! - Published: 2024-12-17 - Modified: 2024-12-17 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/holiday-promo-2024/ Quick, Seamless, Reliable Payments Take advantage of our holiday gift and receive a FREE credit card terminal to make your most profitable season even more rewarding. Hurry, this offer ends December 31, 2024! Claim My Free Device Simplify PaymentsMaximize EarningsGain Valuable TimeStrengthen Client LoyaltyQuickly Receive FundsReduce Overhead CostsFill out the form below to get started with DaySmart Payments! Claim your free credit card terminal by December 31, 2024! --- ### More Texts, Merrier Holidays > Take advantage of our special holiday deal to stock up on additional marketing texts! - Published: 2024-12-04 - Modified: 2024-12-04 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/more-texts-merrier-holidays/ The holiday season is here—don't let limited text messages and overage fees slow you down.  Enjoy 50% off additional marketing texts for the next two months! With more texts, you can send all the promotions, updates, and festive messages you need to help your clients keep their pets looking their best for the season's big events. Why Add More Texts for the Holidays? 🎁 Promote Holiday Specials: Highlight seasonal deals and packages. 🐾 Fill Last-Minute Openings: Help clients get their pets holiday-party-ready. ✨ Send Festive Greetings: Stay connected with thoughtful holiday messages. Secure extra texts today and make this your most successful season yet. Don’t miss out—this offer ends December 16! --- ### Cyber Month Promo 2024 > Cyber Month Gifts: Propel your pet care business to success during the busy holiday season with a free payment device and free data migration on us! - Published: 2024-11-26 - Modified: 2024-12-06 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/cyber-month-promo/ Maximize Your Holiday Season Propel your pet care business to success during the busy holiday season with a free payment device and free data migration on us!  Claim Your Free Gifts DaySmart Pet and Payments check everything off your wish list by streamlining operations, boosting revenue, and building trust with pet parents. You’ll also enjoy lower processing fees with error-free transactions, all while we commit to meeting or beating your current rates. Maximize Revenue Get ready to watch your business thrive with the all-in-one scheduling software that saves overhead costs. Built-in payment processing unlocks potential for greater profitability with online gift card sales and by implementing no-show and cancellation fees.  Gain Valuable Time We streamline pet care management—from appointment bookings to checkout—to help you save valuable time on administrative tasks, avoid wasted energy on transaction reconciliation, maximize efficiency, and reduce errors.  Increase Client Satisfaction Make appointment bookings easy and provide quick service, ensuring that both pet clients and parents leave happy and more likely to return. Start Now With Free Gifts! Fill out the form to get started with DaySmart Pet and Payments.   --- ### Favorite Things Giveaway - Published: 2024-09-26 - Modified: 2025-01-15 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/favorite-things-giveaway/ Try DaySmart FREE - and get 10% off your monthly subscription for the first year if you love it! No credit card required. See how easy it is to: Schedule appointments Maintain client information Manage your services Communicate with clients Learn MoreSign up for your free trial today! Seize Your Day, Smarter! Simplify Your Scheduling Manage your schedule and stay organized wherever you are with customizable options for services, waitlists, digital forms, and online bookings that fit your unique business. Keep Clients in the Loop Boost client satisfaction with top-notch communications. Send automated reminders, confirmations, review requests, and promotions via text and email. Power Up Your Payments No more working across multiple systems, paying higher fees, or waiting for funds. Protect yourself from no-shows, accept deposits, and store cards securely. Streamline Operations Centralize your client and pet information to stay organized and stay on top of your business performance with customizable reports. "I’m able to groom two extra dogs per day and save hundreds of hours each year by allowing technology to fill in for me with those behind-the-scenes activities. " Johnelle CianoFounder and Owner of Emma Marie’s Grooming & Daycare L. L. C. in MassachusettsReady to save 10% on your first year with DaySmart Pet? Claim Your Gift --- ### Pet Care Management System > DaySmart's pet care management system has the features your business needs. Schedule, manage clients, and accept payment in one platform. Get a free trial. - Published: 2024-09-09 - Modified: 2024-09-09 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/pet-care-management-system/ Pet Care Management System It’s time to simplify your pet care management systems with DaySmart Pet.   Listen, we know running a pet care business is a tough task, but with the right tools in place, it’s a walk in the park. DaySmart Pet offers an all-in-one solution to simplify pet care management. Request a Demo Today! Simplify Pet Care Management with DaySmart Pet If a thousand to-dos hit your inbox every day, you are not alone. Managing a pet care business means juggling schedules, coordinating appointments, keeping up with client communication, and keeping tabs on business performance—all while caring for your furry friends. A robust pet care management system like DaySmart Pet offers built-in features to simplify daily task management so you can get back to what you do best: taking care of your clients. Book a demo today! Let Pet Parents Book from any Device with Online Booking With DaySmart Pet, you can set up a fully customizable online booking website, allowing pet parents to self-book appointments at their convenience. You can set this feature to automatically sync with your calendar, keeping your schedule up-to-date without manual intervention.  Whether you're managing grooming appointments, boarding schedules, or dog walking services, DaySmart Pet makes it easy to keep everything organized and accessible from any device. Improve Client Communication with Pet Care Management Software Effective communication is critical to maintaining strong relationships with your clients. DaySmart Pet offers one-way and two-way texting capabilities, allowing you to send appointment reminders, updates, and special offers directly to your clients' phones. This not only improves client satisfaction but reduces no-shows and last-minute cancellations, keeping everyone’s schedules clean and clear. Quickly Access Client and Pet Details With DaySmart Pet, you can store and access detailed client and pet profiles from any device, including essential info such as vaccination status, feeding schedules, grooming preferences, and more. Having this data at your fingertips provides personalized care for every pet (and makes for a seamless visit)! Accept Payments with Pet Care Management Software DaySmart Pet's integrated POS system allows you to create invoices and accept payments through the platform. Prefer online payment over in-person? Or maybe vice-versa? Daysmart Pet works for both! This feature allows you to track expenses and generate financial reports to help you manage your finances more effectively so you're always on top of your business’s cash flow. Get the Tools You Need to Scale Your Pet Care Business Scaling your pet care business has never been easier. DaySmart Pet offers marketing features, like text and email tools, that help you reach out to clients effectively. Additionally, the platform’s integrated reporting tools provide valuable insights into your business's performance, helping you identify areas for improvement through client reachout and feedback. You can make target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Upgrade your practice today! Pet Care Management FAQ A pet management system is a software platform—like an app or online portal—for pet care businesses. It provides easy-to-use tools to tackle tasks like: managing appointments client communications pet records payments... --- ### Professional Pet Sitting Software > DaySmart pet sitting software helps manage and grow your pet sitting business. Streamline scheduling, payments, and more in one platform. Get a free trial. - Published: 2024-09-05 - Modified: 2024-09-09 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/pet-sitting-software/ Professional Pet Sitting Software You're juggling schedules, managing clients, and marketing your business, all while caring for your furry pals’ well-being. Professional pet sitters have a lot on their plates. Whether you’re looking to keep up with business or grow, a modern pet sitting software can offer solutions. DaySmart is a professional pet sitting software platform that can streamline your operations, increase client happiness, and give you back time to concentrate on the pets in your care. Request a Demo Today! What Pet Sitters Need Pet sitters are often frustrated by overbooked schedules, missed visits, last-minute adjustments or cancellations, and managing client expectations, not to mention the costs associated with travel time, which can really cut into take-home pay. DaySmart professional pet sitting software makes your scheduling, billing, and client management easier with features that include integrated payments, automated invoicing, and a mobile app for remote access and on-the-go operations. It safeguards data security and offers marketing tools to engage customers and grow your business. These customized features, combined with powerful reporting capabilities, are designed to improve operations and customer satisfaction. Book a demo today! All the Tools Your Pet Sitting Business Needs in One Platform DaySmart’s pet sitting system brings solutions directly to your business. Its many features assist in facilitating the administration of all stakeholders, including the sitting business, client, and pet.   Pet sitters can devote more time to giving optimal care to their animal clientele and spend less time on administrative responsibilities. Customers can breathe easier knowing their pets are in excellent care, with easy, open, two-way communication. In addition, DaySmart’s pet sitting booking system simplifies appointment scheduling. Its digital appointment book offers many viewing styles, ensuring seamless organization for both businesses and clients. The software allows clients to self-schedule, curtails double bookings, and increases efficiency. Easy appointment scheduling (with drag-and-drop capability) saves time and boosts customer satisfaction. For those on the go, DaySmart Pet features GPS tracking with real-time location updates, as well as the ability to share photos and videos with customers, building trust and transparency. It also combines backend chores and sharpens scheduling.   Overall, the platform lets pet sitters focus on providing outstanding care. That leads to greater revenue and powerful client testimonials. Simplify Scheduling with Our Pet Sitting Booking System DaySmart strengthens pet sitting operations by allowing clients to arrange appointments 24/7 through the website or social media. Automated appointment confirmations and reminders reduce missed appointments. Moreover, the software prevents multiple reservations by instantly updating the business calendar. And the drag-and-drop feature provides flexible schedule management. Easily Manage Pet and Customer Records DaySmart includes a secure, cloud-based platform for keeping detailed pet and client information, including vaccination records, dietary needs, and appointment history. This centralized system grants pet sitters access to up-to-date information, whenever they need it. It will safeguard personalized care and reduce paperwork. Clients can easily complete digital forms and waivers, solidifying the process and maintaining secure document storage. Take Payments and Send Invoices with Pet Sitting... --- ### Reputation Management Demo - Published: 2024-08-29 - Modified: 2024-09-30 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/reputation-management-demo/ Grow Your Customer Base with Reputation Management In today’s competitive landscape, your online reputation can make or break your business. DaySmart Reputation Management makes it easy to automate review requests, helping you quickly boost your online presence. Plus, help your customers craft thoughtful and impactful reviews with our AI assistance tool that writes high-quality reviews for them. Request a demo to learn more:Protect Your Reputationand Win New Business Boost 5-Star Ratings Streamline the process of gathering reviews by automatically sending clients emails and texts with direct links to your review page. This will make it easy for them to provide feedback and effortlessly boost your online reputation. Control Your Image Reputation Management allows you to engage with clients and address their feedback promptly within DaySmart, saving you time and effort. Strengthen your relationship with your community while showcasing exceptional customer service. Intelligent Review Assistance Help your customers craft thoughtful and impactful reviews by providing keyword suggestions tailored to your business. All your clients need to do is select a few keywords, and the AI assistant will write a high-quality review. --- ### Free Trial LP - Active > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for 14-days! - Published: 2024-08-26 - Modified: 2024-08-26 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/free-trial/ Level up your business management software. DaySmart Pet's platform makes it easy for pet care businesses to schedule more bookings online, improve client communication, and see fewer missed appointments. Why wait? Start a 14-day free trial today! Eliminate no-shows Simply set up reminders and automatically send your clients text and/or email reminders about upcoming appointments. Stay open with 24/7 booking Create a free, customizable online booking website for your business that automatically connects to your appointment book. 50,000+ Pet Groomers Love DaySmart Pet The DaySmart Pet team pays attention to what customers say and can stay ahead of our needs by developing new solutions to our problems. Being able to text or email to confirm appointments has been a lifesaver for us, especially with the mobile unit. I knew DaySmart Pet was the software for me, and it has paid for itself. It’s been a lifesaver coming from the shop’s original pen and paper model. --- ### Take a Tour - App - Published: 2024-07-18 - Modified: 2024-07-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/take-a-tour-app/ Manage Tasks in The Palm of Your HandTake a tour of DaySmart Pet's Mobile App with our interactive demo! In a few clicks, you'll discover how easy it is to organize your schedule, manage clients, and run your business - all from one convenient place. Ready to see the rest? Click here to request a full demo. More Ways We're Simplifying Business ManagementEasily Manage Clients & Pets Keep your client and pet details like vaccination status, photos, and preferences organized and access them from anywhere – whether it’s on a laptop, tablet, or mobile device. Grow Your Business with Text Marketing Send text campaigns with predesigned marketing templates ready to go with just a few simple clicks, or you can customize your own. Save Time at Check-in with Online Forms Create forms and waivers within minutes with our easy-to-use form builder with customizable color themes to suit your brand. Choose from various custom fields and signature capture and make them required or optional. Gain More 5-Star Reviews Send automated texts and emails to clients asking them to review their experience with you and share the positive ones to Yelp, Facebook and Google. The team behind DaySmart Pet always tries to navigate the challenges of the industry and figure out what functions would be most helpful to users. They pay attention to what customers have to say and are able to stay ahead of our needs by developing new solutions to our problems. Every so often, I call with feedback, and they really listen. I’ve also met the staff at trade shows and they’re amazing. DaySmart Pet is very simple, user-friendly, and allows us to store useful information on both clients and their pets. Being able to text or email to confirm appointments has been a lifesaver for us, especially with the mobile unit. To top it all off, their customer service is fantastic. We’ve had some pretty silly questions along the way, and they’re the nicest, most patient people. They help me run my business successfully. DaySmart Pet’s system was so easy to set up and truly changed my world. I’m able to groom two extra dogs per day and save hundreds of hours each year by allowing technology to fill in for me with those behind-the-scenes activities. My favorite DaySmart Pet feature is its ability to create pop-up notes in clients’ profiles so that you have no choice but to read them. Is the dog allergic to a certain treat? Pop up! I’m able to be aware of everything that’s important to know to make the care I provide better. It’s a game-changer. We love the mobile app because we can upload pictures of client preferences right into their profiles and better understand their expectations. We also use the texting capabilities to communicate with clients, which saves us time from having to call to confirm appointments and pickups. Reputation management has also been the greatest resource. With it, we can send requests for reviews straight to clients’ phones... --- ### Take a Tour - Sales - Published: 2024-06-06 - Modified: 2025-02-18 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/take-a-tour-outreach/ See How Easy it is To Book and Manage Appointments Take a tour of DaySmart Pet's solution with our interactive demo! In a few clicks, you'll see how easy it is to manage your book of business, schedule appointments, and keep customers coming back with rebooking. More Ways We're Simplifying Business ManagementEasily Manage Clients & Pets Keep your client and pet details like vaccination status, photos, and preferences organized and access them from anywhere – whether it’s on a laptop, tablet, or mobile device. Grow Your Business with Text Marketing Send text campaigns with predesigned marketing templates ready to go with just a few simple clicks, or you can customize your own. Save Time at Check-in with Online Forms Create forms and waivers within minutes with our easy-to-use form builder with customizable color themes to suit your brand. Choose from various custom fields and signature capture and make them required or optional. Gain More 5-Star Reviews Send automated texts and emails to clients asking them to review their experience with you and share the positive ones to Yelp, Facebook and Google. The team behind DaySmart Pet always tries to navigate the challenges of the industry and figure out what functions would be most helpful to users. They pay attention to what customers have to say and are able to stay ahead of our needs by developing new solutions to our problems. Every so often, I call with feedback, and they really listen. I’ve also met the staff at trade shows and they’re amazing. DaySmart Pet is very simple, user-friendly, and allows us to store useful information on both clients and their pets. Being able to text or email to confirm appointments has been a lifesaver for us, especially with the mobile unit. To top it all off, their customer service is fantastic. We’ve had some pretty silly questions along the way, and they’re the nicest, most patient people. They help me run my business successfully. DaySmart Pet’s system was so easy to set up and truly changed my world. I’m able to groom two extra dogs per day and save hundreds of hours each year by allowing technology to fill in for me with those behind-the-scenes activities. My favorite DaySmart Pet feature is its ability to create pop-up notes in clients’ profiles so that you have no choice but to read them. Is the dog allergic to a certain treat? Pop up! I’m able to be aware of everything that’s important to know to make the care I provide better. It’s a game-changer. We love the mobile app because we can upload pictures of client preferences right into their profiles and better understand their expectations. We also use the texting capabilities to communicate with clients, which saves us time from having to call to confirm appointments and pickups. Reputation management has also been the greatest resource. With it, we can send requests for reviews straight to clients’ phones and immediately learn if they’re happy with their experience with us.... --- ### Tap to Pay - Published: 2024-05-31 - Modified: 2024-11-08 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/tap-to-pay/ Simplify Your Payments with Tap to Pay Lengthy payment processing can disrupt schedules, reduce revenue, and impact customer satisfaction. That’s why DaySmart Payments has made it easier than ever to check out your customers with a simple tap on your own mobile device. No need to wait for a device to be shipped to you! Request a demo to learn more: Modernize Your PaymentsSpeed and Convenience With DaySmart, you can now accept payments online or in-person for a quick and seamless checkout. Customers can simply tap their contactless cards, Apply Pay, or other digital wallets to complete transactions in seconds. Securely Store Cards on File Simplify contactless payments by securely storing clients' credit cards on file within our software using the latest encryption technology. This makes transactions a breeze, boosting convenience for recurring payments like membership plans. Contactless In today’s health-conscious environment, Tap to Pay offers a hygienic payment option, reducing physical contact and promoting safety for both your customers and staff. That’s right – no extra terminals or hardware needed. Click here to learn more about Tap to Pay requirements and compatible devices. --- ### Take a Tour - Paid - Published: 2024-05-30 - Modified: 2025-02-18 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/take-a-solution-tour/ See How Easy it is To Book and Manage Appointments Take a tour of DaySmart Pet's solution with our interactive demo! In a few clicks, you'll see how easy it is to manage your book of business, schedule appointments, and keep customers coming back with rebooking. Ready to see the rest? Click here to request a full demo. More Ways We're Simplifying Business ManagementEasily Manage Clients & Pets Keep your client and pet details like vaccination status, photos, and preferences organized and access them from anywhere – whether it’s on a laptop, tablet, or mobile device. Grow Your Business with Text Marketing Send text campaigns with predesigned marketing templates ready to go with just a few simple clicks, or you can customize your own. Save Time at Check-in with Online Forms Create forms and waivers within minutes with our easy-to-use form builder with customizable color themes to suit your brand. Choose from various custom fields and signature capture and make them required or optional. Gain More 5-Star Reviews Send automated texts and emails to clients asking them to review their experience with you and share the positive ones to Yelp, Facebook and Google. The team behind DaySmart Pet always tries to navigate the challenges of the industry and figure out what functions would be most helpful to users. They pay attention to what customers have to say and are able to stay ahead of our needs by developing new solutions to our problems. Every so often, I call with feedback, and they really listen. I’ve also met the staff at trade shows and they’re amazing. DaySmart Pet is very simple, user-friendly, and allows us to store useful information on both clients and their pets. Being able to text or email to confirm appointments has been a lifesaver for us, especially with the mobile unit. To top it all off, their customer service is fantastic. We’ve had some pretty silly questions along the way, and they’re the nicest, most patient people. They help me run my business successfully. DaySmart Pet’s system was so easy to set up and truly changed my world. I’m able to groom two extra dogs per day and save hundreds of hours each year by allowing technology to fill in for me with those behind-the-scenes activities. My favorite DaySmart Pet feature is its ability to create pop-up notes in clients’ profiles so that you have no choice but to read them. Is the dog allergic to a certain treat? Pop up! I’m able to be aware of everything that’s important to know to make the care I provide better. It’s a game-changer. We love the mobile app because we can upload pictures of client preferences right into their profiles and better understand their expectations. We also use the texting capabilities to communicate with clients, which saves us time from having to call to confirm appointments and pickups. Reputation management has also been the greatest resource. With it, we can send requests for reviews straight to clients’... --- ### Pet - Demo > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for 14-days! - Published: 2024-05-09 - Modified: 2025-04-25 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/demo/ Level up your business management software. DaySmart Pet's platform makes it easy for pet care businesses to schedule more bookings online, improve client communication, and see fewer missed appointments. Why wait? Schedule a free demo today! Eliminate no-shows Simply set up reminders and automatically send your clients text and/or email reminders about upcoming appointments. Stay open with 24/7 booking Create a free, customizable online booking website for your business that automatically connects to your appointment book. 50,000+ Pet Groomers Love DaySmart Pet The DaySmart Pet team pays attention to what customers say and can stay ahead of our needs by developing new solutions to our problems. Being able to text or email to confirm appointments has been a lifesaver for us, especially with the mobile unit. I knew DaySmart Pet was the software for me, and it has paid for itself. It’s been a lifesaver coming from the shop’s original pen and paper model. --- ### Take a Tour - Published: 2024-05-03 - Modified: 2025-02-18 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/take-a-tour/ See How Easy it is To Book and Manage Appointments Take a tour of DaySmart Pet's solution with our interactive demo! In a few clicks, you'll see how easy it is to manage your book of business, schedule appointments, and keep customers coming back with rebooking. Ready to see the rest? Click here to request a full demo. More Ways We're Simplifying Business ManagementEasily Manage Clients & Pets Keep your client and pet details like vaccination status, photos, and preferences organized and access them from anywhere – whether it’s on a laptop, tablet, or mobile device. Grow Your Business with Text Marketing Send text campaigns with predesigned marketing templates ready to go with just a few simple clicks, or you can customize your own. Save Time at Check-in with Online Forms Create forms and waivers within minutes with our easy-to-use form builder with customizable color themes to suit your brand. Choose from various custom fields and signature capture and make them required or optional. Gain More 5-Star Reviews Send automated texts and emails to clients asking them to review their experience with you and share the positive ones to Yelp, Facebook and Google. The team behind DaySmart Pet always tries to navigate the challenges of the industry and figure out what functions would be most helpful to users. They pay attention to what customers have to say and are able to stay ahead of our needs by developing new solutions to our problems. Every so often, I call with feedback, and they really listen. I’ve also met the staff at trade shows and they’re amazing. DaySmart Pet is very simple, user-friendly, and allows us to store useful information on both clients and their pets. Being able to text or email to confirm appointments has been a lifesaver for us, especially with the mobile unit. To top it all off, their customer service is fantastic. We’ve had some pretty silly questions along the way, and they’re the nicest, most patient people. They help me run my business successfully. DaySmart Pet’s system was so easy to set up and truly changed my world. I’m able to groom two extra dogs per day and save hundreds of hours each year by allowing technology to fill in for me with those behind-the-scenes activities. My favorite DaySmart Pet feature is its ability to create pop-up notes in clients’ profiles so that you have no choice but to read them. Is the dog allergic to a certain treat? Pop up! I’m able to be aware of everything that’s important to know to make the care I provide better. It’s a game-changer. We love the mobile app because we can upload pictures of client preferences right into their profiles and better understand their expectations. We also use the texting capabilities to communicate with clients, which saves us time from having to call to confirm appointments and pickups. Reputation management has also been the greatest resource. With it, we can send requests for reviews straight to clients’... --- ### Mobile Pet Grooming Software | DaySmart Pet > Simplify your operations and boost client satisfaction with DaySmart’s mobile pet grooming software. Streamline appointments, payments, and more on the go. - Published: 2024-04-22 - Modified: 2024-04-22 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/features-mobile-grooming-software/ Mobile Grooming Software that Goes Where Business Takes You As a groomer on the go, you need access to efficiency and convenience, no matter where your mobile grooming business is parked. Between juggling appointments, figuring out directions, communicating with clients, and staying on top of each pet’s needs, there is a lot you need to manage while on the road.   It may sound impossible, but DaySmart’s mobile grooming software is designed to take your business to the next level, allowing you to manage business operations in the cloud and make customers happy no matter where you go. Start Your Free TrialExplore the features and benefits of DaySmart’s mobile grooming solutions and hear from our valued customers about why we are the ultimate choice for all your pet grooming business needs. Mobile Pet Grooming Software to Boost EfficiencyIf you find yourself falling behind on tedious tasks while constantly on the go, fear not! DaySmart’s mobile grooming software comes with features specifically designed for mobile groomers, which means that we go wherever your business takes you.   Start your free trial today and discover how DaySmart can transform your grooming experience. Efficiency is the name of the game when it comes to mobile pet grooming, and DaySmart delivers in spades. Our cloud-based software lets you access essential business information anytime, anywhere. All-in-One Mobile Pet Grooming Software Say goodbye to last-minute cancellations and scheduling headaches—DaySmart's cloud-based solution includes automated reminders and appointment booking features to keep your business running smoothly, allowing you to focus on what you do best: grooming pets. Appointment Booking Our software simplifies the appointment booking process for you and your clients. With 24/7 online booking, clients can easily request appointments at their convenience through your website or social media platforms. You can access these appointments on the go and manage your schedule, no matter the time, place, or device. Our software also offers recurring appointment scheduling for clients with regular grooming needs. Set up appointments automatically at specified intervals to save time and retain your mobile grooming customers. Automated Reminders Say goodbye to forgotten appointments with our automated reminder feature. Clients receive reminders via email or text message, reducing the likelihood of last-minute cancellations and helping to keep your schedule organized. Accessible Client Data  Building strong connections with your clients is essential for long-term success. Our cloud-based tools allow you to access client information and track preferences while on the go. Our software centralizes contact information, pet details, appointment history, and special notes in the cloud, so you can easily access and update information when you need it. With DaySmart Pet, you can review client information before each mobile appointment and truly personalize the grooming experience for your furry friends. Customer Communication What is the best way to foster client relationships and drive the growth of your business? Communication, of course! With two-way texting, we help you stay in touch with clients on your mobile device. Mobile Payment Processing Streamline your payment process with online payment... --- ### DaySmart Pet - Starbucks Coffee - Published: 2024-03-26 - Modified: 2024-04-03 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/starbucks-coffee/ Did Someone Say FREE Coffee? Show this barcode to your local Starbucks cashier to redeem the gift card. Help us spread the ❤️ for our pet care friends by limiting yourself to one drink. Industry News and Content Three Reasons Why Clients Aren't Booking Your Business and How To Fix It How to Advertise Your Business Locally A Paws-itive New Business Venture: From Banking to Pet GroomingView All Resources --- ### Dog Grooming Software | DaySmart Pet > Dog grooming software that helps you manage and grow your business. Schedule appointments and manage inventory with DaySmart Pet. Learn more today! - Published: 2024-03-08 - Modified: 2024-03-08 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/dog-grooming-software/ DaySmart Dog Grooming Software: A Cut Above the Rest Tired of tangled schedules, missed appointments, and frustrated clients? Ready to unleash your pet grooming business’s full pet-tential? Say goodbye to the chaos and hello to smooth sailing with DaySmart Pet's grooming software, the ultimate tool to transform your furry friends into loyal customers and your business into a barking success! Start Your Free TrialStreamline Your Dog Grooming Operations with DaySmart PetWhether you run a brick-and-mortar or mobile pet grooming business, DaySmart Pet’s dog grooming software is the ultimate tool for making sure you save time and fill your schedule by managing all aspects of your grooming facility in one, easy-to-use platform, where you can: Modernize Management: Ditch the pen-and-paper and efficiently manage all locations and mobile schedules. Boost Efficiency: Fill your schedule faster, minimize stress, and save precious time with automated features. Effortless Scheduling: Drag-and-drop appointments, automatic updates, and filters keep you organized and in control. No More No-Shows: Automated text and email reminders minimize lost revenue and frustrated clients. Key Features of Our Dog Grooming SoftwareSchedule Management Take the stress out of scheduling and ditch the paper mess. With DaySmart Pet’s digital dog grooming appointment book, dog grooming business owners can view their facility’s schedule by day, week, or employee as needed. Furthermore, it will automatically add accepted appointments, remove cancellations, and let you rearrange when necessary with drag-and-drop functionality.  Minimize No-Shows with Automated Reminders Say goodbye to calling pet parents with appointment reminders. Our dog grooming appointment software sends automated text and email reminders to clients one to seven days before their appointment. Automated text and email reminders reduce client no-shows and loss of revenue for your business. Text reminders are also designed to keep everyone informed. Clients can send reply texts to confirm their appointment, and their response is then clearly shown in the owner’s appointment book. Connect With Clients As a business owner, you want to provide the best experience for pets and pet parents alike and, in turn, create loyal, lifelong customers. This is why we offer features like email marketing and client management tools where you can track all their information in one place. Track birthdays, preferences, and pet details in their profile and stay in touch with special offers and promotions based on their preferences. Manage on the Go! Mobile dog grooming businesses can maximize their management with our flexible dog grooming software that allows you to: Take your grooming business on the go. Manage your entire business from anywhere with the DaySmart Pet mobile app. View, add, and edit appointments, as well as track grooming, personality, and medical information, giving exceptional care for each furry friend.   Easily map your daily route and get directions. Locate appointments quickly with embedded map features, turn-by-turn directions, traffic conditions, and estimated travel times for smooth, stress-free trips. Everyone can also track pick-up and drop-off times so everything stays on schedule. Accepts client payments while on the go. Make a seamless checkout experience by... --- ### Dog Daycare Software | DaySmart Pet > Manage your dog daycare business in one simplified platform. Streamline your operations and make scheduling a breeze with DaySmart Pet. Learn more today! - Published: 2024-02-21 - Modified: 2024-03-08 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/dog-daycare-software-daysmart-pet/ Dog Daycare Management Software to Streamline Operations When it comes to business management, are you staying on top of tasks or chasing your own tail? See how DaySmart Pet’s dog daycare software can support your business growth. Start Your Free TrialThese days, you might say humanity is in its “Pet Era. ” There are more pet parents than ever before, and with technological advancements soaring, practically reshaping industries by the day, there’s nothing more “2024” than all-in-one software for dog daycare management.   Medium expects the market's continued growth, thanks to modern dynamics, further accelerated by COVID-19's push toward digital solutions. Dog daycare software, also called kennel software or dog boarding software, is at the forefront of this transformation, enabling contactless check-ins and payments.   Gone are the days of chaotic appointment schedules, paper-based records, and endless manual tasks. The best dog daycare software options bring everything under one digital roof. From online booking and automated reminders to digital client profiles and integrated payments, your staff can ditch the pen and paper and focus on what they do best: providing exceptional care for furry guests. Enter dog daycare software, a powerful tool that simplifies day-to-day tasks, boosts efficiency, and unlocks new growth opportunities. Streamline Your Dog Daycare Operations with DaySmart Pet Allowing your business to evolve from traditional bookkeeping to advanced software solutions like DaySmart Pet allows pet care businesses to automate daily tasks, which frees up time, leading to more appointments and the best news, increased revenue. What is Dog Daycare Software? Dog daycare software is a cloud-based business management tool tailored for pet grooming, boarding, and daycare facilities. Put another way: it will make your life easier.   How? By streamlining everything, from appointment scheduling to pet parent management, digital form/waiver submissions, marketing campaigns, and more.  Explore DaySmart’s Dog Daycare Management System There’s a ton of variety in pet businesses these days, so DaySmart has several options to mix and match what works best for the services you offer. Grooming: Streamline grooming services with efficient scheduling and client management. Daycare: Enhance daycare operations with intuitive booking systems and comprehensive pet care tracking. Boarding: Elevate the boarding experience with advanced booking, billing, and pet care features. Beyond this are additional features, including a check-in and check-out system, comprehensive scheduling, detailed reporting, and more. Benefits of Dog DayCare SoftwareBut circling back to dog daycare specifically, implementing booking software brings tangible benefits to your business and furry clientele, such as:Operational Efficiency It’s past time to embrace online booking, automated reminders, and color-coded calendars. Have paperwork completed in advance, resulting in smooth operations and far fewer double bookings. Empowering Staff Equip your team with tools that mean you do less while enhancing performance, managing schedules effectively, and keeping everyone aligned. Reducing No-Shows Automated reminders help maintain a consistent schedule and ensure pets receive timely care. And this just scratches the surface. With numerous dog daycare software options available, it's crucial to choose the one that best fits your unique needs and budget.... --- ### Dog Boarding Software | DaySmart Pet > Modernize your boarding facility with our all-in-one dog boarding software to grow and manage your dog boarding business efficiently. Learn more today! - Published: 2024-02-15 - Modified: 2024-03-08 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/dog-boarding-software/ Dog Boarding Software to Streamline Business Management Say goodbye to kennel chaos and hello to streamlined success with DaySmart Pet’s all-in-one dog daycare and boarding softwareStart Your Free TrialSoftware purpose-built for business efficiency. It’s official—the pet grooming and boarding industry grew to $11. 8 billion in 2023, and half of American households, about sixty million people, have furry family members. This booming industry calls for time-saving solutions like dog boarding software. Modernize your boarding facility with DaySmart Pet's comprehensive dog boarding software and watch your boarding business thrive. Streamline Dog Boarding Operations with DaySmart Pet Imagine this: A furry play place full of love and excitement, NOT frantic phone calls, chewed paperwork, missing information, or late-night scrambling to fit last-minute bookings that your dog boarding business desperately needs.   DaySmart Pet’s cloud-based dog boarding software empowers you to manage your business, from bookings to billing, in one seamless, easy-to-use platform. Ditch tedious paperwork and manual processes; DaySmart Pet streamlines operations for a smoother, happier experience. Key Features of Our Dog Boarding SolutionDigital Calendar Drag-and-drop scheduling, color-coded reservations, and clear overviews keep your bookings organized and flexible. More About Calendar FeaturesPrintable Kennel Cards Track important pet details, medications, special instructions, and belongings with ease, providing the personalized care every pet and pet parent deserves. Customizable Options Tailor the software to your needs. Set pricing, manage kennel counts, and offer add-on services like grooming or playtime. You can even customize this pricing to fit different needs. More Features Designed to Help Grow Your Business Automated Reminders Reduce no-shows with automated email and text notifications. DaySmart Pet sends automatic email and text reminders for appointments, ensuring every dog receives the care they need. Guests can also quickly confirm appointments and update details. More About Reminders Effortless Billing & Reporting Generate invoices and track payments automatically. Run comprehensive reports to analyze bookings, revenue, and performance, giving you valuable insights to optimize your business. More About Reporting Email Marketing Engage your audience with targeted campaigns to promote services, special offers, and loyalty programs. More About Email Marketing Client Management Store client information, send reminders, and track communication history for seamless interactions. Our software also provides access to vaccination records, dietary restrictions, special instructions, and digital forms. More About Client ManagementView all features >Why Pet-Boarding Businesses Choose DaySmart PetSave Time On Tasks Online and efficient tools free up your day for what matters most – caring for your furry friends. User-Friendly Interface You and your clients can easily navigate the software, from booking appointments to updating profiles. Automation Features Reduce manual tasks and minimize errors with automated reminders and confirmations. Happy Clients, Happy Business Streamlined operations and personalized care lead to satisfied pet parents and repeat boarding visits. DaySmart Pet Testimonials & Reviews Don’t believe us? Hear from our dog boarding software users and business owners just like you. "DaySmart Pet's system was so easy to set up and truly changed my world," says Johnelle Ciano, owner of Emma Marie's Grooming & Daycare. With... --- ### The Top 5 Reports That Have Helped Our Customers Grow - Published: 2024-02-09 - Modified: 2025-04-25 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/infographic-top-5-reports/ Want to know how our users track all the work they're putting into their business? The secret is in our top five reports.  🤫 View our infographic to learn how these reports helped customers:🧠 Make smarter business decisions🧮 Streamline tedious accounting tasks🐶 And more! Fill out the form to download our infographic now! Enjoy Your InfographicDownload Now! --- ### Friends and Family Referral Program > Simplify scheduling, streamline workflows, and improve client communication with our cloud-based pet care software. Start your free trial today. - Published: 2024-02-06 - Modified: 2024-03-14 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/friends/ Software That'll Make Your Tail Wag Whether you offer grooming, daycare, boarding, or a combination of the three, DaySmart Pet is helping pet care businesses simplify how they manage appointments, client/pet information, payments, and communication. Complete the form to claim 20% off your first year with our friends and family discount. *Full Offer Details: You must purchase a deluxe package or a package of greater value to receive 20% off your first-year subscription to DaySmart Pet. A tradition of service to pet servicesMake More Paw-SibleWith DaySmart Pet Since 2005, DaySmart Pet has been helping pet care businesses of all sizes boost revenue, increase efficiency, and improve the customer experience. Explore Our Features:Appointment Booking Ditch the pen-and-paper and maximize your efficiency with our digital appointment booking feature, part of our pet manager software package. Online Booking Website Keep your pet care business open 24/7 with a fully customizable online booking website. Appointment Reminders Reduce no-shows and get more time back with automated text and email reminders. Digital Forms Easily create, send, and receive electronic forms with DaySmart Pet's form builder. Payroll Processing Easily configure your employee salary or commission settings and run payroll from anywhere. Client Management View client contact information, pet details, and appointment history with the click of a button. Integrated Payments Accept and manage credit card payments directly within DaySmart Pet for a hassle-free experience. Two-Way Texting Easily send, receive, and reply to client text messages in real-time directly within DaySmart Pet. Text Marketing Quickly get the word out to your clients about special promotions, last-minute openings, and more. Email Marketing Use our email templates or create your own to increase client engagement and boost your revenue. Mobile App Take your pet care business on-the-go with our mobile app that allows you to book and manage appointments anytime, anywhere. Business Reporting Stay on top of your performance with our suite of fully customizable reports that allow you to track sales, bookings, and more. Reputation Management Improve your online presence by asking clients to review their experience with you and posting them to Yelp, Google, and Facebook. --- ### Groom Expo West Lead Capture > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for 14-days! - Published: 2024-01-31 - Modified: 2025-01-03 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/groom-expo-west/ Software That'll Make Your Tail WagDaySmart Pet provides cloud-based software designed to simplify scheduling, streamline operations, and improve client communication for your pet care business. 🗓️ Easily manage your daily schedule with our customizable, color-coded appointment book 📱 Send automated client reminders and promotional messages to stay booked and busy 📈 Stay on top of your performance with our suite of fully customizable reports 🐶 And more! Fill out the form to request additional information! --- ### Enjoy Your Webinar Recording - Published: 2023-11-09 - Modified: 2024-10-18 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/connections-web-rec/ https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=CwLN_86h0RwClick to Download the Webinar Deck --- ### Building Better Connections Through the Holidays - Published: 2023-10-30 - Modified: 2024-10-18 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/webinar-building-better-connections-through-the-holidays/ --- ### Customer Retention Workshop - Published: 2023-10-27 - Modified: 2024-10-18 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/customer-retention-workshop-gated/ --- ### Credit Card Processing - Published: 2023-10-26 - Modified: 2024-12-04 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/credit-card-processing/ Payments Made Simple Don’t waste your time working across multiple systems, paying higher fees, and waiting for your funds to be delivered. With DaySmart Pet, you'll have everything you need to streamline payments—whether in-store or online. Get StartedStreamline the Way Your Business Accepts PaymentsSay goodbye to high fees, clunky devices, and working in multiple systems to reconcile your payments each day. Automatically Reconcile Accept and manage your payments directly within DaySmart Pet to automate the reconciliation process. Quickly Receive Funds Never wait on your hard-earned funds again. Take payments one day, receive your money the next. Improve Client Checkout Streamline the checkout process to provide your clients with a seamless experience and build loyalty. Simplify the Front DeskExperienceStreamline Daily Operations With integrated credit card processing, you'll be able to automate your payment reconciliation process, store credit card information on file, and simplify the checkout experience. Sell Branded Gift Cards Online Looking for additional ways to increase revenue for your business? Integrated payments allow you to sell branded gift cards directly through your online booking website. Collect Service Deposits Protect your time and maximize your income with deposits. Easily accept deposits from clients to ensure that you don't miss out on revenue due to no-shows or late cancellations. Modernize Your Payments By signing up for integrated payments, you can leverage our sleek terminals and accept payments with your phone using tap to pay! Get Started WithDaySmart Payments! --- ### Recording - Customer Retention Workshop: How to Get More Regulars - Published: 2023-10-20 - Modified: 2024-10-18 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/customer-retention-workshop-how-to-get-more-regulars/ https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=KlBraHbSjPIClick to Download the Deck --- ### Tips to Keep Your Customers Coming Back > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for 14-days! - Published: 2023-10-13 - Modified: 2023-10-27 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/workshop-customer-retention/ Tips to Keep Your Customers Coming BackAre you familiar with Pareto's principle or the 80/20 rule? It says that 80% of your output will come from 20% of your input. This also explains the popular notion that businesses see most of their revenue come from their loyal customers vs their new ones. In this workshop, we'll show you how to get more regular customers before the year ends. Join us Wednesday, October 18 at 4 PM ET to hear actionable items you can implement the next day, including: 🐶 How to improve the customer experience 🐩 How to give invaluable service 🐶 How to increase customer loyalty 🐩 And more! Spots are filling up quickly! Fill out the form to save yours. --- ### Ungated Webinar - Enhance Your Pet Services with Mobile Grooming > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for 14-days! - Published: 2023-10-13 - Modified: 2023-10-27 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/webinar-recording-enhance-your-pet-services-with-mobile-grooming/ Enhance Your Pet Services with Mobile Groominghttps://www. youtube. com/watch? v=FLsXvgIDO58 --- ### Gated Webinar: How to Scale Your Business with DaySmart Pet > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for 14-days! - Published: 2023-10-12 - Modified: 2023-10-27 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/gated-webinar-scale-your-business/ How to Scale Your Business with DaySmart PetWith over 17 years of experience in the pet grooming industry, Karen Furtado, Owner of Shear Magic Pet Salon, knows a thing or two (actually a whole lot) about running a pet business that scales. 📈 Carve out 30 minutes to listen to Karen as she shares her tail-wagging tips on expanding your business and managing that growth. Plus, see how DaySmart Pet has helped her throughout her career. Fill out the form to watch! --- ### Webinar: How to Scale Your Business with DaySmart Pet > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for 14-days! - Published: 2023-10-12 - Modified: 2023-10-27 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/webinar-scale-your-business/ Hear from a Pet Groomer with Two Decades of ExperienceKaren Furtado, Owner of Shear Magic Pet Salon, knows a thing or two about running a pet business that scales. 📈 With her 17 years in the business and two successful locations, watch our on-demand webinar with Karen for tail-wagging tips on: 🐶 Expanding your business to scale 🐩 Managing the growth of multiple businesses at a time 🐶 Using DaySmart Pet to reach your business goals 🐩 And more! Fill out the form to save your spot! --- ### Gated Webinar: Enhance Your Pet Services with Mobile Grooming > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for 14-days! - Published: 2023-10-12 - Modified: 2023-10-27 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/gated-webinar-mobile-pet-grooming/ Here's What You MissedWant to get started in mobile pet grooming but don't know how? Listen to our conversation with Jason Anderson to hear how DaySmart Pet has helped start his mobile pet grooming business grow from one van to three vans in under two years! You'll also learn: 🚘 The benefits of offering mobile pet grooming 💨 How to start grooming on the go 🐱 DaySmart Pet's features that helped Jason's business 🐩 And more! Fill out the form to watch the recording! --- ### Gated Webinar - DaySmart Pet: Drive Revenue with Text Marketing > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for 14-days! - Published: 2023-10-12 - Modified: 2023-10-27 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/gated-webinar-drive-revenue-with-text-marketing/ DaySmart Pet: Drive Revenue with Text MarketingMore Money = More Locations You wanna grow your business and we want to help you do it. Hear from our team of experts to learn the financial power of text marketing, so you can: 👀 Increase visibility by sending targeted messages to your client base 📱 Easily send automated promotional messages to stay booked and busy 📈 Drive revenue by tailoring your marketing to specific target groups 😸 And more! Fill out the form to increase your revenue! --- ### Gated Webinar - Pet Business Tips for You: How Simple Solutions Helped Our Customer > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for 14-days! - Published: 2023-10-12 - Modified: 2023-10-27 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/gated-webinar-pet-business-tips/ We Want to Help You Expand! Do you want to hear how we helped our customers go from working in their garages to having multiple locations? 👀 Watch our webinar recording with DaySmart Software's Account Executive, David Kowalczyk to hear his inside tips that can help your business grow, including: ⛅ The benefits of switching to a cloud-based business, especially when you want multiple locations 🧠 How the right business management software can bring you to the next level 🐱 DaySmart Pet's features that pushed our customers' businesses forward 🐾 And more! Fill out the form to watch! --- ### Gated Webinar: Time Saving Tips to Help You Navigate the Busy Season > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for 14-days! - Published: 2023-10-12 - Modified: 2023-10-27 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/webinar-time-saving-tips-to-help-you-navigate-the-busy-season-2/ Time-Saving Tips to Help You Navigate the Busy SeasonView our recorded webinar to learn how to automate your manual tasks and explore our top time-saving features, including: Online booking Automated text and email reminders Digital forms Text and email marketing and more! Fill out the form so you can watch it anytime, anywhere! --- ### Pet- Post webinar form > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for 14-days! - Published: 2023-10-12 - Modified: 2023-10-27 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/pet-post-webinar-form/ Discover if DaySmart Pet is Right For You! Fill out the form for a free consultation with one of our experts. --- ### Capterra DaySmart Pet > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for 14-days! - Published: 2023-10-12 - Modified: 2023-10-31 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/capterra/ Level up your management software. DaySmart’s platform makes it simple for groomers to schedule more bookings online, manage inventory and see fewer missed appointments. So start your free trial today. No credit card required! Eliminate no-shows Simply set up reminders and automatically send your clients text and/or email reminders about upcoming appointments. Stay open with 24/7 booking Create a FREE, customizable online booking website for your business that automatically updates with your appointment book. 50,000+ Pet Groomers Love Daysmart Pet The Daysmart team pays attention to what customers say and can stay ahead of our needs by developing new solutions to our problems. Being able to text or email to confirm appointments has been a lifesaver for us, especially with the mobile unit. I knew Daysmart Pet was the software for me, and it has paid for itself. It’s been a lifesaver coming from the shop’s original pen and paper model. --- ### PPC- Free Trial > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for 14-days! - Published: 2023-10-12 - Modified: 2023-10-30 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/discover-daysmart-pet/ Level up your management software. DaySmart’s platform makes it simple for groomers to schedule more bookings online, manage inventory and see fewer missed appointments. So start your free trial today. No credit card required! Eliminate no-shows Simply set up reminders and automatically send your clients text and/or email reminders about upcoming appointments. Stay open with 24/7 booking Create a FREE, customizable online booking website for your business that automatically updates with your appointment book. Start your free trial Usage and Support Single User Solution Email & Chat Support Phone Support Unlimited Training Scheduling Online Booking Facebook Booking Appointment Scheduling Appointment Reminders Packages & Pre-Paid Operations Mobile App Integrated Payments Online Deposits Gift Cards Reports & Dashboard Digital Forms For consent forms, vaccination records, and more! Resource Management Multi-Ticket Checkout QuickBooks Online Expense Tracking Employees Basic Payroll Sliding Scale Commission Commission Exceptions Overtime Rules Communication 500 Text Messages/Month 1,000 Email Messages/Month Client Loyalty System Employee Reminders Email Marketing Text Marketing Messages Two-Way Texting Reputation Management Start your free trial Usage and Support 3 Users $9/month each additional Email & Chat Support Phone Support Unlimited Training Scheduling Online Booking Facebook Booking Appointment Scheduling Appointment Reminders Packages & Pre-Paid Operations Mobile App Integrated Payments Online Deposits Gift Cards Reports & Dashboard Digital Forms For consent forms, vaccination records, and more! Resource Management Multi-Ticket Checkout QuickBooks Online Available to add-on Expense Tracking Employees Basic Payroll Sliding Scale Commission Commission Exceptions Overtime Rules Communication 1,000 Text Messages/Month 5,000 Email Messages/Month Client Loyalty System Employee Reminders Email Marketing Text Marketing Messages Available to add-on Two-Way Texting Available to add-on Reputation Management Available to add-on Start your free trial Usage and Support 3 Users $9/month each additional Email & Chat Support Phone Support Unlimited Training Scheduling Online Booking Facebook Booking Appointment Scheduling Appointment Reminders Packages & Pre-Paid Operations Mobile App Integrated Payments Online Deposits Gift Cards Reports & Dashboard Digital Forms For consent forms, vaccination records, and more! Resource Management Multi-Ticket Checkout QuickBooks Online Available to add-on Expense Tracking Employees Basic Payroll Sliding Scale Commission Commission Exceptions Overtime Rules Communication 1,000 Text Messages/Month 10,000 Email Messages/Month Client Loyalty System Employee Reminders Email Marketing Text Marketing Messages 1,000/Month Two-Way Texting Reputation Management Start your free trial Usage and Support 6 Users $9/month each additional Email & Chat Support Phone Support Unlimited Training Scheduling Online Booking Facebook Booking Appointment Scheduling Appointment Reminders Packages & Pre-Paid Operations Mobile App Integrated Payments Online Deposits Gift Cards Reports & Dashboard Digital Forms For consent forms, vaccination records, and more! Resource Management Multi-Ticket Checkout QuickBooks Online Expense Tracking Employees Basic Payroll Sliding Scale Commission Commission Exceptions Overtime Rules Communication 2,500 Text Messages/Month 10,000 Email Messages/Month Client Loyalty System Employee Reminders Email Marketing Text Marketing Messages 2,500/Month Two-Way Texting Reputation Management Start your free trial Usage and Support Unlimited Users Email & Chat Support Phone Support Unlimited Training Scheduling Online Booking Facebook Booking Appointment Scheduling Appointment Reminders Packages & Pre-Paid Operations Mobile App Integrated Payments Online Deposits Gift Cards Reports & Dashboard... --- ### Pet - Demo LP > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for 14-days! - Published: 2023-10-12 - Modified: 2025-04-25 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/request-a-demo/ Level up your business management software. DaySmart Pet's platform makes it easy for pet care businesses to schedule more bookings online, improve client communication, and see fewer missed appointments. Why wait? Schedule a free demo today! Eliminate no-shows Simply set up reminders and automatically send your clients text and/or email reminders about upcoming appointments. Stay open with 24/7 booking Create a free, customizable online booking website for your business that automatically connects to your appointment book. 50,000+ Pet Groomers Love DaySmart Pet The DaySmart Pet team pays attention to what customers say and can stay ahead of our needs by developing new solutions to our problems. Being able to text or email to confirm appointments has been a lifesaver for us, especially with the mobile unit. I knew DaySmart Pet was the software for me, and it has paid for itself. It’s been a lifesaver coming from the shop’s original pen and paper model. --- ### Customer Appreciation Day 2023 > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for 14-days! - Published: 2023-10-12 - Modified: 2023-10-27 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/customer-appreciation-day-2023/ Happy Customer Appreciation! May 19 is Customer Appreciation Day, and we want to thank you for choosing DaySmart Pet to successfully manage your pet care business every day. To express our gratitude, we'd like to offer you 50% off any new add-ons for two months; DOUBLE the months if you sign up for integrated payments too! Submit the form to claim your offer, and keep reading to learn more about our add-ons that will help you take your pet care business to the next level. Act fast! This offer expires May 31, 2023Text Marketing Quickly get the word out to your clients about special promotions, last-minute openings, and more. Two-Way Texting Easily send, receive, and reply to client text messages in real-time to improve communication and build lasting relationships. Reputation Management Manage customer satisfaction, analyze your online reputation, and get more 5-star business reviews. --- ### Webinar Recording: Scale Your Business With DaySmart Pet > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for 14-days! - Published: 2023-10-12 - Modified: 2023-10-27 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/webinar-recording-scale-your-business/ How to Scale Your Business with DaySmart Pethttps://youtu. be/P4xZFJkyyWQ --- ### Ungated Webinar - DaySmart Pet Drive Revenue with Text Marketing > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for 14-days! - Published: 2023-10-12 - Modified: 2023-10-27 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/ungated-webinar-daysmart-pet-drive-revenue-with-text-marketing/ DaySmart Pet Drive Revenue with Text Marketinghttps://youtu. be/G5aWaQYwSiM --- ### Ungated webinar: Pet Business Tips for You - How Simple Solutions Helped Our Customer > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for 14-days! - Published: 2023-10-12 - Modified: 2023-10-27 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/ungated-webinar-pet-business-tips-for-you-how-simple-solutions-helped-our-customer/ Pet Business Tips for You - How Simple Solutions Helped Our Customerhttps://youtu. be/W8eEHNdtsrM --- ### Ungated Webinar: Time Saving Tips > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for 14-days! - Published: 2023-10-12 - Modified: 2023-10-27 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/ungated-webinar-time-saving-tips/ You Focus on Grooming ... DaySmart Pet Handles the Resthttps://www. youtube. com/watch? v=ybmOF22dozE --- ### Support > You have questions, we have answers! Check out our frequently asked questions page for details for your business DaySmart Pet account. - Published: 2023-09-06 - Modified: 2024-04-19 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/support/ HELP & SUPPORTSupport Looking for assistance? We're here to help! Explore our Support Center articles, training videos, support forms, and downloads & drivers. Support CenterTraining VideosDownloads and Drivers --- ### Training Videos > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2023-09-06 - Modified: 2023-10-27 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/support/training-videos/ Looking for tips or best practices on how to get started using DaySmart Pet? Check out our collection of software training videos to learn more! --- ### Downloads and Drivers > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2023-09-06 - Modified: 2023-10-27 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/support/downloads-drivers/ View all software downloads and drivers below to keep your DaySmart Pet software up-to-date. --- ### Support Center > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2023-09-05 - Modified: 2024-07-16 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/support-center/ Support Center Find links to common questions below. If you can’t find what you need, select your software version below to visit our full Support Center for more information. Cloud VersionDesktop VersionGetting Started: --- ### License Agreements > DaySmart Pet Software appreciates the trust you place in us, read on to see the Daysmart Pet license agreements. - Published: 2023-09-05 - Modified: 2023-10-27 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/license-agreements/ License AgreementsDaySmart Pet Software License Agreements ATTENTION! Important: the following terms and conditions govern use of the Services (defined in Section 1 below) made available by DaySmart Software Inc. (“DaySmart“) and its licensors and suppliers. BY CLICKING A BOX INDICATING YOUR ACCEPTANCE OF THIS AGREEMENT OR USING ANY OF THE SERVICES, YOU HEREBY ACKNOWLEDGE AND AGREE THAT YOU HAVE READ, AND ARE BOUND BY, THE TERMS OF THIS DAYSMART LICENSING AGREEMENT (THIS “AGREEMENT“). IF YOU ARE AN INDIVIDUAL ENTERING INTO THIS AGREEMENT ON BEHALF OF A LEGAL ENTITY, YOU HEREBY REPRESENT AND WARRANT THAT YOU HAVE THE AUTHORITY TO ENTER INTO THIS AGREEMENT ON BEHALF OF SUCH ENTITY AND BIND SUCH ENTITY TO THIS AGREEMENT, IN WHICH CASE, “CUSTOMER” REFERS TO SUCH ENTITY. IF YOU DO NOT HAVE SUCH AUTHORITY, OR IF YOU DO NOT AGREE WITH THIS AGREEMENT, YOU MUST NOT ACCEPT THIS AGREEMENT AND MAY NOT USE THE SERVICES 1. DEFINITIONS. In addition to terms defined elsewhere in this Agreement, the following terms will have the meaning ascribed below: a) “ Authorized Users ” means employees of Customer who are properly provided access to the Services per the terms of the online purchase made by Customer. b) “ Content ” means any information, materials, data, text, images or other content that is submitted or otherwise processed via the Services in connection with Customer’s use of the Services (including use by Authorized Users). c) “ Customer ” means the entity on behalf of which the person enters into this Agreement, together with all employees and affiliates of such entity. d) “ Mobile App ” means the current version of the mobile application made available by DaySmart through the Apple App Store or Google Play that enables access to and use of the Services. e) “ Optional Features ” means any optional, add-on service offerings that are offered for purchase separately from the Software (on a one-time or subscription basis), by DaySmart and that may be used in connection with the Services or Software. Optional Features may include products supplied by third parties. Optional Features may include online booking, remote access, Demandforce tools, online backup, text messaging and email messaging. f) “ Services ” means any or all of the Software, products and/or hosted services provided by DaySmart and its licensors and suppliers to Customer under this Agreement, including Optional Features and the Mobile Application. g) “ Software ” means the client management software selected by Customer and provided by DaySmart to Customer under this Agreement, including any updates or upgrades thereto that are made available by DaySmart to Customer. During the online checkout process, Customer will indicate whether it will license the Software to be locally installed on Customer’s hardware (the “On-Premise Software”) or subscribe to access and use the Software as part of DaySmart’s cloud-based software as a service product (the “SaaS Platform”). 2. SCOPE. This Agreement applies to Customer’s and its Authorized Users’ access to and use of any Services. In addition, each Authorized User that downloads and installs the Mobile App will agree to the terms and conditions... --- ### Privacy Policy > DaySmart Pet Software appreciates the trust you place in us, read on to see how we are committed to respecting your privacy. - Published: 2023-09-05 - Modified: 2023-10-27 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/privacy-policy/ Privacy PolicyYour Privacy at DaySmart Software, Inc. DaySmart Software, the makers of DaySmart Pet, appreciate the trust you place in us and we are committed to respecting your privacy and the security of your personal information. Our privacy policy describes the information we collect and how we use it. Whether you purchase products through DaySmart Software’s web site or via mail or phone, or which are delivered to you through the DaySmart Software Cloud website, any personal information that you may share with us (and with the business partners that help this site function or assist us in fulfilling your order) is kept absolutely private. Types of Personal Information We May Gather Purchases — When you place an order, you give us your name, address, phone number or email address and, in some cases, credit card information. You authorize us to store your name and shipping address(es), and optionally, credit card and billing information. If you purchase under a payment plan, you may authorize us to store your credit card information. Trial version requests — We need your name and email address and phone number in order for you to download a trial version of our software. We maintain the data that you provide us, along with a record of your purchases, in a secure database. Using Information We Collect At DaySmart Software, Inc. , we always want to provide you with the best possible experience and fulfill your orders exactly as you’ve requested. In order to do this, we use the information we collect to: Process and track your order Provide the products and services you request Contact you about the status of an order Contact you regarding promotional offers we believe will be of interest to you Identify your product and service preferences Customize our communications to you Provide information concerning product recalls or products you have purchased Improve our merchandise selection and customer service How We Use Cookies As with most other websites, we collect and use the data contained in log files comprised only of basic service interaction/page downloads and/or errors. We use web sessions for temporary storage of basic information to help display the appropriate content on the page to you. Cookies are unique identifiers that we transfer to your device to enable our systems and advertising partners to recognize your device and to provide features such as retargeting personalized advertisements on other websites based on your interaction with DaySmart. com product software sites. These cookies do not collect personal information such as your name, email address, postal address or telephone numberOur Business Partners In order to supply, ship and track merchandise, we make your name and address available to our hardware suppliers and such companies as Dell Computers, BlueStar, United Parcel Service, Federal Express and the U. S. Postal Service. We provide these companies with only the information they need to supply merchandise that you have ordered and perform their services. We do not authorize these business affiliates to use your personal... --- ### Policies > DaySmart Pet Software appreciates the trust you place in us. Here are the Daysmart Pet policies. - Published: 2023-09-05 - Modified: 2023-10-27 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/policies/ PoliciesTechnical Support Windows Software We have a number of readily available tools to help you: Free and unlimited web‐based training for life Free detailed training videos, which are found on the Welcome screen of DaySmart Pet Free in-depth user’s guide, included within DaySmart Pet With your initial purchase of DaySmart Pet software Standard, Professional, Multi-Computer or Multi-Location edition, you will receive: Free and unlimited e-mail and web-based training for life Free and unlimited phone technical support and training subscription for three months Free software installation and hardware setup during the first three months Free downloadable maintenance releases for life Free transfer of your information from a competitor’s product Free detailed training videos and in-depth user’s guide Free and unlimited access to our extensive knowledge base With any purchase of the DaySmart Pet Solo edition, you will receive: Free and unlimited web-based training for life Free and unlimited phone technical support and training subscription for one month Free software installation and hardware setup during the first month Free downloadable maintenance releases for life Free transfer of your information from a competitor’s product Free detailed training videos and in-depth user’s guide With the DaySmart Pet for Windows Subscription plan, you will receive unlimited free technical support and one-on-one phone training for as long as you have an active subscription. After the free support subscription ends you can continue receiving unlimited support and training for just $59 per month by signing up for our Unlimited Support Subscription. You can sign up for a subscription at any time for any supported version. You may also choose to pay for support and training as you need it. Phone support can be purchased for $99 per incident and phone/Internet training can be purchased for $99 per hour-long session. For technical support and training resources for DaySmart Pet for Windows, please visit our support page. Cloud Software Unlimited training and technical support is included in your Deluxe and Premier Cloud subscription at no additional cost. Chat and email support is included in your Basic Cloud subscription at no additional cost. *Internet Explorer is no longer supported, for the best possible experience of DaySmart Pet we recommend you use the most current versions of Google Chrome, Safari, Firefox, or Microsoft Edge. Hardware We warrant our software to be compatible for all hardware that we sell, using the manufacturer’s drivers or direct connection while Windows is operating in the regional settings described in the ‘Language and Regional Settings Support’ section listed below. Please see our Hardware page for a list of current hardware that we sell. This includes all hardware and hardware support items, including cables, connectors, interfaces, and adaptors. If you are using hardware or hardware support items other than what we sell, or are using different regional settings other than those described in the ‘Language and Regional Settings Support’ section, we will provide basic setup information; however, we cannot warrant compatibility with our products. Returns Software All software purchases are non-refundable, however, software subscriptions can be... --- ### Resources > Dive into the latest blogs, industry studies, news & more. Be sure to check out all the Daysmart Pet resources available here. - Published: 2023-09-05 - Modified: 2023-11-14 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/ --- ### Request A Free Trial > No obligation. No set up fees. No credit cards. Choose your 14 day free trial today and start growing your pet grooming business! - Published: 2023-09-05 - Modified: 2024-11-12 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/request-a-free-trial/ Start yourfree trialnow! We love the mobile app because we can upload pictures of client preferences right into their profiles and better understand their expectations. We also use the texting capabilities to communicate with clients, which saves us time from having to call to confirm appointments and pickups. Reputation management has also been the greatest resource. With it, we can send requests for reviews straight to clients’ phones and immediately learn if they’re happy with their experience with us. Gabriela Rudnick Director of Operations at All Fur Pet Grooming in Virginia --- ### Pricing > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2023-09-05 - Modified: 2025-03-10 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/pricing/ Pet software pricing plansOur Flexible SoftwarePackagesGrow With YouWhether you offer grooming, daycare, boarding, or anycombination of the three – we've got a package that fits theunique needs of your business. Try free for 14 days! What do you do? Select which service(s) your pet care business offers to find thebest package for your needs: --- ### Partners > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2023-09-05 - Modified: 2023-10-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/partners/ Partnerships ToGrow YourPet Care Business Here at DaySmart Pet, we empower your success by partneringwith best-in-class providers that help pet care business ownerssave time, increase visibility, and drive additional revenue. Start your free trial >OurTrusted PartnersBeresford Beresford provides custom designed gift cards to sell at your pet care business. You’ll work with a dedicated team to design a card that perfectly reflects your brand to help you boost revenue and build relationships with new and existing clients. Learn moreGlammatic We’ve joined forces with Glammatic to help you quickly build a custom website for your pet care business. All websites include automated SEO, mobile optimization, and an online booking integration to help you increase your online presence. The best part? You’ll receive a free preview of your website within 24 hours! Learn moreQuickBooks US-based DaySmart Pet customers with Deluxe, Premier, or Platinum subscriptions can connect QuickBooks® to their account. Contact our team at 800-527-7600 to discuss, or you can add it to your account yourself by navigating to Options > More Features. This service requires a separately purchased QuickBooks® Online subscription – this software is a “connector” to QuickBooks® – it does not replace or include QuickBooks®Learn moreJOIN the daysmart family Interested inPartnering With Us? Get in touch --- ### Contact > You don't have to do it all by yourself with DaySmart Pet software. Just give us some basic information and we'll contact you to answer all your questions. - Published: 2023-09-05 - Modified: 2025-04-25 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/contact/ Have a Question? Contact Us Today! --- ## Posts ### Infographic: Go Beyond the Shears - Published: 2025-04-21 - Modified: 2025-04-22 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/infographic-go-beyond-the-shears/ - Categories: Blogs How to attract, train, and retain top grooming talent In today’s competitive pet grooming industry, staffing shortages are more than just a temporary bump—they’re an ongoing challenge. Many grooming salons are struggling to find skilled professionals, reduce turnover, and maintain a high standard of service. But here’s the good news: with the right strategies, you don’t have to be stuck in the hiring cycle. That’s why we created this infographic: “Beyond the Shears: Building and Retaining Your Grooming Talent. ” It’s a free, expert-backed resource designed to help grooming business owners like you find, develop, and keep great team members. In this visual guide, you’ll learn how to: Hire passionate, trainable individuals—even if they’re new to grooming Build structured training programs that empower your team Foster a positive work culture that reduces burnout and turnover Reward and recognize your staff in ways that boost morale and retention You’ll also get actionable insights from Joe Zuccarello of Paragon Pet School, an industry veteran who shares practical tips on overcoming hiring hurdles, building a team culture that sticks, and future-proofing your business. Whether you're a salon owner looking to scale or simply trying to hold onto your best groomers, this guide is packed with data, inspiration, and real-world solutions to help you succeed. Download the infographic today and start building a grooming team that’s loyal, talented, and ready to grow with you—into 2025 and beyond. Download --- ### Spring Into Action: A Groomer’s Guide to Prepping for the Busy Season  > Spring has sprung! That means it’s the perfect time to refresh your grooming salon for the busy summer ahead. Download our Spring Cleaning Checklist for Pet Groomers today! - Published: 2025-04-01 - Modified: 2025-04-25 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/spring-clean-checklist/ - Categories: Blogs Spring is here, and with it comes warmer weather, blooming flowers, and a perfect opportunity to refresh your grooming business for the busy season ahead! Check out our Spring Cleaning Checklist for expert tips on how to: ✂️ Tend to Grooming Essentials 🔁 Tidy Up Your Operations 📣 Revamp Marketing Efforts ... and so much more! Download your checklist today and get ready to grow this spring! 💐 Download Our Checklist Spring is here, and with it comes warmer weather, blooming flowers, and a perfect opportunity to refresh your grooming business for the busy season ahead! As the seasons change, so do your grooming clients' needs, and now is the ideal time to get your salon in top shape before the rush.   Taking a little time now to set yourself up for success is key to ensuring a smooth transition into the busy season. By focusing on a few key areas, you’ll not only have a fresh and organized space, but you'll also enhance efficiency and create a more enjoyable experience for both you and your clients.   There are four major areas to focus on when prepping your grooming salon for the season ahead that we’re going to cover. For even more detailed tips, be sure to download our Spring Cleaning Checklist for Pet Groomers below. But for now, let’s dive in!  Download NowTend to Grooming Essentials  Taking care of the essentials now will save you time and headaches later, allowing you to focus on what really matters—delivering the best service to your furry clients! The first thing to tackle is within the walls of your grooming salon: your tools and equipment. These are the backbone of your business, so it’s crucial to ensure they’re in tip-top shape for the busy season ahead.   Are all your tools working like a charm, or are there a few that need a little TLC? If something’s on its last legs, it might be time to consider replacing it. A sharp set of clippers or a well-maintained dryer can make all the difference in providing top-quality service.   And don’t forget about your grooming salon itself, put the “clean” in “spring clean”! A deep cleaning of your space not only ensures a fresh, welcoming environment for both you and your clients, but it also helps maintain a hygienic space for the pets you're pampering. A spotless salon sets the tone for a professional experience, making your clients (and their pets! ) feel at ease.  Declutter & Tidy Up Operations  Now that you’ve cleaned your physical space, it’s time to declutter your operations. Streamlining your processes can make a world of difference, allowing you to focus on what matters most—your furry clients! It’s easy to understand why a well-organized business runs more smoothly and efficiently.   Start by asking yourself a few key questions: Is there a better way to manage your appointment book? Could employee or client management be more streamlined? Identifying the answers to these questions can reveal areas... --- ### Customer Spotlight: The Charleston Cat Groomer > Hear from Whitney Bullock, Certified Feline Master Groomer, on her passion for feline grooming and how DaySmart Pet has helped run her business - Published: 2025-03-20 - Modified: 2025-03-20 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/customer-spotlight-the-charleston-cat-groomer/ - Categories: Success Stories, Uncategorized - Tags: cat grooming, cat grooming tools, customer spotlight, feline grooming, pet grooming, small business Meet Whitney Bullock, Certified Feline Master Groomer (CFMG), a passionate cat grooming expert making a real difference in the lives of cats in South Carolina! Join us as she takes us behind the scenes at her cat grooming spa, The Charleston Cat Groomer.   For over five years, Whitney has been a loyal DaySmart Pet user, relying on it to keep her business running smoothly so she can focus on providing top-notch service to even more feline friends.  https://www. tiktok. com/@whitneybullockcfmg/video/7146214095866416430? is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc&web_id=7480995946811131422From Passion to Career  Before becoming a professional cat groomer, Whitney spent nearly a decade as a veterinary technician at an all-cat clinic, where she developed a deep understanding of cats and their unique needs. After nine years of hands-on experience, she followed her passion and turned it into a business. Today, Whitney is Lowcountry’s only Certified Feline Master Groomer – a prestigious certification that involves a series of written and practical exams. Since opening The Charleston Cat Groomer, Whitney has built an impressive reputation, winning local awards for Best Cat Groomer and Best Local Pet Instagram.   Whitney’s passion extends into her online store, where she offers simple tools for cat owners who may not have access to a professional groomer locally. Her love for educating others also shines through her social media presence. Whitney shares helpful cat care and grooming videos online, which have garnered millions of views. With 135K followers on TikTok and 147K followers on Instagram, her viewers love tuning in for her expert tips, grooming content, and funny videos.  https://www. tiktok. com/@whitneybullockcfmg/video/7354156622966443310? is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc&web_id=7480995946811131422 Did you know? It’s estimated that less than 1 in 15 pet groomers offer cat grooming services! (Groomer to Groomer)  That makes Whitney’s dedication to feline care truly special. Her love for cats didn’t just shape her career—it also inspired her to educate cat owners about proper grooming and the best ways to care for their feline companions.  The Day-to-Day Difference  Whitney shares that DaySmart Pet has everything she needs to successfully run The Charleston Cat Groomer. Requiring deposits when booking appointments has significantly reduced no-shows, while automated appointment reminders have been a game-changer.   Another huge time saver for Whitney is the ability to review past appointments and have clients fill out forms ahead of time, ensuring she can provide the best possible service.   Being able to view past appointments and services is extremely helpful... and having them fill out the necessary forms before their appointment saves time. View this post on InstagramA post shared by Whitney Bullock (@whitneybullockcfmg) When asked what advice she would give to new grooming business owners, Whitney emphasized the importance of staying organized to support business growth. She recommends tracking key details like vaccine history, addresses, and even small touches like pet birthdays—because those little things can make a big impact over time.   The way you organize things is key! DaySmart will help you do that! We love seeing our customers thrive! To learn more about Whitney and her business, check... --- ### Unleash a New Look with DaySmart’s Simple Website Builder  > Having a great website is essential for small businesses. With DaySmart’s Simple Website Builder, you can create a professional, modern website that makes your pet grooming business shine without the high costs of hiring a developer or designer. - Published: 2025-03-18 - Modified: 2025-03-18 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/unleash-a-new-look-with-daysmarts-simple-website-builder/ - Categories: Blogs, Uncategorized - Tags: free website, small business, website builder Make Your First Impression Online The Best One Yet https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=WErGWpyMCts In today’s digital world, having a great website is essential for small businesses. Your website is often the first impression potential clients have of your pet grooming salon, so you want to make sure it’s a good one! A strong website can play a huge role in whether or not potential clients will trust you with their furry friends.   Did you know? 75% of users admit to judging a company’s credibility based on its website design. (kinesis)  For a small pet grooming business, a well-designed website helps build trust, showcase your services, and set you apart from the competition. It’s more than just providing contact information—it’s about making your business look professional, reliable, and the best choice for keeping pets looking their best.   But where do you start?  Introducing DaySmart’s Simple Website Builder, an effortless way to create and manage your business website. With customizable features that enhance your brand, it helps you stand out from the competition and attract more clients. Our AI-powered builder enables you to launch a modern website in under 10 minutes, offering a cost-effective solution that saves time and requires no web development experience.  Simple Setup, Big Results  You don’t need to be a tech expert to build a professional, eye-catching website with DaySmart's Simple Website Builder. We’ve made the process as easy as a walk in the dog park. Just answer a few quick questions about your grooming business, including your name, services, and style. In less than 10 minutes, you’ll have a customizable, AI-powered website ready to go. From colors to fonts, you can tailor every detail to match your brand and make a lasting impression on potential clients.  AI That Works for You  Skip the hassle of writing from scratch. Our AI assistant creates compelling content designed to grab the attention of potential clients. Say goodbye to writer’s block and hello to a professional website that showcases your grooming expertise. Plus, with a wide selection of stock photos to choose from, you can find the perfect visuals to match your business or upload your own.  Build Your Best Website, Fast  With DaySmart’s Simple Website Builder, you can create a professional, modern website that makes your pet grooming business shine without the high costs of hiring a developer or designer. Whether you’re starting fresh or revamping an old site, our builder saves you time and money. And don’t forget, a great website helps attract more clients, leading to more happy pets to pamper!   So, why wait? Contact us today and see the difference a great website can make for your business!   --- ### The Essential Guide to Pet Grooming Licensing: What Every Groomer Needs to Know - Published: 2025-03-06 - Modified: 2025-03-06 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/the-essential-guide-to-pet-grooming-licensing-what-every-groomer-needs-to-know/ - Categories: Blogs Dreaming of turning your passion for pets into a thriving grooming career? Whether you're planning to work at a salon or start your own grooming business in 2025, there are a few key things you need to know when it comes to licensing, certifications, and business requirements. Let’s break it all down so you can get started with confidence! Licensing When you’re thinking about becoming a pet groomer, you might find yourself a little confused when it comes to licensing requirements. Here’s the thing: right now, there are no national or state licensing requirements to become a dog or pet groomer in the U. S. That said, some local counties do have specific rules, especially when it comes to selling pet products or zoning regulations for your business. If you decide to open your own grooming business, a business license will most likely be required—even for mobile grooming. Depending on your location, you may also need to follow specific sanitation guidelines, verify that pets are vaccinated, and ensure you’re using safe equipment. Plus, as a groomer, you’ll need to be familiar with and follow local and state animal welfare laws. Liability insurance isn’t a must, but many groomers choose to carry it to protect both themselves and their business. Certifications Now, even though licensing isn’t a requirement, there are certifications available that could help boost your career and improve your pet grooming facility’s credibility. These aren’t mandatory, but they’re definitely worth considering. For example, in California, there’s an Animal Behavior College program where aspiring groomers can receive industry training and mentorship. The program can be completed in about 12 months.  Available Programs 1. AKC Dog Grooming Institute The AKC Dog Grooming Institute offers a series of certifications to help groomers grow professionally. These programs focus on essential grooming skills, with core courses covering safety and proper handling. As you progress, you can specialize in different areas, earning certifications such as the S. A. F. E. certificate or even the prestigious AKC Master Groomer title. This is a great option for groomers looking to build expertise and credibility in the industry. 2. National Dog Groomers Association of America (NDGAA) The National Dog Groomers Association of America offers certifications that are recognized across the country. By following the curriculum from the AKC Dog Grooming Institute, NDGAA provides specialized certifications for grooming various dog breeds, including groups like Sporting, Non-Sporting, and Terrier. This can be a great opportunity for groomers wanting to demonstrate their knowledge of breed-specific grooming. 3. International Professional Groomers, Inc. (IPG) The International Professional Groomers offers a global option for pet grooming. With members in over 35 countries, IPG provides virtual certification opportunities, including their Safety Certification, Advanced Certification, and Master Groomer levels. IPG also offers certifications for grooming salons and training facilities, making it a comprehensive option for professionals seeking international recognition. 4. International Society of Canine Cosmetologists (ISCC) The International Society of Canine Cosmetologists offers additional learning opportunities, including continuing education and testing for various certifications.... --- ### The Doodle Dilemma: Why Communication is Key for Groomers  - Published: 2025-03-03 - Modified: 2025-03-12 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/the-doodle-dilemma-why-communication-is-key-for-groomers/ - Categories: Blogs Doodles have increased in popularity over the last decade, with new mixes popping up all the time. Essentially, any poodle crossbreed can be classified as a doodle. However, this variety often leads to controversy—particularly in the grooming world.   Certified Master Groomer Melissa Verplank sheds light on the hidden “blessings” doodles can offer groomers. Their coats require regular maintenance, which Verplank believes presents a significant business opportunity. In the video she recorded with Paragon School of Pet Grooming, she shares insights on working with doodles and how groomers can leverage these opportunities.   Though many groomers express frustration with doodles, primarily due to some breeders’ lack of transparency about coat care and the dogs’ personalities, Verplank points out the potential for groomers to become trusted resources for doodle owners. The Opportunity: Educating Doodle Parents  Working with doodle parents is an ideal chance to educate them on the importance of coat maintenance—especially given the breeds doodles are often crossed with. Many owners may be misinformed, believing these coats are “low maintenance” and require minimal care. This is a perfect opportunity to build trust by explaining why this is not the case. Navigating Difficult Conversations  When addressing doodle care, patience and understanding are crucial tools. Pet parents invest significant amounts of money into their doodles and may not have been fully informed about grooming needs. Meeting them where they are and guiding them through the grooming process strengthens the relationship, making you the go-to groomer for their doodles. Choosing the Right Cut  Once you've got the doodle parent’s attention, now it’s time to discuss the ideal cut. Consider the dog’s lifestyle, activity level, and their commitment to regular grooming. Here are a few popular cuts and their associated benefits to suggest:  Teddy Bear Cut: Short body coat with longer hair around the face, perfect for a fluffy, cute look.   Lamb Cut: Similar to the teddy bear cut, but with longer hair on the legs—great for active dogs.   Puppy Cut: Easy to maintain, minimizes tangling, and provides a fluffy look.   Kennel Cut: A short, practical cut that keeps the dog cool and requires minimal brushing. The Health Benefits of Grooming  Encourage doodle owners to stay involved in their dog’s coat health. If aesthetics aren't a priority for them, approach grooming from a health perspective. Regular brushing not only strengthens the bond between dog and owner but also provides an opportunity to check for parasites or skin changes early. Here are a few things they can address with regular grooming:  1. Prevents painful matting  2. Helps identify fleas and other parasites  3. Reduces the risk of skin infections and hot spots  4. Allows owners to spot lumps or other abnormalities that may need veterinary attention Conclusion: Embracing the Opportunity  While doodles present unique challenges, they also offer a chance to grow your business. By adjusting your approach to these popular dogs, you can provide valuable, tailored services to doodle owners. And remember, we’re here to help you navigate these... --- ### Solutions Guide: Pet Care Business Software Simplified - Published: 2025-02-26 - Modified: 2025-04-25 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/solutions-guide-pet-care-business-software-simplified/ - Categories: Uncategorized When it comes to software built for small businesses, one size doesn't fit all. So how can you continue your passion for your business while trusting a solution to help you run it at the same time? Access our exclusive eBook to learn how software can play a pivotal role in helping you nurture the growth and success of your pet care business with features like: - Appointment booking & scheduling - Credit card processing - Automated reminders - Business insights and reporting ... and more! It's like having an assistant—only better. Fill out the form to view it now 👉 Solutions Guide: Pet Care Business Software SimplifiedPet Care Solutions GuideDownload --- ### Choosing Your Pet Grooming Business Name  > The perfect name for your pet grooming business is the first impression potential clients will have of your brand and services. - Published: 2025-01-27 - Modified: 2025-01-27 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/choosing-your-pet-grooming-business-name/ - Categories: Blogs Why a Name Matters  Choosing the perfect name for your pet grooming business is more than just coming up with something catchy; it’s the first impression potential clients will have of your brand and services. Your business name is your identity, showcasing who you are, what you stand for, and why pet owners should trust you with their furry family members.   Not sure where to start? Don’t worry—we’ve broken it down into five simple steps. Let’s dive in!  Step 1: Brainstorming Session  Get your creative juices flowing! Coming up with a name for your pet grooming business might feel overwhelming, but it’s also an opportunity to have fun and get creative. A great way to start brainstorming is by writing down 10 characteristics of your pet grooming company that will matter most to your clients. Consider what makes you stand out and how you want people to feel when they hear your name. A name that reflects these qualities will help build a strong connection and a positive, lasting impression.   Catchy names stick in people’s minds, so consider pet-related puns or playful word combinations. Adding your city, state, or even street name can give your business a local feel while also improving your SEO, helping your business appear in pet parent searches for grooming services near them.   Tip: Think about how the name will look as a logo, on invoices, or even on apparel. You’ll want it to be visually appealing and easy to read.  Additional questions to ask yourself: Will you have a brick-and-mortar shop, a mobile grooming van, or both?   What vibe do you want for your business? Is it a fun, exciting grooming experience or a relaxing, luxurious spa atmosphere?   Will you specialize in specific breeds or animals?   Do you envision your business as a growing enterprise or a small, boutique-style operation?   Answering these questions can help you define the kind of grooming business you want to create, making it easier to choose a name that fits!  Step 2: Check Availability  Before making anything official, you’ll want to make sure your business name is available for use. Securing a trademark helps clients easily identify and recognize your business name, logo, and branding. You don’t want to accidentally use someone else’s name, and you definitely don’t want others using yours, so it’s important to go through this process to get everything in order. There are a variety of free tools available to help with your research:  United States Patent and Trademark Office: The official agency responsible for granting U. S. patents and registering trademarks. They offer a free tool that searches their trademark database to ensure yours is available.   Search Your Domain: Use sites like GoDaddy or Name. com to check if the domain associated with your potential business name is available. This will be your first step to building your perfect website!   Compare Local Competition: Check out other local pet grooming salons. You don’t want your... --- ### The Ultimate Off-Season Success Guide for Pet Groomers  > The slow season doesn't have to be scary! Check out the Ultimate Off Season Success Guide to keep your business thriving year-round. - Published: 2025-01-10 - Modified: 2025-01-15 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/the-ultimate-off-season-success-guide-for-pet-groomers/ - Categories: Blogs, Uncategorized - Tags: off season, pet care, pet groomer, pet groomers, slow season Keep Your Calendar Booked and Tails Wagging All Year Round  As a pet groomer, you know the off-season can bring a quieter schedule after the holiday rush. While it might feel a bit daunting, it’s also a perfect opportunity to focus on strategies that keep your business thriving. Let’s explore ways to make the most of this time and set yourself up for success!   Keep Those Appointments Coming  The off-season doesn’t have to leave your calendar empty. With some clever strategies, you can keep your grooming schedule full and clients leaving happy, like encouraging clients to schedule their next appointment at checkout. Not only does this ensure a steady stream of business, it also helps your clients stay committed to a consistent grooming routine. For more tips on keeping your calendar full, check out The Ultimate Off-Season Success Guide for Pet Groomers.   Best Practices for Retaining Clients  Attracting new clients is important, but retaining the ones you already have is essential for long-term success, especially during the slow season. Loyal clients are the backbone of your business, and small gestures like a thank-you note or a personalized reminder can go a long way in building lasting relationships. You can find the full list of strategies on client retention here.   Budgeting and Financial Forecasting Made Easy  We get it—managing finances can feel overwhelming, but the slow season is the perfect time to get ahead! With the right tools, budgeting and forecasting become a lot less intimidating. DaySmart Pet’s user-friendly business reporting features make tracking your finances simple and stress-free. Ready to take your financial planning to the next level? This ultimate guide has all the tools and tips you need to set your business up for success.  Embracing the Off-Season  The slow season doesn’t have to be a struggle! With the right strategies, your pet grooming business can continue to grow and thrive in the new year. And with DaySmart Pet by your side, managing everything from scheduling to client communication and financial reporting is easier than ever.   So, get ready to embrace the off-season and set your business up for year-round success! Don’t forget to download The Ultimate Off-Season Guide for Pet Groomers for more in-depth tips and tricks to keep your business thriving year-round.  Download Now! --- ### 2025 Pet Care Business Software Buyer's Guide > You have a great pet care business idea and you want to make it official! We’ve compiled a guide of the biggest financial to-dos to help you get started. - Published: 2024-12-19 - Modified: 2025-04-25 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/2025-pet-care-business-software-buyers-guide/ - Categories: Blogs - Tags: pet care, pet groomer, small business, software Work Smarter, Not Harder! Your pet care business is growing, but if you’re still relying on pen and paper, digital spreadsheets, or manual calendars, it's time for an upgrade! A great pet business software will offer amazing features that help your business thrive.   But, where do you begin? This guide will help you tackle common challenges, explore key features you should be looking for, and make sure you’re asking the right questions to make the best choice for your business.   Download your FREE guide today! 👉  2025 Pet Care Business Software Buyer's GuideDS Pet - 2025 Buyers GuideDownload --- ### How to Build a Pet Care Business Website That Wins - Published: 2024-11-22 - Modified: 2024-12-25 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/how-to-build-a-pet-care-business-website-that-wins/ - Categories: Blogs In today’s digital world, your website is a 24/7 marketing tool that can help attract new clients to your pet care business, establish trust, and grow your reputation. Read on to learn how to maximize your potential and increase your portfolio of furry friends. A winning website can help put your pet care business on the map, lets you showcase your services, and enables you to expand your reach to new clients outside your local area. In fact, Forbes reports that at least 71% of businesses have a company website, so it’s really becoming a must to stay relevant and take on the competition. Where Some Companies Fall Short Creating a decent website used to be time-consuming and involved different skill sets. Recent technological advances like integrations and AI offer inexpensive options to take your business online—often in next to no time.  While it’s great that pretty much any business owner can quickly set up their own website, the downside is that they don't always put as much thought into it as they probably should. At DaySmart, we believe that if a job’s worth doing, it’s worth doing well. That's why we’ve created a free guide on Building a Website That Wins, packed with simple tricks to keep you on the right track. Click here to download it or continue reading for a quick overview.  The Key to a Successful Website The goal of your website should be to drive clients to your pet care business, not drive them away! Before launching or updating your website, ask yourself these questions to maximize your chances of success.  💡 Is Your Website User-Friendly? Have you ever had to scroll all the way to the bottom of a website to find what you were looking for? Or scoured multiple drop-down menus with unclear options that you didn’t understand? How about filling out an online form with ten clicks that could easily have been one or two? We’ve all been there, and these are exactly the kind of things that frustrate busy or easily distracted customers. Remove headaches by organizing your content to make it easy to navigate, ensuring language is clear, and enabling your customer to find what they need quickly. 💡 Does It Look and Feel Like You?   Whether you created all your content from scratch or got a helping hand from AI, your website has to match your brand. This is your chance to tell your unique back story and share your passion for animals, experience, and even funny anecdotes. Use natural sounding language and relevant images for a more genuine feel. Bonus points for using photos of you and your staff at work, your setup and amenities, as well as snaps of your furry clients (make sure to have permission from pet owners first! ). 💡 What Do You Want to Happen Next?   You got some visitors—congratulations! Don’t let the journey end there. Find ways to keep these potential clients engaged. The simplest way is to link to... --- ### Growing a Successful Pet Grooming Business - Published: 2024-11-08 - Modified: 2024-12-27 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/growing-a-successful-pet-grooming-business/ - Categories: Success Stories Jayme Montero takes us behind the scenes at pet grooming spa Purrdy Paws, and explains the role DaySmart Pet has played in helping her business grow from strength to strength. Purrdy Paws is a popular dog and cat grooming spa, offering both in-salon and mobile services in Ottawa. For as long as she can remember, animals have played a major part in founder Jayme Montero’s life.   “Most of my fondest memories growing up were spent with my pets. From a very young age, I always had a deep connection with animals and knew one day I would follow my dreams of helping them and their people. ” I always had a deep connection with animals and knew I would follow my dreams of helping them and their people. Turning a passion into a career  As an adult, Jayme took on jobs in customer service, bars, and restaurants but there was always something missing. It was then that she decided to revisit her childhood dream.   “I pursued employment in a veterinary clinic setting. Although rewarding, I began to pursue other animal care interests. This led me to the NCGIA in Greenville, South Carolina, where I graduated as a Certified Feline Master Groomer. ”  Jayme soon began to reap the rewards of her hard work and dedication, opening the first and only feline exclusive mobile grooming spa to come to Ottawa. The business proved so successful that just one year later, she added another mobile spa—focusing exclusively on dogs—to meet the needs of her ever-growing client base, many of whom owned multiple pets. Staying on the road to success  Understandably, Jayme was delighted to continue expanding her services and growing list of impressive achievements!   “I could have never imagined I would have the opportunity to expand my horizons even further and open three brick and mortar shops in one of the most historic and community focused parts of the city. ” Jayme and her team of animal enthusiast professionals pride themselves on providing the best in care for furry companions, and are always on the lookout for ways to improve the customer and pet experience.   “I began using DaySmart about 10 years ago, when the other software I was using wasn't supporting the volume of clients or keeping their information as organized. DaySmart was recommended to me in a grooming group on Facebook and I am very happy to have made the switch. ” I began using DaySmart 10 years ago, when other software wasn't supporting the volume of clients or keeping information organized. I am very happy to have made the switch. Powering up with the right features Running a successful business can be tough, and the right software can reduce headaches for owners and staff. Jayme says DaySmart Pet helps her business thrive by centralizing all client information and making the payroll process much more efficient. As far as features go, Jayme loves the appointment book, client profiles, and inventory section, which she says is a... --- ### Unlock Your Online Presence: The Ultimate Checklist for Pet Businesses > You have a great pet care business idea and you want to make it official! We’ve compiled a guide of the biggest financial to-dos to help you get started. - Published: 2024-10-03 - Modified: 2025-04-25 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/unlock-your-online-presence-the-ultimate-checklist-for-pet-businesses/ - Categories: Blogs - Tags: new business, online presence, pet care, small business, social media Get your pet care business noticed online! Want to attract new clients and boost your pet care business online? A strong online presence is essential for small pet care businesses and DaySmart Pet is here to help! This checklist covers tips to improve your business's online presence from building an engaging website and managing your social media. Download our Online Presence Checklist now and watch your pet business thrive! DS Pet - Online Presence ChecklistDownload Now! --- ### Best Pet Care Software 2024 > The proper pet care software can help grow your pet care business, save time, and streamline management. See the top pet care management systems ranked. - Published: 2024-09-25 - Modified: 2024-12-25 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/best-pet-care-software/ - Categories: Uncategorized Simplify daily operations with the high-functioning features that pet care software can offer. Get back to your roots and why you launched your business—caring for those lovable animals—by automating some of the more mundane management tasks. Plus, in today’s pet care industry, managing operations efficiently keeps you competitive long term, so it’s a win for now and later. A sound pet care management system combines various functionalities into one platform. By automating routine tasks, the best pet care software reduces the possibility of errors and lets you focus on offering services, instead of getting sidetracked by manual tasks. So, where do you begin? This review will explore the best pet care management software options available in 2024, reviewing their features, usability, and overall effectiveness in enhancing pet business operations. Let’s hop to it! What is Pet Care Software? Specifically designed to simplify the daily operations of your pet care company (including grooming salons, veterinary clinics, boarding facilities, and daycare centers), pet care software improves organization and efficiency by grouping administrative tasks onto a single, simple-to-use platform.   Typically including robust features such as appointment scheduling, customer and pet profile management, billing and invoicing, and inventory tracking, the best pet care software allows clients to conveniently book services directly through a website or mobile app. Managing multiple tasks, from scheduling appointments to communicating with clients, can be overwhelming for business owners. The best pet care management software automates many of these processes, reducing the burden on your staff and allowing them to focus more on providing high-quality care to their furry clients.   Notifications can also inform clients of any changes to their appointments, special promotions, or new services being offered. For the business, these features minimize the need for manual follow-ups, saving time and resources while maintaining professional communication with clients.  Best Pet Care Software in 2024 (Reviewed) In 2024, several pet care apps have risen above the pack as the favorites to make work easier and customers happier. We’ve compared a few popular platforms below.   Let’s dive in... DaySmart Pet DaySmart Pet’s software solution stands out for its impressive features, designed to simplify pet care business management, including, but hardly limited to:  Easy-to-use online booking Reduced no-shows with automated reminders Real-time reporting for >Users appreciate DaySmart Pet for its intuitive design and extensive functionality, noting that it significantly improves operational efficiency and customer service. DaySmart Pet offers tiered pricing plans based on the business size and specific feature needs. MoeGo MoeGo, known for its reasonably comprehensive feature set, includes online booking, automated reminders, and client management tools. It’s also designed to enhance the daily operations of pet care businesses, making it easier to: Manage appointments Communicate with clients Maintain detailed pet records MoeGo receives mention from users for its ease of use and effectiveness in improving business workflows. Users highlight its efficient appointment management and strong customer support. MoeGo’s pricing starts at $79/month for the basic package. For more information, visit MoeGo’s website. Pet Sitter Plus... --- ### Pet Care Business Calculator > You have a great pet care business idea and you want to make it official! We’ve compiled a guide of the biggest financial to-dos to help you get started. - Published: 2024-09-25 - Modified: 2025-04-25 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/new-pet-care-business-calculator/ - Categories: Blogs - Tags: new business, new pet business, pet care, small business, start up cost Launch Your Pet Care Business with Confidence! Have a fantastic pet care business idea, but not sure where to start? It’s easy to feel overwhelmed, but don’t worry – we've got your back!   Introducing DaySmart Pet’s Business Calculator! This essential guide breaks down all of the key expenses you’ll need to consider when starting your business, including:  -Registering your Business   -Location, Equipment & Inventory -And Much More! Transform your passion into a thriving business. Download the guide now and take the first step towards an exciting future!   DS Pet e-book_shareDownload Now! --- ### Five Effective Ways to Fetch New Pet Business Clients - Published: 2024-08-15 - Modified: 2024-12-25 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/five-effective-ways-to-fetch-new-pet-business-clients/ - Categories: Blogs, Uncategorized Without your ability to multitask, is there any way you could accomplish all that you do in a single day? When every minute is accounted for by the many responsibilities and various challenges of just keeping your business afloat, it can be difficult to also put energy into growing your business. You already know that putting in the work to attract new clients is just as important as keeping your current ones happy. The problem is, you don’t always have the time to think about your business development plans.   Here’s the good news: one of the busiest seasons for pet care owners will soon be winding down. If you feel your load is starting to lighten with the close of summer, it could be a good time to turn your focus to new growth opportunities. In this blog, we’re sharing our effective and feasible strategies for bringing new pet business clients your way.  1. Plug into your community In most communities, there are endless opportunities for social engagement and making new connections. Get involved with local events or festivals, host pet care education workshops, form partnerships with local shelters, and definitely join your local business association. Every effort to deepen the involvement with your community is a chance to get in front of prospective clients, expand your network, and demonstrate your passion for pet care. 2. Boost your online presence When was the last time you checked your digital footprint? If it’s been awhile, it’s a good idea to make this a priority. Make sure your website is up-to-date, user-friendly, and optimized for search. Keep your social media channels buzzing by showing off your favorite work and community involvement. If you have promotional offers, publicize them. And don’t neglect your reputation management, especially when nine out of 10 consumers consider reviews before making purchasing decisions. 3. Leverage client referrals In the world of pet care, new clients often come in the form of referrals. People tend to trust recommendations from friends and family over advertising. Leverage the love from your existing clients to build relationships with new ones. If you don’t have an official referral program, you can start by offering discounts to clients who are happy to spread the word. Simply send a few emails or text messages with the help of your pet care business software, and let them know how they can participate and reap the benefits.   4. Get the word out by advertising If you have extra revenue to spend on advertising, there are several strategies to consider that can be effective for boosting brand awareness. One option is to target your audience with paid social media campaigns or publishing Google ads to attract pet owners who are searching for services like yours. You might consider partnering with local businesses to display your business card or flier. You can also take a more traditional route and purchase ad space in your local newspaper. Whatever avenues you choose, know your strengths and showcase them... --- ### Marketing 101 for Small Businesses - Published: 2024-08-13 - Modified: 2024-08-13 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/blog/marketing-101-for-small-businesses/ - Categories: Blogs, Uncategorized Marketing 101 for Small Businesses Get insights and new ideas on marketing your business so you can boost revenue, build credibility, and get noticed! The Marketing 101 kit is a collection of videos and templates created by DaySmart's team of marketers on six areas of marketing a small business owner and manager needs to know: Text Marketing Email Marketing Social Media Online Presence Campaign Planning Brand Consistency Download the kit to level up your marketing strategy today! Download the Marketing Kit! Welcome to the Marketing 101 kit for small businesses! Here, you'll find a library of videos and templates created by DaySmart's marketing team on key areas of marketing every owner and manager needs to know to drive business growth. Templates Manage Your Business From One Place Communicate with customers, schedule appointments, and process payments—all within a business management solution tailored for businesses like yours. Find your solution --- ### 4 Tips for Minimizing Pet Business Stress Every Summer > Discover expert tips to reduce summer business stress, stay cool with some helpful strategies from DaySmart Pet! - Published: 2024-07-24 - Modified: 2024-12-25 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/4-tips-for-minimizing-pet-business-stress-every-summer/ - Categories: Blogs, Uncategorized Summer has always been a popular season. For many, it’s a time to slow down and take a break from life’s regular routines and jam-packed days. For pet care business owners, however, it’s a time when schedules can really ramp up. According to a recent survey, 56% of Americans planned on taking a vacation this summer. Assuming many of those travelers are also pet owners with intentions of leaving their furry companions behind, the need for pet care can mount quickly. While you spare no effort keeping up with the demand, pet care business burnout can be your worst enemy, threatening to hold you back. This time of year, it’s critical to minimize stress and prioritize work-life balance to protect your wellness and sustain the longevity of your business.  How to Manage the Pet Business Busy Season Check out these tips for preventing summertime pet business stress and burnout.  1. Prioritize rest for you and your team Consistently providing high-quality services to your clients — all while managing the many responsibilities of being a business owner — can be exhausting work. Don’t forget to take the breaks you deserve. While it may be easier said than done, try your best to unplug from the pet business stress when you get home. Take the time you need to relax and restore. Whatever you enjoy as part of your self-care routine, make it a priority. To maintain energy during the work day, make sure you schedule enough breaks for yourself and your team members. 2. Set clear boundaries with clients Because the connections you have with your clients are critical to the success of your business, it can be easy to go above and beyond for them — sometimes, at your expense. Don’t feel guilty about establishing healthy boundaries that mitigate pet care business burnout. Be clear about when you’re available and when you’re not. Set expectations for reasonable response times and get comfortable saying, “no. ” This will help protect both you and the relationship with your clients. 3. Delegate responsibilities like a pro If you’ve added team members to your pet care business, you have the potential to offload some of your regular responsibilities. Take an assessment of your duties and identify what can be delegated. You’ll find time for new opportunities and your team will be grateful for the chance to broaden their skills and experience.  4. Implement smart systems One of the best ways you can protect yourself from pet care business burnout is to implement resources and systems that empower you to thrive. Pet care management software, like DaySmart Pet, helps small businesses centralize and organize tasks with tools that simplify payroll, appointment booking, and client management. If you can access features like these with the convenience of a mobile app, you can take control of your day from anywhere. With these tips and the right support, you can prevent burnout and keep doing what you love. DaySmart Pet is here to help you manage... --- ### Streamlining the Booking Process to Increase Small Business Productivity > Cost-effectively acquire and retain more fitness customers by monitoring marketing campaign ROI using these key metrics and strategies - Published: 2024-08-09 - Modified: 2024-07-22 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/blog/streamlining-the-booking-process-to-increase-small-business-productivity/ - Categories: Blogs, Uncategorized We've all been there. Trying to book a new fitness class, tickets to see our favorite band, or maybe even a styling consultation at a retail store. We want it to be quick and easy. Instead, the process is clunky, there are way too many steps, and sometimes we get so annoyed that we just give up. Now, it's not just frustrating for us customers. Businesses (especially those smaller ones looking to grow) feel the pain, too. But what if there was a way to fix all that? Well, we've got some good news for all you small business owners out there: there is, indeed, a better way to handle the booking process. Here’s a complete lowdown on how to do just that. Benefits of Streamlined Booking Systems An online booking system is a digital tool that lets your customers book appointments, tickets, or services online, without the added stress of those long phone calls or those back-and-forth emails. It's similar to having a 24/7 receptionist who never sleeps. 94% of US customers want online booking and are switching to providers who offer it. So let’s talk about some of the awesome perks of having a streamlined booking system. Enhanced Customer Experience People everywhere want the option to book online. That’s true both in the United States (as we showed you above), but also across the pond, in countries such as the UK.  Image sourced from bookinglive. com In fact, 69% of UK customers want the option to book online. Even more when we're talking about our tech-loving, TikTok-scrolling Gen Z crowd—they practically live online! With an online booking system, your customers can book their appointments or tickets whenever and whenever they want, without having to wait for “standard” business hours. The bottom line? A smooth, seamless experience that makes customers happy. Increased Employee Productivity We mentioned earlier that a streamlined booking system doesn't just benefit your customers—it helps your team out, too. With a streamlined online booking system, your staff spends less time juggling phone calls and managing schedules. Instead, they get to focus on what they do best, delivering the service you hired them to provide. No more double-bookings for personal training sessions or last-minute cancellations messing up their yoga flow. Better Data Management and Analytics Your booking system does a lot more than just booking appointments. In the background, it's  quietly collecting a ton of information about your customers (their preferences, contact details, booking history), all neatly organized without you lifting a finger. What can you do with this data? Well, think of it as having the inside scoop on your customers. You might have a Pilates fanatic who loves morning classes and always books a spot for that popular 7am Friday class. Or a skincare lover who's all about facials and eager to try every new treatment you offer. When you've got this kind of intel, you can hugely personalize their experience.  What's more, if you have an ERP platform, DaySmart accommodates it so you... --- ### Protect your brand, finances, and future with pet care business insurance - Published: 2024-07-19 - Modified: 2024-12-25 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/protect-your-brand-finances-and-future-with-pet-care-business-insurance/ - Categories: Blogs - Tags: insurance The experience of owning a business is unlike any other. It’s a journey that reveals many valuable lessons in flexibility and adaptability. When each new day delivers a different set of challenges, you quickly learn how to roll with the punches. But there are some days that can bring much more than you expected and your ability to navigate the toughest moments can depend a lot on how you’ve prepared for them. Accidents happen — especially when working with animals — and when they do, having the right resources in place will help you create a path for effectively resolving them. One of the most important things you can do for your pet grooming, daycare, or boarding business is protect it with business insurance. Discover the risks of operating without it, the different types of coverage options available, and how to insure your business. Three reasons to insure your pet care business  There will always be risk in running any business, but when you operate without the protection of business insurance, you open yourself up to vulnerabilities that can disrupt your operations, set you back financially, and threaten the future of your business.  Protect yourself from financial loss Whether you’re the victim of a crime, the unlucky party involved in an accident, or caught in a lawsuit with a client, the financial impact of these incidents can be significant. If your business is left taking on the property damage costs or legal fees, it can be difficult to recover from, even if business is going well. Having business insurance protects you from the financial loss that could be disruptive and in some cases, detrimental. Preserve your brand’s reputation Your reputation is one of your brand’s most valuable assets. It’s something you’ve carefully built right alongside your business. But, of course, everyone makes mistakes and if something doesn’t go according to plan, you want to have safeguards in place that preserve your business and your reputation if a client or former employee takes steps to challenge it.  Defend the future of your business For entrepreneurs, dreaming big doesn’t stop with the launch of a business. You may have plans for the future of your pet care business, whether it’s expanding into other services, offering new product lines, or opening multiple locations. Don’t let circumstances that are out of your control inhibit your growth aspirations or diminish what you’ve already worked so hard to achieve.  A summary of business insurance types and their use cases If you don’t already have coverage in place, you may have a lot of questions around what type of business insurance you need to keep your brand well-protected. Below is a summary of common business insurance policy types that may be relevant to your business needs.   Insurance TypeCoverage IncludedSample Use CaseGeneral LiabilityClaims related to bodily injury, personal injury (e. g. libel), property damage, and moreOne of your employees publishes negative statements about a competitor who then ends up suing your business for libel.   PropertyClaims... --- ### How to Create a Rewards Program for Your Small Business in 2024 > Learn about the benefits, types, and strategies of loyalty programs, and find out how DaySmart’s small business solutions can help you build and maintain customer loyalty. - Published: 2024-07-18 - Modified: 2024-07-19 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/blog/how-to-create-a-rewards-program-for-your-small-business-in-2024/ - Categories: Blogs - Tags: customer loyalty, rewards Owning a small business has never been more competitive or achievable. With enough organization and motivation, you have the ability to stay competitive even when the market is struggling. And one of the best ways to do this? By upholding customer loyalty, your clients keep returning time and again.   Many small businesses find that implementing a rewards program, also known as a loyalty program, is extremely effective in increasing client retention and boosting consumer engagement.   Let's examine what rewards programs are, the benefits they offer, the types of loyalty and rewards programs out there, and how to create an effective rewards program for small business success. And if you’re ready to get started building loyalty today? Learn how DaySmart’s small business solutions help to establish rewards programs and give back to customers. What is a Rewards Program or Loyalty Program? BOGO. 50% off. 1. 5% cash back on your credit card. Rewards and loyalty programs are everywhere, whether you realize it or not.   Customer reward programs are marketing strategies that encourage customers to make repeat purchases or engage regularly with a brand. Programs typically offer customer incentives, like rewards or discounts, in exchange for repeat business over time. Rewards to clients or members may include points, discounts, free items, exclusive access, or other benefits. From a business perspective, rewards programs offer a win-win situation—businesses benefit from increased customer loyalty and higher sales, while customers enjoy exclusive perks and rewards for their continued support. Creating a rewards program is a surefire strategy for building customer relationships, boosting retention, and driving long-term business growth for small businesses. Rewards programs are not just marketing tactics; they build lasting customer relationships, ensuring organic business success and growth. The Benefits of a Rewards or Loyalty Program Creating a rewards program for small businesses works twofold: it attracts new customers and keeps existing ones while simultaneously (and significantly) improving business-to-consumer relationships. Software tools like DaySmart enable companies to engage with their customers effortlessly and automatically, offering incentives to reinforce brand commitment, solidify their market position, and reduce competition risk.   Benefits programs also offer businesses valuable insights into customer preferences, enabling them to refine their rewards strategies and adapt to evolving market trends, empowering them to compete and thrive in today's dynamic marketplace. Additionally, when implementing a loyalty program, you’re also likely to: Boost Customer Loyalty: With numerous choices available, a rewards program can set your business apart in today's market. Offering incentives through a small business rewards program builds a loyal customer base, fostering emotional connections. These loyal customers not only come back for additional purchases but also become advocates for your brand, driving word-of-mouth referrals and positive reviews.    Increase Sales: A well-designed rewards program can significantly encourage customers to spend more and purchase more often, leading to higher revenue. And the incentive to earn rewards or benefits usually motivates customers to choose your business over competitors. Enhance Customer Engagement: Engaging customers beyond simple transactions is crucial for long-term... --- ### 5 Customer Service Complaints Solved by User-Friendly Booking Software > The right software can be great for your business and your customers! Learn about common customer service complaints. - Published: 2024-04-24 - Modified: 2024-04-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/blog/customer-complaints-solved-by-software/ - Categories: Blogs, Uncategorized When it comes to successfully running any business, most roads lead to customer satisfaction. This is even more true for small businesses. When your business runs well, your customers and clients are usually happy. When things get bumpy, customer satisfaction tends to drop. In many ways, customer satisfaction is a great way to measure how well your business is doing—no matter how complex your operations become. It's really that simple. But as you already know, “simple” doesn’t necessarily mean “easy. ”  The good news? There is a single solution that can fix multiple issues, make your customers happier, and help your business grow. That one thing is user-friendly booking software. It’s a powerful way to turn many common customer complaints into positive customer experiences—instantly. What does user-friendly really mean? If you’re unfamiliar with the term “user-friendly,” don’t worry. You don’t need to be a computer expert to understand what it means. Simply put, websites or software are user-friendly when they are easy to use. They feel simple—and getting things done is intuitive. You can quickly accomplish what you need to do without a lot of guesswork. Put another way, have you ever visited a website and found it difficult to use? Maybe the design made it feel confusing. Or the language and instructions weren’t clear. Whatever the reason, you had to struggle to do what you went to the site for in the first place. All of this is the OPPOSITE of what it means to be “user-friendly. ” Fact is, when the experience with software or a site is difficult to navigate, customers tend to be less satisfied with that business overall. The same goes for the software your staff and customers use. You can think of your booking software as a digital front-door to your business. A good experience there sets the tone for a great experience overall—and leads to more customer satisfaction, a boost in appointments, and opportunities for your business to grow. As a bonus, user-friendly booking software can deliver more than happy customers. It can make things easier, more streamlined, and efficient for you and your staff—so you can focus on delivering the best service and experience possible! And while each small business is different, turning customer complaints into customer satisfaction is key to every business’s success. So let’s look at the top five customer complaints and pain points user-friendly booking software can fix—and turn those frowns upside down. Customer Pain Point 1: Confusing Online Booking You never get a second chance to make a first impression, and a confusing booking process can quickly turn off potential clients—leading to abandoned bookings and a tarnished first impression. The crux of the issue lies in a design that doesn’t make things easy for your customer—and forces them to jump through unnecessary hoops. The result? They get frustrated. Or worse, they disengage completely. Consider a scenario where a client visits a booking website, only to be greeted with a cluttered look, vague instructions, and a confusing... --- ### Solving Staffing Struggles in the Pet Care Industry > With hiring now providing a challenge for pet care business owners, let's look at ways we can help you reduce your administrative workload. - Published: 2024-04-15 - Modified: 2025-03-13 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/solving-staffing-struggles-in-the-pet-care-industry/ - Categories: Blogs - Tags: hiring, pet groomers, small business, staffing You didn’t start a pet care business to be a bookkeeper, marketer, or scheduler. You did it because you love pets and want them to have the best care. The same is true for your employees.    Each day promises furry faces and wagging tails—and the life of your staff can be both rewarding and challenging. Working at a well-run pet care business can deliver more than a paycheck. It can mean a satisfying blend of care, skill-building, and continually renewed dedication to the well-being of our four-legged clients.   But in the competitive, fast-paced industry of pet care, the often-heartwarming task of caring for furry companions can clash with the realities of business operations. So pet care business owners and professionals like you, increasingly face a critical challenge.   The challenge is not just how to provide exceptional care to pets, but also how to efficiently manage staffing needs in a tight labor market.    Luckily, the solution may be more straightforward than you might imagine.     By leveraging the advanced capabilities of software solutions created specifically for pet care businesses, you can reduce the hours your team spends on administrative tasks.    So your employees can focus on why they work for you—to deliver superior pet care. But that’s not all. You’ll benefit from...   Higher quality service from your team  Happier employees who are free to do the parts of their job they love  Better retention of your best employees  Satisfied pet owners—and pets  A growing business—so you can attract top talent  Step One? Address Administrative Challenges Head On  Regardless of its size or the depth of services offered, every pet care business deals with administrative tasks that threaten to consume a considerable amount of your time and resources:  Front Desk Management: The front desk is like the nerve center of your operation—handling appointment scheduling, retail sales, client inquiries, and more. Managing these tasks manually is a recipe for inefficiency and mistakes—impacting client satisfaction and employee happiness.   Paperwork Overload: Each pet’s health history needs detailed documentation, and that paperwork can pile up quickly. Managing records manually not only eats up a ton of time, but also increases the risk of lost, misplaced, or incomplete records.   Client Communications: Maintaining a continuous, engaging line of communication with pet owners is crucial for client retention and satisfaction. But doing so without a streamlined digital system can be complicated, time-wasting, and inconsistent.   Bookkeeping Complexity: Financial management can be a huge strength—or a giant headache. Chances are, you didn’t open your business to become a full-time accountant! Manual processes like managing payroll and inventory can leave you at risk for errors, hassles, and big problems come tax time.   Scroll down for easy solutions to help you address these issues.   While these administrative tasks are all  important, they also divert your team’s attention away from what you really hired them to do: make every pet’s visit purr-fectly smooth.    It’s not an uncommon story. Nikki Budaj,... --- ### Integrated Payments: 5 Things Every Business Owner Should Know  > Looking to optimize your payment system? Get crucial insights and tips to enhance your business's financial operations. - Published: 2024-03-26 - Modified: 2024-03-26 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/blog/integrated-payments-for-your-business/ - Categories: Blogs Owning and operating a business is more complex than ever. In addition to delivering the best for your customers and clients, competition gets fiercer all the time. You want to grow, but you also may not have all the resources, time, and team it takes to stay one step ahead.    Incorporating integrated payments with your business is a way you can stand toe-to-toe with the biggest players in your market, and it’s simpler than many business owners expect.    The fact of the matter is, if you aren’t incorporating a modern, seamless payment system in your business, you run the risk of falling behind.    The good news? It’s not too late to get up to speed.    The better news? Getting started right now can be simple, and the benefits of integrated payments can deliver exponential opportunities for growth, differentiation from competitors, and an exceptional experience for your clients and customers.    Read on to understand why customers today expect—and deserve—the simplicity and seamless experience integrated payments deliver. You’ll understand not just why your business should utilize integrated payments—but also the dangers of not using it.    Finally, you’ll learn practical steps to implement integrated payments, and hear from business owners who took the plunge—and reaped the benefits.    Let’s dive in and explore everything you need to know about integrated payments and why they are fundamental to growing a successful business.    Start by understanding what integrated payments are—and what they are not. The easiest way to explain integrated payments is this: it’s a way to handle payment processing for small businesses. But beyond simple point of sale transactions, it’s a system that enables you to accept electronic and card payments, and works directly with your business management software.    It’s not just about making checkout easier. It can help streamline many of your business operations and give you more opportunities for growth.    Simple Payments: Clients can pay for services and products directly through your website, app, or in your store. That means a faster, easier customer experience that’s consistent online, offline, or on the go.   Inventory Management: Every transaction can automatically update your business's inventory. So keeping track of what you have in stock—and what you need to order—is simpler than ever.   Data Insights: See what’s selling, and what’s not. Gain insights into what your customers and clients want more of—and make informed decisions that translate into growth.   For fitness centers, this could mean managing membership payments, and seeing what classes your members want more of. For a vet, integrated payments can help you understand patient lifetime value—and clearly track revenue per visit. For a spa, it could result in streamlined bookings and staffing—and more satisfied clients. .    No matter what your business offers customers and clients, integrated payments can make your systems run more smoothly.    And while some small businesses may want to avoid credit card processing fees, but it’s important to look at the big picture.... --- ### 3 Reasons Why Clients Aren’t Booking with Your Business and How To Fix It  > Daysmart Pet shares three reasons why clients aren’t booking with your pet care business and the steps you can take to fix them. - Published: 2024-03-13 - Modified: 2024-03-13 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/blog/3-reasons-why-clients-arent-booking-with-your-business-and-how-to-fix-it/ - Categories: Blogs There’s nothing like seeing a full calendar of client bookings. Busy periods of your schedule mean you’re at the top of your game, your employees are giving their all, clients are happy, and revenue is rolling in.  But what do you do during the slow periods when you open your schedule and see a whole lot of nothing? To help, we’ve got three reasons why clients aren’t booking with your business and the steps you can take to fix them. 1. Ineffective Online Presence Never underestimate the impact that your website and online listings can have on your small business. Your website serves as a vital platform for engaging with potential clients and providing them with the precise information they seek. From showcasing your services and pricing to offering a seamless appointment booking process, it all boils down to ensuring a seamless user experience that leaves clients satisfied and eager to choose your business. Having a user-friendly and mobile-responsive website is key to increasing appointments booked. In fact, 82% of clients use mobile devices to book appointments. If they can’t easily make an appointment on their phone, they’re going look for a business that does. Once they find your website or online listing, is the information listed there correct and current? Incomplete and out-of-date information is another roadblock to client bookings. Trying to book a service that is no longer available or seeking days and times that have since changed will cause clients to go elsewhere. Your online reputation matters as well, reviews can be one of the biggest setbacks - or a great leg up - for many businesses It’s common for reviews and ratings to appear in an online search, and they are pulled from social media and business listings sites. If you’re not using reputation management tools to leverage reviews, clients may look elsewhere when they can’t find recommendations. 2. Inadequate Marketing and Promotion Marketing goes hand-in-hand with your online presence and its ability to drive client bookings.   Are you using your online and community presence to promote awareness and visibility? Coming up with marketing promotional strategies is helpful, but not having the right tools for execution and follow-up will make these efforts more challenging. Social media is key for business growth. If you’re not posting photos and videos of the work you do, the trends you’re following, and the knowledge you possess, you won’t be noticed by clients in your community. Scroll down for marketing solutions and recommendations. 3. Subpar Customer Experience  The customer experience is a key factor in whether or not they’ll come back. Small business owners have the unique challenge of finding unique ways to create positive experiences for everyone who walks in the door. Customers want a personalized, customized experience when they book an appointment. They want staff to acknowledge their individual preferences and expectations, resulting in a service that’s tailored just to them. Lack of soft skills and the ability to build relationships add to the experience, making... --- ### How to Advertise Your Business Locally > Daysmart Software provides several ways to build an audience for your local business, and marketing strategies to target locals. - Published: 2024-03-13 - Modified: 2024-03-13 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/blog/advertising-small-business-locally/ - Categories: Blogs If you own a small business, you know how important it is to develop a relationship with local customers. Building a relationship with the locals is essential for continued business and growth; for any small business. After all, if people who live nearby aren’t visiting their local businesses, why would others from further afield make the trip? Unfortunately, advertising locally is not as simple as you might hope. However, once you understand how to implement effective advertising, the results you will see will be monumental. Suppose you can successfully separate your offering from the competition and engage with your local customers. In that case, you will see plenty of knock-on effects, such as more business, more positive reviews, and even some more customers that are not local. This article will guide you on how to advertise your business locally to good effect and help you continue to grow and build your brand. Key takeaways for your business From this article, you will learn the following: How to create marketing campaigns that resonate with your local customers and help you stand out from the competition. You can employ a range of digital and physical marketing tactics to experience more local business from local customers. Any business can use several free and cost-effective marketing tools, regardless of size or marketing budget. Ways You Can Promote Your Local Business Start a Company Blog Developing a company blog is one of the most effective marketing strategies available to you. Not only is blogging completely free to execute, but it can also lead to several new potential clients discovering your business. By writing plenty of blog content surrounding your industry, you will show potential customers just how knowledgeable you are about the field, and it will build your trust and reputation. Not only that, but Google’s ranking system will also take note. If your content is deemed insightful, engaging, and beneficial, your business will appear at the top of the rankings when local people search for businesses near me them. However, to achieve this success, your content must be more thought out than simply writing about industry-related topics you anticipate people are searching in Google. To ensure your content has a true impact on where your business ranks on Google, you must implement a search engine optimization (SEO) strategy. An SEO strategy includes keyword research, highlighting which topics are constantly searched by your target audience, which you can then use to write content that answers their query. Google values content that solves users’ questions and offers them useful guidance. There are plenty of free keyword research tools that you can use to map out your blog content, or you can use more advanced tools like Ahrefs, SEMRush, and SurferSEO if they fall within your marketing budget. Understanding what your target audience is looking for online is the first step toward building content that will lead to traffic and new local customers. Keep Your Social Media Channels Updated Once you have spent time crafting the perfect... --- ### DaySmart Acquires Time To Pet > The combination of Time To Pet and DaySmart’s solutions within the pet care space encompasses grooming, boarding, daycare, vet care, etc. - Published: 2024-02-05 - Modified: 2024-02-05 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/blog/daysmart-acquires-time-to-pet/ - Categories: Uncategorized - Tags: acquisition Acquisition brings pet sitting and dog walking capabilities to DaySmart’s business management software solutions for pet care providers. DaySmart Software, a leading provider of vertically-focused business management software, announced today the acquisition of Time To Pet, a leading provider of pet care software. The acquisition brings pet sitting and dog walking capabilities to existing DaySmart Pet customers and augments the company’s pet grooming and daycare offerings. Based in Austin, Texas, Time to Pet is trusted by thousands of pet care companies worldwide, providing a modern, easy-to-use solution for professional pet service providers. Its solutions provide core features such as client and staff management, integrated scheduling and invoicing, and online payments, with advanced features including GPS tracking, automatic charging, visit report cards, and pet parent communications. “The combination of Time To Pet and DaySmart’s solutions within the pet care space encompasses grooming, boarding, daycare, veterinary care, and now pet sitting and dog walking,” said Pat Shanahan, CEO of DaySmart. “Together, our vision is to provide the best business management solutions for pet care providers of all sizes, while also providing an unparalleled experience for pet parents to manage their pet's care. ” “Our mission has always been to make the process of starting, growing, and managing a pet care business easier, more enjoyable, and more profitable,” said Kyle Thielk, Co-Founder of Time To Pet. “Joining DaySmart will allow us to work faster and be more efficient in building the tools and functionality pet care providers need to create successful and sustainable businesses. ” “We are incredibly proud of what our team has been able to build over the past eight years, and today, Time To Pet is the trusted software for thousands of pet care businesses around the world,” said Michael Grenier, Co-Founder of Time To Pet. “DaySmart’s experience in the pet space, their talented and committed team, and their ability to help small businesses grow is what excites us the most. The synergies between our two organizations will allow us to deliver even more exceptional services and experiences to our customers. ” About DaySmart Headquartered in Ann Arbor, Michigan, DaySmart Software is committed to providing SMB and enterprise clients tailored business management solutions to help them run and grow their businesses. Since 1999, DaySmart has offered vertically focused cloud-based applications and payment processing solutions to businesses of all sizes, spanning across the recreation, vet, pet, salon, spa, and body art industries. The company’s comprehensive platform empowers customers to manage, connect, and grow their client base within a single solution. For more information about the company and its suite of solutions, visit www. DaySmart. com. About Time To Pet Based in Austin, TX, Time To Pet builds modern software to help pet care professionals start, grow, and better manage their pet care businesses. We provide a complete back-end suite of services like invoicing, scheduling, payments, client portals, mobile applications, GPS, integrations, and more. Our software allows pet care professionals to build successful and sustainable companies while delivering exceptional, safe, and... --- ### The Benefits of Deposits for Your Pet Grooming Business  > Learn more about the benefits of deposits and how they can help your business reduce no shows and generate more revenue. - Published: 2024-01-25 - Modified: 2025-04-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/the-benefits-of-using-deposits-at-your-pet-care-business/ - Categories: Blogs For service-based businesses like pet grooming, collecting deposits at the time of booking an appointment is becoming a standard practice.   Mandatory deposits are a simple yet highly effective solution to secure cash flow, while also ensuring both businesses and clients remain committed to appointments. In this blog, we’ll explore the importance of collecting deposits, the many benefits they bring, and how DaySmart Pet can help streamline this process. Let us show you how collecting deposits can help run your pet grooming business more efficiently, while allowing you to focus on what matters most: caring for your VIPs (Very Important Pets).  Why are Deposits Important for Your Grooming Business?   We know how frustrating it is when a client confirms a two-hour grooming session for their dog, only to not show up. It's then tough to fill that spot on such short notice, meaning you lose out on the revenue from that appointment.    Service-based businesses that rely on appointments often face challenges when clients fail to show up or don’t rebook. Asking for a partial deposit or full payment upfront helps protect your business from last-minute cancellations and no-shows. Typically, a standard deposit is a set rate usually around 20 – 25% of the service cost. Clients are more likely to show up for their grooming appointments, or rebook if needed, rather than lose their deposit. Collecting deposits ensures that appointments stay on track, resulting in a more predictable schedule, a consistent flow of clients, and, ultimately, growing revenue for your grooming business.   Before you start collecting deposits, it’s crucial to have the right tools to accept modern payments. For today’s consumer, credit and digital cash are king. In 2024, an estimated 86. 9% of all transactions in the U. S. were cashless, according to Capital One. This means that more people are turning to digital wallet options like Apple Pay, Samsung Pay, or Google Pay. In fact, Payments Journal found that 90% of consumers used a digital wallet payment at least once over the course of the year. So, pet owners may prefer to pay with their smartphones, rather than fumbling with their wallets or purses while managing their pooch's leash!   Imagine what you can do with the guaranteed revenue and saved time coming your way! Deposits help you grow your bank account, expand your grooming business, hire more staff, and give your team more time to focus on grooming rather than administrative tasks. With smoother operations, you may even find time for that vacation you’ve been dreaming about but never booked!    Modern Solutions for Modern Payments  Collecting deposits for your pet grooming business can be a game changer—and the right software should make it easy. Modern pet grooming software is designed to accommodate today’s digital payment preferences, allowing you to securely collect deposits without the hassle of cash or checks.   Automating your deposit collection process saves you time and energy while reducing the risk of no-shows and last-minute cancellations. Plus, with... --- ### Video Library | DaySmart Pet > Check out all of Daysmart Pet's videos here. - Published: 2024-01-03 - Modified: 2025-01-08 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/video-library-daysmart-pet/ - Categories: Videos --- ### Best Dog Grooming Software for 2024 > Get a full breakdown of the top pet grooming software to help you run your business more efficiently. - Published: 2023-12-20 - Modified: 2024-12-25 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/best-dog-grooming-software-for-2024/ - Categories: Blogs For those in the bustling pet grooming industry, leveraging digital tools is not just about streamlining operations—although that helps—but also, about freeing up more quality time to spend with our furry friends. While hanging with animals might be your favorite part of the job, running a dog grooming business inherently comes with juggling appointments, managing staff, and keeping track of inventory—no wonder you're exhausted! It's enough to make even the most dedicated entrepreneur yearn for a break. What if you could streamline business operations, free up your time, and focus on what truly matters: those four-legged friends who bring wagging tails and unconditional love into our lives? Enter the world of dog grooming software. This guide will unleash the best dog grooming software, unpack the benefits that pet grooming software can bring to businesses, and review our top contenders for the best dog grooming software in a way that's both informative and, dare we say, pawsome. What is Dog Grooming Software? Think of dog grooming software as the Swiss Army knife in your grooming toolkit. It's like a digital butler, handling everything from scheduling appointments to managing customer data, offering online booking capabilities, sending automated reminders, and providing real-time reporting and analytics. This software allows busy groomers to focus more on snipping fur and less on flipping through scheduling books and reminding pet parents of their appointments. So, how can dog grooming software become your new best friend? For small businesses, the most efficient software is not a luxury but a necessity for your business to grow and thrive. It simplifies day-to-day tasks, keeps your customer database organized, ensures timely appointments, and offers insights into your business's performance. In short, it's your digital path toward a more organized and profitable grooming business. Below are some of the key benefits of top-tier pet grooming software. Operational Efficiency Goodbye, appointment chaos! Say hello to online booking, automated reminders, and color-coded calendars that make scheduling a breeze. Plus, clients can complete paperwork ahead of time, which means pups are ready to go upon arrival. And the kicker: No more accidental double bookings or frantic phone calls; just smooth sailing and happy clients. Staff superheroes: Empower your team with tools that track performance, manage schedules, and facilitate seamless communication. Suddenly, everyone's on the same page, running a well-oiled grooming machine. No-shows? Not anymore: Automated reminders nudge forgetful pet parents, which keeps schedules aligned and furry clients appropriately pampered. Customer Experience Convenience at their paws: Online booking and self-service options put the power in your clients' hands. Schedule appointments, update pet profiles, and even leave reviews, all from their phones. Personalized care: Remember Sparky's sensitive skin or Luna's love for belly rubs? The best dog grooming software allows you to easily record and store detailed pet profiles and preferences, ensuring every groom is a delightful experience. Building loyalty: Send birthday greetings, offer special promotions, and keep your clients engaged through targeted marketing tools. Watch those wagging tails turn into loyal, lifelong customers. Financial... --- ### What You Should Know About the Canine Respiratory Illness > The illness, atypical canine respiratory illness, was first seen in the western US during the summer and has spread to as many as 14 states. - Published: 2023-12-04 - Modified: 2023-12-05 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/vet/blog/canine-respiratory-illness/ - Categories: Blogs - Tags: canine, illness, medicine, respiratory, vet During the holiday season, it’s common knowledge that humans sometimes catch illnesses as they gather in large groups to celebrate. This year, canines are facing the same issue. As humans — and their pups — meet up with their family and friends, there is cause for concern that dogs are spreading a recently identified respiratory illness. The respiratory illness, referred to as atypical canine respiratory illness, was first identified in the western United States during the summer and has spread to as many as 14 states by the end of November. The illness includes several symptoms, such as coughing and sneezing, difficulty breathing, rapid breathing, and wheezing or nasal whistling.   Veterinarians have been key to identifying and managing the outbreak, and their findings have been reported to veterinary schools and professional organizations that are then sharing the information throughout the industry. As a veterinarian, here’s what you should be aware of regarding this illness, how to treat your patients, and how to inform their owners. What is the canine respiratory virus? According to the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine, atypical canine respiratory illness is an acute respiratory infection that ranges from a mild infection to a life-threatening diagnosis accompanied by pneumonia. Veterinarians have identified these common symptoms: Breathing issues — difficulty breathing, rapid breathing, coughing and sneezing, and wheezing or nasal whistling Fever Dehydration Nasal or eye discharge Decrease in activity — lethargy or difficulty exercising Nutrition issues — loss of appetite or weight loss It is highly contagious and rapidly spreads when dogs come into close contact with other dogs. Their dogs should refrain from sharing dog bowls, toys, or chews. The respiratory illness is diagnosed by identifying symptoms and through testing. If infected, dogs are prescribed cough suppressants for mild cases. Dogs with more severe cases may be hospitalized due to dehydration and treated with nebulization, IV antibiotics, or ventilatory support.   How can veterinarians manage the canine respiratory virus outbreak? Veterinarians should be on the alert for any patients exhibiting the above symptoms that can appear differently depending on the patient. Some may have a mild to moderate cough that persists for six to eight weeks or more that doesn’t lessen with antibiotic treatment. Others can suffer from chronic pneumonia that has no response to antibiotics. Severe cases may present as severe pneumonia that worsens between 24 to 36 hours. Diagnostic testing and tools are available for atypical canine respiratory illness, such as those offered by the Purdue University College of Veterinary Medicine, which include a Canine Respiratory PCR Panel and analysis of several types of samples. What preventative measures are recommended for veterinary clinics? It’s important for veterinarians to take preventative measures at their clinics. Make sure that patients are current on all vaccinations and recommend vaccination against canine influenza virus for dogs that are expected to be in custody for long periods of time.   Keep your clinic clean by sanitizing exam rooms and areas frequented by dogs and typically... --- ### What Pet Business Owners Need to Know When Evaluating Booking and Management Software > A short guide on how you as a pet business owner can find the best pet care software for you and your growing business. - Published: 2023-11-14 - Modified: 2024-12-25 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/pet-care-need-to-know-when-evaluating-booking-and-management-software/ - Categories: Blogs Your pet care business is growing, and your current solution of pen and paper, digital spreadsheets, or manual calendar entries is taking up too much of your time and no longer supports your needs. You should be working smarter, not harder. It’s time to streamline your operations and supercharge your business growth and profits using the right booking and managing software. We’ve created this buyer’s guide to assist you in your search for the best software for your pet care business. This guide covers: Common barriers to switching software (and how to overcome them) Reasons you should consider transitioning to a new provider How to prepare for conversations with potential pet business software providers Common Barriers to Avoiding the Switch to a New Pet Care Business Software The choice of which software to purchase to run your daily operations is not something you take lightly, and several concerns factor into your decision. However, it’s important to remember that your current software or processes may be costing you time and money. It takes some time and effort to research, invest in, and adopt new software. In the long run, this decision can help improve efficiencies, create an optimal workflow for employees, and provide better service for your customers. These are the common barriers that pet business owners encounter when considering new software to streamline their operations:Fear of change The concern: You and your staff have been using your current software for some time, and you’re used to all the features. You’ll also have to migrate your data to a new platform. The opportunity: Adopting up-to-date software will give you access to even better features to run your business. Many companies offer training, user support, and online resources to help you every step of the way. Spending time onboarding and training The concern: Purchasing new software means you’ll have to train and learn how to use a different product.   The opportunity: When you onboard your new booking and management software, you’ll be amazed at all the time you save once you implement features that can automate manual tasks and streamline your entire operation. Finding the right interface and features The concern: Your current software covers your needs and you’re comfortable with its usability. The opportunity: Newer booking and management software platforms are developed with the end user in mind, and software companies offer additional features that manage your day-to-day needs as well as your bottom line, such as customer reviews, payments, and business reporting.  Feedback from coworkers, customers, and vendors The concern: Change is hard, and updating your booking and management software may be a concern for your staff and customers. The opportunity: If you adopt a platform that improves efficiency and is easy to use you can save your stylists time in their day while improving the experience from the moment an appointment is scheduled to the second the client checks out. Finding budget-friendly software The concern: New software may be too expensive and not cost-effective for your... --- ### How DaySmart Pet Can Help You Run the Day-to-Day Tasks at Your Pet Care Business > Daysmart Pet business software allows pet business owners to automate much of the mundane day-to-day tasks and focus on what matters most. - Published: 2023-11-14 - Modified: 2024-12-25 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/how-daysmart-pet-can-help-you-run-the-day-to-day-tasks/ - Categories: Blogs It takes passion to run a pet business. It starts with a love for helping animals and providing them with the best products and services you can offer. But you also need to be willing to dive into the business part of running your business. Overseeing daily tasks and the growth of your business is crucial to your success and it can be overwhelming. Having the right software provider can make running a pet care business easier. DaySmart Pet has the tools and features to improve efficiency, dedicate more time to your clients, and drive more revenue. Read on to find out how DaySmart Pet supports your day-to-day operations, from the moment you open to the time you lock the doors at night. Prepare for the day Know what your day looks like before the first set of paws walks in the door. DaySmart Pet’s digital appointment book can be viewed from your desktop, phone, or tablet to give you a big picture of scheduling, staff hours, your busiest time of day, and when you have breaks to manage the back end of your business. With all of this information in one place, you’ll be aware of where you need to allocate resources to get the most out of your business hours. Speed up client check-in DaySmart Pet can create and send forms to clients in advance, allowing them to have everything filled out before their appointments. Document, forms, and credit card information are automatically synced to client profiles and can be taken care of in advance of appointments, providing a paw-sitive experience before they walk in the door.  Access client details instantly By digitizing your client records, you can find all of your client’s information in one place. Access details on pet breed, temperament, vaccinations, and notes in advance of appointments so you and your staff know what to expect.  No more no-shows Don’t worry about sending appointment reminders and handling no-shows for upcoming clients. DaySmart Pet is already handling it for you with automated text and email reminders to your clients so you can focus on your clients and other priority tasks. Simplify client communication Stay connected with your clients without interfering with your schedule. Reduce your time on the phone by using two-way texting to instantly communicate with clients. Built-in texting in the DaySmart Pet solution makes it easy to communicate about appointment requests, style inspiration photos, arrival times, when it’s time for pick-up, and more. Secure future business With online booking, you can keep regular clients on the schedule and new clients coming back. DaySmart Pet’s cloud-based platform allows clients to easily book through any device and set up future or recurring appointments.   Plus, get the word out by leveraging your loyal customers through DaySmart Pet’s reputation management feature that allows you to ask clients for reviews after an appointment and post them to Yelp, Google, Facebook, and other platforms, enabling you to drive new business. Offer hassle-free payments at checkout Simplify checkout... --- ### 7 Ways to Increase Sales on Small Business Saturday > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for 14-days! - Published: 2023-10-24 - Modified: 2025-04-25 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/7-ways-to-increase-your-sales-on-small-business-saturday/ - Categories: Blogs Access our blog focused on how you can increase sales and boost brand awareness for Small Business Saturday. In this blog, we’ll discuss ways you can promote your pet care business and provide helpful tips, tricks, and templates for: Promos Facebook ads Email marketing And more! 7 Ways to Increase Sales on Small Business Saturday One of the best days of the year for small businesses is coming up, and your pet business can take advantage of it. Small Business Saturday —a day to celebrate and support small businesses and all they do for their communities — was founded by American Express in 2010.   Small Business Saturday encourages consumers to support local businesses by shopping small during the holiday season. This year, Small Business Saturday will take place on Saturday, Nov. 30, in between the frenzy of Black Friday and Cyber Monday. Small Business Saturday is the perfect opportunity for small businesses to boost revenue, increase brand awareness, and strengthen ties with your local community. To help you stand out among the other pet care businesses in your area, we’ve put together seven ways you can promote your business and increase sales on Small Business Saturday. Let’s dive in! #1 Offer Promotions #2 Email Marketing #3 Text Marketing #4 Custom Designs with Canva #5 Facebook Ads #6 Google Business #7 Social Media Hashtags 1. Offer Promotions Before developing your marketing strategy, you’ll want to determine your promotions for Small Business Saturday. Consider deals that will increase revenue and drive awareness toward products or services your clients might not be familiar with.   DaySmart Pet’s reporting feature lets you easily view key business metrics to help you decide which promotions will most benefit you and your clients. Need a little inspiration? You can view a few of our suggestions below! Once you’ve determined your promotions, you can easily add the promotional discount during the checkout process within DaySmart Pet. Promotion Ideas: Book by Small Business Saturday and receive X% off your next appointment Buy one product and get a second X% off, in-store only Book your next grooming appointment by Small Business Saturday and receive a free add-on service Sign up for one month of daycare and get one week free Make a boarding reservation for 5 nights and get a 6th night free Pro Tip: Using promo codes can be a great way to ensure you track which clients receive which promotion! 2. Email Marketing Once your promotions have been established, it’s time to get the word out. The first place you’ll want to start is email marketing. There’s a good chance your customers will see your message, with 99% of email users checking their inbox daily. DaySmart Pet provides built-in email marketing functionality that will allow you to promote your Small Business Saturday deals to clients in your database. You can also designate who will receive your emails based on client activity. Do you only want to send your offer to clients who haven’t booked an... --- ### 7 Ways Your Pet Software Can Help Your Pet Care Business Grow > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2023-07-11 - Modified: 2024-12-25 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/7-ways-your-pet-software-can-help-your-pet-care-business-grow/ - Categories: Blogs Discover how you can scale up, without increasing your clients You’re the owner or manager of a pet care business who has spent months, maybe years, busily building your brand, becoming an expert in the industry, networking with the right people, and researching the best pet software and other systems for your business. You’ve committed your time, heart, and soul to your work. You finally feel like you’ve got a handle on things (most of the time), and at this point, you might be thinking about the next chapter: growing your business. Growth and scalability are likely to be among the perpetual driving forces behind your business decisions, at nearly every part of your journey. As you start to plan for expansion, your first thought might be, “It’s time for me to find more clients. ” While that's certainly a good growth strategy, you may want to first look inward, and discover the opportunities to scale your business among your existing portfolio. In this blog, we’ll focus on ways you can grow your revenue without growing your clients. Expand Your Pet Care Business With The Right Pet Software If you’re using the right pet software for your business, you’ve probably come to depend on it as your central operating system. You should also then be able to depend on it as a main resource for your growth. As you plan to scale, your pet software should have the capacity to scale with you. Let’s look at several ways you can creatively add new revenue streams to your business, the expected level of investment of your time and capital for each, and how the right pet software can support your growth plans. 1. Start a brand loyalty program Level of investment: minimal One of the simplest ways to keep your customers coming back is to reward them for their loyalty. Implementing a brand loyalty program that offers rewards like free services or discounts on products is a fairly low-cost strategy to drive more business. A pet software with a client loyalty system makes this option particularly accessible and easy to get started with right away. 2. Add features or services to your existing offerings Level of investment: minimal to moderate Another great way to boost customer retention is to give your clients more opportunities to book more services with you. Take a look at what your competitors are doing and get creative. If your business already provides dog haircuts, consider adding playful portrait services that owners can take home and enjoy. If you run an animal daycare, consider charging a fee for video check-in calls throughout the day. For your clients boarding a dog with you, give them the chance to spend a little extra on a midday car ride for their pup, or a trip to a nearby park. Adding services like these can be another low-cost option if your pet software offers online booking that makes it easy for you to manage and simple for your customers... --- ### Tips for Taking Care of Yourself During Busy Season > Daysmart Recreation gives you the best tips on taking care of yourself during the busy recreation season. - Published: 2023-05-19 - Modified: 2024-12-25 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/4-tips-for-taking-care-of-yourself-during-the-busy-season/ - Categories: Blogs As a pet care professional, you work hard to take care of your clients’ furry friends. With the busy season looming, we want to remind you that it’s important to maintain some time for you to take care of yourself. Here are a few ways to carve out some me-time so you can continue caring for your clients and their pets. Make Rest a Priority and Take Productive Breaks No, a productive break does not mean you work during your lunch hour. A productive break is a time dedicated to rest and rejuvenation, nothing else. Neither our brains nor our bodies are meant to function at high levels for long periods of time, and rest gives us a chance to bounce back from a busy day of grooming poodles. Your mind and body will graciously thank you for the time you take to recuperate. You’ll come back from your break with more energy and more brainpower to give the best care possible. Managing burnout as a business owner is essential to long-term productivity and happiness. Find Ways to Make Your Workdays Feel Special Do you remember the fifth-grade pizza party you had after standardized testing? It can be good to treat yourself after doing tough things because it gives you something to look forward to, and you can do the same thing on your busy workdays. We’re not saying you need to end every day with pizza (unless you want to). All we’re saying is the busy seasons can be a bit more fun by adding a few intentional actions. You can have a solo pizza party every Friday or invite your coworkers to take a load off with you. You can relax and watch some TV with your pet. Maybe before driving to work, listen to a special playlist that pumps you up for the day. Others may feel inclined to wear an extra spiffy outfit, pack exciting lunches, or decide to do some self-care after work. You can light a candle, crack open that book you keep putting off reading, or wind down with some yoga poses. Participate In Some Pet Talk-Therapy We know most would recommend talking to a human, but it can be hard to be vulnerable with someone who can verbally respond. A huge reason you chose the field that you’re in is because you love animals. So, spending time with them when you’re outside of “work mode” can help you reconnect to your passion and remember why you picked this role in the first place. Pet talk therapy is a great way to unwind. Your favorite furry friend certainly won’t mind hearing about your day in exchange for a few extra scratches and treats. They will also appreciate the extra attention. Choose The Right Tools You would never show up to groom a dog with dull scissors, so why not make sure all of your tools are up to the task? With software like DaySmart Pet by your side, you can make... --- ### A Paws-itive New Business Venture: From Banking to Pet Grooming > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2023-05-12 - Modified: 2024-12-25 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/wet-paws-mobile-pet-grooming/ - Categories: Success Stories Jason Anderson had been in the banking industry for over 26 years before he decided to branch out into the world of pet grooming. After being a customer of another mobile pet groomer, he realized with his customer experience, marketing, sales, and finance background, “I can do it better. ” The idea soon blossomed into a new business venture. Jason started Wet Paws Mobile Pet Grooming in the summer of 2022 after witnessing the growing demand for mobile pet grooming during the COVID-19 pandemic. He gathered a team of highly trained pet groomers and stylists to provide the best service for pets and pet parents in the greater Albuquerque, NM area. To provide the best service for his community, Jason prioritizes inclusivity into his business. Jason took the initiative to become a Certified LGBT Business Enterprise®. This certification means that the business has undergone a rigorous certification process to ensure that it meets the standards of the National LGBT Chamber of Commerce. Obtaining this certificate not only showcases the business’s dedication to promoting diversity but also opens doors for partnerships with corporations and organizations that prioritize inclusivity. Wet Paws Mobile Pet Grooming offers a secure and hospitable space for all pets and their owners, irrespective of their sexual orientation or gender identity. (If you are thinking about becoming a certified LGBT Business Enterprise, click here to learn more! ) Whether pet parents are unable to transport their pets to a grooming salon or their pets get stressed, anxious, or car sick, there’s no need to worry. Wet Paws goes directly to their door with state-of-the-art equipment. To enter the grooming industry, Jason knew he needed to find an advanced and reliable software to help him start and expand his business. Having assessed several different software platforms, DaySmart Pet turned out to be the most suitable one for Wet Paws. A few of the features that sold Jason on using DaySmart Pet were: 💻 Online Appointment Booking: Allow clients to request appointments online 24/7 and automatically add them to your schedule after you’ve accepted them. 💳 Integrated Payment Processing: Accept and manage credit card payments directly within DaySmart Pet for a hassle-free experience. 📈 CRM (Customer Relationship Management) Data: With DaySmart Pet’s real-time reporting feature, you can stay on top of your performance with customizable reports that allow you to track sales, bookings, and more! However, the feature that is most helpful for Jason and his staff is the DaySmart Pet mobile app. “Since we are 100% mobile groomers, we use the app exclusively,” says Jason. The ability to store customer cards on file for an easier and quicker checkout and promoting loyalty points for customers help separate Wet Paws from other pet grooming businesses in the area. As a successful small business owner, Jason has lots of advice to give to a new business owner in the pet grooming industry. The main piece of advice he has is to really research all the options out there in the... --- ### Electric Grooming Table: Knowing Your Options > Learn the benefits of using an electric grooming table as a pet grooming professional, from Daysmart Pet. - Published: 2023-04-21 - Modified: 2024-12-25 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/electric-grooming-table/ - Categories: Blogs Given that more than 38 percent of American households have dogs, setting up a pet grooming salon can be a solid business plan. As you get your shop set up, the list of tools and equipment you need can get overwhelming, and you might find yourself wanting to skip certain items. An electric grooming table seems like a luxury tool you can do without, but the safety and convenience of these tables make them a solid investment for your salon. Here’s a bit about these grooming tables, why they’re a great choice for your shop, and what to look for when you start shopping for one. Why an Electric Grooming Table? Given that an electric table will cost more, it might be tempting to try to work with a cheaper grooming folding table. A table is a table, right? But an adjustable dog grooming table delivers not just on convenience, but also safety. When you can lower the table down, a big dog can walk right on and save your back from potential damage from lifting. You can get this same benefit from a hydraulic table, but an electric model saves you the effort of pumping the pedal. Because the table is electric, there is also the possibility for the table to include power outlets for convenient access for your clippers or nail grinder. What Features to Look For These types of tables offer many of the same types of features with the differences coming in how the brand has chosen to execute on it. Most tables are made solidly with an eye toward stability along with convenience. Weight Capacity When you’re considering what size grooming table you need, the first thing to look at is what size dogs you are targeting with your business. Among the breeds of dogs that require a lot of grooming, most are large ones like Afghan hounds and Portuguese water dogs. It’s common to find electric tables that max out at 220 pounds, but you can find them that go up to 330 pounds or even 450 pounds, the Vevor Z-lift Hydraulic grooming table has a 330 pound weight capacity. While you’re unlikely to find a 450-pound dog, know that while a table might list a high weight capacity, in practical application you’ll want to stay below that max. Height Range What makes for an ideal height range for you might depend on your height. Many of these tables can expand up to 40 inches or so in height. Where you find more differences is on the low end. For example, the Flying Pig grooming table offers one of the lowest heights at 11. 25” versus 16-20”, which makes a big difference for older dogs. But that has to be weighed against the fact that it has a lower weight capacity at 220 pounds. Still, it’s one of the more popular options despite the higher cost. Table Top The top of your table actually has several criteria you need to consider, including... --- ### SMS Marketing Best Practices > DaySmart Pet gives you the latest on using SMS marketing appropriately to market to your audience without overdoing it. - Published: 2023-03-20 - Modified: 2024-12-25 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/sms-marketing-best-practices/ - Categories: Blogs What Is SMS Marketing? SMS marketing, or text marketing, is the abbreviated term for short message service marketing. It is a digital marketing tool consisting of bulk text messaging that can be used to send information about discounts, promotions, informational updates, and other special offers directly to your customers’ mobile phones. With DaySmart Pet, your business can integrate SMS messaging into your client database to send appointment reminders and text marketing campaigns directly to your customers. Why Use SMS Marketing Campaigns? SMS marketing offers the ability to reach customers instantly and allows them a chance to respond quickly and in real time, making it easier to gain attention through actionable and urgent messaging that encourages the audience to respond. Because text marketing is still a comparatively new marketing strategy, the mobile carriers (AT&T, Verizon, Sprint, etc. ) are on guard against unwanted text messages being sent to their customers, which they gauge through the volume of unsubscribes or blocking of messages. To successfully use text marketing for your business – and avoid the attention of the major carriers, it is crucial to strategically craft your messages in ways that entices customers to respond to your offer – AND prevent them from unsubscribing. That’s why we put together seven tips to help you make the most out of your SMS marketing campaigns. 7 SMS Marketing Best Practices 1. Clearly Identify Your Company Even if someone has opted in to receive texts from you, they may forget that they signed up. Be sure to clearly identify your business in the message to ensure your contacts don't delete your messages or report them as spam. Here are a few examples: Thanks for signing up to receive updates from Philly Pet Grooming! Here’s your exclusive discount code: WELCOME20 Rebecca, wishing you a very happy birthday from all of us at Philly Pet Grooming! We’re gifting you with 20% off your next appointment 2. Select Your Target Audience There are various types of campaigns to consider. Promotional campaigns include discounts, coupons, or special offers, while transactional campaigns are for immediate actions such as appointment reminders, cancellations, and other requests. When sending promotional campaigns, you can simply segment the audience based on the exclusive promotion you plan to share. Take a moment to determine who, what, why, and how. Then narrow the audience down to create a target audience list. What promotion do we plan to offer? Who will benefit from the special offer? Why and how should they claim the offer? For instance, you may want to attract customers you haven’t seen in the last six months with a unique discount that will make them want to visit your business as soon as possible. With clear and concise messaging that speaks to your target audience, you can ensure that your message generates interest, is well received, and creates an urgency to respond. 3. Offer Immediate Value in Your Message Use the immediacy of text marketing to create a sense of real-time value. For... --- ### Switching Your Pet Business From Pen & Paper Bookkeeping to Software > As a pet business owner, managing the finances and records of your business can be overwhelming. Fortunately, with Daysmart Software, you can change that. - Published: 2023-03-16 - Modified: 2024-12-25 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/switching-your-pet-business-from-pen-paper-bookkeeping-to-software/ - Categories: Blogs As a pet business owner, managing the finances and records of your business can be overwhelming. Keeping track of sales, expenses, and other important financial information can be time-consuming, especially if you're still relying on pen and paper bookkeeping. Fortunately, with the increased capabilities of software solutions, it is becoming increasingly more common to manage your processes with software, allowing you to streamline and automate them; ultimately making it easier to manage your business efficiently. In this article, we'll discuss the benefits of switching from pen and paper bookkeeping to pet business software and how to make the transition as smooth as possible. Why Should You Switch to Software? Time-saving One of the primary benefits of switching to software is that it saves time. Digital bookkeeping eliminates the need for manual data entry, calculations, and analysis. You can enter your data quickly and efficiently, allowing you to focus on other aspects of your business. As a pet business owner, you can have client information saved within your system, so booking return or recurring clients becomes much more simple. Many modern businesses have such advanced online booking capabilities that their customers rarely call the company phone. Accuracy Another advantage of using software is that it's more accurate. Manual bookkeeping can lead to errors, especially if you're working with employees who may not be trained accountants. With software, all calculations are automated, reducing the risk of human error. This accuracy can also help you make better-informed decisions for your business. Accessibility Software also makes it easier to access your financial information. You can view your data from anywhere, anytime, as long as you have an internet connection. This accessibility makes it easier to make informed decisions about your business, even when you're not in the office. In the modern age, customers also develop more brand trust when they feel the services they use are up to date with the latest technology. If your pet business is using payment processing systems, online booking, text message appointment reminders, it's much more likely that your clients will feel confident your business is top of the line. Accessibility goes both ways; you as the business owner, having the ability to access important info, and the customer having equal access to everything they will need to have their pet taken care of by you. Cost-effective Digital bookkeeping is also cost-effective. While you may need to invest in software and possibly training, it's often cheaper in the long run than hiring a dedicated accountant. The money you save on managing this could be allocated to new grooming equipment, facility rental, a marketing budget, or anything else you feel your pet business may need. How to Make the Transition Choose the Right Software The first step to switching to digital bookkeeping is to choose the right software. There are many options available, ranging from simple spreadsheet templates to complex accounting software. Daysmart Pet covers many of the bases you may need as a pet business owner, with... --- ### Managing Burnout And Work-Life Balance as a Pet Care Business Owner > Burnout is possible whether you manage your pet care business alone, or with a team. Here's all you need to know about burnout, and work-life balance. - Published: 2023-03-15 - Modified: 2024-12-25 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/managing-burnout-and-work-life-balance-as-a-pet-care-business-owner/ - Categories: Blogs Burnout is possible whether you manage your pet care business alone, or with a trusted team. No matter how good your team is, if you feel the need to micromanage and be involved in everything, you risk burnout. It happens when you can't delegate and when you have poor boundaries. Here's all you need to know about burnout and work-life balance. What Is Burnout? Prolonged work stress causes burnout; it makes you wonder, does this business work for my health and sanity? You may wonder if working for a corporation, despite the limitations, would leave you feeling more rested and energized. These questions are normal for any business owner. However, burnout isn't only limited to bad boundaries at work. It may also manifest itself by your overall attitude about work. You know you are on the verge of burnout at work when you feel drained, overwhelmed, cynical, and helpless about your business operations. If you think your work burnout won’t affect your pet care business, you are wrong. Poor work-life balance can sap you emotionally and affect your "why". It can affect the very reason you started the business; your passion for pet care. Not only that, but it will also lower your productivity. Work stress and routine tiredness are different than burnout. Here's what burnout is, what it isn't, and how to know the difference. Difference Between Usual Work Stress and Burnout Your job is exhausting, you are frustrated with your position, or you are dissatisfied with the outcome of your pet care business; this isn't burnout. When you are overworked, you are tired, which makes you hate your job; this might feel like burnout, but you need a vacation, a break at best, to make you feel refreshed and rejuvenated. Distinguishing between burnout and needing a break is very important. If you take ample breaks and refresh, you might never burn out. The first step of burnout is exhaustion. With a break, you can avoid burnout easily. One of the easiest ways to avoid burnout; allow yourself to consistently take days off, where you can completely disconnect. Burnout doesn't happen all at once; there are similar patterns that occur you may be able to spot so you don't allow yourself to hit rock bottom. The Steps That Lead To Burnout Engaged and Energetic: This is the start of the new business. You have passion and energy, and due to that over-energetic attitude, you may take on more than you can handle. You are still very productive, very much into work, and are willing to juggle everything to make it all come together. Overextended: You managed and loved what you were doing, but the pressure is getting to you. You are still productive and juggling, but the work keeps coming, and you find yourself overbooked. Disengaged: This is the point where you are losing hope, you are still working and being productive, but the energy and hope are long gone. Your passion has become a tedious job.... --- ### 8 Brand Loyalty Program Ideas for Your Pet Care Business > Daysmart offers several brand loyalty solutions to elevate your pet care business or pet grooming business. - Published: 2023-01-19 - Modified: 2024-12-25 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/8-brand-loyalty-program-ideas-for-your-pet-care-business/ - Categories: Blogs Pet care business owners around the globe struggle to retain customers. Competition is the number one reason. With new trends and “cheap” pet care available in every neighborhood, it's hard to hold on to even the most loyal clients who’ve been with you for years. So much for brand loyalty. If they find the same service elsewhere cheaper, they will switch. It is a hard reality. However, it doesn't mean you change your prices to get more customers. Rather, introduce better strategies to bring new customers to your business, and make them stay. Brand loyalty programs can help you achieve this goal. When you carefully strategize and optimize brand loyalty programs, you will keep your loyal clients and gain new clients. We've put together five brand-loyalty program ideas for your pet care business that will help you understand your loyal customers better, get accurate data on purchases, and attract new customers. Why Do Brand Loyalty Programs Work? If you have never implemented brand loyalty programs, it's hard to understand how they work. But it's a tough market out there and you need the maximum number of weapons in your arsenal. You need to make the paw parents happy, and a little extra incentive goes a long way in keeping your customers and their pets satisfied. Brand loyalty programs for pet care businesses can include quick service, attractive prices, and extra treats. Customers look for the best services, the best pricing, and the pet care businesses that provide the best worth for their dollars. They also like to stick to places that their pets are attached to, which is also a great way to retain customers. Benefits of Brand Loyalty Programs Here are the benefits of introducing brand loyalty programs for your customers. Customer Retention When you reward your customers for repeat purchases, they return for more. Customers come back to the same business for many reasons. Service comes first, and the second is the experience of getting their money’s worth. Brand loyalty programs give them another incentive to shop from the same brand. A well-strategized loyalty program can help you achieve the following goals for your pet care business. The numbers speak for themselves: when given incentives, the loyal members are likely to spend 5-20% more than the rest of the clients. And if you improve your customer retention by a mere 5%, it corresponds to a 25% to 95% increase in profits. Improve Sales in Slow Seasons Every business has slow months, but loyal customers can help you navigate these seasons. For example, if past data reveals October and November as dry months, this is where a loyalty program will prove most effective. Overall, loyalty programs increase annual profits by 5-10%, even factoring in months where sales dip. Sell Services That Customers Usually Ignore Brand loyalty programs, like point redemption schemes, help sell services that are most likely to be ignored by customers. For example, on every 10th boarding, you can give your customers a free treat,... --- ### Helping Dogs Relax at Boarding: A Definitive Guide > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2022-10-14 - Modified: 2024-12-25 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/helping-dogs-relax-at-boarding-a-definitive-guide/ - Categories: Blogs While the pandemic era was a boon for pups, now that many people are resuming their normal lives, many dogs are experiencing separation anxiety. To compound this issue, many dog parents are experiencing anxiety as well. After two years of being home with their dogs, the people that are now returning to work or taking much-needed vacations are wondering how they can help ease anxiety when boarding a dog. If you run a boarding facility or doggy daycare, these are some fantastic tips in this dog boarding guide to help both your canine and human clients overcome separation anxiety. What is Separation Anxiety? Like humans, dogs can experience a range of emotions when removed from their families. Familiarizing yourself with the signs and symptoms of separation anxiety in dogs is critical. What Causes Separation Anxiety? Dogs have never been solitary animals. Even their wolf ancestors prefer to live and hunt in family groups. Dogs still exhibit many wolf-like traits, and being alone can trigger a sense of abandonment. Since modern dogs rely on their humans for food, water, playtime, affection and security, it’s natural that some level of anxiety occurs when that human leaves. Even dogs who have the company of another, more relaxed dog might still display these symptoms. In some cases, the anxious dog triggers the anxious dog, leaving two anxious dogs in the house. Over the last few years, dogs have shown a sharp increase in separation anxiety. So many people worked from home, which allowed them to spend all day with their pups. Now that more people are returning to work and taking vacations, these dogs’ routines have changed dramatically. Separation anxiety is the result. What Does Separation Anxiety Look Like? Recognizing the signs of separation anxiety is the first step to helping dogs overcome this stress level. When dogs are home, their anxiety manifests in several ways. The dog may howl or bark for hours, they might destroy furniture out of frustration, and, in some cases, the dog may even injure itself trying to escape. Frequently, a previously house-trained dog will have indoor accidents due to anxiety. In a kennel situation, separation anxiety may look a little different. A stressed and anxious dog might avoid other dogs, not engage in play, they may refuse food and water, and, in rare cases, their stress level is so high that they growl or snap at other dogs. How Does a Dog’s Human Affect Separation Anxiety? With the strong bond people have with their pups, it’s no wonder humans experience separation anxiety too. Some pet parents even liken dropping off their dog at boarding to dropping off their children for the first day of school. Dogs Pick Up on Their Humans’ Feelings Dogs are highly sensitive and emotional creatures. They’re very aware and in tune with the world around them, including their humans’ emotions. Many pet parents know their dogs understand when they’re feeling sad or excited. This is one of the most rewarding aspects of... --- ### Poodle Grooming: 15 Tips for Grooming Your Poodle > Poodle grooming may be a more time intensive breed than other common breeds, but Daysmart Pet will help you get the job done. - Published: 2022-10-11 - Modified: 2024-12-25 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/poodle-grooming-15-tips-for-grooming-your-poodle/ - Categories: Blogs Did you know that poodles originate from Germany, not France? It’s true. The national dog of France is actually a German import. Their German name, “pudelin,” means “to splash in the water,” a suiting name for these duck-hunting canines. There’s much to love and learn about these beautiful, athletic, and highly intelligent dogs. If you’re a poodle owner or starting your own grooming business, you already know that poodle grooming can be tricky. Fortunately, there are some easy ways to make poodle grooming simple. Here are 15 tips that will leave your dog looking his or her best, and save you some hassle along the way. 1. Understand Their... Hair? You read that right. Poodles have hair, not fur! What’s the difference? Fur grows to a specific length and then falls out. It’s one of the messiest parts of owning a dog. That is unless you are smart enough to own a poodle. Poodles don’t shed! This is because instead of fur, they have hair. Hair does not stop growing. It will need to be cut, but poodle hair won’t leave you with seasonal shedding either. A poodle’s hair may change, similar to a human’s, due to hormonal changes. For example, female poodles may have changes in their hair before, during, or after pregnancy. Just like human mothers, poodles may lose hair or develop thinner hair after they give birth to a litter of puppies. These “hairy” differences are important to keep in mind when grooming a poodle. 2. Get the Right Tools Before you ever get started grooming your poodle, you need the right pet grooming business plan and set of tools in your arsenal. The tools need are the same, regardless of the size of your particular breed. They include: Clippers Grooming sheers A stainless steel comb Clipper attachments/guard combs A slicker brush A table or elevated surface A towel or non-slip mat You will need to set aside a specific location for grooming before you start. If you’re doing the grooming from home, you may want to opt for a laundry room or bathroom as it’s sometimes easier to clean up afterward. If you don’t have a grooming table, select another elevated, stable location. Just make sure it has enough surface area to allow your canine friend to stand and sit comfortably. This is where the towel or non-slip mat comes in. Even athletic and agile dogs like poodles are susceptible to falls. When placed on an elevated surface, always put something under them so they can have a good grip. This will protect them from slipping or falling off while you’re grooming. 3. Start With the Three B’s Your first official step when grooming is to follow the three B’s: 1. Bathe 2. Blow-dry 3. Brush Starting without having done these three things first is setting yourself (and your pup), up for a world of hurt. Not to mention frustration... You need clean hair that is completely dried before starting. Once you have blow-dried... --- ### 7 Reasons Your Pet Business Needs Text Marketing > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2022-09-08 - Modified: 2024-12-25 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/pet-text-marketing/ - Categories: Blogs 54% of consumers want to receive marketing messages through texts. However, only 11% of businesses are using text messaging as a part of their marketing strategy! This is your chance to get ahead of other pet businesses in your area. By sending an SMS blast to your clients, you can remain top of mind year-round. Text message marketing can help you generate word of mouth, improve engagement with your clients, and show your clients you appreciate your business. Don’t wait around! Instead, untangle your marketing strategy by adding SMS text messaging to the mix. Here are seven reasons your pet business needs SMS blast marketing. 7 Reasons Your Pet Business Needs Text Marketing: 1. Text Marketing is Direct Consumers are becoming more aware of when businesses are trying to sell at them, rather than communicate with them. Throughout any given day, we’re spammed with emails, flyers, and billboards. Many of us have adopted mental filters to clear away the junk. If the recipient doesn’t know and trust you, they’re not likely to open a physical or email messages. Meanwhile, social media is becoming increasingly competitive. If people don’t already know and love your brand, you’ll fail to stand out from the crowd. As social media algorithms change, it’s also challenging to appear in tags and feeds. As a result, businesses need to find smarter ways to reach their customers. Unlike these other marketing channels, texts arrive directly in front of your target audience. That means you don’t have to break out of the competition. Instead, you can reach your subscribers and appear among texts from friends and family. 2. Customers are More Likely to Respond Before you can communicate with your subscribers through email, you need them to open the message first. Otherwise, you’re headed straight for the spam box. According to Adobe: Email open rates range between 20 and 30% Meanwhile, SMS text message marketing has a 98% open rate 90% of texts are read within three seconds Previously, sending an SMS blast was considered invasive. People used to pay for every message they received. Now, most smartphone owners also have unlimited texting. As a result, you don’t have to worry about becoming an annoyance. Instead, consumers prefer texts among other communication methods. When you’re less invasive, people are more likely to read your messages and respond. That means using text message marketing can improve your clickthrough and conversion rates. As more people read and respond to your texts, you’re also boosting engagement with your target audience! 3. Anytime, Anywhere Text messages are short, sweet, and easy to consume. Unlike an email, phone call, or long blog post, texts aren’t time-consuming. Plus, consumers constantly have their phones in hand. That means your clients can read and respond to an SMS blast anytime, anywhere! This flexibility makes it easier for clients to respond to your texts. As a result, you’re also more likely to notice an increase in engagement, too. Emails, on the other hand, require time and... --- ### Dog Instagram Captions to Use On Your Next Post > Looking for fun and creative dog Instagram captions? Elevate your posts with these catchy and engaging caption ideas. - Published: 2022-09-06 - Modified: 2024-12-25 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/dog-instagram-captions/ - Categories: Blogs A picture of your pup is worth 1,000 words (or more). But, you’ve only got so many characters to make it count on social media. You’re also competing with dog owners who post about their pets an average of 6 times each week. Choosing the right caption gets greater attention and engagement from your followers. This results in more likes and growth for your business. So, ready to post your best puppy pictures? Check out these creative dog Instagram captions to use for your next post. He’s Paws-Itively a Good Boy If you’re looking for cute Instagram captions to impress your audience, this is it. Feature a close-up shot of a cute face staring right into the camera. You can have the pup giving you his paw for the full effect. This post helps to show off good obedience and successful dog training techniques. It’s also effective in scoring you tons of likes. We Shiz Tzu Not! This is the perfect caption idea for sharing an image of an adorable Shiz Tzu. You can add to the caption to include some exciting news. This could be something relating to a special your company is running. It can also highlight a new feature or service that you’re introducing. No Ruff Days Here... This post idea works great as a group shot for a bunch of four-legged friends hanging out together. It shows how fun and friendly their environment is. A caption like this is ideal for posting on a Monday when people are dreading going back to work. This post is sure to cheer people up and get a lot of likes. The Pup-Arazzi Strikes Again! Looking for captions that show off a diva dog’s personality? This one works well for making a pup famous. It’s easier for dogs than people to become Insta-famous. As many favored pooches have their own social media channels with large followings. We Like Big Mutts and We Cannot Lie There’s still a lot of Sir Mix A Lot fans on social media. This caption features a PG remake of his still-popular song. Post this caption when sharing an image of a bigger breed. Great Danes, Newfoundlands, and Mastiffs are all good ideas. Another cute picture idea is to place a tiny breed next to an extra-large breed. This will get a great response from your followers. Enjoying the Dog Days of Summer Seasonal highlights are always great ideas for Instagram posts. They get a lot of attention as they are timely. For this caption, show a dog walking in the park. Use the surrounding nature as a beautiful backdrop. Dogs need plenty of exercise so this provides an easy photo opportunity. We’re Bad to the Bone People love seeing photos of dogs playing dress-up. For this caption, line up a few dogs (that know how to sit still). Then have them each wear a pair of sunglasses. Sup, Dog? This caption is short, silly, and simple. It plays off of the popular phrase,... --- ### The 2022 Pet Industry Goldmine: Trends and Stats to Know > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2022-08-11 - Modified: 2024-12-25 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/pet-industry-trends-2/ - Categories: Blogs Pet industry trends often reflect broader themes seen in human-focused industries, and this year is no different. Three of those concepts are wellness, convenience, and personalization. As a pet professional, you’ve probably seen for yourself how pet owners are increasingly knowledgeable and informed about pet products and services. Roger Lima, owner ofLe Pup Pet Supplies and Groomingwith two locations in Florida, says, “When pet owners come to us, they’ve already gone to Dr. Google. They have a lot of questions, and they’ve researched a lot of products. They’re informed. To be honest, I learn from them too. They may know about products that I don’t. ” With his background as a veterinarian, he focuses on pet nutrition and alternative medicine in his stores. This way, he’s able to provide plenty of value to his customers, and they keep coming back. Nevertheless, like everyone, he had to make adjustments to his business this past year due to COVID. The Top 15 Pet Industry Statistics to Know in 2022 The US pet marketexceeded $100 billion for the first time in 2020. Over 10 million dogs and over 2 million cats were added to theUS base of household petsin 2020. The global pet care market, estimated at US$179. 4 billion in 2020, is projected to reach a revised size of US$241. 1 billion by 2026. The North American pet insurance marketexceeded $2. 83 billion (€2. 27B) in 2021, an increase of 30% compared to 2020. In 2022, there are now over 4. 41 millioninsured pets across North America, against 3. 45 million in 2020. Since 2018, pet insurance saw an increase in pet policies of 113% in cats and 86. 2% in dogs. Cats (26%) and dogs (25%) are themost popular pets in Europe, followed by birds, rabbits and fish. Germany is the European nation with the most cats and dogs (27 million), followed by France (22. 6 million), Italy (18. 7 million), Spain (15. 1 million) and Poland (10. 5 million). In 2021 there were around 110 million cats, 90 million dogs, 50 million birds, 30 million small mammals, 15 million aquaria and 10 million terraria in Europe. The global pet food marketis set to rise from USD 115. 50 billion in 2022 to USD 163. 70 billion by 2029 at 5. 11% CAGR. Growth in theglobal pet dietary supplements marketbetween 2020 and 2030 is expected to be at a CAGR of 7. 1%. 2,500 dog and cat owners in the UK, USA, Brazil, Germany and China said that they are increasinglyconsidering natural aspects when buying food for their pets. Theglobal pet grooming products marketsize is expected to reach USD 14. 5 billion by 2025, expanding at a CAGR of 5. 7%. 70% of U. S. households own a pet, which equates to 90. 5 millions homes, according to the 2021-2022 APPA National Pet Owners Survey. Americans spend 1. 201 USD on pets dogs on averagein a year. Millennials represent the biggest share of pet owners in the United States... --- ### Dog Grooming Business Plan: Tips For Running A Pet Grooming Business > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2022-08-08 - Modified: 2024-12-25 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/dog-grooming-business-plan/ - Categories: Blogs Are you a groomer interested in going into business for yourself? Have you been grooming in a big box store and thinking “I think I could do this better on my own”; you’re not alone. If you have been ruminating on the urge to start your own grooming business, here are some ideas to start that journey to entrepreneurial independence. We’ll point you in the right direction to a pet grooming business plan and give you tips for running a pet grooming business. 1. Create a Business Plan Before you make any big changes (or start anything new), it’s important to keep your perspective on your pet grooming business. There are a lot of questions to keep in mind while you manage the company. Create a business plan for your dog grooming business to keep you on track and help you think about where you’re headed, right from the start. Answer questions like: What are your revenue goals? How long do you want to be in business for? What kind of legal classification do you want to have? How much money and resources do you need to get started? How much cash will you have at risk? How many employees will you need? Will you keep a part-time job while you get operations up and running? Do you have any other obligations that will make it difficult to give this business your full attention? What are the chances of success? What does that success look like? What are your expectations for the first year? If the business provides less income than expected, how long do you plan to stick with it? What makes your grooming business special? If you can keep those questions in your head constantly, you’ll be better prepared to meet the challenges of the day. Key parts of a dog grooming business plan Ideally, your pet grooming business plan should include: Business Overview / Executive Summary Company Description Market Research Services & Products Organization Structure & Management Target Audience Marketing & Advertising Financial Analysis 2. Budgeting Is Key Like with any business, you need to keep track of your money. It’s more than just how much money you’ll make and spend in a given month. A great budget explains that and can also help you anticipate the future. You should be able to plan out years, not months, with your budget. And that will help you give better service to all those doggies in the long run. 3. Be Comfortable with All Kinds of Pets Depending on your business, you could be grooming all kinds of animals. No matter what, they will all be different. If you’re running a dog grooming business, you know that dogs come in different sizes, personalities, and cleanliness. Through your experience grooming already you’ve likely learned how numerous the needs of each dog breed comes with, account for it and factor that into your services. 4. Stay Human with the Client You should groom pet owners while you groom their... --- ### Introducing Boarding by DaySmart Pet - Published: 2022-07-21 - Modified: 2024-12-25 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/introducing-boarding-by-daysmart-pet/ - Categories: Blogs We’re excited to announce the launch of Boarding by DaySmart Pet! With this new solution, you can manage all aspects of your boarding facility within one easy-to-use platform – from scheduling and reminders to reporting and payment processing. Whether you provide boarding as a standalone service or as a part of your larger pet care business, our solution will help you streamline your operations and improve the customer experience. Keep reading to learn more! Organize Your Daily Boarding Schedule  Gone are the days of managing your day-to-day with pen and paper. With our digital appointment book, you’ll be able to keep your facility organized and easily oversee your daily schedule. You can quickly view and manage your kennel occupancy, as well as transfer pets when needed with drag-and-drop functionality. Better yet, DaySmart Pet ensures that you’re never double booked again.   Easily Manage Your Kennels & Services  With DaySmart Pet, you can easily set your pricing details and kennel counts and names. Offer additional pet care services like daycare or grooming? No problem – you can manage those within the software as well for a seamless experience for you and your staff.   Automate Your Reservation Reminders  Tired of spending time canceling, rescheduling, and reminding clients about their upcoming reservations? DaySmart Pet automates that process in just a few simple clicks. Use our ready-made text and email reminder templates or create your own from scratch and allow clients to quickly confirm reservations through replies that automatically update your books.   Integrate Your Credit Card Processing  Say goodbye to switching between multiple systems during the client checkout process. Integrated payment processing allows you to accept and manage your payments directly within DaySmart Pet. The best part? Since your payments are in your business management software, you’ll no longer need to manually enter charges or reconcile bank statements with closed tickets. For recurring clients, you can securely store their card information on file for future visits. Streamline Your Daily Business Operations  As a business owner, you have a lot on your plate in addition to tending to the animals in your care. From payroll and reporting to marketing and reputation management, it can quickly get overwhelming. The good news? DaySmart Pet is designed to help you manage all of that. Seamlessly pay your employees, view detailed reports, market your business, and manage your online reputation in one easy-to-use platform designed to support your growth.   What’s Next?   Stay tuned! We’ll soon be adding additional features like online booking, feeding and medication logs, pet belonging tracking, and the ability to charge for deposits, late pick-up fees, and cancellations.   To get started with Boarding by DaySmart Pet, visit https://www. daysmart. com/pet/boarding.    --- ### Boarding a Dog: 10 Things To Know Before > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2022-07-14 - Modified: 2024-12-25 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/boarding-a-dog/ - Categories: Blogs Whilethe majority of dog ownersin America choose to travel with a dog instead of boarding them, sometimes boarding a dog is the best option. If you’ve got a dog at home and you’re planning a vacation any time soon, you’ll have to make the decision whether you want to bring your furry companion, leave him or her with friends, or board them at a kennel or a dog sitter. Before you board a dog, get your furry friend prepared with these 10 things dog kennels and sitters wish you knew before bringing in your dog. 1. Make Reservations Early Before Boarding a Dog Don’t just show up to a dog kennel on your way to the airport and assume they’ll have space. Considering how many households in America have dogs, it’s safe to assume dogs outnumber kennels. Especially during popular holiday times like summer and Christmas, make sure to call the kennel ahead of time to book your dog’s stay. If you’re unfamiliar with the kennels or dog sitters in your area, this will also give you time to research the facility or screen the person, and make sure they’re a good fit. 2. Consider The Dog’s Exercise Needs As anyone who’s ever had one knows, all dogs are different. Younger, bigger breeds need more exercise. While older, smaller dogs might be fine with one walk a day. If your dog is a high-energy breed who requires a lot of exercise in a day, consider finding a free-to-roam facility. This will give your dog a chance to run around in a gated area and get the exercise they need. 3. Be Upfront About Behavioral Issues Not all dogs play well with others. If your dog isn’t particularly social or suffers from an anxiety disorder, those are things you’ll want to disclose to kennel operators before you leave your dog with them. Some facilities are more equipped to deal with anti-social or high-anxiety dogs. Others prefer only to board dogs who don’t suffer from any behavioral issues. Be honest. Of course, you think the world of your dog. But if you know your pitbull tends to get a bit snappy with smaller dogs, be transparent about it. 4. Share Vaccination Records First of all, make sure your dog is vaccinated before leaving them at a kennel. It’s a requirement that most facilities will have you sign off on before you go, and if you’re not honest about your dog being behind on its shots, you could be in for serious trouble. There are many airborne viruses and contagious infections affecting dogs. Imagine if you left your dog at a kennel and they contracted a disease from an unvaccinated dog? Exactly. Make sure you check with your local vet or vet tech before boarding your dog at a new facility. 5. Dog Kennels and Sitters Want to Know Your Dog’s Health Issues In addition to vaccination records and behavioral issues, dog kennel personnel and dog sitters will want to know... --- ### What to Expect When Taking Your Cat to a Cat Groomer > Ensure your cat's well-being with regular grooming. Daysmart Pet outlines what to expect when taking your cat to a professional cat groomer. - Published: 2022-07-12 - Modified: 2024-12-25 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/cat-groomer/ - Categories: Blogs If you’re like a lot of people, you’ve never thought about taking your cat to a groomer. You probably think since they spend hours a day grooming themselves, they must be clean. Yet, the growing number of cat groomers says otherwise. Whitney Bullock of The Charleston Cat Groomer in Charleston, SC says, “ When they lick themselves, they’re just licking. They’re not cleaning themselves but they are ingesting fur. ” Check out Whitney’s talent in these cat grooming before and after photos below! All that fur ingestion often leads to coughing up hairballs as you know. Though it can also build up inside and cause dangerous blockages that require surgery. Bullock says a regular grooming schedule reduces such risks and keeps cats clean right down to their skin. Plus, their fur is free of mats. “Cats do like to be clean. They’re much happier. Imagine if you never took a shower or brushed your hair. That’s what an ungroomed cat feels like. They turn into a much more social creature when they’re clean. ” Yet, many cat enthusiasts are surprised at the idea of cat grooming. They often have imaginative ideas of indignant felines with outstretched claws ready to take a swipe at anyone foolish enough to suggest a bath. That is until they speak with a Certified Feline Master Groomer like Whitney. She says, “I want it to be pleasant for them. If the cat is introduced to the grooming process calmly, many of them come to enjoy a day of pampering at the salon. ” Healthy animals have a shiny, smooth coat with clear skin underneath. Cat grooming can address the underlying health issues that often show up with dry, brittle fur and flaky skin. Nancy Howard of The Whole Cat & Kaboodle in Redmond, Washington says her mission is to help people “see and understand the world from the cat’s perspective. ” Says few people recognize the connection between diet and health which shows up in the coat. Below we cover a few health reasons for grooming your feline as well as what you can expect when you take your kitty in for an appointment. Why Should I Take My Cat To A Groomer? Cats benefit from grooming just like dogs. Regular grooming removes loose fur and dirt. It also smooths out mats and tangles and redistributes the natural oils. Preventing Problems Cats can have 130,000 hairs covering their body so it’s not surprising they could use a little help keeping them healthy. If you have a long-haired cat like a Persian or Maine Coon, you know they require regular brushing to prevent matted fur. Whitney Bullock says, “Grooming prevents problems. I once saw a cat that was matted so much that the fur adhered to the skin. I’ve seen a cat with such mats they couldn’t move their legs. It also prevents problems like ingrown toenails. ” Fighting Inflammation Nancy Howard says, “90% of the grooms we do are therapeutic. We see burn scars... --- ### How To Start a Dog Grooming Business > Starting a dog grooming business can be an undertaking, learn more from DaySmart Pet on how to operate your dog grooming business. - Published: 2022-06-16 - Modified: 2025-02-20 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/start-dog-grooming-business/ - Categories: Blogs - Tags: new business, new pet business, pet grooming, start business, start dog grooming, start grooming business If you’re like many dog lovers, you’ve likely thought about working with animals. Maybe you’ve already worked as a dog bather, dog walker, or pet groomer and now want to open your own dog grooming business. It could be a smart move. The pet industry is a fast-growing $8. 5 billion dollar industry, and every dog lover knows it’s a challenge to keep their pets clean and well-groomed. From ear cleaning and nail clipping to breed-specific haircuts, there’s always a pet in need! But where do you even start? Starting your own dog grooming business may seem overwhelming, but we’ve compiled the ultimate list of steps to help you begin with confidence! Define Your Business Concept Name Your Business Register Your Business Get Any Necessary Training and/or Certifications Choose a Prime Location Get the Right Type of Equipment Set Your Pricing Find a Business Management Software Get the Word Out and Start Marketing “Train” Your Customers Build on Brand Loyalty Focus on Customer Retention Pay Attention to Personal Development Filled with expert advice and tips, this guide has everything you need to launch your dog grooming business. Let’s dive in! 1. Define Your Dog Grooming Business Concept Before launching your business, take time to consider what kind of grooming service you want to offer. There are several options at different starting costs, from a physical storefront to a DIY dog wash or even mobile grooming. Ask yourself: What does your ideal dog grooming business look like? Writing it out or sketching a rough plan can help bring your vision to life.   Here are a few key questions to consider:  Do you picture an upscale, full-service salon with chandeliers for the “designer” dogs in your neighborhood? Or would you prefer a self-service model for the many “bath dogs” in your area?   Do you want a mobile grooming business, or would you rather have a storefront?   Are you interested in investing in the franchise approach?   Do you want to include a retail section selling dog food, treats, collars, and other pet accessories?   What services do other pet grooming businesses in your community offer? How will yours stand out?   The most successful business owners understand their potential customers and tailor their services to meet local demand. Take a look at your community: What kinds of dogs do you see? Are they breeds that require meticulous grooming, or do most just need a good bath?   Even local car washes can provide insight into customer habits. It may sound odd, but they can indicate whether people in your area prefer detailed professional services or a DIY approach. If you notice many using hand-detailing services, they may appreciate professional dog grooming. On the other hand, a strong DIY culture could indicate demand for self-service washes.   Mobile grooming is another great option, especially for busy families, elderly pet owners, or those who prefer the convenience of at-home services.   Understanding these preferences will help you shape a... --- ### 7 Reasons to Use Cloud Applications for Your Pet Business > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2022-04-15 - Modified: 2024-12-25 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/cloud-solutions-for-business/ - Categories: Blogs Are you wondering if cloud-based technology is the right move for your pet business? Here aresevenways cloud services can help your business. Agile in Rapidly Changing Times The agility of cloud-based solutions means they can quickly adapt to industry needs. For example, when the COVID-19 pandemic hit, businesses needed new cleaning protocols, staggered appointments for social distancing, and a way to communicate with their clients about important updates regarding CDC and state guidelines. Cloud-based technology companies were able to release new product features to accommodate the changing needs of their client base. Our developers quickly launched new features like email and text marketing templates to automate communications and re-opening protocols. To prepare for a schedule in constant flux, updates were made to the appointment book waitlist feature allowing for a morefunctionalworking list of customers awaiting time slots. Finally,to better control your website’sonline booking feature, our cloud offering added an update where users could require a password to access the online booking page granting early access to priority clients. Accessible Anywhere Cloud-based applications allow employees to track your business’ various tasks from anywhere, on any device. Like,their appointments for the day, client profiles, billing information, and more. Flexible Subscriptions SaaS apps run on subscription models that make one-time fees a thing of the past. This means smaller payments overtimeand you don’t need to remember when your contract ends. As your pet business grows it’s easy to scale your cloud subscriptions right along with it. Simply log in from anywhere and upgrade your subscription package. More clients are no problem when you’re working with the cloud. Maintenance Free Cloud-basedapps aremaintenance-free, making computer problems a thing of the past. Thetechnology business that owns the solutionsolvesany issue within the applications themselves. They also take care of upgrades and routine maintenance. Increased Productivity Every minute spent signing documents,creatingspreadsheets, doing payroll, and other business tasksmeansless timewith your clients. Although youcan’t get away from the day-to-day business tasks, you canstreamline them. Cloud-basedapplications make it possible to streamline almost every part of your business: appointments, client management, marketing, online booking,and more. Integrate Across Platforms and Apps Cloud-basedappscan be accessed across any platform. Log inonyour phone at home and you’ll see changes you made earlier on the computer at work. Some cloud apps also integrate with other platforms using APIs, which is a way to share information across different applications. Minimize Risk Data stored in the cloud stays protected on the server side. Essentially this means thecloud-basedapp company takes care of security. Your information never touches your computer (unless you download something). There’s no risk of losingdata if there were a disaster such as their equipmentbreakingor water damage. Finding the Best Cloud Based Applications If you’re interested in managing your business in the cloud, get in touch with us. We’re helping business grow with our all-in-one business management solution. --- ### Starting Off On the Right Paw: What You Need to Know About Starting a Doggie Daycare Business > Starting a doggie daycare business is hard work; learn about what you can lean on to give yourself time to focus on the important stuff. - Published: 2021-12-13 - Modified: 2024-12-25 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/starting-a-doggie-daycare/ - Categories: Blogs According to a recentsurveyby the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, 1 in 5 American households added a new cat or dog to their families since the beginning of the pandemic. Now, doggie daycare centers are in high demand as pet owners return to work or seek ways for their pets to socialize and make new pals. If you love dogs, starting a doggie daycare business is a great idea. However, it’s important to take all factors into consideration first to determine if it’s the right choice for you. Keep reading to learn everything you need to know before starting adoggiedaycare business. Create a Business Plan There are a lot of costs associated with starting adoggiedaycare. It’s best to start by creating abusiness plan. A business plan will help you understand what steps you need to take and when. You’ll also have a better understanding of the costs involved in starting a doggie daycare. Creating a business plan will help you determine if starting adoggiedaycare business is feasible. You’ll also avoid common mistakes by creating a plan of action ahead of time. Find a Location If you plan on starting adoggiedaycare business, you’ll need somewhere for them to come to. It needs to be a place where dogs are safely housed both day and night. If you plan to run your doggie daycare out of your home, be sure tocheck your city/town/county ordinances for any limitations on home-based businesses. You may findthatyou can’t run one from your home. If you can’t run your doggie daycare from home,look forawarehouse space with outside access that’s either fenced in or can be fenced in. You’ll also need to determine how much it will cost for equipment and any facility modifications you’ll need. Between monthly rent, equipment, and modifications, your upfront costs can get expensive. Insurance, Permits, and Licensing Fees Once you’ve found the perfect place for starting adoggiedaycare business, you’ll need to see what types of insurance, permits, and licensing you’ll need to run your business legally. Insurance Always invest in business insurance. This insurance protects your business against liability claims. However, you’ll need more insurance than just general liability or business insurance. Property and Premises Insurance Here are a few ways your property can end up damaged: Dogs Theft Natural disasters Property insurance varies depending on your geographic location. It also depends on how much coverage you want. Permits and Licensing States and counties vary on whether permits and licenses are necessary to start adoggiedaycare. However, there is no federal licensing requirement. You can’t purchase your license until yourdoggiedaycare facility passes its on-site inspection. Inspectors look to ensure your facility is free from physical dangers and toxic chemicals. Inspectors also want to ensure you’re followingproper sanitation proceduresto prevent spreading disease. Supplies for the Dogs You need to know how many dogs you can keep at your business. Once you know that number, you’ll need a kennel, bed, leash, and food/water bowls for each dog. Check local dog... --- ### Vital Information about Dog Prosthetics > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2021-08-16 - Modified: 2024-12-25 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/dog-prosthetics/ - Categories: Blogs We love our dogs — they’re the most popular pet to own worldwide. But a huge number of our four-legged friends, well... aren’t. Whether your best friend is having medical problems that may result in an amputation, or they’re already a tri-pawed — chances are, you’re looking through the options trying to figure out how you can help. Relatively new as a treatment option, dog prosthetics can be a great help with a variety of mobility-related health conditions. But we’d bet you have a lot of questions about how they work and whether your dog is a good candidate for a prosthetic. Our article is here to walk you through the entire journey. What Types of Dog Prosthetics Are There? There are a wide variety of dog prosthetics, orthotics, and more available for specially-abled dogs. What may work for your dog will depend on the medical condition and limbs affected. We’ll go through them all. Dog Splints For shorter-term injuries as opposed to amputation, dog splints can help with recovery. These work very similarly to human splints, which give the limb extra support where needed. The key difference is usually in their durability! Dog splints are manufactured to be very durable due to the wonderfully energetic nature of our furry friends. They’re made to withstand rough and tumble because our dogs don’t often understand the term strict bedrest! Splints are made to feel comfortable and natural for your dog, but it will still take them at least a few days to get used to walking with a splint. Some dogs may not take to them well at all, though. It all varies depending on your dog’s temperament. Front Limb Dog Prosthetics Forelimb, or thoracic prosthetics, are designed to help dogs who are missing all or part of a front leg. The type of artificial leg will depend on the particular reason for the missing limb. So these will vary in function and appearance, depending on whether the full limb is missing or if it’s a congenital deformity causing the disability. Front limb prosthetics can help considerably with movement after amputation. While some dogs find no trouble in getting around post-surgery, others may struggle. These comfortable prosthetics help restore balance for your pet. Additionally, three-legged dogs may initially see no problems in mobility after amputation. But later in their life, many tripawds struggle with arthritis earlier in their lifespan than their four-legged counterparts. This is because many breeds carry the majority of their weight in their upper body, so undue stress is put on their remaining front limb. For these dogs, prosthetics can be a great relief. They take the stress off of the remaining forelimb and spine. To be an ideal candidate for most front leg prosthetics, your dog will need to have some remaining radius and ulna. These bones are located at the very top of a dog’s leg, closer to the shoulder joint. This allows them to still have some movement and control in the limb,... --- ### A List of Pet Supplies Companies > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2021-08-09 - Modified: 2024-12-25 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/pet-supplies-companies/ - Categories: Blogs Think about the last time you went to a hair or nail salon. Did you notice that the waiting area and all of the shelves featured top-of-the-line beauty products? As an individual in the pet grooming industry, you can take advantage of this sales tactic too! When pet owners come into your grooming salon they can also choose from various pet supplies they might need. Not sure where to find pet supply companies that sell these products? No problem! We’ve compiled a list below of the top pet supply companies. 1. Petmate Petmate is a pet supply company offering essentials for dogs, cats, and other common household pets. They have a variety of options for food, toys, and accessories. They are a trusted brand for pet owners and animal enthusiasts because they’ve been around for over 50 years! One of the unique features Petmate offers is replacement parts for items that are frequently damaged or broken. You can find replacement kennel doors or litter doors on their site saving customers from having to buy entirely new products. 2. Kong If you’ve been in the pet industry for a while, you’ve probably heard of the Kong brand. It’s known for creating some of the most durable dog toys on the market. If you have customers that are always complaining that their dog has torn through yet another toy, this is the best pet supply company to order from. Offer customers a solution that they can purchase directly inside the grooming studio. 3. Happy Pet Happy Pet is a leading pet supply distributor across the country. Whether you need treats and supplements or fashion and toys – Happy Pet can provide it. They have products for dogs and cats and are adding new retailers all the time. Some of the most common Happy Pet brands include Komodo, Kudos, and Tabby Chic. They also make their own line of at-home pet grooming products. 4. Pet Brands Pet Brands is one of the largest pet supply companies in the world. They supply to the United States, United Kingdom, Germany, and China. Pet Brands is proud to offer a large selection of food options for dogs. Pet Brands is an innovative company always striving to give the customer new and exciting products for pets. 5. Green Pets Organic As you can probably guess, Green Pets Organic sells all-natural, safe food for pets. They value nutrition and safety. Their products are reasonably priced and come in a variety of flavors. Not only that, they are an ethical pet supply company. They aim to protect the environment while creating great food for pets. 6. Elanco Elanco is a pet supply company that makes excellent dog and car flea protection products. If you have customers atyour grooming salonthat are concerned about fleas – you should be selling Elanco products. Elanco is a trustworthy brand that prioritizes longer, stronger lives for pets. They don’t use some of the toxic ingredients that other manufacturers use. So, if their... --- ### What Every Dog Groomer Needs to Know about Pet Grooming Tools > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2021-07-26 - Modified: 2024-12-25 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/dog-grooming-tools/ - Categories: Blogs According toGrandview Research, North America dominated the pet grooming market segment at 51. 2% in 2019. Globally, the research firm expects pet grooming to reach $14. 46 billion by 2025. Though if you’re a dog groomer, you don’t need a research report to tell you it’s a great time to be a groomer. If you’re like a lot of groomers, you spend your days brushing, clipping, and beribboning dogs to help them look and feel their best. You know regular bathing gets rid of dirt and frequently brushing long fur helps it stay healthy and prevents tangles. As a groomer, you might study skin health, breed cuts, and much more. Yet, you might wonder about the tools of the trade. Which are the best dog grooming clippers, for example? Or what do you need in your starter dog grooming toolkit? Do you need special software to run your grooming business? To find out, I spoke withNicole Kallish, Global Education Manager at Andis Company pet grooming supplies, and Andrea Miller, Business Development Advocate at Daysmart Pet software, makers of the leading dog grooming software. How to Choose the Best Pet Professional Grooming Tools and Supplies There are dog grooming tools meant for at-home grooming maintenance and professional-grade pet grooming supplies. As a dog groomer, you want the latter because they’re designed for heavy use. You’ll also want to make sure your clippers, shears, and other tools are the right size for your hands and the right type for the dog you’re grooming. As you know, a Shih Tzu requires a different approach than a standard poodle. When you consider the array of grooming tools available, you’ll want to consider what you have already, what types of dogs you groom the most, any special techniques you wish to offer, and how the individual tools feel in your hands. For example,Kallishsays shears come with different style handles. Some are curved, and others are flat, but it’s primarily up to you which one works best for you. How does it feel in your hand? Will it achieve your goal with the coat? Dog grooming tools can range widely in price, but the price isn’t the only consideration. Sometimes, you’ll find you like using an $89 tool better than the $400 version. There’s room for personal preferences. Pet groomers will consider reliability, weight, the curve of the handle, corded vs. no cord clippers, as well as the type of dog they tend to groom. Groomers who see a high concentration of “bath dogs” vs. long-haired pups have different needs. Both need a good shampoo, bathtub, and dryer, but the first groomer won’t need as many different types of blades as the groomer who sees many dogs with more fur. Basic Dog Grooming Toolkit Beginning groomers have different needs than more seasoned pet groomers. Not only are you learning all the breed haircuts and other techniques, but you might feel bewildered by the array of tools. Which ones do you most need when you’re... --- ### Dog Grooming Shampoos in 2021 Trends > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2021-06-21 - Modified: 2024-12-25 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/dog-grooming-shampoo/ - Categories: Blogs You’re doing great when customers pick up their furry loved ones after a day of grooming and exclaim, “Ooh! You smell so good! ” You know you’ve heard it a thousand times in one form or another. It’s a simple pleasure complement every grooming enjoys (cause you have shampoo taste clearly! ). Why not bring yourgrooming business to the next levelwith niche grooming that specializes in providing the ultimate bathing experience for your sweet clients? Post a menu of the best dog grooming shampoo that is specific to skin conditions, hair challenges, and delectable scents. Offer these spa bathing experiences in your listed service prices and provide them for customers to purchase for in-between visits to use at home. If you’re wondering about dog grooming shampoos in 2021 trends, you came to the right place. This informative post will tell you all about the what options you might want to check out! Why Should You Focus On The Best Dog Grooming Shampoo For Your Business? Sure, your potential customers can always bathe their pooch at home and save a few bucks. Yet, statistics show that this is not the trend. According to theAmerican Pet Products Association(APPA), pet owners have increased their spending on pets by 3. 1 billion dollars in the last 3 years. Pet owners are taking very good care of their pets and shopping for quality services. When pet owners are shopping for a groomer, they are looking for your expertise. You know full well that canines have specific bathing needs that are unique to their breed and age. Offering bathing that addresses issues is a necessary part of your dog grooming tools. What Are the Top Dog Grooming Shampoos for 2021? Help your customers out with expert knowledge of the best grooming treatments for their beloved companions. Below, we’ve compiled a list of the best dog grooming shampoos that address grooming challenges and are trending now. Sensitive Friends For dogs with sensitive skin due to allergies or are naturally prone to irritation, an all-natural and ph balanced shampoo is needed. Espree® Hypo-Allergenic Shampoo This is a gentle shampoo made from all-natural ingredients and multi-vitamins. Panthenolis included as a conditioning component and anti-inflammatory ingredient to help soothe skin and retain hydration. Pets get a shiny clean coat without drying out sensitive skin. This shampoo has a mild floral scent. Flaky Fur Babies An itchy dog is a miserable dog. Dandruff can be caused by a multitude of ailments or just the use of the wrong shampoo. When you notice dandruff on a client’s coat, look to resolve the issue by using a shampoo formulated to remove dead skin. Veterinary Formula Clinical Care This is a medicated shampoo intended to treat fungal and bacterial infections that can cause an inability to properly scale dead skin. The use of coal tar slows down new skin cell growth so that the overgrowth of dead skin can have time to shed. The shampoo is free of dyes and soap. The... --- ### Customer Spotlight: Emma Marie’s > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2021-06-14 - Modified: 2024-12-25 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/customer-spotlight-emma-maries/ - Categories: Success Stories DaySmart Pet customers are passionate business owners leveraging software to bring their business ideas to life. Take Johnelle Ciano, founder and owner of Emma Marie’s Grooming & Daycare L. L. C. in Massachusetts. Over the past 11 years, Johnelle has grown her company from just herself and two part-time employees to a full-time team of 20 (plus six part-time) across two locations. We recently spoke with Johnelle to learn about how she’s built a company that boasts a 15% growth rate year over year—and how DaySmart Pet has helped her manage business operations along the way. Q: To start, we’d love to learn a little more about your business. What inspired you to start your own company, and what sets it apart from others? A: I grew up in my mother’s grooming shop—that’s where I learned about pet grooming, animal behavior, and business skills. When I was older, I suggested my mom expand her business into daycare and boarding because those were growing opportunities in the industry that she wasn’t capitalizing on, but she’d been grooming for 25 years and was comfortable with her small shop. I wanted to do more, though, so she gave me her blessing and I opened my own business. Emma Marie’s—named after my Australian Shepherd—specializes in complete care for your dog. We offer grooming, socialization training, a retail store, and boarding. Our goal is to make our clients’ lives easier by providing a one-stop-shop; that’s what sets us apart from the others. Not too many facilities have four departments in one space and excel at all of them. Q: How long have you been using DaySmart Pet? What inspired you to start using it? A: I have been using DaySmart Pet since 2008. When I was working at my mom’s shop, I remember working a full day grooming and then dreading the following two hours of making reminder calls for the next day’s appointments. Back then, texting wasn’t an option so when you got a client on the phone, they would talk your ear off, often forgetting what time you just reminded them about and calling back later to ask again! It felt pointless, and so I did the research for a program that would resolve that portion of the business. DaySmart Pet’s system was so easy to set up and truly changed my world. I’m able to groom two extra dogs per day and save hundreds of hours each year by allowing technology to fill in for me with those behind-the-scenes activities. My favorite DaySmart Pet feature is its ability to create pop-up notes in clients’ profiles so that you have no choice but to read them. Is the dog allergic to a certain treat? Pop up! The owners’ husband just passed away? Pop up! I’m able to be aware of everything that’s important to know to make the care I provide better. It’s a game-changer. Q: How has the pandemic impacted your business? A: The pandemic caused business to come to... --- ### 9 Summer Business Ideas to Boost Your Bottom Line > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2021-06-07 - Modified: 2024-12-25 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/summer-business-ideas/ - Categories: Blogs Summertime is nearing, and while that means beach trips, ice cream and cookouts for most people, it can mean slower days for pet grooming business owners. This infamous summer slowdown comes as a result of more than half of your customers going away on vacation or simply trying to maximize the time they’re spending outside, according to a survey by Bankrate. So, while you may end up with fewer customers coming through your door as the temperature rises, don’t let this summer slump keep you up at night! Instead, follow these four strategies, which will not only help combat the slow traffic but could also make a huge difference in how much revenue your grooming business brings in this summer. 1. Offer Seasonal Promotions Your customers’ needs to change in the summer. Think of the kinds of activities they have planned for the summer and create promotions for your services that support those activities. For instance, offer discounts on preventative flea and tick baths or haircuts that will keep pets cool during the hot summer months. While those are practical summer grooming services, don’t be afraid to have a little fun with your promotions, too. In the weeks leading up to the 4th of July, buy some festive decorations that make coming into the grooming salon as fun as a family cookout. 2. Try Something New Summer gives people an adventurous spirit. If there’s a unique service that you’ve been nervous to roll out, this might be the season to give it a try. For example, if you’ve been considering building out a retail section at your grooming business, offer some festive Independence Day outfits. Try them out on some of your most loyal clients for a photo-op for Instagram that will draw in new customers. With your customers having a lot going on in the coming months, coming into the grooming salon might not be top of mind. But rolling out marketing for brand-new offerings might pique their interest and bring them in. 3. Check in with your customers Between vacation plans and last-minute trips to the beach, there’s a higher chance that your customers might forget their appointments. It’s important that you check in with them a bit earlier than you normally would to ensure they’re thinking about their appointments while planning out the rest of their summer. If you have an online booking software, like Daysmart Pet, you can do this with ease by adjusting when you want to send out automated text reminders. An early appointment reminder could mean avoiding costly no-shows on sunny summer days. If it has been a while since some of your regular customers have made an appointment, you can also use software like Daysmart Pet to send an automated email encouraging them to come in. Our software tracks which of your customers haven’t been in recently, and can automatically send them a promotional coupon to try and get people in the door. For example, messages like, “We haven’t seen... --- ### Integrating Credit Card Processing With Your Software > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2021-06-05 - Modified: 2024-12-25 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/credit-card-transactions-2/ - Categories: Blogs Integrating Your Software With Your Credit Card Transactions Your pet business consists of a series of many daily processes, but if you can’t fit all these pieces together, you may be missing out on the bigger picture. Aligning your business administration, customer management, and credit card transactions seems like the smart choice (and it is! ), but too many pet businesses still use third–party payment processors or insist on taking cash only. Cash may be king, but cash-only businesses are a thing of the past. In fact, in a recent study byConsumer Credit, only 14% of respondents said they use cash for everyday purchases while 80% of respondents said they use their debit cards. Cash–only pet businesses run the risk of losing customers because they are not offering modern payment systems. Customers at your facility expect their checkout experience to be simple and fast – this is where integrated credit card processing comes in. Read on to learn how integrating payment systems with yourpet softwarecan help strengthen your business as a whole, not just at checkout. Improve the Customer Experience Integrated credit card transactionscan create a seamless checkout experience for your clients. They can quickly check out with their card or by charging their card on file, be prompted to leave a tip, and have their receipt emailed within seconds. Integrated payments act as a detailed customer database for your pet business and with modern systems, customers can access a portal to update their profiles, including their credit card information so their payments are always up to date. Effortlessly trackclients’previous purchases to improve engagement, create targeted promotions,and upsell and cross-sell. Did your client previously buy apetshampoo that is now on sale? If yourclient management systemis integrated with your payment processor, you can easily collect this kind of information, and let them know in real-time! Streamline Business Operations Integrating payments with your pet software will free up time spent on manual processes and help easeday-to-daytasks. No more spending hours reconciling bank statements to determine if you’ve been paid correctly for all your work, andyou canforget the tedious manual data entry – integrated payments will ensure accurate, real-time transaction data and reduce costly human error. Switching to an integrated credit card processor will also reduce your pet business’ risk from cash theft and vulnerability from hackers. The right processor will have security protocols that protect credit card data, and by encouraging credit card transactions,you will have less cash at your business location. The less time you spend tracking payments and worrying about security, the more focus you can put into other critical areas of your pet business. Increase in Revenue How canintegrated credit card processingincrease your pet business’ revenue? Many clients ask this question. Since integrated credit card processing can update payment data automatically, thereisn’t a needfor an employee to manage any of this. In addition, integration simplifies the payment process, making it easier to train employees on how to process payments, allowing your pet business to savetime and moneyon... --- ### Additional Paw-some Pet Grooming Services for Business Expansion > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2021-06-02 - Modified: 2024-12-25 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/pet-grooming-services/ - Categories: Blogs While trends are moving away from home ownership and many people are choosing to have kids later or stay child-free, that doesn’t mean they aren’t spendingthousands a yearon their pets. If you’re running a pet grooming business, you can capitalize on this pet love by offering more than just simple bathing and grooming services. You can expand your services to include other treatments that make pets feel and look good. Help pet owners spoil their pets and they’ll keep coming back for more. Here are four ways to add to your business to catch customers’ attention, build your own bottom line, and create some buzz about what you have to offer. 1. Add Some Retail Flair Pick-up and drop-off protocols changed during the Covid-19 pandemic. Whether they return to normal with reopening, stay curbside, or become a hybrid, every interaction you have with your customers is an opportunity to upsell your services. Upselling can make many professionals feel uncomfortable, but, look, you’re an expert. Any product advice you offer your customers isn’t so much sales as it is insider information. If you use a particular product and think it would work for your clients, perhaps you can become a rep for that brand and gain a commission for each item you sell. Have a healthy dog treat recipe that no canine can resist? Send some home with each client with a note offering the same treats for sale at a discount for repeat customers. Selling retail is definitely a challenge, but your customers trust your recommendations so consider pitching products you use. Upselling services and products gives you a foothold in the retail market and helps you expand your offerings. It might take time to build the retail arm of your business, but you’ll also be sharing your expertise with your clients. Sharing your knowledge is a gift. If your customers want to take your advice and purchase through you, that’s up to them. 2. Spa Day for Doggies While you might offer standard grooming and washing treatments, don’t neglect opportunities to pamper those pooches. Team up with a local spa to offer dual spa days. One for pet parents and one for the pets themselves. Let everyone come home feeling fabulous! Additionally, massage, reiki, and other therapies can be as helpful for dogs as they are for their humans. Easing anxiety and chronic pain is just as important for four-legged family members as it is for the two-legged variety. Offering more opportunities for holistic health care for pets is a surefire way to expand your business and your sources of revenue. While the pandemic rocked many industries, many people took the stay-at-home time to becomenew pet owners. This is great news for those already established in the pet-o-sphere. More people will be seeking services, looking for your expertise or maybe just needing a break. This is the perfect time to expand your offerings to include new services, products and opportunities. Pandemic puppies and rescue dogs will need... --- ### Customer Spotlight: Scrubbers Dog Wash > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2021-06-01 - Modified: 2024-12-25 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/customer-spotlight-scrubbers/ - Categories: Success Stories DaySmart Pet customers are passionate about small business owners who excel at what they do. As part of our commitment to supporting and educating entrepreneurs, we aim to showcase our customers’ expertise in growing a successful business. In the spirit of Women’s History Month, we wanted to celebrate the story of Nikki Budaj, owner of Scrubbers Dog Wash, which has three locations in Royal Oak, West Bloomfield and Rochester Hills, Michigan. Read on to find out how Nikki grew her first shop into a three-store business in five years. How did you get your start as a small business owner? I purchased the first Scrubbers Dog Wash in May of 2012. The business had been open since April 2010, but the previous owner thought the business was going to plateau. Yet, I could tell by looking at the numbers that the business was growing. Much of the market hadn’t been tapped into yet, and there was no advertising, no marketing or SEO on the company website. Everything was pen and paper or word of mouth, and I saw that there was still a lot that could be done. In fact, I was sure that the business would not plateau. Now we’ve been open for nine years, and I expanded to a second location in 2014 and the third location in 2017. What is your favorite part about running a grooming shop? I love working with dogs and I love grooming. I find it very satisfying to take an unkempt fluffball and turn him into a work of art. I also love the customers—making friends with them and building rapport with them and their dogs. Growing those relationships also helps to build a healthy clientele. Rapport and communication are necessary for this business. You need to establish a sense of trust to create customer loyalty. What are some of the biggest challenges you face as a small business owner? First and foremost, thank goodness I provide a service that can’t be duplicated by the internet. And even so, there is a lot of competition with so many good groomers in the area. It’s a challenge to keep prices competitive without underselling yourself. Another challenge is finding good groomers. You need people who are responsible and reliable, especially when your business is growing. When we had two shops, I could run one and my husband could run the other. Now that we have three, we need loyal employees who can manage the shops—which may be the most important thing for running a business and keeping customers happy. I need employees who will give the level of customer service that I would. What advice would you give to women who want to pursue careers in grooming? It depends on if they want to be a groomer or a business owner. If you want to become a groomer, understand what you need to learn. Find someone to apprentice under, work your hardest, do your best and don’t give up. This is a... --- ### Protect Your Reputation With Daysmart Pet Reputation Management! > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2021-05-20 - Modified: 2024-12-25 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/dog-grooming-reviews/ - Categories: Blogs The internet has dramatically changed the way people choose where they spend their time and money. Your existing online reviews likely became even more glaringly apparent with everyone home during lock down with their eyes glued to their phones. As grooming shops across the country reopen, clients will be scouring the internet for an available time slot for their pets overdue appointment. As groomers increase the time between appointments and limit the amount of dogs they can take in it is likely clients will peruse additional shops for availability. As they are looking for that next appointment, they will undoubtedly be checking your businesses online reviews. With the rise of Yelp, Google and Facebook – 75% of consumers now search online to discover a business, and84% trust online reviewsas much as friends! Those stats are scary, but in reality this gives you the opportunity to outmaneuver the competition and gain clients that were difficult to reach in the past. There are so many potential online locations that your clients could leave dog grooming reviews – this makes managing your online reputation tricky. That’s where Daysmart PetReputation Managementcan help! Get Proactive – Protect Your Business Online Your reputation is everything and with customers posting dog grooming reviews on a variety of different platforms, we understand – it’s tough and time consuming to stay on top of everything! Daysmart Pet Reputation Management will help you manage customer satisfaction all in one spot, so you can identify and address issues before they can boil over and transform into a potential threat to your business. Responding quickly to both good and bad dog grooming reviews is very important, as you show all prospective clients reading your response that you care about delivering a great pet grooming experience. Monitor Your Dog Grooming Reviews & Respond Easily When a client reviews your groomers, how long does it take you to see and/or respond? A quick response is especially vital when it comes to an unhappy customer, adissatisfied customerwill tell between 9-15 people about their experience. Some businesses will even offer unhappy customers a special discount or promotion as an apology. Offering a customer 50% off their pets groom, because they were dissatisfied, will give you the chance to make their next experience a positive one and possibly win them back as a client. Daysmart Pet Reputation Managementallows you to respond to positive & negative comments from one simple dashboard. See adetailed overview of your online reputation so that you can see at a glance: how many reviews you have received from Facebook, Yelp & Google, when the reviews were received and how many were approved or disapproved. Encourage The People Who Love You To Tell The World Dealing with negative reviews is one thing, but how do you persuade your best customers to leave a great review of your business? With Daysmart Pet Reputation Management you can send automated texts and emails to clients (of your choice) asking them to review their experience with... --- ### The Future of Dog Grooming is Pre-Teen Gwendolyn Z > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2021-05-20 - Modified: 2024-12-25 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/gwendolyn-grooming-series/ - Categories: Blogs In 2019, ten-year-old Gwendolyn Zahra stepped into the competition ring at Intergroom in New Jersey. She demonstrated her dog grooming skills on a toy poodle named Bandit and Guiness, a mixed breed terrier. Out of the 30 or so competitive groomers, she was the youngest by decades. Poised and skilled, she won a Best First-Timer award and caught everyone’s attention. Steve Martin is Daysmart Pet’s, Chief Marketing Officer. He said, “We’ve been in the pet grooming space for ten years, and we’re always looking for what’s next. Gwendolyn Zahra was hard to miss, and she represents the future of grooming. ” Her drive and ambition are unusual in someone so young. Steve says, “She’s driven to compete and excel in this competitive space. She’s already good. If she stays with dog grooming, she’s going to be excellent. I see big things for her. She wants to level up the industry as a whole. ” Gwendolyn Zahra is the daughter of dog groomer Rachel AnnStalcoskieofCountry Clips Pet Groomingin Pocono Summit, Pa. With a mom has a groomer, she’s grown up in the shop. Gwendolyn says, “Ever since I was born, I’ve always been in the shop. As a toddler, I vacuumed the floor and loved being around dogs. I got into competitive grooming when mom went into the show ring, and I decided I wanted to try it out. ” Within the past two years later, she’s participated in five in-person shows and two virtual competitions. Between her skill, ambition, and mother as a groomer and long-time customer and advocate of Daysmart Pet, it was a natural fit to create an online training series with Gwendolyn at the center. She’s excited to share what she knows with others. She already has a Facebook Facebook group with 498 members and a Facebook page, Gwendolyn LoveThe Pet Stylist. She shares pictures and advice. Gwendolyn says, “I want everyone to be the best they can be, and that includes handling the animals properly and safely. ” Daysmart Pet partnered with Andis Grooming and Gwendolyn to create a series of five training videos for dog groomers. Online Access Makes Ongoing Education Easier for Groomers Steve says, “Gwendolyn’s goal is to provide insight for beginners on how they can improve their dog grooming. She chose topics she wanted to learn more about, and Andis provided members of the Andis Global Education Team to work with Gwendolyn on these topics. ” The educational series features five videos. Every video has a different focus. One demonstrates how to prep the dog for grooming. Another video focuses on mastering the round cut for the dog’s feet. Yet another is about the business of dog grooming. Nicole Kallishis the Manager of Education at Andis. She helped organize the Andis educators and worked with Gwendolyn on developing the video concepts. Each video showcases Gwendolyn interviewing the veteran groomers (and Andis educators) then practicing a skill with virtual guidance. For example, in one video, Gwendolyn has a Springer Spaniel she’s... --- ### Everything You Need to Know About Adopting Senior Dogs > Adopting senior dogs can be equal parts rewarding and effortful. Daysmart Pet provides some key tips on how to care for your aging pet. - Published: 2021-05-17 - Modified: 2024-12-25 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/adopting-senior-dogs/ - Categories: Blogs Americans adopt 1. 6 million dogs from shelters every year, that’s about half of the annual shelter intake, meaning senior dogs are ignored because they aren’t seen as suitable adoption candidates. There’s a stigma attached to adopting senior dogs. But it’s not founded in reality. Older dogs can be more loving, better trained, and a closer fit for you and your family. Are you interested in adopting a new furry companion? You should consider an older dog before heading to the shelter. Here’s why and how to adopt a senior dog. Adopting Senior Dogs The pet adoption process starts at either a shelter or a rescue. Nowadays, many of these organizations manage websites that provide pictures of their current pets. Shelters and rescues perform the same service, but they sport some fundamental differences. Local governments often fund shelters, though some are owned by private groups. In general, it’s both cheaper and faster to adopt a senior dog, or any animal, from a shelter. In contrast, rescues are often volunteer groups that run off donations. Rather than owning in-site kennels, the organization relies on a network of volunteers to house and care for the animals. Although rescues are more expensive, they tend to be more knowledgeable about their individual pets. Start your search online by looking at pets from shelters and rescues in your area. You could also choose to visit a shelter on a whim, without any prior information. If you go through a shelter, you’ll visit the physical location and spend some time with the dog yourself. You’ll need to either call or email a rescue. Although they don’t have a physical location, rescues run adoption events or can set up a home visit for you to meet the senior dog. If it’s a good fit, you’ll fill out some paperwork and pay an adoption fee. In return, the shelter or rescue will give you vaccination paperwork and let you take your new family member home. What to Expect After Adopting Senior Dogs Like younger dogs, the older ones still need time to adjust to new living conditions. Your quiet home is a big change compared to the din and clamor of the shelter. It is not unusual for your senior dog to seem reclusive and exhausted for the first few days. This may be the first time they’ve been able to sleep well in a relaxed environment. They may be too uncomfortable to eat, drink, or even move. Find a comfortable, confined space for your senior dog, such as a walk-in closet. It’s here you can provide a modern dog bed, food and water, and a place to feel secure as they gather the confidence to explore their new surroundings. Of course, some pets, especially those from rescues, may adjust much more quickly. Give your older dog the personal time he or she needs. Reasons to Adopt a Senior Dog Puppies get all the love. But the reality is senior dogs are just as deserving, if... --- ### The 10 Funniest Dog Kennel and Dog Grooming Names > Standing out as a business means being bold and naming your business something wild; here are the best dog kennel names from all around. - Published: 2021-05-17 - Modified: 2024-12-25 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/dog-kennel-and-dog-grooming-names/ - Categories: Blogs If deciding to open your own dog grooming or dog kennel business, you’ll want a name that is creative, funny and welcoming. Dog grooming names and dog kennel names are the first things a potential customer sees. So be sure it’s a good fit for your company, services, and values! When a customer brings their pet to the groomer, their furry pal isn’t only there to receive a wash and hair cut. Groomers play a much more important role than keeping a pet trimmed and fluffed. Groomers also clip nails, clean ears, and look for issues such as skin problems, teeth problems, and more. When a customer brings their pet to a kennel, they aren’t only looking for a place for their dog or cat to sleep. They’re also looking for a place that will genuinely care just as much about their animals as they do themselves. This means finding a place that is comforting and loving. Need some inspiration for awesome dog grooming names and dog kennel names? Continue reading for our list of 10 of the funniest names that are sure to give you the inspiration you need! 10 Funniest Dog Kennel Names & Dog Grooming Names:1. Cosmopawlitan Whether you’re looking to open a place that offers the inclusion of every breed and species, or whether you’re looking build a brand based on high-class beauty grooming, Cosmopawlitan is a great name. It’s funny, catchy, and anyone who loves reading the Cosmopolitan magazine will definitely get a kick out of this one. Be sure to have a light and bright atmosphere with all the best dog grooming tips, news, and advice around the building! 2. Noah’s Arf If you’re familiar with Noah’s ark and love the story behind it, then why not choose Noah’s Arf for your dog kennel or dog grooming name? It’s a story already based around animals and by switching “ark” to “arf” it gives you a nice spin on the tale, or should we say “tail”? 3. Bark’s 5th Avenue Looking for a sophisticated target customer? Or, maybe you’re opening your business in a sophisticated area. Either way, Bark’s 5th Avenue is unmatchable when wanting to bring in high-class clientele. With a name like this, you might want to offer a glass of “whine” at the door for customers waiting for their dog to be finished grooming. 4. Barkingham Palace Another name idea for a place of luxury is Barkingham Palace. This name is clever and lets customers know that their loved ones are being groomed with the best and most luxurious groomers. Consider designing the building or inside of the building to look just like a palace with royal puppy beds and oversized waiting chairs. 5. Vanity Fur Humans aren’t the only ones who like to dabble in vanity here and there. Our pet pals love to be just as clean and polished as we do. And that’s why Vanity Fur is a great name for a dog grooming business. Keep a... --- ### Supercharge Your Email Marketing With Recurring Campaigns > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2021-05-16 - Modified: 2024-12-25 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/email-marketing-examples/ - Categories: Blogs Whether you are reminding clients about an upcoming appointment, wishing them a happy birthday, thanking them for a recent visit, or offering them an incentive to visit again, marketing campaigns are the lifeblood of client communication and engagement. Recent studies show that with every $1 spent on email marketing you can expect an average return of $38! Knowing the effectiveness of email marketing, we’ve recently made some significant upgrades to our campaign engine so you can now supercharge your marketing. Set It and Forget It With Recurring Campaigns! You can schedule your marketing campaigns to run whenever you want, making the most of critical client interactions automatically. Set your campaigns to run for the week or the rest of the year. With our ’Program’ function you can grow your business hands free! We understand as a busy professional, you have multiple responsibilities and a crowded schedule without much time for marketing planning. That’s why Daysmart Pet includes professional templates with newly redesigned email headers, content with merged fields and pre-formatted filters to simplify targeting. Simply select a campaign, choose your template, set its schedule, and Daysmart Pet will take it from there! Not looking to use a pre-selected template? No problem. You can set up your own recurring campaigns from blank templates, set up personal client filters and save your templates for future use. See What’s Working. It’s not just about sending emails – optimize your marketing to produce maximum positive growth. With unlimited marketing campaigns you’ll want to keep track of which campaigns are working and which ones aren’t. With this new update, you can now see how many people your email was sent to and the open rates for each campaign! Dig in even deeper to see exactly which clients opened your emails. Change subject lines that aren’t working or get smarter about what time you send your mails. Marketing Made Simple. Not everyone has the time to be a marketing guru, but with recurring campaigns you don’t have to be. Be bold (and beautiful! ) with our newest templates, more than 50 designs from which to choose and emails pre-formatted and ready to send. You hardly have to do a thing to keep your clients up to date and engaged with your business! Setting up and organizing your marketing campaigns has never been easier. Stop wasting valuable time searching for existing campaigns or creating new ones. With the new marketing list view, you now have the option to search by campaign name and filter by campaign status. Creating campaigns in 5 simple steps: Select the campaign you want (pre-made recurring, one-time, custom recurring). Select the template you would like to use, or create your own. Choose the filters to target specific customers. Review your campaign, see which clients made the list, then send a test email to yourself to ensure everything looks just right. Schedule your campaign. The good news is that it’s never been easier to automate your client communications and monitor campaign performance.... --- ### Setting up a Loyalty Program in Your Pet Grooming Business > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2021-05-15 - Modified: 2024-12-25 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/small-business-loyalty-program-2/ - Categories: Blogs This is where a small business loyalty program could help! Loyalty programs encourage customers to come back to your business repeatedly in order to earn rewards, but then you need to know exactly how to set up a loyalty system for your grooming salon. Keep reading to learn more about how to do this and more! How Does a Small Business Loyalty Program Work? A loyalty program works at a grooming salon in much the same way that it does in a coffee shop or at a restaurant. It is a way of recording which customers keep coming back to your business and rewarding them for this. For example, you could use dog grooming cards to record how many visits a particular pet or owner has had to your salon. Then after their fifth or tenth visit, they get rewarded a free or discounted grooming session! This encourages customers to keep coming back as they feel that they are going to get something back for their money. This also helps you to establish a long-term relationship with your clients. The more that they come back to your salon, the more likely they are to keep coming back even after they’ve received their reward. Whether you are juststarting your businessor have been around for years, every salon can benefit from using a loyalty program. Designing Your Loyalty Program When it comes to designing your loyalty program, there are lots of things to consider and lots of different ways to do this. Think carefully to create a program that works for your business. You could, for example, have a loyalty program that rewards customers with a free grooming session after ‘x’ number of paid sessions. This is simple and effective. However, you still need to decidehow manysessions a client gets before they receive their reward. Too few sessions and you may not establish a long-term relationship with all your clients. Too many sessions and clients won’t feel like they are really getting a reward. Ideally, go for a single-digit number as this automatically feels like a better deal. For example, ‘have 9 sessions and get your 10th free! ’ sounds better than ‘have 10 sessions and get your 11th free! ’ Obviously, this also needs to work in line with your budget and margins. This isn’t the only kind of loyalty scheme to consider though. You could reward customers who spend a certain amount in your salon with a discount on their next visit. Or you could let customers collect loyalty points on each visit depending on how much they spend. When designing your program, make sure you think carefully about the details of it. For example, you may want discounts or reward treatments to only apply to specific services. That way you don’t lose money from expensive treatments or have your margins damaged by discounts on cheaper ones. Whatever terms you decide, make sure these are clearly outlined and communicated when you role your offer out. Rolling It Out... --- ### How to Start a Mobile Pet Grooming Business > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2021-05-12 - Modified: 2024-12-25 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/mobile-pet-grooming-business/ - Categories: Blogs How to Start a Mobile Pet Grooming Business With68% of US householdsowning a pet and rising, any pet-related business is a pretty sure bet depending on your location, your outlook, and, of course, your willingness to put in some hard work. The pet industry is a$72 billion industry, but a love of animals and their caregivers is a must before entering into this demanding (but rewarding! ) line of work. Pet grooming is an especially strong bet. And, as the pandemic as shown, sometimes the strongest business plans center on mobility not on strength of location. Millennials like services that come to their doors, especially while working from home. If you love animals and enjoy being your own boss, let’s take a look at the growing trend of mobile pet grooming businesses and see if it’s a good fit for you! What You Need to Know About Running a Mobile Pet Grooming Business If you’re interested in setting up a mobile pet grooming business, there are some things you should consider before you take the plunge. It’s Not for Everyone The mobile pet grooming business means working one-on-one with pets in tight conditions, often with room for only yourself or one other person, depending on the size of your vehicle. You’ll be giving up the idea of a bricks-and-mortar store with the comforts of storage, shelving, running water, an easily accessible restroom, and maybe even reliable access to power. There’s no need to be discouraged, though! There are tons of mobile groomers (and even mobile vets) out there making it work right now and you can, too! It just takes some research and imagination to make it work for you. It Requires Special Skills and Knowledge If you aren’t already a trained groomer, then, that’s where you’ll need to start. People may crave convenience, but they won’t trade convenience for actual skill. So, before you start pricing conversion vans or disused school buses to convert to your own personal grooming studio on wheels, make sure your skills are on point. Your skills include animal handling skills, including handling animals in vehicles or confined spaces they are unfamiliar with. A fantastic place to start is theNational Dog Groomers Association of America. They offer classes on dog handling and are a great place for industry networking. Additionally, search for message boards where dog groomers chat about their businesses and seek out mobile groomers who may be interested in sharing insights and information with you. Develop relationships with your peers no matter where they are located. Their quick fixes and problem solving tips will help you out down the road. Kitting Out Your Ride In order to greet your first clients, you’ll need to have your mobile dog groomer shop all kitted out and set up to your specifications. So, do you go full DIY? Or hire someone to customize it for you? Or, do you purchase a prefab travel home and alter it for your purposes? It all depends on... --- ### Notable Dog Competitions in the USA > Learn about the different types of dog competitions, from AKC-focused shows to dog grooming competitions, and other events and activities. - Published: 2021-05-03 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/dog-competitions/ - Categories: Blogs Dog Competitions: What You Can Expect The 2000 “mockumentary” “Best in Show” is an entertaining glimpse into the fascinating world of dog competitions. From dog breeders to dog groomers and everyday dog lovers, competitions offer a fun way to learn about dogs and meet other dog lovers. However, there are two distinctly different types of dog competitions we’ll cover in this article. First is The AKC (American Kennel Association) focused shows. These have AKC-recognized dog breeds sorted into categories like working dogs, sporting breeds, and non-working breeds. These are the big name shows that many people think about when they think of a dog competition. Such as The National Dog Show that’s televised every year at Thanksgiving. We’ll share a quick peek into seven dog competitions in the U. S. However, there’s a whole other side to these events too. These are dog grooming competitions. Participants are judged on their dog grooming skills, such as their scissoring techniques. Tammy Siert is a Certified Master Dog Groomer, a Small Animal Education Team for Andis, a grooming competition judge, and Secretary of Groom Team USA. She says, “Most groomers don’t know there are grooming competitions. They may hear about a trade show via social media. They come to a trade show for education and then see this grooming show going on on the sidelines, and some of them want to know more. ” Below you’ll discover more about the top competitions in the United States and dog grooming competitions. You may find yourself learning new grooming techniques, making new friends, and being part of a fun new hobby! 1. The National Dog Show Every Thanksgiving, thousands of families across the U. S. gather around their TVs to watch the National Dog Show. It’s on right after the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. It’s the best part of Thanksgiving to many Americans! This competition, also known as The Kennel Club of Philadelphia Dog Show, started way back in 1879! It has a long, beloved history of showing and competing with the best dogs in the country. All seven of the breed categories are represented, competing in their own events to find the best of each. But the televised portion only shows snippets of those events. The main televised event is when the Best of Breed of each category competes for Best of Show. Aren’t sure what all the breed categories mean or include? Here’s a comprehensive list with examples: Sporting — hunting and field dogs. German Shorthaired Pointers, Cocker Spaniels Hound — hunting, smelling dogs. Basset Hounds, Beagles Working — guard, work, and rescue dogs. Bernese Mountain Dogs, Dobermann Pinschers Terriers — small prey hunting, guard dogs. Irish Terriers, Bull Terriers Toy — companion dogs. King Cavaliers, Chihuahuas Non-Sporting — varying types and breeds, “miscellaneous. ” Dalmations, French Bulldogs Herding — herding, farm dogs. Border Collie, German Shepherd This dog competition is the most popular in America. If you’re looking for a must-see, this is it! 2. The Westminster Kennel Club Dog... --- ### 8 Priceless Dog Mom Gifts for Mother's Day > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2021-04-26 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/dog-mom-gifts/ - Categories: Blogs 8 Priceless Dog Mom Gifts for Mother’s Day For some, dogs are like children (fur babies, anyone? ) and dog moms deserve to celebrate Mother’s Day, too! Since dogs live in over 40 million US households, that makes for plenty of loving pet parents celebrating holidays (and every day) with their pets. This Mother’s Day, honor your favorite dog mom with some thoughtful Mothers day dog mom gifts. Studies have shown that the same parts of a dog parent’s brain light up when they see their dogs or their children. It’s no wonder that there are so many self-identified dog moms walking around, proud of their precious pups. If you’re looking for the perfect gifts for the dog mom in your life, think creatively. Until there’s an official “Dog Mom’s Day” on the books, you’ll have to try some of these clever Mother’s Day dog mom gifts. Mothers Day Dog Mom Gift Ideas: 1. Gift Card for Grooming her Favorite Pup As the spring season arrives many of our dogs are pushing out their furry winter coats. Dog mothers across the country are adhering to the national lock down watching their homes fill with pet dander. We are all being inundated with new guidelines on sanitation and many of us are cleaning like mad, so anything we can do to streamline that process we welcome! Mom and pop grooming businesses across the country are doing what they can to stay available for your dog moms better half. Take a look at local grooming locations offering curbside drop off’s and buy a gift card (or a couple) for the dog moms in your life who’s pup needs some attention. Though many of us can not get our own grooming in check as hair salons remain closed, we luckily can keep up with our dogs grooming needs. Do your part to support local businesses and buy grooming gift cards for your favorite dog mother. If you’re not selling gift cards at your grooming location, maybe its time you consider starting! Daysmart Pet software connects you with professional custom gift cards to order for your business, check it out by clicking here. 2. A Cute Mothers Day Dog Mom T-shirt T-shirts abound, and to find one with a hound should be a snap! There are plenty of online resources that offer breed-specific novelty and heritage items for sale. Shop for everything from t-shirts to coffee mugs to calendars to wind chimes. You’re sure to find something unique and wonderful and perfect for the Dog Mom in your life. If you’ve got some design chops, go a little further. If her favorite movie is Titanic, Photoshop her face and her dog’s face onto the main characters. If she loves KISS, you could Photoshop the two of them as band members covered in makeup. A custom printed t-shirt will be well-loved and could be a huge hit. 3. A Dog Portrait You’ve likely noticed a new trend in dog portraits all over social... --- ### Customer Spotlight: DogFX > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2021-04-21 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/customer-spotlight-dogfx/ - Categories: Success Stories Neil Roberts was recently awarded the title of Innovation Inspiration in DaySmart’s 2021 Small Business Brilliance Awards. This recognition celebrates Neil for proving his creativity by leveraging DaySmart Pet to deliver increased value to his business. When DogFX opened 20 years ago, it was the first doggy daycare in South Australia. It’s since grown into a dynamic retail and grooming operation known for its high quality of care. We recently spoke with Neil, who bought DogFX in 2018, to learn more about his experience running a business during a pandemic, and how software usage plays into his strategy. Q: To start, we’d love to learn a little more about your business. A: DogFX is unique in that we’re a grooming salon, retail store, and daycare all in one, though our grooming business is our drawcard. Since we don’t cage or use force with the animals, we’ve developed a following, particularly with rescue dogs. Many of these animals have had bad experiences in the past or have never been to a grooming salon, and as a result, they can be extremely anxious or even aggressive when you are washing or grooming them. We’ve developed a great technique for handling these dogs so that after a few visits they are much less stressed and more open to being groomed. A lot of the method is around talking to the dog, and we take breaks if the experience becomes too much for them. We’ve had great success helping them and their owners work through anxiety by discovering what their triggers are and then gradually desensitizing the dogs to them. Our goal is for the dogs to love coming to DogFX. Q: What inspired you to buy the business? A: I have always been an animal lover and have been a volunteer for Animals Australia for many years. I also used to show dogs and was even studying to become a judge, so when DogFX went up for sale I knew it was a perfect opportunity for me. Q: What inspired you to start using DaySmart Pet? What’s been your experience with the software? A: We needed software that was suitable for grooming, daycare, and retail, and we can hand-on-heart say that DaySmart Pet is the best option as it covers all these different parts of the business. We’re self-taught with the technology, which shows how intuitive the platform is. We use all the features that DaySmart Pet offers, but we use the appointment book the most. It makes it simple to schedule clients even if they have multiple dogs or want to change the appointment time or day. We also have a fairly comprehensive retail offering at DogFX, so a software package that could support that area of business was essential. For example, I previously had to manually write out each product ticket to price our stock in-store, but now I can use DaySmart Pet’s inventory feature to automatically print those tickets. I can print 27 promo tickets in a matter... --- ### Dogs Around the World: New Dog Breeds from Europe > Discover new dog breeds from Europe and their unique qualities. Learn about Bolognese, Hovawart, Czechoslovakian Wolfdog, and more. - Published: 2021-04-19 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/new-dog-breeds/ - Categories: Blogs Dogs Around the World: New Dog Breeds from Europe The dog world is a diverse one, and there are dog breeds all around the world that have yet to find their way to the United States. Luckily, their national kennel clubs work tirelessly with American breeders and breeding clubs to introduce these fantastic and exciting dogs and make them a permanent part of American cynology. Our governing cynology body, the American Kennel Club, fully registered 197 dog breeds. The latest one was the adorable Biewer Terrier. This tiny companion breed was accepted at the beginning of 2021, in the middle of the worst pandemic in recent history. The governing cynology body in Europe and the rest of the World is the FCI (Fédération Cynologique Internationale). It is an institution that 98 member countries, including all European countries, to Japan, Brazil, to Vietnam. It currently recognizes around 400 dog breeds, which is about 200 more than we do in the US. With the help of our friends from World Dog Finder, we have prepared a list of 7 European dog breeds that are already registered in the AKC’s Foundation Stock Service. This is the last step before full recognition. Hopefully, they will soon become a part of our rich American cynology and proud members of one of the world’s most respected cynology institutions – the American Kennel Club. Check out this list of new dog breeds from Europe; 1. Bolognese The Bolognese is a part of the Bichon family along with the Maltese, Havanese, and Bichon Frise. This is an adorable, fluffy, white dog breed that is bred to become the perfect family companion. These dogs love being a part of the family, and they love nothing more than being close to their beloved owners. Bolognese dogs are small, and owners often forget that small dogs need to be socialized and adequately trained. These dogs are somewhat intelligent, so make sure you give them plenty of mental stimulation as well as physical exercise. If you are interested in getting aBolognesein the US, you can be sure these small dogs will make excellent family additions. 2. Hovawart The Hovawart is a German dog breed that is regaining much of its earlier popularity. This is a breed that was widely popular for the past 800 years. It is an all-around working breed that is capable of doing different jobs around the farm. Their main job was guarding. They made fantastic property and livestock guardians, which isn’t surprising since they are descendants of the Newfoundland and Leonberger breeds. Hovawarts are energetic dogs. They love being busy and having a job to do. Even today, these dogs fit best with active individuals and families. They require plenty of daily activities and an active lifestyle. These dogs have amazing coats that come in several varieties. One of these varieties is golden, so these dogs can be mistaken for larger Golden Retrievers. 3. Czechoslovakian Wolfdog If you love dogs that look like wolves but have... --- ### 7 Safe and Fun Dog Run Ideas Perfect for Any Breed > Discover 7 safe and fun dog run ideas perfect for any breed. Explore innovative dog run layouts to create the best place for your dogs. - Published: 2021-04-12 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/dog-run-ideas/ - Categories: Blogs 7 Safe and Fun Dog Run Ideas Perfect for Any Breed Providing a dog with regularexercise can prevent obesity, joint problems, digestive problems, and serious psychological issues. Building a safe and fun dog run at your boarding facility can go a long way in improving the overall experience. Dogs who leave your business should go home calm and satisfied. Keep reading below to learn about some of the best dog run ideas to get started. We’ll discuss what materials you should consider for your dog run, as well as seven unique ideas for operations of all shapes and sizes. What Dog Run Materials Should You Consider? You’ll be surprised to hear that there are a ton of materials for building a dog run at your home or business. The first step should be deciding on the best dog run layouts for your property. Knowing the size and shape will make it easier to pick out the right materials. Here’s what you should consider: Fencing? (Wooden or Metal) An Enclosure or Open Air? Lighting? Watering Bowls? Potty Areas? Accessories? (Toys or Play Structures) Flooring is probably the most important choice to make when designing a dog run. Using the existing dirt and grass is fine, but some of it may get torn up and dogs will get dirty. Some owners willplant synthetic grassor install wooden flooring at their business. Both will cost you extra money and need to be maintained to last as long as possible. Another option for dog runs is gravel, stone, or sand. Pea gravel, crushed limestone, and river rocks are commonly used. 1. Need Dog Run Ideas? Try Portable Runs Portable dog runs are the easiest and most convenient to use. You won’t have to set up anything permanent. These types of runs are made of wire mesh panels that can be set up as squares, rectangles, or octagons. They only take a few minutes to assemble or takedown. And they can be put up basically anywhere. Some dog owners pack them when traveling. If this is the type of dog run you select, you should know it’s only effective with small or medium-sized dogs. 2. A Simple Dog Running Strip Many dog owners live in a big city with only a small strip of land between houses. As a result, they’ll design a running strip. You can enclose a section of your property using edging stones or concrete. Inside of this strip, you can add real or synthetic grass. This type of strip gives smaller dogs a spot to run on or roll over. It’s also effective when potty training a puppy. They’ll get in the habit of relieving themselves at the same strip every day. 3. Obstacle Course Dog Runs Active, sporting dogs (like German Shepherds or Labrador Retrievers) benefit from having obstacles. Not only will it help burn off nervous energy but also challenge them mentally and physically. Calming a dog is important if they’re going to behave at your facility or... --- ### A Complete Guide on How to Choose the Right Pet Nail Grinder > Daysmart Pet provides several tips on choosing a good pet nail grinder for your pet care business, and how to use and care for it. - Published: 2021-03-29 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/pet-nail-grinder/ - Categories: Blogs When setting up your pet grooming business, you need to make sure you have the best tools for the job. A pet grinder can bean essential toolfor making your life easier and increasing your pet clients’ comfort when trying to trim their nails. But what makes a good pet nail grinder, and why do you need one? Take a look at our short guide about how to pick the best pet nail grinder for your business and the types of features you should consider when making a purchase. Why Choose a Pet Nail Grinder? Pet claws can cause a lot of damage to a person and their property. If left untrimmed, they can also become a major discomfort for a pet. If your customers have hardwood floors or tiles, they may hear a familiar tik-tak of the pet’s claws across the floor, especially if a pet is older or lives most of the time indoors. Natural wear and tear of the nails diminishes over time, and many pet owners are unaware of this. When a pet is brought into asalon for a groom, the nails need to be checked, as well as the coat. If the nails are curling back into the pad, then it is past time for a trim. Many pet owners have considered declawing as a permanent option for their cats, but this isfar from humane. Veterinarians will advise against it as a solution, as it is essentially removing the cat’s fingertips. Nail clippers are also an option, but you run the risk of catching the ‘quick’ blood supply inside the claw. Doing so causes a lot of pain for the animal and likely for you too. A pet nail grinder is a much more gentle and natural alternative to declawing and far safer than using clippers. Reducing the pet’s nails can be done easily and effectively with the right tool. Let’s look at some things you need to consider when choosing a nail grinder to maintain a healthy claw length on a pet. Device Power When trying to choose a pet nail grinder, you need to consider how powerful the device will be. Obviously, you want something with enough power to rotate the grinder against an animals’ nails. This will be more of a consideration for dog owners as cat claws are much finer and easier to grind down. It is essential to find a balance between devices that are too underpowered or too overpowered. An underpowered device will stop grinding immediately as it comes up against any tough friction. Too overpowered, and it won’t be easy to control and may heat the pet’s nails. Device Noise As most pet owners can attest to when getting out the vacuum cleaner, pets do not like the noise of most motors. For this reason, you need to choose a device that is quiet enough that the animal does not freak out when you turn it on. Grooming sessions can be stressful enough for an animal. If... --- ### 7 Ways Grooming Software Makes It Easier To Work From Home > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2021-03-29 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/work-from-home/ - Categories: Blogs The good news is you don’t have to spend your entire life at the shop. New technology advances are constantly coming out which make it easier than ever to work from home. Not only does this make it easier to balance work and family responsibilities, but its more convenient so you can get your work done faster. Say goodbye to pulling all-nighters just to get payroll done on time. Do you want to know more? Keep reading to discover 7 ways technology makes it easier to work from home. 1. Online Booking Why do you spend so much time at the shop? Is it because you need to be there to answer the phone and take bookings? While some customers will always call to book appointments, you can lessen the time you spend on the phone with one easy step. Online booking makes it easy for your clients to make appointments while they are out and about. Instead of having to talk on the phone and look at their schedule, they can see all your open slots and find the one that works best for them. Plus, they’ll be able to book 24/7! This can also save you money since you won’t have to hire a front desk worker or more employees to cover you while you answer the phone. It’s the perfect first step in preparing to work from home. 2. Automated Reminders Sometimes it’s not enough to have an easy online booking software to run a work from home business. If people miss or show up late for their appointments, it costs you money in the long run. Calling each client to remind them of appointments can be time-consuming, so why not make technology work for you? Automated reminders are easy to set up. They will send an email or text message to the number provided, so you won’t have to worry about it. Plus, they really work! 3. Employee Scheduling Software Even small businesses have trouble setting schedules. When you have so many things going on, the last thing on your mind your employee’s availability. When it comes time to set the schedule, it can feel like a jigsaw puzzle trying to get all the shifts filled in. Did you know there is an easier way to keep track of it all? Employee scheduling software can help you set reoccurring schedules, so you don’t have to deal with the nightmare of making a new schedule every week. You can simply tweak it one week to accommodate special requests, then go back to normal the next week. You can also keep track of paid time off. This is the best way to assure your employees are getting paid for the days they miss without paying them for extra days once they’ve used all their personal or sick days. 4. Simple Payroll Software Do you have more of a creative mind? While that was great when thinking of business names and marketing tactics, it may mean that... --- ### Weighing the Options of Dog Grooming Harnesseses > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2021-03-22 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/dog-grooming-harness/ - Categories: Blogs Weighing the Options of Dog Grooming Harnesses for the Grooming Table All dog groomers know that while some dogs love a good pamper others are less keen, to say the least. From anxiety to aggression, you’ll come across all sorts of adorable clients as your dog grooming business grows. That’s why it’s so important to have the right equipment to ensure the safety of your four-legged clients and yourself. We’re looking at the best options for a dog grooming harness to do just that. Why Do You Need a Dog Grooming Harness? Lots of dogsstruggle with anxietywhen going to the groomers. The reasons for this are plentiful. The dog might distrust strangers, particularly if it’s a rescue dog. But even the most well looked after dog can exhibit signs of anxiety over going to the groomers. Much of this comes down to the new surroundings. If a dog hasn’t been exposed to grooming equipment before, it’s a natural response to find it all a bit overwhelming. Shiny scissors, loud hairdryers, soapy water... it’s enough to make anyone put their tail between their legs! This anxiety can manifest itself in anumber of ways. From whining and trying to get away to growling and snapping. It’s important to remember that all these are signs of a scared dog and not take them as anything more. But ensuring your own, and your clients, safety, and happiness should be a top priority. Which is where dog grooming harnesses come in. These helpful tools make sure movement is minimal and there are no unexpected surprises in store. Even the calmest of dogs can benefit from being in a secure dog grooming harness. There are so many available that it can be hard to know which kind is right for your business. Much of this will depend on the size and breeds of the dogs you plan to groom, as well as the temperament. Your unique setup, be it a physical salon or a mobile salon, will also influence which harness is right for your business. This said we’ll cover the most popular options. Grooming Loops Grooming loops are the most common option for grooming harnesses. They’re also known as grooming nooses, though we much prefer the term loops for not having the sinister undertone! Grooming loops slip over the dog’s head and onto its neck. The other end of the loop will be attached to a secure point on the wall to keep the lead taut. This helps encourage the dog to stay still. Some grooming loops are secured to a certain tightness. While others will tighten further if there is lots of movement. The latter in particular is a good option for particularly excitable dogs. In general, grooming loops are suitable for calmer dogs. Anxious dogs will need a more secure and sturdy harness which isn’t based around their neck as this could further stress them. Stand n Groom Stand ‘n’ Groom or stand and grooms are a great option for chilled-out... --- ### How to Appear On Searches for Local Dog Groomers Near Me > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2021-03-15 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/how-to-appear-local-dog-groomers-near-me/ - Categories: Blogs Local SEO has become increasingly important for businesses and groomers are no exception to this rule. Over the last few years in particular, Google has continued to change its algorithm to prioritize local results within the search engine results pages. A common question that has stemmed from this is how to rank for local searches. In this guide, we’re looking specifically at how to rank for the term ‘local dog groomers near me’. What Is Local SEO? Before we get into how to use local SEO to benefit your grooming business, you need to understand what it is. Local SEO refers to appearing in the search engine results pages for keywords that are geographically based. This could be a term like “dog groomers in Dallas” or “Fort Worth dog groomers”. It could also be as simple as “dog groomers near me”. Google understands the search intent of all of these terms. So regardless of whether an actual location has been entered, Google will use data from the user’s device to show the best results that are local to that user. ‘Near me’ searches have skyrocketed over the last decade. From 2013 to 2017, there was a 900% rise in “near me” searches. Some of this is due to the increase in mobile device usage. Whatever the reason, Google has delivered by changing their algorithm to prioritize local SEO for these kinds of searches. So businesses need to follow suit if they want to remain competitive. How to Rank for ‘Local Dog Groomers Near Me’ Now you know how important local searches are, particularly for brick and mortar businesses, you’ll want to know how to rank for them. The good news for grooming businesses is there are loads of ways to optimize your site and business for local searches. None more important than Google My Business. Google My Business Google My Business (GMB) is the most important tool available for local SEO. It’s free to use, so if you aren’t using it already, you should be! Google My Business listings are the results that first appear for local searches. They look like Google Map results. A GMB listing will feature your business name, contact information, pictures, and reviews. You can create a Google My Business listing easily. Google will walk you through every step of the way. Ensure your business information is up to date and accurate for the best results. This should be the same information that appears across any other business assets like your website or social media presence. Gather GMB Reviews Once your GMB profile is up and running with up-to-date information, you want to gather reviews. Reviews are one of the best ways to rank top of the GMB results on local searches. It’s super easy for your customers to review your business on Google. All they do is find your business within Google Maps and select ‘write a review’. They can then score your business out of five stars and write a brief description.... --- ### Tips for Expanding Your Pet Business > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2021-03-11 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/pet-business-ideas/ - Categories: Blogs The pet industry in America made over $72 billion last year. You can increase your share of those profits with easy pet business ideas such as expanding your services and broadening your marketing channels. What services and channels will make your pet business more profitable? This industry is constantly expanding with new products and services. Pet owners want their animals to have the best of the best, from food to massages. Adding one new element to your business can help meet more pet needs. With so many potential pet business ideas, how do you choose? Keep reading for seven ways to take your pet business to the next level Grooming Dogs of all sizes and fur lengths need grooming. Some are trickier than others, which is why certification is key. Learn how to groom every type of hair or fur and you can add grooming to your roster. Most community colleges offer dog grooming courses. You can also find hundreds online. Ensure that you practice and take pictures to use in your portfolio. Being more knowledgeable about grooming for different breeds builds your reputation. Consider getting certified in grooming, nail cutting, and common animal skin conditions. Different Types of Training Do you have a knack for obedience, dominance, or agility training? This could be very profitable as one of your pet business ideas. Pet owners need basic training for their pups. Some dogs come with their own set of issues that make them harder to train. If you become an expert on training, you can charge more for difficult cases. There’s also a whole world of training for other types of animals. Some trainers specialize in training pets for commercials, movies, and TV. As you probably know, training a pet can also mean training its owner. If you enjoy working with animals and interacting with their owners, then this could be for you. Sitting and Walking Pet businesses that revolve around boarding can easily offer walking as well. It’s a natural expansion for businesses with these services. Likewise, offering doggy daycare when you’re already a walking business. Pet boarding is an awesome feature to add to your roster if you’re a trainer. Owners can leave their dog with you for a week of training. When they pick them up, their pup has improved behaviors. Customers likely already trust you with one aspect of their pet’s life. Boarding and walking are great pet business ideas to make some extra money from existing clients. Make Healthy Pet Food Have you ever looked at the ingredient list of mainstream dog food brands? It’s not pretty. Today, there’s a larger market than ever for healthy, natural pet food. Many owners resort to preparing their pet’s food at home. Take a load off their plate by offering homemade pet food from your business. You can customize the meals you offer based on the client’s needs. If Rover is allergic to turkey, make options with chicken and beef. Pet owners want the best for... --- ### Customer Spotlight: Haute Dogge > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2021-03-11 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/customer-spotlight-haute-dogge/ - Categories: Success Stories DaySmart Pet customers are passionate small business owners who excel at what they do. As part of our commitment to supporting and educating entrepreneurs, we aim to showcase our customers’ expertise in growing a successful business. Mike Conners and his Daughter Jennifer Bartman, the owners of Haute Dogge, a pet grooming salon with locations in Franklin, Spring Hill and Nolensville, TN, are not only dedicated to grooming pets, but also to help the community. We are especially proud to recognize Mike for Veteran’s Day given he served in the United States Air Force for almost 20 years, and his wife Eileen for 24 years. Read on to learn about Mike and Haute Dogge’s journey—and how he’s made it his mission to give back to veteran’s not only on November 11, but all year long. Q: How did you come to own a dog grooming salon? A: I purchased the business in January 2015, almost six years ago. I’m not a pet groomer, but my daughter Jennifer is. So, she told me about this great opportunity. We started out with one location and three employees. I mostly run the behind-the-scenes of the business, like accounting, while she runs the operations side. I never expected to own a grooming salon. I was in the Air Force for almost 20 years and then worked for a Wall Street Bank, before moving back to Nashville. After working in technical roles, I eventually bought the business because it gave me the flexibility to take care of my wife, who had fallen ill. Now we’ve expanded to three brick-and-mortar locations, one mobile unit, and 24 employees! We expect to keep growing, and our goal is to eventually have 10 shops and at least four mobile units. Q: What is your favorite part about running a pet services business? A: My favorite part is to watch the groomers take their creativity to the next level. A dog will come in that hasn’t been taken care of—perhaps he has matted fur. The groomer will take the dog to be washed and cut, and they come back looking adorable! It’s artistic. I think it’s very creative the way that the groomers can work with any dog in any condition. My other favorite part is the love that’s given to the pets during their grooming. Seeing the animals enjoy being pet, washed and catered to is really sweet. Q: What was one of the biggest challenges when taking over the business? A: One of the biggest challenges was that the previous owners documented everything—calendars, contacts and transactions—on paper. About two months before I took over the business, I knew it all had to be digitalized. In my search for business software, I found DaySmart Pet. DaySmart Pet’s features stood out among all the other business software that I was comparing it to. It’s very simple, user-friendly and allows us to store useful information on both clients and their pets. Being able to text or email to confirm appointments... --- ### Looking for a Breath Mint for Dogs? 7 Ways to Reduce Fido’s Foul Odors > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2021-03-01 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/breath-mint-for-dogs/ - Categories: Blogs Stinky dog breath often indicates an underlying issue likegum disease. It’s no secret that dogs don’t brush their teeth twice a day–which means they may need some extra help in the dental hygiene department. We’re always looking for ways that pet groomers canimprove their business models. Offering a breath mint for dogs is a simple way that you can add that cherry on top to a thorough grooming service! Read on for seven ways that you can reduce bad breath in dogs, including our recipe for homemade breath mints that your clients will love. 1. Getting Dogs Comfortable with Tooth Brushing Brushing is a great way to beat gum disease, but most dogs won’t let you start brushing their teeth without a fight. Naturally, dogs are going to want to chomp down on anything you stick in their mouths. To get them used to tooth brushing, you’ll need to work your way up. Start by wrapping a piece of clean gauze around your finger and gently wiping their teeth and gums. Let your clients in on this practice so that they can work on it at home, too. Remember, don’t use human toothpaste for dogs. Toothpaste often contains xylitol, an ingredient that hasserious health repercussionsfor our furry friends. 2. Adding a Little Garnish Parsley is the ultimate herb for a clean bill of health. It contains vitamins and nutrients that may improve kidney health and vision while also boosting the immune system. In addition, parsley kills those stinky breath germs that are wreaking havoc in every dog’s mouth. You can add one teaspoon of curly leaf parsley to a dog’s food or water once a day. 3. Mixing Up a Teeth-Cleaning Salad Sometimes, bad breath is caused by plaque buildup on a dog’s teeth. As a groomer, deciding whether or not you can try the gauze brushing method is important for your own safety. If you don’t think a dog will react well to having your fingers in their mouth, there’s another way that you can tackle that plaque. Cut up a bowl of carrots and apples and let the dog chow down. Both of these fresh foods make a healthy snack for dogs and they can actually scrape away at plaque while the dog chews! 4. Drinking ACV Apple cider vinegar may have a funky smell, but it does work as an odor neutralizer. Humans use ACV for all sorts of health reasons and now, dogs can too. Mix a teaspoon of raw organic ACV into a large bowl of water and allow the dog to drink it. Let your clients know that their dogs can have an ACV mix three times a week for long-term breath control. 5. Adding Healthy Bacteria to Dog Food Probiotics are the bacteria we consider “good. ” For humans and dogs alike, introducing probiotics into our diets is a great way to promote good gut health. Good gut health has a positive impact on our immune systems, our mental health, and,... --- ### Why Brand Loyalty Is So Important for Dog Groomers > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2021-02-23 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/brand-loyalty/ - Categories: Blogs Why Brand Loyalty Is So Important for Dog Groomers Americans are crazy about their dogs, and nowhere is that more evident than in the money spent caring for their four-legged “kids. ” According to theAmerican Pet Products Association, services like pet grooming are worth $10. 7 billion a year. It’s not surprising. Doting pet owners want the best for their pets, and that includes regular grooming. While dog grooming was once reserved for “fancy” breeds, many pet owners now recognize the correlation between hygiene, good health, and grooming. After all, regular grooming can pick up on potential health concerns like tender gums and unusual lumps early so pet owners can book a medical check-up and make sure their pet is healthy. And while it’s great that more dogs are getting regular grooms, it also means there’s a lot more competition than there used to be. These days, most towns have multiple pet grooming shops. Even the big box retailers have gotten in on it. This means, if you want to stand out, make a stellar first impression, and grow your business, then it’s vital that you develop a strong brand. What is Branding? “A brand is a name, term, design, symbol, or any other feature that identifies one seller’s good or service as distinct from those of other sellers” (American Marketing Association) (Source) You probably have a favorite brand or two. Do you have a daily Starbucks habit, or do you always buy the same brand of shoes? If you’re like many people, you do. When you find a brand that “works” for you, then you’re loyal. For example, you might feel a little pampered when you treat yourself to your favorite treat. You like a specific brand of shoes because they keep your feet comfortable and help you feel supported during your long days of grooming. Branding is much more than logos and pretty colors. It’s also about evoking emotion. A good brand makes you feel something. It also affects your marketing, pricing, customer experience, and even the way your staff works together. But it doesn’t happen overnight. Building a brand is the result of knowing who you are and what your business stands for. Google “branding books for small business,” and you’ll get dozens of options. If you read them, you might be amazed at deep thinking work that goes into creating a strong brand. Questions like: What do you want your customers to feel when they first encounter your business? Why do your best customers love you? Who is your ideal customer (and no, “dog owners” isn’t the answer. ) Who’s your competition? What types of dogs are in your area? (so you can tailor your services) What do you want to be known for? Many web design, graphic designers, and marketing professionals will help you work through these questions as part of their services. But even if you don’t have the budget to hire outside help right now, that doesn’t mean you should skip... --- ### TV for Dogs: 7 Reasons Television Might Be Beneficial for Your Dog > TV for Dogs? Learn more about how your furry friend interacts with television and their television preferences. - Published: 2021-02-22 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/tv-for-dogs/ - Categories: Blogs Any dog owner has probably noticed when a television show has caught their dog’s eye. It can be entertaining and adorable, but it also begs the question as to what they are experiencing when they look at television. Have you been wondering about TV for dogs and whether it’s a good idea to let your dog watch TV? Let’s take a look at seven reasons that but in your dog watch TV might be beneficial for them. 1. It Keeps Them Company Many people who have dogs also have to work full-time job this means that on many days their dog is left home alone. For many dog owners, it is heartbreaking to think of their dog lonely at home. This is one of the some people leave the TV on for their dog. Many people use programs that arespecifically designed for dogsthat include videos of other dogs. One study did find that dogs are able to identify photos of other dogs mixed in with pictures of other animals and humans. If you’re worried about your dog being home alone and lonely, putting dog TV on for them can help to keep them company. 2. It’s Stimulating Both humans and canines need both physical and mental stimulation in order to be happy. If you find that your dog is overly energetic when you walk in the door and jumps all over you, you might want to see if leaving the TV on for your dog helps to burn off some of that energy. You might find that certain programs are so mentally stimulating that help to reduce the excess energy your dog has when you get home. 3. It Can Help Them Overcome Agitations If your dog is afraid of certain objects or occurrences, having the television on can help them to deal with this. It can help to make your dog acquainted with different stimuli which makes them less likely react in an anxious or startled way. If your dog has separation anxiety, you might find that pet TV shows help to give them something to focus on so they are less anxious. 4. It Can Help Them Deal With Noises It’s normal for dogs to react to loud noises. Whether it is a doorbell, a vacuum cleaner, or a car horn, many dogs will bark in reaction. Having the TV on with the sound on can help your dog be less reactive to noises. It can make that noises stand out less to them and also acclimate them to their being sounds in their environment. 5. It Can Help Keep Them Calm If you are worried that your dog is home with anxiety all day, keeping the TV on can help to keep them calm. You might find that your dog seems much less stressed out when you get home at the end of the day when the TV has been on. 6. TV For Dogs Is Specially Designed For Dogs While you can just turn... --- ### Customer Spotlight: Wet Paws Dog Grooming > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2021-02-22 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/customer-spotlight-wet-paws/ - Categories: Success Stories Olivier Leibowitz was recently awarded the title of Marketing Maven in DaySmart’s 2021 Small Business Brilliance Awards. This recognition celebrates Olivier for his creativity in leveraging DaySmart Pet to stay connected with clientele and keep them informed about the grooming business he’s so passionately built. A former Madison Avenue marketing and advertising executive, Olivier opened Wet Paws Dog Grooming in Trumbull, Connecticut, in 2016. We recently spoke with him to learn more how the business has evolved—especially over the pandemic—and how he’s leveraging his software investments to keep operations moving. Q: You didn’t always work in the pet industry. What inspired the career switch to dog grooming? A: A few years ago, I was working as a marketing consultant. I was always away from home traveling, so one day my wife suggested we do something fun and different—like dog grooming. Going from the corporate world to dog grooming was a shock, but a better quality of life was definitely a draw for switching. We saw a very big opportunity for a grooming business in our area so we got to work developing a detailed business plan that included all the differentiators that would separate us from the competition and make us special. Q: How did DaySmart Pet play into that plan? A: Given my background with marketing strategies and technology, I was looking for a well-rounded point-of-sale software that would let me mine my database of customers, including prospects, and automatically email and text a host of different trigger-based customer retention and marketing communications. After careful assessment of the other packages available to the grooming industry, I determined DaySmart Pet was the most advanced, with the best mix of tools. We’ve used it since we opened our doors. Q: What has been your experience with the software? A: From a technical, customer service, and cost perspective, my experience with DaySmart Pet has been exemplary. The software is intuitive and easy to use. For those advanced marketing and sales users like me, DaySmart Pet has proven to be a great return on investment. Besides the marketing capabilities, we use the built-in payments systems. It’s seamless to operate, as well as a very fairly priced merchant banking option. Even if DaySmart Pet was slightly more money, it’d be valuable for us to use because completing transactions manually, which requires switching between platforms to record everything, results in more work and wasted resources. Q: How has the pandemic impacted your business? A: While dog grooming is considered essential in Connecticut, we did close for six weeks at the onset to assess the situation and decide the best ways to protect ourselves, our families and our customers. Despite that downtime, Wet Paws has fortunately not been impacted much. We have a very loyal customer base and continually get new customer requests based on our reputation. Safety has always been a priority for our business, but we’ve since taken new measures during the pandemic to protect our staff. After all, when a customer... --- ### Customer Spotlight: Dogs Paw Inc. > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2021-02-21 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/customer-spotlight-dogs-paw/ - Categories: Success Stories DaySmart Pet customers are passionate small business owners who excel at what they do. As part of our commitment to supporting and educating entrepreneurs, we aim to showcase our customers’ expertise in growing successful businesses. We recently sat down with Deana Deitchler, owner of Dogs Paw Inc. in Park Rapids, Minnesota, to talk about all of the considerations that go into creating and running a full-service dog care center—from designing your dream workplace to planning for difficult situations. Q: What is your favorite part about running a pet services business? A: It’s hard to name just one thing because there are so many great parts to running this type of business. Of course, I love providing quality pet care—that’s number one—but I also love that, as a business owner, I get to choose who I work with, both in terms of clients and employees. Not everybody has a job where they get to design their work environment like that. I’m fortunate to have that sort of control. Q: What advice would you give to other professionals who want to pursue careers in the pet business? A: First and foremost, make sure you plan for difficult situations. When people enter the pet industry, they think it will be fun all the time, but that’s not the case when you’re handling animals. Even under careful supervision, pets can still get hurt or fight with one another. People are very attached to their pets, so you need to make sure you’re taking care of them. This means having a plan in action for dealing with tough situations when they occur. Develop a training program that covers standard operating procedures for new hires, so they know what the pet-safety protocols are for these sorts of situations from the start. Q: What made you decide to invest in business management software? A: I opened my business in 2008 and was doing everything on paper—from booking to billing—and chasing my tail to figure out appointments and financials every day. I was struggling to keep track of my customer base, especially because handwriting everything was getting messy. In 2011, I started out with a simple version of DaySmart Pet—bought out of a catalog—and have since added more features onto my program as they became available. I have evaluated other solutions over the years because I like to see what other people in the industry are using and make sure I still have the best available option. But each time I look, I end up sticking with DaySmart Pet. As I’ve grown my company, the software has grown alongside it. The team behind DaySmart Pet always tries to navigate the challenges of the industry and figure out what functions would be most helpful to users. The DaySmart Pet team also pays attention to what customers have to say and are able to stay ahead of our needs by developing new solutions to our problems. Every so often, I call with feedback, and they really listen. I’ve... --- ### Integrate Payment Processing with Speedy Client Checkout > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2021-02-16 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/processing-services/ - Categories: Blogs Taking payments is a crucial part of any grooming business. It may be the best part – this is where your clients reward you for the value you generated and communicated. Now you get remunerated! The payment services you sign up for in order to be able to accept credit cards in your groomers is called a payment processing service. Maybe you obtained your processing services through your local bank as part of setting up your business account, purchased the credit card reader hardware as part of your front desk POS, or opted for mobile reader hardware from a provider like Square. Now, when we say “integration” of a payment processing service, we’re talking about connecting that credit card processing service to your business management software. The business software tracks your clients and their purchases. When it comes time for a client to pay for services with a credit card, many front desk personnel need to juggle these two systems. The business software provides the total amount due and, if not integrated with your business software, that amount needs to be manually entered into the payment system. Perhaps that’s into a separate computer or a payment terminal (swiper/ scanner) that is physically connected to the same computer, but uses separate software. This means you’re switching systems – taking the amount owed from one application and then manually entering it in the payment system. Hurried receptionists trying to check the client out, maintain some level of cheerful small talk, and rebook or upsell (ignoring the ringing phone) may make mistakes in entering the amount due. So $108. 80 might become $10. 80. The transaction closes, no one notices the error until a day/week later, and now there is no card to run for the correct amount due. Aside from making a mistake, operating this way can have other implications as well. Client checkout is the time you should be focused on asking the client about their experience; maybe suggesting re-booking times or product additions. This isn’t the time to be copying data from one system to another, double checking the amounts, and asking the client to authorize the purchase on another machine. A version of this same scenario, but one in which the payments system is integrated, would save some time for the client and remove the possibility of human error. In the business software, the invoice/ticket shows the amount due and when the client presents a credit card, the card gets swiped on a processing terminal connected to the same PC and the ticket is immediately closed after a successful swipe. Reports in the business management software are consolidated and correct – no need to reconcile bank statements with other reports to ensure you’ve been paid for every service. The payment system could suggest tip amounts to the client, adding to your services revenue without having to ask. Things to keep in mind when choosing the right payment processing services: Seek a Great Rate There is money to... --- ### Customer Spotlight: All Fur Pet Grooming > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2021-02-14 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/customer-spotlight-all-fur-pet-grooming/ - Categories: Success Stories As part of our commitment to supporting and educating entrepreneurs, we’re spotlighting DaySmart Pet customers who have been impacted by the pandemic to learn about how they’ve adapted their operations to overcome resulting business disruptions. We hope their stories serve as a guide for those navigating similarly difficult situations. We recently spoke with Gabriela Rudnick, Director of Operations at All Fur Pet Grooming, LLC, in Virginia, to learn about her experience running a business during a pandemic, and how software usage plays into her strategy. Q: To start, we’d love to learn a little more about your business. A: Our mission is to provide comfortable, high-quality service for all pets, though we specialize in grooming older dogs. We get a lot of PetSmart “rejects” that are deemed too old or difficult to care for, and we take them in and make them feel like family. Q: What’s been your experience with DaySmart Pet? A: In January, we transitioned to DaySmart Pet from Avalon, which we found to be too antiquated. Upon doing some research, DaySmart Pet was the best integrated system. We tested it in one of our locations to start, and the groomers really appreciated it, so we incorporated it into all three. Q: Which features have been particularly helpful for running your business? A: We love the mobile app because we can upload pictures of client preferences right into their profiles and better understand their expectations. DaySmart Pet helps our receptionist too because she doesn’t have to waste time printing papers; she can look at all the customer information through a screen. We also use the texting capabilities to communicate with clients, which saves us time from having to call to confirm appointments and pickups. Reputation management has also been the greatest resource. With it, we can send requests for reviews straight to clients’ phones and immediately learn if they’re happy with their experience with us. If it’s the case that they’re not, we then have the information available to understand the situation and better respond. Q: How has the pandemic impacted your business? How have you adapted the ways you do business amidst the business closure? A: Fortunately, we were only closed for two weeks, but then we were only allowed to reopen with three groomers per location. This meant we had to cut back on the number of clients we were able to serve so that we could maintain our certain level of quality. To stay safe, we’re wiping down equipment with heavy-duty disinfectants every time someone touches a pen or a door to make sure there’s no virus transmission. All employees receive a temperature check in the morning, and if they display any symptoms, they’re off work for a mandatory two weeks. Additionally, we’re only allowing only one client in the waiting room at a time, which makes some people upset, but we have a lot of older clients and we’d never want them to feel like they can’t visit our business because... --- ### How to Submit Your Grooming Business for an Award > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2021-02-12 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/grooming-awards/ - Categories: Blogs As a small business, you are constantly working to establish and grow your recognition in your local market and industry. While marketing and social media campaigns are essential elements in getting your pet grooming shop’s name out there, it’s important that you focus on building not only visibility but also credibility. You might have referrals and reviews that show you offer high-quality services and products to your clients, but there is even more you can do to establish evidence of your excellence. One such tactic is applying for both local and industry awards. Not only does this validate the positive impression current customers have of your grooming shop, but it also helps to engage new prospects and provides great content for your website, social channels and marketing campaigns. Not to mention, employees feel good working at an award-winning company. Still, submitting for an award is no small feat. It can be time-consuming and confusing, especially if you don’t know where to start. Follow these steps to streamline the submission process and win the accolades your grooming shop deserves. Find the Right Awards to Apply For There are seemingly endless award opportunities out there, but not every award is right for your grooming shop. You will heighten your chances of winning—and make the most of your time and effort—by choosing an award that speaks to the niche value of your business. Find the right award by: Choosing an award category that speaks to your strengths. Don’t apply to an award for pet groomers just because you’re a groomer. Identify what you do best—whether that is best-of-breed customer service, innovative offerings or a great workplace culture—and find categories that allow you to showcase those assets. Checking out the competition. If your competitors are applying for awards, all the more reason that you should be, too. Investigate which awards they have applied for and won in the past. Not only will these be good indicators for the important accolades in your industry, but it will be all the more exciting when you win them instead. Making sure you qualify. Oftentimes awards include certain caveats that are not initially obvious. Double check that the award welcomes entries from your industry, with your number of employees or your current annual revenue. You should also determine how much the award submission costs and qualify if the time and financial investment is worth the accolade. Exploring national and local awards. Don’t let the size or scale of the award stop you from applying. Some of the best small business awards are offered by national companies—and just because the applicant pool is large does not mean you shouldn’t apply (as long as you’ve established that the award is right for you). On the flip side, local business awards can help build recognition in your community. Also make sure to check out trade publications and magazines for industry awards that are more well-known amongst your peers. Writing the Award Submission Once you’ve found the right award, drafting... --- ### Leave it to the Professionals: Options for Grooming a Golden Retriever > Golden retrievers are naturally obedient dogs; you'll find as a pet groomer that with the right tools they'll be a cinch to groom. - Published: 2021-02-08 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/grooming-a-golden-retriever/ - Categories: Blogs Leave it to the Professionals: Options for Grooming a Golden Retriever Golden Retrievers are one of America’smost popular breedsof dogs. Not only are they known for their exuberant and friendly personality, but they make for excellent hunting dogs. They also are an ideal breed for service animals and search and rescue. These medium-sized dogs are also known for their luxurious golden coats. Their beautiful fur makes them a sought after breed, not only for their friendly personality. However, with a gorgeous coat also comes upkeep. Consistently groominga Golden Retriever is an important part of being a pet owner as grooming helps keep them clean and prevent other issues. Since Golden Retrievers have a double coat, they are extremely big shedders. If you don’t want to be vacuuming or sweeping every day, staying on top of their grooming and coat care is essential. Read on to learn more about the grooming a Golden Retriever requires and how to manage it. When to Groom Your Golden It is a good decision to begin consistently grooming even when you’re dog is a puppy. Their coat doesn’t need to be groomed, but this will enable them to get more comfortable with the process. They will be familiar with the scissors and brush. A lot of dogs loved to be brushed and groomed, but if yours doesn’t, that’s ok! Getting them comfortable with being handled by yourself and groomers is a good step for a positive experience for everyone involved. Weekly brushing is important for your Golden Retriever. It will help keep their coat fresh and let you check for any wounds. There are many different types of pet brushes out there, so findingthe best onefor your pup is important. The best types of brushes will be able to get rid of tangles and mats from your dog’s coat without causing them too much discomfort. You want to make sure the bristles or pins of the brush are long enough to get through their thick coat without hurting their skin. Having a brush that is easy to clean is important as well since you don’t want to spend a lot of time pulling hair out of a brush. A lot of brushes will have retracting pins, making for easy cleaning. A good brush will also keep their coat clean, removing any dander and dirt. You will also want to look for a brush with a larger head since a Golden Retriever is a medium-sized dog. Shedding and How to Curb It Grooming your dog will help rid their fur of fleas, keep them clean, ensure their coat is well taken care of, and most importantly, help with the dreaded shedding. Taking your golden to the groomer forshedding treatmentsis a game-changer for your home’s cleanliness. That is where the groomer will blow out their coat with a high powered velocity dryer. This will get rid of all the loose fur that’s trapped in their undercoat. You will notice a huge reduction in your dog’s... --- ### It’s Tax Time – Automate Financial Management With QuickBooks Connect! > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2021-01-29 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/quickbooks-connect-integration/ - Categories: Blogs Owning a small business offers many upsides – such as freedom from having a boss and the ability to set your own schedule. Yet there are also downsides, one of which is dealing with complex financials, which makes tax season a stressful time for anyone that’s unprepared. Ensuring that you have all the required documents organized before the submission deadline is a major challenge. With tax season fast approaching, now may be an ideal time to assess your business’ “tax readiness” and verify you have no potential tax reporting issues. The two best ways to prevent any tax reporting issues from occurring: using a powerful pet grooming software system to track all of your payment data, and integrating that data into robust accounting software, like QuickBooks. DaySmart Pet & QuickBooks Connect Integration Based on popular demand, DaySmart Pet’s latest integration includes QuickBooks Online! To use this integration, you must have aDaySmart Pet cloud subscriptionand a QuickBooks Connect plan. Don’t already have a QuickBooks Connect plan? Click thisexclusive linkto claim 50% off your first 2 months! The DaySmart Pet to QuickBooks Connect integration seamlessly and automatically syncs: Service Transactions Gift Cards Packages & Memberships Sales Taxes Employee Tips Product Transactions Returns & Discounts Loyalty Rewards You can export up to 90 days worth of data into QuickBooks and the system will automatically keep QuickBooks up to date in the background throughout the day. Simply Start Syncing To connect your DaySmart Pet Software with QuickBooks Connect, follow these easy steps: Go toonline. daysmartpet. comand login with your existing username and password Then go to ‘More’ – ‘Options’ – ‘More Features’ – ‘QuickBooks Online’. 3. From here, you can connect your existing QuickBooks account to DaySmart Pet by clicking the ‘Sync’ button and logging in with your existing QuickBooks Connect username and password. 4. After a quick connection process, your accounts will be linked and closed tickets will be pushed to your QuickBooks account. From this screen, you can also import previous transactions to QuickBooks, select your QuickBooks payment account and view the QuickBooks sync log (sync history). Save Time and Eliminate Errors Save countless hours, and eliminate any headaches this tax season, by integrating DaySmart Pet with QuickBooks Connect. Reconciling your books becomes a snap when all of your transactions are being synced in real-time, making tax day just another day and making your accountant really happy! Call us today at (800) 527-7600 to learn more! --- ### To Clip or Not to Clip? A Guide to Popular Double Coat Dog Breeds > Learn how to properly care for double coat dog breeds as a dog business owner from Daysmart Pet. - Published: 2021-01-25 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/double-coat-dog-breeds/ - Categories: Blogs To Clip or Not to Clip? A Guide to Popular Double Coat Dog Breeds Most people who have a popular breed of dogs are of their pup’s specific attributes to make their relationship unique. Maybe one of your clients has a golden retriever who loves playing fetch. Or they could have an exceptional German Shepherd who loves to sniff out a scent trail. Did you know different breeds need different types of grooming depending on their coat? Double coat dog breeds are more common than you think. A double coat on a dog refers to the specific type of fur that makes up their coat. The type of hair can significantly affect how the dog’s coat grows and sheds. A double coat can also shed multiple times a year in a seasonal “shedding period. ” What does your client’s dog need to stay adequately groomed? Clipping or a simple scissor trim? Double coat dog breeds need special attention when it comes to the upkeep of their furry coat. Proper coat maintenance and patience during the shedding season are crucial to your pet’s health and safety. What Are Double Coat Dog Breeds? Double coated dog breeds have a coat that seems to have a mind of its own. A double coast is precisely as it sounds. This type of coat grows in sections. The bottom layer is a more refined, more delicate type of hair that works to insulate and add bulk to the longer and more coarse primary hair type. The primary coat is the coat you are used to seeing on dogs. The primary coat is the layer that consists of a dog’s unique color or a wide variety of markings. Aside from growing in multiple layers, a double coat has a shedding cycle. This cycle maintains the appropriate level of warmth or insulation the animal needs. The shedding cycle is affected by weather conditions and environmental factors. When warmer weather begins to take shape in the spring and summer, the double coat’s undercoat begins to fall. All double coat dog breeds are mostly adventurous. Think mountain and water dogs—giant fluffy breeds like Huskies, Akitas, A German Shepard, and a Labrador retriever. The undercoat is produced and shed in cycles. The primary coat (glossy and shiny topcoat)has longer hair, mostly for protection from the elements. These hairs are much longer and work as a shield from rain and snow in the winter. The secondary coat is mostly for bulk and insulation. This insulation is not only for colder seasons and templates, but it also helps to regulate a dog’s body heat in summer, when the weather is warm. Since a dog’s only sweat glands are on their paw pads, the only other escape of body heat is through panting of their coat’s insulation. While the insulation has different purposes, the double coat is not super thick all year round. Quite the opposite is true. When the double coat isappropriately maintained and cared for, the shedding amount can... --- ### Customer Spotlight: Pet-Agree Pet Services > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2021-01-24 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/customer-spotlight-pet-agree/ - Categories: Success Stories As DaySmart Pet embarks on a new decade of supporting and educating entrepreneurs, we want to continue showcasing the passionate small business owners – and the inspiring companies they’ve built – that our software has empowered over the years. One such owner is Alicen Ingle, founder of Pet-Agree Professional Pet Services in Jasper, Indiana, who celebrates the 10-year anniversary of her first return customer this month. “We celebrate my first return customer instead of the day we opened our doors because that’s what having a successful business means to me – customers who value your work and keep coming back,” she says. For our latest Customer Spotlight, we sat down with Alicen to talk about how she’s evolved her company from a one-woman show to a nationally-recognized grooming facility, and how DaySmart Pet has helped her create the customer-focused company she’s envisioned from the start. Q: Tell us a bit about your business and how it’s grown over the years. A: I own a pet grooming, lodging, supply and training facility. I started out as a one-woman show of a single mom, and now, ten years later, I have six employees and have served over three thousand pets in this vicinity. Years ago, when I first started, there was only one nationally recognized grooming program (Nash Grooming Academy) and now I’m affiliated with it as an instructor and as a satellite test site. In fact, I’m the only teaching facility in Indiana to be affiliated as such. I’m also a state-certified groomer, a master cat groomer, a master cat grooming certifier and the first AKC S. A. F. E-certified salon in Indiana. Suffice to say, I’ve come a long way. Q: What are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced as a small business owner? A: In the beginning it’s hard. You start a business because you want it to be profitable, and you want to design a certain quality of life for yourself, but that doesn’t happen right away. When I opened my business, I was charging less than half of what my services were worth so that I could get people’s business. It took two years before I could pay myself a salary. Q: What advice do you have for someone who wants to start their own business? A: Look at your target market and figure out where you fit in. When I moved to Jasper, local groomers didn’t actually have any education about grooming. They thought it was fine to just pick up a clipper and groom their pets themselves, so I saw an opportunity to educate the community on the skills needed to do a successful job. I also learned that many local groomers were turning away large dogs and cats; two types of clients I knew I could handle. Because of this, when I first opened, I specialized in grooming large pets to meet my specific market needs. Q: Is there anything people should keep in mind when working in the pet industry?... --- ### Groomers Lung: 6 Tips to Help Groomers Stay Safe and Healthy > If you own a dog grooming business, you're aware of Groomer's Lung. Read on to learn how to protect yourself against Groomer's Lung. - Published: 2021-01-18 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/groomers-lung/ - Categories: Blogs If you work as a pet groomer, you already know the importance of staying safe on the job to protect yourself and your clients. A condition called Groomer's Lung is something that every groomer should be aware of so they can take the proper precautions to prevent it. Read on for a list of six tips to help you stay safe and healthy, and make sure you’re aware of the risks associated with this pet groomers lung disease. 1. What is Groomers Lung? When you’re snipping, brushing, and shavingan animal’s fur, it’s no surprise that tiny hairs and clumps of fur are flying through the air. As this material floats into the atmosphere around you, you’re likely breathing some of it in. If you’re breathing in tiny particles of dead skin and fur, this material can get deep into your lungs, accumulating over time. The human lungs are not capable of “processing” this material, which can lead to a health condition known as groomers lung. This pet groomers lung disease is a chronic condition that can affect your lung function. The tiny, sharp fragments of hair get deep into the lungs, leaving inflammation and scar tissue behind. Once you have groomers lung, it will likely affect you for the rest of your life. Some groomers lung symptoms include chronic coughing, frequent chest pain, and general inflammation of the airway. Many groomers also experience lung-related issues like bronchitis or pneumonia. While it’s not quite as bad for you as smoking, groomers lung is still a very dangerous and difficult health problem to deal with. That’s why protecting yourself in advance is so important so that you can continue doing the job you love without negative effects. 2. Wearing a Mask is Essential Most pet groomers don’t wear a mask or face covering whiledoing their job, but it’s one of the most important tools you can use to keep you safe and healthy. Always wear a close-fitting mask that hugs your face whenever you’re cutting pet hair, combing, or blow-drying. Look for a groomers lung mask made of a fine gauze material so it can filter out those tiny hairs, parasites, dust, and dander that fly through the air. If your mask is too loose or if it’s not made of a fine gauze, these small particles can still easily make their way into your lungs. A face shield is not sufficient for pet groomers, since it leaves a large gap between your face and the air around you. Look for a soft cloth mask made from a lightweight, moisture-wicking material to keep you cool and comfortable throughout the day. Ideally, you should wash your mask every single day to remove the buildup of hair and particles. Wearing the same mask each day without washing it can cause you to inadvertently breathe in the hair and other particles that have accumulated on your mask during the day. Purchase several of the same types of masks so you can wear a... --- ### Cost of Dog Grooming: How Much Should I Charge? > The cost of dog grooming varies market to market. Daysmart Pet covers more about how to determine your pet grooming prices. - Published: 2021-01-13 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/dog-grooming-prices/ - Categories: Blogs Cost of Dog Grooming The right pricing strategy is vital to your pet grooming business. So how much should you charge? Here’s everything you need to know about dog grooming prices. An important part of setting up your business model will be establishing your prices. Yet, it can often be tricky to determine exactly how much to charge your clients. Do you offer a single price that covers all services, or upcharge depending on the specific treatment? Do you charge more for different sized dogs, and if so, how do you set the pay scale? These are just a few of the questions you may have. Today, we’re discussing how to set your dog grooming prices. This way, you can rest assured you’re charging your customers a fair and balanced rate. Interested in learning more? Let’s dive in! Check Out Local Dog Grooming Prices It goes without saying that as a dog groomer, you’ll want to research your local competition. It might be tempting to offer prices lower than the “going rate” in your area. Yet, keep in mind that this research is primarily intended to give you an idea of what’s out there. Check the local online reviews, hop on the competing social media pages, and, if you can visit the shops to check out what they’re offering and how much they’re charging. Then, use this comprehensive knowledge to help guide your strategy. But remember, successful groomers stand out by their quality, professionalism, and technique, not always their price point. Calculating the Value You Bring When determining how to set your dog grooming prices, it’s important to consider exactly what you bring to the table as a groomer. Also, think about how much your customers are willing to spend for the solutions you provide. Not sure where to start? Think first about what sets you apart. Are you an expert at small breeds, able to get them to look show-worthy in a matter of hours? Or maybe you offer a de-shed that can save homeowners tons of time and money cleaning their house? You might also specialize in deep-cleaning canine teeth, or a homemade oatmeal bath treatment, or a long line of spa options that customers can’t get anywhere else. Now think about how much those services are worth to the people who call on you to pamper their pooch. You’ll obviously need to calculate your personal costs to gather the supplies and provide the labor to make sure you turn a profit. Yet, it’s just as important to think about the services in terms of perceived value. In other words, how much do you think your customers believe your services are worth? How much time are you saving them? What about energy and other resources? Working from here can be a valuable place to start. Critical Price Factors to Consider To ensure your time and effort are appropriately compensated, you’ll likely want to charge more depending on specific price factors. Common considerations include breed size, temperament,... --- ### It's a Date! 7 Ways to Celebrate With Your Doggy Valentine > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2021-01-11 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/doggy-valentine/ - Categories: Blogs Valentine’s Day isn’t only for couples! If you have a pup at home, then there’s no reason to not have a doggy Valentine! Your dog is your best friend and gives you unconditional love like no other. They’re the perfect Valentine for this very reason. There are so many different things you can do with your pup for a fun Valentine’s day. Before it’s too late, you should start planning the perfect Valentine’s Day with your doggy Valentine. Where will you go, what will you buy them, and how will you spend your time with your pup on Valentine’s Day? Not sure of the answers to these questions? Continue reading below for several wonderful Valentine’s Day ideas for you and your pup! 1. A Woodland Hike Planning the perfect Valentine’s Day date can be as simple as gearing up for a long walk with your pup. Taking a stroll will. Your pup will love all of the unique woodland smells and enjoy the variety of critters moving around in the forest. This Valentine’s Day date idea is inexpensive, and you can spend the entire day there. 2020/2021 has been a hectic year, so get a moment to think and breathe as nature has a way of calming any unwanted chatter in your head. Be sure to bring a bowl for food and water, some snacks for yourself, and a few toys! It might be a good idea to be sure the park allows dogs on leash (or even off leash if you’re lucky). When you’re ready to head home, you and your pup will have had a great day and both be ready for bed! 2. Schedule a Photoshoot You’ve seen all the cute couple photoshoots for Valentine’s Day, so why not do a photoshoot with you and your pup? You can wear matching outfits and find cute props to use in the photos as well. Be sure to research Valentine’s Day outfit ideas to give you some inspiration. Consider bringing a few of their favorite toys or pack some Valentine treats and toys. Make sure to schedule the shoot with a photographer ahead of time, since their schedule for Valentine’s Day might get booked quickly. You can find a fun spot to do the shoot in, such as a favorite park, your own backyard, or somewhere else you and your pup could have fun at once done with the shoot. 3. Bake Dog-Friendly Treats Your pup most likely loves sharing treats with you. When you pull out that bag of chips or popcorn, does your doggy wait for you to drop some crumbs? Although we want to share every part of our lives with our dogs, human food isn’t always the best for them. One great way to spend Valentine’s Day with your pup is to spend the day baking some dog-friendly treats! Instead of only baking human cookies or only making homemade dog treats, why not make treats that both you and your pup can eat... --- ### National Mentoring Month: Meet the Owners of Mucky Pup > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2021-01-04 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/professional-mentoring-mucky-pup/ - Categories: Blogs National Mentoring Month is dedicated to raising mindfulness around the importance of mentorship, which is particularly powerful in the world of small business. Young entrepreneurs can benefit greatly from professional mentoring of a seasoned pro who has succeeded in their desired career track. Yet finding a mentor—or the right mentor—can be difficult as an up-and-comer. That’s why DaySmart Software, the makers of Daysmart Pet, is committed to supporting and educating entrepreneurs. In the spirit of National Mentoring Month, we sat down with Daysmart Pet customers Jackie Boulton and Deb Cameron, sisters and co-owners of Mucky Pups, to discuss their careers. Jackie and Deb opened Mucky Pups in 1996 and have grown from up-and-coming entrepreneurs to grooming business experts. Here is the story of their careers and how they transitioned from mentees to mentors. Q: What is your favorite part about running a grooming shop? A: First and foremost, we enjoy the dogs and the clients, and doing what we love every day. There are pros and cons, but it’s nice to have the control and flexibility we have as owners. I started grooming at a local shop in 1986 and Deb followed two or three years later. We grew up with animals, horses and tons of dogs, so it was in our blood. Once Deb saw how much I was enjoying grooming, she followed along. We get along really well, obviously. When she chose to leave the salon where we both worked in the winter of 1995, we got talking about what we wanted to do. We didn’t want to leave pet grooming but didn’t want to work for anybody else. Starting our own grooming shop was something we could do together. Q: What are some the biggest challenges you face as a small business owner? A: The biggest thing that comes to mind is staffing. Finding dog groomers is difficult, but finding good dog groomers is even more difficult. There aren’t a lot of schools in Canada. Once you find a skilled groomer, the biggest challenge is hanging on to them. Q: So, how do you attract and retain talent? A: What separates us is that we pay better than a lot of local grooming shops. Our employees work hard, so we like to reward them and make sure everyone can make a decent living. We are also very busy; there’s always work for them to do. The harder they work and the more motivated they are, the more money they can make. That’s something we have above other salons that seem to struggle financially. We didn’t start a business to get rich. After 23 years, we are still in the shop doing the same things that our employees are doing, including cleaning kennels and doing shampoo jobs. We do the mundane tasks, and that’s what gives us incentive to succeed. Q: Who is/was your professional mentor? How did they become your mentor? A: We discussed this and decided our mentors were our parents. Our dad got... --- ### A Guide to Selecting and Caring for Professional Dog Grooming Shears > Upgrade your grooming kit with our professional dog grooming shears. Find the perfect pair for your grooming needs. - Published: 2021-01-04 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/dog-grooming-shears/ - Categories: Blogs Dog Grooming Shears It’s no secret that the pet grooming businessis boomingin today’s market. And while the rise in pet styling and care certainly means more business for you, it also means that you’ll need to work harder than ever to keep up with the competition. While tactics like having a strongsocial media presenceand the rightpet grooming softwareare incredibly important? You also need to ensure that you have the best tools for the job. In this post, we’ll tell you how to choose the top professional dog grooming shears for your business. Then, we’ll also tell you how to take care of the best grooming scissors on the market. By the end of this post, you’ll have the scoop on some grooming shears worth bragging about — and both your two and four-legged customers will love the results. Different Types of Professional Dog Grooming Shears First, let’s talk about a few of the many different types of professional dog grooming shears available to you. Often, you’ll need to make sure that you have at least one of each type of shear, in order to work with specific breeds and types/lengths of fur. First, you should invest in a beveled edge pair of shearing scissors. These work for pretty much all types of breeds and sizes of dogs. Beveled shears are known for being able to cut from the entire length of the pivot to the very tips of the shears. Because beveled edge shears have more of a space between the blades, it’s able to quickly slice through hair. This means it’s especially effective when you need to thin out a thicker coat. You should also invest in a pair of straight edge scissors. These shouldn’t be used to cut off larger pieces of fur, but should instead be used to clean up areas around the paws, on the face, and even on the ears and tail of the dog. They’re also helpful for trimming out stubborn knots. Remember that using the wrong shears for a breed or type of fur can cause serious damage to your scissors. Finally, you’ll also need a pair of rounded and specialized grooming shears. These kinds of scissors help you to manage more complicated and curly coats, likethose of a poodle. They can also assist with trimming a dog’s fur around its nose. Since rounded scissors are designed to get the details, they’re especially popular among groomers who get dogs ready for shows and competitions. What to Look for in the Best Grooming Scissors Something that all of the top rated dog grooming shears have in common? They’re comfortable and lightweight for the groomer to hold. This means that you need to be on the lookout for shears that have large loops, especially since you’ll need to adjust your hands to sometimes awkward angles. Remember that shorter shears are best for small dogs, while shears with a longer length should generally be reserved for larger breeds. Also, take a look at the... --- ### Benefits of Integrated Credit Card Processing > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2020-12-17 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/credit-card-processing/ - Categories: Blogs Integrating your credit card processing with your software program can offer many benefits to your business in 2020. Not only do you have access to great credit card processing rates, but you will also find that you will save time and gain ways to make more money. Less mistakes and saves time Takes the guesswork out of consolidating your daily revenue. How much time do you spend comparing your totals report in your software to the totals report from your card processor? How often are there mistakes in the manual entry of what a customer paid vs. what was really charged? With Integrated credit card processing you will avoid these mistakes and your reports will match. Simply swipe the card for payment and the amount is automatically recorded in the program. The system will even suggest a tip amount without you having to ask! Integrating Credit Card Processing with Daysmart Pet Software gives you access to more features: Store cards on file Charge in advance for services or deposits Allow customers to pay for products over the phone and pick up later Charge for no show appointments Take a payment even when your customer forgets their credit card Take online booking deposits Membership Billing Manage your memberships and take payments right through your program. You no longer need to have a separate system to bill for your memberships. Consolidate your routine for membership management all in one place. Customer Facing Portal Invite all or select customers to create an account online Allow clients to book new or manage existing appointments right from the portal Let clients update their contact information and manage their loyalty points All-In-One POS System Have you checked out our latest advance? Our new all-in-one system is the perfect front desk solution and has all the functions a modern groomers including an integrated payment processing so you can process all of your transactions (at great rates! ) in a single system. Find out more about our new All-In-One solution here! It’s easy to see that integrating your pet software and processing services can save you time, make you money, and allow you to bring exciting new products to your customers, which can strengthen those relationships and secure your revenue streams with new, profitable services in 2020. Integrated payment processing services not only eases reconciliation and reporting, but if you can reduce your rates or get out from under “per transaction” fees, you can save hundreds (even thousands) of dollars each year – money you can use to grow your pet grooming business! There’s no reason to hand over your hard earned profit. Just because you got this equipment from your bank, doesn’t mean they have your best interests at heart. You owe it to yourself to check your rates, and if your credit card processor has been increasing them, providing less than stellar customer service, or making you wait for your money, it might be time for a change. Contact us at sales@daysmart. com and... --- ### Boosting the Performance of your Staff and Retail > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2020-12-17 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/staff-retail-performance/ - Categories: Blogs With 2018 coming to an end, have you completed your year end review for each of your employees and your retail sales. Do you know which employee or product performed the best? Keep reading to find out the key thing to understand about your top employees and best selling retail products. Key things to understand about your top performers. Identify the 5 W’s: Who is the top performing staff member? Who is your top performer? What is unique about their job performance? When do they market their skills? Why are they performing better than others? How do they interact with their team and clients? These questions are clues as to how you can coach and mentor your staff. Use this Q&A to identify key qualities among each staff member. Share examples and create a team environment that allows your lead performers to be mentors. Use these examples when you are coaching your low performing staff and find out where they need coaching and work on those areas. Stay constructive and remember we learn from our mistakes. Create a mentoring program. Pair a struggling employee with a successful one and allow them to shadow for the day. Create a part time assistant program that will allow for the struggling employee to gain extra training. They can then practice the skills they have learned by working independently on the opposite days. Make sure you have a dedicated team of staff. If there is a staff member that is compromising the integrity of your team, you may want to consider cutting ties. A team that operates in a positive atmosphere will always outperform. You may feel cutting your losses may cut your revenue but if your team performs better in return, you have made a gain. Incorporate pricing levels for services. Start the new or struggling employees out at a lower price level to promote an incentive for growth. Set goals within each price level that must be reached and maintained in order to move to the next pricing level. This concept will motivate your employees to meet specific expectations and grow quickly. This creates the ability for the stylist to receive a raise as reward for their progress. Suggested goals would be- retail per guest, service per guest, guest retention, and re-booking. All of these goals can be monitored within your software program. You may want to consider team goals as well. Market your business and staff through your software. The opportunities for marketing to your clients are endless. Create a loyalty program that will boost referrals. Create automated marketing emails thanking customers for visiting your business. Within your emails add links to online booking, Instagram pages, facebook pages and anywhere you gain reviews. Identify a target group of customers and send a marketing email for a specific promotion. It is important to consistently monitor your staff performance. With a positive atmosphere and a little constructive criticism, your staff will grow and thrive. Everyone can use a little motivation from... --- ### 2021 Pet Industry Trends Groomers Should Explore > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2020-12-11 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/pet-industry-trends-2021/ - Categories: Blogs It’s official – modern pooches are seriously pampered. From blow drying to pedicures... owners can’t get enough of the luxury life when it comes to their pets. Don’t believe us? The pet grooming industry is set to grow to$14. 5 billion by 2025. If you want a slice of the action, check out our 2021 pet industry trends to keep an eye on for the coming year. Covid-Who? Let’s kick it off with the unavoidable topic of 2020 — Covid-19. Covid-19 has wreaked havoc across businesses for what feels like the entirety of 2020. It’s forced businesses to change their routines, as well as shut down altogether during lockdowns. Though nobody was exempt from the chaos of the pandemic,pet adoptions skyrocketed. A huge amount of shelters were actually empty for the first time back in July of 2020. The knock-on effect of this upsurge in pet adoptions was that pet businesses were one of the few industries to actually get a boost during the pandemic. For example, Pets At Home reported 0. 4 revenue growth in their first quarter, as opposed to the many businesses that reported losses. See this as an opportunity to educate all of the new pet owners on how invaluable you are to the health and happiness of their new furry family member. Be visible, take photos and videos of how happy you make your clawed customers. Blame the Millennials Though pet adoption might have skyrocketed recently, this has actually been a trend for a while thanks to millennials. Three in every four American millennials own a dog or cat. Millennials have also changed the way families relate to their pets. Where once a cat was good for catching mice and a dog lived outdoors and guarded the home, this view has all but disappeared in recent years. Millennials view pets as an integral member of their family, often choosing a lifetime of pets over having children. This shift in mentality has led to a rise in spending on those pets, as well as the way that money is spent. Millennial pet owners spend online and on higher-quality goods for their pets. Reaching this market is key to succeeding in the pet grooming industry. Millennials largely book online and expect a good online experience from the service they choose. To compete with millennials, pet groomers need state of the artpet softwareto compete for their hard-earned cash. Brands that cater to this will do well with this demographic. Pet Tech Is on the Rise It’s not only online shopping revolutionizing the pet industry, pet technology is growing rapidly too. Products like automated-feeders, pet “fitbits” and automated pet toys are all appearing more often on the market. Pet cams in particular have hugely increased in popularity. This technology has revolutionized the way people interact with their pets while they’re not around. It gives them peace of mind, even when they’re at work. Are you still operating your business with pen and paper? If in 2020 you... --- ### A Step by Step Guide on How to Open Your Own Mobile Cat Grooming Van Services > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2020-12-04 - Modified: 2024-12-25 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/mobile-cat-grooming/ - Categories: Blogs Are you an entrepreneur? Have you ever wondered what it would be like to start your own mobile cat grooming business? Believe it or not, cat grooming mobile vehicles are taking off among pet owners. Cat owners take superb care of their fur babies. This means they’ll want them washed, clipped, and tidy every month. Mobile grooming means that pet owners won’t need to leave their homes for their pets to get personalized attention. It also means pets won’t get exposed to other animals, and they won’t have to worry about the dangers of cage drying. If you’re serious about creating a profitable enterprise, there are a few necessary steps to take. Here’s how to open a mobile cat grooming business. 1. Get Some Experience With Cat Grooming It’s a good idea to work with an experienced pet groomer for a little while before venturing out on your own. You may have a knack for groomingand animals, but nothing beats some hands-on experience with pets and their parents. Pet groomers are responsible for shampooing, trimming, and clipping nails. You’ll also need to learn how to keep animals calm. It’s also important for cat groomers to learn to keep their areas clean. In a mobile situation, this is especially important because you’ll have less space. Working under a guide will also help you to determine whether or not pet grooming is the right line of work for you. You may find it very rewarding, or you may wish to venture in a different direction! 2. Get Licensed Some states require a license before you begin pet grooming, and in others, it’s just a good idea. Even if it isn’t required, however, a license can help give your customers the assurance they need that their pet is in the hands of a real professional. Certification to become a pet groomer in your state will involve several assessments that are practical in nature. You’ll need to demonstrate that you’re capable of working with animals of different temperaments. 3. Get Insured You should get insurance to protect yourself and your business in case of an accident. One of the insurances you’ll require is animal bailee, which covers your business in case an animal is injured while in your custody. Another good idea for pet groomers is to obtaingeneral liability insurance, which will cover any claims that are made against your business during the course of normal operations. Prospective customers may ask for your insurance information, and it can give them some assurance of your professionalism. It can also give you peace of mind knowing that you won’t lose your business if an accident takes place. 4. Get a Van The cost of renting or purchasing a van for mobile grooming will be one of your biggest expenses. If you’re really on a budget, a hitch-on trailer is an inexpensive way to get going. Price out used vans in your area and try to get a deal before you build your business up.... --- ### This Is What to Look for When Choosing a Spa for Dogs > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2020-11-20 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/spa-for-dogs/ - Categories: Blogs This Is What to Look for When Choosing a Spa for Dogs No matter how hard you try, keeping your pup clean is nearly impossible! They love to run around and get dirty. It’s a part of their normal routine, but how can you stay on top of dog grooming responsibilities? Pet grooming is essential for your dog’s health. When your pet receives regular grooming, fleas, ticks, dirt, and skin conditions can all be treated in the early stages. Grooming also helps keep your pup clean and feeling great! To ensure your dog has the best grooming experience, you should find a reputable spa for dogs. Selecting the right day spa for dogs is something you want to put effort into. Your pup is like one of your children, and you only want the best for them. In the guide below, there are several services and factors to expect when placing your pup in a pet spa. Continue reading below to find out how a doggy day spa can be beneficial for you and your pup! The Type of Services They Offer Before you decide on a doggy day spa, be sure to have an understanding of all the services they offer. Not all dog spas offer the same type of services or treatment, but there are some general services you can expect. Does your pup have sensitive skin and need natural products? Do you need a day spa that also provides boarding services? What type of grooming do you want your pup to receive each time you bring them in? Here are a few services you can expect your pup to receive. Spa Baths and Drying When you drop your pup off at the day spa, you can expect them to receive a nice spa bath and drying experience with their comfort in mind. Many spas will use gentle shampoos and conditioners. Because some dogs become nervous around loud noises, some spas will even provide quiet drying options. Pool/Swim Time For those of you with dogs that try swimming in their water dish, you might want to pay attention. If you have an H2O inclined dog breed and no back yard pool you might have an alternative option. Dog pools have started popping up around the country like Bubble Puppy Pool House in Trenton Michigan. Not only is this great exercise, but also a great rehabilitation opportunity if your dog is struggling with arthritis, obesity or hip dysplasia. Brushes What pup doesn’t need a good brushing every now and then? In fact, regular brushing is essential for your dog’s health to maintain a clean and healthy coat. Your pup will have their coat brushed and conditioned while at the day spa. Ear Cleanings Dog ears can become dirty quickly. All that running around and playing outside can lead to yucky ears. Your pup will enjoy having their ears cleaned while at the day spa. This is a great service to include in your pup’s spa day because... --- ### 9 Grooming Products for Your Salon Goals > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2020-11-19 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/grooming-products/ - Categories: Blogs 9 Grooming Products for Your Salon Goals Is your salon prepped to be the best in your area for this coming year? Don’t lose clientele because you don’t have the best grooming products on the market. As a pet groomer, you love your company — after all, where else can you give stunning makeovers to man’s best friend day in and day out? The question is, do you have the necessary grooming products to bring in more barks (and thus more bucks) in the new year? We’ve compiled a guide to the 9 leading grooming products you need to avoid losing clientele and, thus, ultimately reach your salon goals. Let’s get started! 1. Bristle Brush One of the staple grooming products you need for your salon in the new year is a natural bristle brush. Just like its human counterpart, a dog bristle brush is gentle and soft. These brushes, fabricated from natural materials, offer the benefit of not creating the type of static buildup you get with a nylon brush. On top of that, they effortlessly distribute oils in a dog’s coat and smooth out his fur — particularly if you’re working with a breed with long hair. You can find both short and long versions of this type of brush, along with its firm and soft versions. 2. Friction Brush This is another essential tool for any pet groomer. After all, just as tangles in your own hair can cause you major headaches, man’s best friend doesn’t like them, either. With a rubber friction brush, you can easily obliterate even the toughest of tangles without worrying about hurting your furry client. Plus, this brush type gets rids of more of that unwanted hair compared with metal brushes. 3. De-Shedding Comb Want your future grooming sessions to be even more of a win-win for your dogs and you each time? Don’t start a session without a de-shedding comb. This short comb features a blade designed to remove fur that is shedding. This is particularly invaluable in the Spring — the season when double-coated dogs blow out their undercoats. 4. Slicker Brush Want another tool up your sleeve that can set you apart from the competition? A slicker brush will do the trick. If you’re working on dog breeds that have long or medium fur, or on dogs with curly coats, you can’t do without a slicker brush. This brush features thin wires that are positioned close to one another. With a slicker brush, you can remove fur that is shedding, and you can also remove mats. But be careful when you use this brush: You don’t want to end up scratching a pooch’s skin. Used correctly, these brushes can make breaking up stubborn tangles effortless. 5. Pin Brush Got a double-coated, wire-haired or long-haired pooch on your hands? Don’t get tangled up with ineffective grooming tools. You can’t go wrong with a pin brush for working through those menacing tangles, particularly for dogs that have long or... --- ### The 2020 Small Business Saturday Marketing Checklist > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2020-11-17 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/small-business-saturday-marketing-checklist/ - Categories: Blogs After a year like 2020, it feels like small businesses deserve a full week dedicated to their support and success. Nevertheless, Small Business Saturday poses an important opportunity for pet service businesses to promote their shops, boost sales and raise awareness for their current offerings and availability. As the pandemic progresses, many consumers recognize the importance of supporting their local businesses and want to help – so it’s important that pet services businesses communicate how customers can best engage with them. Owners don’t want to miss out on a sale or goodwill due to lack of visibility. With November 28 only a couple weeks away, follow our simple checklist to make this Small Business Saturday pandemic friendly. Offer Special Services Many small businesses are still recovering from the first wave of pandemic-related shutdowns, so offering discounts may not be the best move for business. Instead, pet service businesses should skip the discounts, maximize all the revenue they can and offer special services instead. For instance, for customers who are reluctant to shop in person, you can offer curbside pickup or at-home delivery. Create specific offerings around these services, such as a bundle of pet products that can be packaged neatly along with promotional materials. Providing creative and convenient services to celebrate the holiday is a great way to show customers you want their business. Stock Up On Gift Cards During the first wave of pandemic-related shutdowns, many consumers purchased gift cards to show support for their favorite local businesses, even when they couldn’t shop there in-person. Knowing a second wave may be on its way, customers may do the same this Small Business Saturday. Give shoppers the option to purchase a customized gift card with your store’s logo to raise brand awareness and build in repeat business. Highlight Memberships While big discounts may not be the go-to marketing strategy this year, pet service businesses may want to offer small discounts for customers that sign up for membership services. For instance, if customers keep their card on file or sign up for unlimited grooming services over five months, there should be a small financial incentive – and you benefit by knowing you’ll have recurring business. Create And Update Your Online Presence Knowing that consumers may be less comfortable with in-person shopping experiences this year, pet service business should make sure that A) they have a website, B) their website is up to date with all their current offerings, products and store hours, and C) that customers can book out appointments in advance. Websites should also look polished and professional – to reflect the business accurately – and include Small Business Saturday marketing materials. Prepare Your Space If your business will be open for in-person shopping on Small Business Saturday, make sure you are prepared for an increase in foot traffic. Consider marking six-foot increments on the floor so customers know how to socially distance in line. Increase store hours and have extra employees come in to help count customers,... --- ### 10 Essential Traits You’ll Need to Become a Successful Pet Groomer > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2020-11-06 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/successful-pet-groomer/ - Categories: Blogs Becoming a pet groomer and successful business owner can be one of the most stressful things you’ll ever do, but if you’ve decided to move forward and fulfill your dream of opening a grooming salon, here are 10 qualities you’ll need to succeed. Successful Pet Groomer Traits: 1. Passion It’s the foundation for every successful entrepreneur. You need to have it for the full experience of being a pet groomer. It will get you out of bed in the morning even if you’ve only had a few hours of sleep because you were up late taking inventory. Passion gets you through bad days and makes good days much more meaningful. 2. Organization As a small business owner, you are required to juggle personal life, clients, employees, finances, and more. Being organized helps you focus on the task at hand and still have time for some fun. Find a system to keep you and your staff in order and stick with it. 3. Motivation Drive, being a self-starter – whatever you call it, it’s a must for the successful pet groomer. The important thing to remember is it’s not a finite thing. Increase it through simple everyday things like completing your to-do lists. By completing smaller tasks, you start to build momentum to conquer bigger tasks and challenges throughout the day. 4. Independence Telling your family and friends you’re opening a grooming salon is a big step in your entrepreneurial journey. Whether the advice they’ll inevitably give is positive or negative, have a clear vision of what you want from your business and how to get there. Be open while remaining true to yourself and vision. 5. Thirst for Knowledge Ask any small business owner how they spend their day, their answer would most likely sound exhausting. As owner, you’re responsible for every aspect of the business. HR, finance, guest services, marketing, management, and sales are just a few of the areas you will need to be knowledgeable. Being a lifelong learner prepares you to wear all of these hats, and not always at the same time. Understanding the interconnected nature of your business is what will make yours a lasting success. 6. Confidence Confidence will help you to “bring it all together. ” Being confident is more than just being sure of yourself. Confidence comes from knowing you’re prepared, you’ve done the best you can, and you are prepared to take on any challenge you might face. 7. Selfishness You probably didn’t expect to see selfishness on this list, but as a small business owner, you need to be selfish with your time and resources. There are only so many hours in a day, and you need to be mindful of how you use them. Don’t be afraid to say no. Your time is valuable, treat it so. 8. Delegation You can’t be everywhere. The ability to effectively delegate tasks and manage your team provides you the most valuable resource of all: time. Remember to let go. Your... --- ### How Dog Groomers Can Use a Small Business Gift Card to Boost Revenue > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2020-11-06 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/small-business-gift-cards/ - Categories: Blogs The holidays are fast approaching, and you know what that means. There’s candy canes, fuzzy sweaters, and the scent of cinnamon in the air. Small business gift cards should be a part of your wild ride to the end of the year. From promotions to upgrading your favorite customers, we’ve got ideas for fun gift card campaigns to help make this holiday season a great one for your dog grooming business. As you may know, this holiday season is poised to be the biggest yet for e-commerce. Not only has it grown year after year anyway, but the pandemic is sure to boost it even more. With more people working from home and staying in, they’ve gotten used to shopping online and avoiding crowds. In fact,Analystspredict e-commerce sales to reach $4. 13 trillion in 2020. One way pet groomers can capitalize on holiday spending (and make their customers happy) is with gift cards. Small business gift cards are a boon for business owners and pet lovers alike. They improve cash flow for business owners, and pet lovers get to give a special gift for the adorable pets in their lives. Useful Ideas for Pet Groomers When Considering Small Business Gift Cards A survey by theNational Retail Federationfound “for the 13th year in a row; gift cards remain the most popular items on wish lists, requested by 59 percent of those surveyed. ”This means, as a smart business owner, it makes sense to offer gift cards for your customers. After all, people want them. Besides that, they: Help with Cash Flow – When people buy gift cards now to use later, you get a bump in your short term cash flow, which can be useful for small businesses. Contactless – You can use paper certificates orplastic gift cards(we can help you with these. ) Or, you can go fully digital, which many of your customers will appreciate (and is coming soon for Daysmart Pet customers! ) Easy to Implement – People know what gift cards are, and they want them. Make it easy for your customers to buy them. You can offer them directly from your website or through a third party like this one. Highlight Special Promotions -Do you have new packages to promote? Gift cards can be a great way to draw attention to them. When you think of holiday shopping and gift cards, you might think about discounts, which gives some pet groomers pause. After all, Black Friday is all about getting deals. Yet, some pet groomers don’t want to offer discounts because, a) maybe you can’t afford it and b) maybe you don’t want to equate your brand with discounts. However, gift cards don’t only mean discounts. Below are a few creative ideas for gift cards to spur your imagination that goes beyond discounts. But first, here are important holiday shopping dates to keep in mind as you plan your holiday marketing calendar. Key Holiday Shopping Dates for Your Gift Card Campaign Thanksgiving – November... --- ### Pet Businesses: Ditch Pen & Paper for Maximum Efficiency and Success > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2020-10-30 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/pet-businesses-ditch-pen-paper/ - Categories: Blogs Since the dawn of pet care businesses, there have been blotter calendars at the front desk (with plenty of pencils! ) but as with most other areas of life, tech is taking over. Pet businesses managing their clients and appointments by using paper calendars & files makes it tedious, time-consuming, and more than occasionally, frustrating. Imagine spending more time searching for information than actually using that information – does this sound like an efficient use of your time? There are things that technology will never replace. For example, even if a robot could be trained to look after dogs many clients would still prefer the personal touch and security that comes from leaving their dog with a real person. This does not mean that technology doesn’t have a place within all pet businesses, in fact, modern clients are starting to demand apps, 24/7 schedule access, text reminders, and other tech perks. In an automated app-happy world, pet businesses need to keep up with the times or get taken out by their competition. Here are a few real reasons why it might be time to take tech seriously: Old School Appointment Books Just Aren’t Cutting it Anymore There’s one truth when it comes to providing pet services – time is money. This means that every minute spent on anything other than your pet services is actually costing you in the long run. But ignoring “administration” (from payroll to client tracking to appointment reminders) can spell disaster for your business. So... . Either allocate part of your day to managing the business (hopefully not at the expense of servicing your clients! ) or hire someone to manage the business, track your appointments, and file your taxes. Regardless of how well you execute either approach, you’re pretty much-losing money either way. If your new assistant makes a mistake (doesn’t everyone? ) or late hours and constant multitasking lets someone fall through the cracks, now in addition to losing money, you’re losing clientele as well! Look, there are only 24 hours in a day, and even you can’t work all of them. Years ago, there simply weren’t other options, but times have changed and technology has infiltrated every aspect of modern life – including pet business operations. Simple, affordable software can grow your business, save you money, and attract new clientele. The Benefits of Software For Pet Businesses Freeing yourself from blotter calendars (which are really hard to read when you’re anywhere but at your business location) is not the only advantage of digital business management solutions. Incorporating pet software into your operation can reduce scheduling mistakes, save you money, automate your client communications, re-engage dormant clients, speed your payroll processing or tax reporting, simplify your inventory controls, even earn you more money! The fact is people feel busier than ever (spoiler alert: we’re not), and taking the time to stop and schedule a dog grooming appointment or doggie daycare visit simply may not make it onto the daily to-do list, especially... --- ### Love Animals? Check Out These Amazing Careers with Dogs > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2020-10-30 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/careers-with-dogs/ - Categories: Blogs Love Animals? Check Out These Heart-Warming Careers with Dogs Most dog lovers don’t consider the fact that they can turn that love into a thriving career. Believe it or not, it’s true! There are tons of amazing careers with dogs that animal lovers can master, from jobs that let you save animals’ lives to ones that let you make dogs look their cutest. If you’re interested in turning your love of dogs into a career, consider one of these careers in the field. Dog Grooming If you want to spend a lot of time making dogs look their absolute best, dog grooming is for you. With just a little schooling and practice, you can become a dog groomer fast. You can open shop on your own as an independent, or work at a grooming salon with a few partners. With a career in grooming, you can expect to bathe dogs, cut their nails, and give them stylish haircuts that their owners will love. You can get started relatively cheap, especially working out of your own home. All you need is the right tools and the know-how. Once your business starts booming, you can even get automated management software like Daysmart Pet groom to help you thrive! Veterinarian If you want to truly dedicate yourself to animal care, you should become a veterinarian. Veterinarians take care of all sorts of animals, from dogs to birds all the way up to horses. As a vet, you’re essentially a doctor for animals. Your tasks run from simple diagnoses of common issues, to life-saving medical operations. It takes a lot of school, determination, and professionalism to succeed as a vet, as well as a strong stomach at times. If you have good control over your emotions and the where-with-all to get through the schooling, you can make a great living as a vet. The feeling of helping animals get back to their best lives is an incredible one. Dog Breeding People are always looking for dogs, so why not become the source? As a dog breeder, you need to maintain breeding standards and keep your dogs as healthy as possible to get the best litters. You’ll likely start by working with a trained breeder, learning the ins and outs of the industry. It takes a lot more than letting a male and female dog into a room together — it’s all about giving all your love and attention to the dogs, as well as the pups. Dog breeding often starts slow (and the money won’t come pouring in at first) but eventually, you can turn this fun hobby into a lucrative career. You also get to hang out with a ton of puppies. Talk about a dream job. Dog Sitting/Pet Boarding Unfortunately, we can’t take our dogs with us everywhere. That’s where a dog sitter comes in. As a dog sitter, your task is to watch dogs for people on vacation, visiting family, and otherwise away from home. You’ll need to feed... --- ### How to Sell More Gift Cards in Your Grooming Salon This Holiday Season > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2020-10-24 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/sell-gift-cards/ - Categories: Blogs We can already hear the sound of jingling bells in the distance, and the shelves are stocked full of pumpkin spice-flavored everything. That means the holidays are on their way, and more and more people will be coming into your groomers to make sure their pets are looking and smelling their best! As a pet groomer, you will want to make the most of the increase of clients by selling them gift cards – use these tips to sell gift cards faster than you’ve ever sold them before. Follow These Steps To Sell More Gift Cards: Offer Special Incentives The best way to convince anyone to do anything is to bribe them. That includes your soon-to-be gift-card-buying customers. Start a special promotion for gift cards. For example, offer clients a $5 credit toward their next service for every $50 in gift cards they purchase. Of course, you’ll want to run the numbers on the promo you choose to make sure it’s something you can afford. Make Gift Cards a Priority Take a moment to put yourself in your clients’ shoes during the holiday season. Their minds are constant whirlwinds thinking about all the preparations for the holiday. They’re thinking about travel plans and buying gifts, and maybe not thinking in advance about getting their pets groomed. That’s why you should focus your marketing budget on advertising your gift card this year instead of your grooming services. We’re not saying to stop marketing your services entirely. Putting 70% of your budget into advertising gift cards and 30% into advertising services may be a healthy split. Step Up Your Internal Marketing Most people think of marketing as a way to bring in new customers, and it can be. It can also be a way to get more sales from the clients you already have. That’s called internal marketing. Your current clients may love the idea of buying your gift cards for their loved one’s pets. They may even buy gift cards for their own pets to use so they can take advantage of the discount. One choice for internal marketing is to send out e-blasts to your mailing list of current clients, highlighting your gift cards. You should also put up signage inside the salon. On top of this, tell your staff to mention your gift cards when clients check out after their visit. Take Advantage of Your Foot Traffic If you’ve scored a great location for your salon, why not milk it for all it’s worth? Put up an eye-catching sign in your windows advertising that you sell gift cards. Make them prominent enough that people will see them while walking down the sidewalk or driving down the street. Many people wouldn’t think of a pet groomers as a place to get a gift card, but when they see your sign they’ll say, “Oh I know someone who would love that for their pet! ” Start a Competition to Sell Gift Cards Unless you’re at your groomers 24/7, a... --- ### 7 Ways To Prepare Your Groomers For Small Business Saturday > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2020-10-22 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/small-business-saturday/ - Categories: Blogs When American Express started Small Business Saturday, or at least when they got involved, small business owners rejoiced. Not only was it part of Amex’s plan to lower their rates for businesses, but it brought some love back to Main street. To this day, businesses all over the US look forward to Small Business Saturday. It’s like Black Friday, but you don’t have to come up with any insane deals. Want some idea on what to do to celebrate SBS in your groomers? Read below. Small Business Saturday Ideas: 1. Double Check Your Website When you’re going into Small-Business Saturday, you want to make yourself as accessible to clients as possible. That means having the most up-to-date website available. Take a look at your site. Are your headers still pushing promotions from two months ago? If so, get your content team to create some more, stat. You can even create specific content for Small Business Saturday. American Express will help can with that, which we’ll discuss later. Make sure your Google maps plugin is working and that your hours are correct. Will you be open extra hours for that weekend? Let your clients know. 2. Write a Blog Post About Small Business Saturday Why not let your clients know everything you’re doing to prepare for Small Business Saturday? Write a blog post and publish it on your social media channels. Tell clients, in the blog post, what hours you’re open that day. Are you having any specials? What’s the sale or deal you’re offering? You can even put a call to action at the end of the post asking them to share. People who engage with SBS are local-business minded, so they’re likely to encourage others to be as well. 3. Create a Text Reminder As you prepare for small business Saturday, why not open up a clever sales funnel? Ask clients who engage with your SBS pages to give you their phone number. Let them know you’ll text them to remind them about the upcoming events and what your business has planned. Even if they don’t visit you on that Saturday, now you have their information for future marketing ventures. If you don’t have or don’t want to pay for a texting service, you can always use email. There are even Facebook Bots that you can set up now for customers to opt-in to. Don’t overload them though, no matter the platform you choose. You don’t want to annoy them before they have a chance to support your small business. 4. Use American Express’ Marketing American Express started Small Business Saturday, at least the way it exists now. They used to charge different fees than other credit cards did for processing. That meant it was too expensive for small business owners to accept American Express cards. Amex figured out that they were losing business this way and changed their tune. To broadcast their new small-business friendly vibe, they threw a bunch of money into SBS. It took... --- ### Get Acquainted With Dog Massage Therapy > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2020-10-16 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/dog-massage-therapy-2/ - Categories: Blogs Get Acquainted With Dog Massage Therapy: How (and Why) It Works Did you know that having a loving relationship with your dog boosts the levels of oxytocin (“the love hormone”) in your body? However, our pets also get a boost in their ‘feel-good’ hormones when they’re petted by someone they trust. It turns that out the dogs love getting massages almost as much as we do. Plus, it has several benefits of promoting dog health. Dog massage therapy is one of the top holistic services you should be offering to your canine clients. Read ahead to learn more. A Sacred Touch Have you ever received a professional massage? Not only is it relaxing and reduces stress, but it can also have a therapeutic effect on the body. People from across the world have developed different schools of massage, each with its own philosophy and techniques. Artistic depictions of massage were discovered in the EgyptianTomb of Ankhmanhorthat are over 4,000 years old. Some types of massage are mostly for relaxation and enjoyment, while others are more medicinal in nature. Healing Hands and Healthy Dogs It’s really no secret that dogs love to be petted, gently scratched, and get belly rubs. Those who call themselves ‘dog people’ are usually happy to oblige. But it turns out, it doesn’t end there. Many of the massage techniques can also be applied to dogs. Given that they are mammals like us, our bodies share relatively similar anatomy and physiology. Benefits of Dog Massage Why bother giving a dog a massage? In short, they like it and it’s good for them. Here are some of the top reasons to get dogs on that massage table. Pain Relief Dogs can be mischievous and their curiosity can often get them in trouble. Soft tissue injuries are common in dogs. Also, as dogs get older, they have a higher risk of arthritis, dislocations, and other painful conditions. Just like people, a gentle, therapeutic massage can help dogs find relief from achy joints and muscles. Stress Relief A lot of people like to say that dogs just have it so easy. They (usually) don’t have to work or pay bills. What can they have to stress about? Dogs are amazingly sensitive and smart creatures. They need affection and something to keep their minds occupied. Do you think you would like to be alone all day with nothing to do? Dogs can get stressed out for many reasons. It can make them sick or lead to behavioral changes. A nice massage can help dogs take the edge off. Types of Therapeutic Massage for Dogs Are you into Thai massageor Swedish? There are, at least, dozens of distinct styles of massage performed throughout the world. Even within one school of massage, there can be significant variations in the ways the techniques are performed. Here are some types of dog massage therapies that can be applied. Oftentimes, there can be overlap among techniques and the therapist can draw from a range... --- ### What’s the Best Dog Calming Aid On the Market Today? > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2020-10-09 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/dog-calming-aid-2/ - Categories: Blogs What’s the Best Dog Calming Aid On the Market Today? If you run a pet care facility, it’s important to consider all of the potential calming aids that can help their pets feel at ease in and out of your clinic. Dogs get anxious and nervous for many reasons, and more often than not, it’s a combination of several. When it comes to calming down, most solutions don’t work. However, some do. That’s what this article is about. We will cover the variety of dog calming aid that can help a pet learn to be peaceful, and stay that way. So keep reading to learn more. Massage Therapy Massage is great for people, why not for dogs? Well, it is. Massage helps heal the mind and body and is a great supplement for an anxious dog. Having a resident massage therapist at your location is a great way to helpease dogs into grooming. Massage techniques can be quickly learned, which employ a series of long, slow, and gentle strokes that can intuitively calm any pet. Aside from the therapeutic massage, it’s encouraged that you attempt other methods of intuitive touches, such as Tellington Touch or anything else that involves physical contact. Dietary Changes What do you think happens to a child who only eats Mars bars and drinks Coca-Cola? Aside from the evident health benefits, there are many behavioral reasons why you might want to restrict the quantities of sugars in your child’s diet. Great food promotes great feeling, thus great behavior. The same goes for pets. Feeding a species-appropriate, low carb, high protein diet can help calm a hyperactive dog. Many owners will note a rapid decrease in anxiety behavior after switching from a high carb to a high protein diet. Speak with your vet about your current pet’s diet and how it might affect their behavior if you choose to change it. For more information on the appropriate diet for your pet, speak to a veterinarian. Calming Caps An actual tool that is developed to reduce stress in dogs who are reactive visual stimuli is the calming cap. Manufactured by Premier Pet Products, it has seen great success with many pet owners in combinations with behavior modification for reactive/aggressive dogs. If you want to try it out, make sure to follow the acclimation and fitting instructions. Before you start to use this cap in behavior modification, make sure to teach your dog that the cap is fun and pleasant, and not a crutch to their activity. Through A Dog’s Ear TADE, also known as Through A Dog’s Ear, is a calming aid that works great for impulsive, nervous, and anxious dogs. Also, it is the only clinically-backed auditory series that has practical solutions for anxiety issues in canine. The music collection consists of various compositions designed as a dog calming aid. Also, the TADE book is great for pet owners who want to better understand how sound and acoustic environments affect the behavior of our dogs.... --- ### How To Make a Dog First Aid Kit > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2020-10-03 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/dog-first-aid-kit/ - Categories: Blogs Forty percent of people would save their pet’s life over that of a stranger. But, are you actually prepared to treat your pet if an emergency should occur? Just as you should have a first aid kit for you and your family, it’s vital to have a dog first aid kit ready to go for those times your canine friends need medical assistance. While it’s always best to seek professional veterinary treatment, if you’re away on vacation or facing a natural disaster, that might not be possible. Which is why you need to be ready to care for your dog with all the essential dog medical supplies you could possibly need. Read on to find out everything that first aid kits for dogs should include. Dog First Aid Kit Essentials While you may need extra items depending on your dog’s breed and medical history, here are the essential supplies that should be in every dog emergency kit: Paperwork and Phone Numbers In an emergency, you’ll want all of your dog’s information to hand. Keep a printed copy of all their medical records, prescriptions, and vaccination records. If your dog needs urgent medical attention while you’re away from home, this will help an emergency vet provide better care. It’s also wise to keep a list of emergency phone numbers in your pet first aid kit. This way, if your phone is lost or out of battery, you’ll still have easy access to these numbers, as will anyone who dog sits for you. Dog First Aid Kit Manual A book or manual on dog first aid, like the one by the Red Cross, is another essential resource for your pet emergency kit. No matter how much you think you know, it’s always a good idea to have professional advice to hand if you can’t get in touch with an emergency vet or helpline. Dog First Aid Kit Tools First aid kits for dogs should include these must-have tools: Disposable Gloves: Gloves keep your hands clean and also prevent the possibility of you infecting your dog’s wound with bacteria from your hands. Scissors: These are essential for cutting tape, gauze and other first-aid materials. Scissors are also useful for cutting an old shirt into strips to make a secure bandage for larger wounds. Tweezers: Use tweezers to remove small items such as thorns and splinters from your dog’s paws. Tick Remover: While you can remove dog ticks with tweezers, a specialized tick remover is better for removing embedded ticks. Digital Thermometer: Use this to check your dog’s temperature in cases of suspected fever, low body temperature, or heat stroke. Eyedropper or Syringe: This is ideal for giving oral medications or to flush wounds. Instant Cold Pack: Wrap this in a towel and use it to decrease swelling and inflammation after a sprain or strain, bruising, or a bee or wasp sting. Make sure to keep these tools clean to avoid the possibility of spreading infection while trying to treat your dog.... --- ### October is Adopt a Dog Month: Why You Should Adopt a Shelter Pet > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2020-09-30 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/adopt-a-shelter-pet/ - Categories: Blogs Did you know, according to the ASPCA, over 1. 5 million animals living in shelters are euthanized every year? This shocking figure includes 670,000 dogs and around 860,000 cats. Since 1981, American Humane has championed its “Adopt-a-Dog Month®” each October in an effort to help the estimated 3-4 million animals waiting in shelters every year get the loving, forever homes that they deserve. The pandemic has quickly turned the tables for the fate of these shelter pets for the better. The Washington post has reported “what began in mid-March as a sudden surge in demand had, as of mid-July, become a bona fide sales boom. Shelters, nonprofit rescues, private breeders, pet stores — all reported more consumer demand than there were dogs and puppies to fill it”. There is a whole new wave of pet parents that suddenly have the time to dedicate to their newly acquired furry friend. Now more than ever, pets in shelters throughout the United States need a loving home to call their own. There’s a number of reasons that people don’t consider shelter pets to be a viable option for their family. The most prevalent being concerns about the animal’s temperament or its health. Unfortunately, it’s these common misconceptions often result in a lot of animals being unnecessarily euthanized. Shelters often enforce strict guidelines concerning an animal’s behavior or health, and wouldn’t rehome any pet to anybody. Shelters value the lives of animals and so should you. So, let’s take a look at five reasons why your next pet should be a shelter pet. Adopt a Shelter Pet Every Animal is Unique As mentioned previously, rescues take the time to get to know each animal before they decide who they should be rehomed to. If you have no other pets or small children, finding the pet that’s right for you will not be trouble at all. Rescues will advise you what animals they have that would be ideal for your circumstances. For example, if you find yourself housebound, you’d be better off getting a cat that you can entertain with a laser pointer or other similar toys, as opposed to a large breed of dog that would require walks several times a day. Remember, every animal is unique and when you adopt from a shelter pet, you get the chance to meet a variety of different animals before deciding on who you’d like to be your furry friend. Pets of all shapes and sizes Most rescues throughout the country are operating at maximum capacity. While this may not be good news for animals living on the streets, it’s good news for you. Visiting your local shelter means you get to see a large number of a number of pets all in one place. Rescues often have all manner of breeds and sizes of pets for you to choose from. Remember, deep down, the love that an animal will give to you is the same, regardless of what they look like on the outside.... --- ### Safe Dog Dryers Your Customers Will Appreciate > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2020-09-25 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/dog-dryers/ - Categories: Blogs One of the most important steps in the grooming process is drying your furry friends. They also know that this step can be tricky. Dog dryers havecome a long wayas the grooming industry has grown. What used to be the most time-consuming part of the process is now much more efficient. More importantly, dog dryers have become safer when maintained well and used properly. We’ve rounded up a list of our top choices for the safest, most efficient, dog dryers on the market. Your customers, and their owners, can rest at ease knowing you have their safety, andcomfort, in mind. Dog Dryers and Safety First off, we’d like to talk a bit about safety. Every so often a story will come across the news about a dog dying from heat exposure in professional dryers. These stories are so sad, and also, so avoidable. If you and your grooming team care for your equipment and follow some basic precautions, professional dog dryers and drying cages can be used safely. These incidents have prompted legislation in some states. The grooming profession itself is not actually federally regulated. However, you’ll want to make sure that you know andunderstand any requirementsyour state hasbeforeinvesting in professional doggy dryers. A Few Specifics on Doggy Dryers There are three main types of doggy dryers found in grooming salons across the country; cage dryers forced air dryers, and stand dryers. There are things to keep in mind for each one in order to use them safely. Cage Dryers Look for a dryer with a timer; it is a perfect feature to prevent extended use. Do not leave a dog unattended for more than 15 minutes at a time. Many have different temperature settings, but to play it safe stick with low or cool functions. An additional precaution is to place a thermal sensor in the crate to make sure the cage temperature stays in a safe range. The cage needs to be well ventilated so that there is no heat build-up, and if the cage is metal you need to make sure the cage is big enough for the dog to sit, turn and move unimpeded. Forced Air Dryers These have changed the game for dog hair blow dryers. Some have an airflow of over 58,000 feet-per-minute, good-bye long dry times! These are also theloudest of the dryers, which is something to keep in mind for your more sensitive clients. While they don’t produce heat they may get hot because of their motors. They are generally safe and offer flexibility for the groomer. Stand Dryers These also can get very hot, so pets should never be left unattended. They allow groomers to keep their hands free and finish the pet’s coat to gleaming perfection. They can be loud and blow out a lot of air, but there are models that blow less air, are still efficient. Allowing you to move through the coat with ease. General Considerations There are two types of motors for most dog... --- ### World Rabies Day is September 28 – Make Sure Pets Are Protected > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2020-09-25 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/world-rabies-day/ - Categories: Blogs Do you know what the deadliest disease on earth is? Think about it for a second and see if you can come up with the answer. It may not be what you expect. It has a 99. 9% fatality rate. It causes severe neurological discomfort and disease in the brain. 5. 5 billion people live at a daily risk of getting it. So, what is this insane disease? It’s rabies! That’s right. This 100% avoidable, preventable disease kills nearly 100% of people who contract it. One bite from a rabid dog could end a life. Rabies affects people around the world, found on every continent but Antarctica. So to retaliate, many major health organizations bonded together with a common mission. That goal is to eliminate death by rabies by 2030. It starts with a day — World Rabies Day, a global effort started in 2007. Why should you care? The Impact of Rabies Worldwide The rabies disease has a wide reach. It gets found on all but one continent. Places like Africa, Asia, and the Middle East are the most affected by this fatal issue. How is it spread so far? On four legs. Over 90% of rabies is canine rabies. Areas with large stray dog populations are where rabies cultivates. And since it’s a zoonotic disease, it is easily transferred from animals to humans. This can be a bite, a scratch, contact with saliva. Although the problem is worldwide, it thrives in Asia and Africa. Of the 59,000 deaths per year, 95% of them are in one of these two places. The rabid dog population is higher, and rabies correlates. The United States is lucky to say that only 1-3 deaths per year are because of rabies. In these cases, the patients didn’t likely know they were facing exposure to it and hadn’t had a rabies shot. Rabies can kill humans as well as other animals. And as of now, no cure exists for this viral disease. And if you can’t cure it, what’s the next best thing we can try? Prevention is a close second-best – ensure your pets have their rabies shot. Done by pet owners, advocates, and healthcare professionals worldwide. And so World Rabies Day was born eleven years ago. The History of World Rabies Day September 28, 2007, is the birthday of this awareness holiday. That means you have a few weeks left to spread the word, attend events, raise awareness and make sure your pets and friends pets are up to date with their rabies shot. It was started and is still run by GARC – the Global Alliance for Rabies Control. The importance of this day is in the fact that it exists at all. Rabies is still a worldwide problem, killing thousands a day. The fight against rabies is nowhere near over. Large health organizations support the holiday, which advocates for awareness and prevention. It gets observed in many countries. Its most important goal is to effectively end rabies deaths... --- ### Customer Spotlight: National Women’s Small Business Month > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2020-09-22 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/women-small-business/ - Categories: Success Stories Women Small Business OwnersOctober marks National Women’s Small Business month – a time to recognize the accomplishments of women entrepreneurs and their contributions to the economy. DaySmart Software, makers of DaySmart Pet Software, has always been invested in the growth of women small business owners. In fact, 85% of our customers are female-owned businesses. With that, we wanted to highlight some of our most inspiring female customers. As part of our commitment to supporting and educating entrepreneurs, we’ve also been spotlighting DaySmart Pet customers who have been directly impacted by the pandemic to learn more about how they’ve adapted their operations to overcome resulting business disruptions. The passion and innovation of these customers have never been more pronounced than in their responses to the challenges posed by the coronavirus outbreak, and we hope their stories serve as a guide for those navigating similarly difficult situations. We’ve taken highlights from these 2020 interviews to highlight how women owned small businesses have adapted to the pandemic. Gabriela – All Fur Pet Grooming Most recently we spoke with Gabriela Rudnick, Director of Operations at All Fur Pet Grooming, LLC, in Virginia, to learn about her experience running a business during a pandemic, and how software usage plays into her strategy. To read the full article, click here. Q: How has the pandemic impacted your business? How have you adapted the ways you do business amidst the business closure? A: Fortunately, we were only closed for two weeks, but then we were only allowed to reopen with three groomers per location. This meant we had to cut back on the number of clients we were able to serve so that we could maintain our certain level of quality. To stay safe, we’re wiping down equipment with heavy-duty disinfectants every time someone touches a pen or a door to make sure there’s no virus transmission. All employees receive a temperature check in the morning, and if they display any symptoms, they’re off work for a mandatory two weeks. Additionally, we’re only allowing only one client in the waiting room at a time, which makes some people upset, but we have a lot of older clients and we’d never want them to feel like they can’t visit our business because there’s the risk of getting sick. Q: Are there any changes that you expect to uphold after things settle? A: We’re currently requiring staff to wear masks, which we want to keep going forward considering the safety issues that come with groomers’ lungs, like inhaling nail dust floating around. Now that we’re finally protecting ourselves from those particles, it’s made a huge difference for our health. We’ve also found new ways to be more efficient with our time. DaySmart Pet has proven that we don’t have to be in the shops all the time to do our jobs. Because it integrates all our operations, from the time clock to payroll, we can finish up management tasks at home. Our groomers can also use the... --- ### Why Strong Brand Development is Vital for a Grooming Business > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2020-09-18 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/dog-grooming-business-2/ - Categories: Blogs Does your family have a furry, feathered, or scaly member at home? Chances are, the answer is yes. Sixty-eight percent of U. S. households, or about 85 million families, own a pet, according to the 2017-2018 National Pet Owners Survey conducted by the American Pet Products Association (APPA). This is up from 56 percent of U. S. households in 1988, the first year the survey was conducted. If you’re in the dog grooming business, those numbers are good news. But, all those dogs mean that your competition is going to be pretty stiff. How can you ensure that your work stands out among all the other groomers in your area? The answer — recognizable brand development. Here’s why developing your company’s brand can help to establish your dog grooming business as the leader of the pack. Brand Development Creates Brand Recognition “What’s the name of your dog groomer? Princess FiFi Featherbottom always looks amazing after she gets back from her haircut! ” If your customer draws a blank and can’t tell his friend the name of your business, that’s bad news. Brand development should equal brand awareness when done correctly. Customers are 60 percent more likely to buy from a new brand if they’ve heard of it before. Investing in a set of business cards is a must when you’re starting to promote your business for the first time. Send a card or two home with every satisfied customer, and encourage them to share with their friends. Include a discount at the bottom for first-time customers to draw traffic to your business. Community bulletin boards are also a great way to promote local visibility for your brand. Flyers with tear-off coupons will get your name and logo out there for your potential customers to see. Brand recognition is the first step to building a relationship with a new customer for life. Builds Dog Grooming Trust You wouldn’t expect someone to bring their child to a daycare provider with no branding except a plain white sign out front that says “Kid Watching. ” Why would you expect anyone to leave their pet with anything less than a well-established grooming business? Especially in the business of caring for people’s beloved pets, brand development can build a reputation that people trust. It doesn’t happen overnight, and it takes work on your part, but consumer trust is an integral part of developing a successful brand. You can plant seeds of trust by promoting the same tone and message every time you communicate as your brand. Don’t adopt a different persona in person than you convey on your Facebook page. Customers will feel confused and duped, and may not return. If your brand remains consistent, chances are good that word of mouth marketing will become your best friend. 82 percent of shoppers say they ask their friends and family for recommendations before making a purchase. Given the sensitive nature of any business that cares for a loved one, people will be far more... --- ### Best Practices for Sharpening Your Grooming Shears > Keep your grooming shears in top condition through routine cleaning and proper storage. Discover essential maintenance tips here. - Published: 2020-09-11 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/sharpening-shears/ - Categories: Blogs Maybe you’ve been there. It’s been a busy day, your pooch has been washed, dried, and you’re moving in for the most epic cut. A few snips, and, literally nothing happens. Dull grooming shears are a total drag. We all know that keeping your shears nice and sharp is an important part of having a good grooming experience. Both for you and your client. But what’s the best way to go about caring for and sharpening your shears? Should you DIY-it? Should you shell out some cash to have it done professionally? Should you just cut it out and buy another pair? Take a few breaths, we got you. Let’s have a look at the ins and outs of some of the best practices for sharpening shears. You Gotta Know When to Sharpen Good shears are a groomer’s best friend. Whether you are a novice or a professional dog groomer. Withproper care and maintenance, a good pair can last upwards of 20-years. Plan on sharpening your shears at least once a year. Aside from once a year, here are a few signs your shears are ready for a good sharpening. The Fur is Bending It’s possible that the tension is too loose. If you’ve made adjustments already and the fur is still bending, your shears are likely dull. There Is Pinching or Pulling Your furry client will likely make you aware that this is happening. From your perspective, if fur seems like it’s pinched you may have nicked your shears. Possibly from dropping them or some other sort of impact. Time to sharpen. There’s a Crunch If you actually hear a crunching sound when you’re snipping, or the shears get caught up when you close them, this is another sign you’ve nicked your shears. You guessed it, time to sharpen. Improperly Sharpened – Dull Quickly Shears that had an edge when new should stay sharp for a long time after sharpening. If you had them sharpened, or went the DIY route, and find your shears seem dull after a few services. It’s likely they weren’t sharpened properly. Your Hands Hurt If you find your hands are tired or hurt after a few cuts, it could be because your shears are dull. Inconsistent Results If your cuts are not coming out how they normally do. Or you are getting wildly inconsistent results, it could be time for a sharpening. Think of it this way, the more frequently you use your grooming shears, the more frequently you’ll need to sharpen them. Sharpening Your Shears DIY Version There are a lot of hacks out there on ways for dog groomers to sharpen their shears on a dime. Most of those hacks, you, and your shears, really want no part of. Don’t Use Aluminum Foil Some places online suggest folding some foil and cutting through it a few times. Do not do this. Your shears will become rounded and will require more work to sharpen. Don’t Use Sandpaper Sandpaper is good for... --- ### Our Favorite Grooming Smocks That Deliver Professionalism With Flare > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2020-09-04 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/grooming-smocks-2/ - Categories: Blogs Looking good may not be the first thing that comes to mind when one thinks about professional dog groomers, but maybe it should be. Looking your best at work is important! Whether you’re a professional dog groomer or working the competitive dog grooming circuit. Looking good can help you feel good and keep you safe. Not only that, but taking care to choose functional andfashionable dog grooming smocksshows your clients you value professionalism, you can take good care of their canine, and can set you apart from your competitors. Excellent groomers know the value of a good smock can’t be overstated. Grooming smocks are an investment that, if done right, can last you years. Needless to say, it’s a really important choice and we are here to help! In this article we’ll give you the rundown on things to consider when shopping grooming smocks, and share some of our favorites. What to Look for in Grooming Smocks Grooming spas are wet environments. Wet and hairy all day long. Without the right gear, grooming can start to take a toll on your body. Your skin may prune and chafe, little hairs may weasel their way into your clothing, from your clothing to your washing machine and other clothes; in short, dog grooming can quickly become a nightmare. Here are a few things to keep in mind when shopping grooming smocks and apparel. Comfortability Many people don’t understand how hard groomers work, or just how physical the job is. A good grooming smock needs to be able to keep up and keep you comfortable through the highs and the lows of your day. Cotton scrubs may fit the bill on comfort but they aren’t recommended since they aren’t fast drying. You want something that’s waterproof or water-resistant. The best smocks we’ve found are made of nylon or a nylon blend. Quick drying and lightweight, you won’t even remember you’re wearing a smock! Durability Grooming dogs is much different than grooming humans. Therefore, your grooming smock needs to be built to last, and built specifically for grooming dogs. Many companies sell both types of smocks, make sure you select one that is for dog grooming. Quality While this may be obvious it’s worth mentioning. Quality is important and can often factor into comfortability and durability in pet grooming smocks. Your furry clients will inevitably try to destroy whatever you’re wearing, pockets may get snagged, soaps and cleaning products will splash. Your smock has to withstand the chaos that can erupt. Double stitching is typically better than single stitch. Strong and thick materials can be your friend, and of course, pockets in smocks are super useful. Style Theprofessional grooming industryhas seen a 4. 3% increase over the last 5-years. With revenues nearly doubling over the last decade. That said, professional groomers in sloppy t-shirts and cut-off jeans are a thing of the past. If you want to compete in the growing market you’re gonna need style. This industry growth equates to cuter,... --- ### Guide to Becoming a Certified Pet Care Professional > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2020-08-28 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/pet-certifications/ - Categories: Blogs Guide to Becoming a Certified Pet Care Professional Are you a dog fanatic? Would you love to spend every day working with them? It’s easier than you might think. There are a ton of greatcareers for dog lovers! In fact, you might have already started a side-gig as a pet sitter or a dog walker. It’s easy to get started, and it’s fun. While just about anybody can do some of the more basic pet-related jobs, those who are serious about making a career of it often choose to pursue pet certifications. What is a pet care certification? Why would you need one? And what does it take to get one? Keep reading to find out everything you need to know! What is a Pet Certification? When someone refers to a “pet certification,” they are most likely talking about becoming aCertified Professional Animal Care Provider(CPACP). This certification shows that you’ve met the qualifications and have the required knowledge to be an industry expert when it comes to pet handling and care. It’s administered by an independent testing body and requires both a financial and a time commitment. A “pet care provider” is someone who is responsible for overseeing every aspect of an animal’s wellbeing while it’s in their care. This includes, but isn’t limited to: Pet boarding facilities Doggie daycares Dog walkers Groomers / bathers Pet sitters Pet trainers Certifications show that you have both the knowledge an a clear understanding of animal health and behavior, safety, and customer service. While CPACP is one of the most common certifications, it’s not the only one. Animal professionals can also get certified in pet sitting, dog grooming, animal training, and more. But why would you spend your time getting any of these certifications in the first place? Stick with us as we explore the possibilities! Why Do You Need Pet Certifications? Taking the time to get an animal care certification shows that you’re a true professional in your industry. It’s also an indication that you’re serious about your work. If you’re thinking aboutstarting a dog grooming businessor other pet-related business that you’ll own, you’ll gain trust with potential customers much faster. You may also find that you’re able to charge more for your services. Even if you don’t want to own a pet-related business of your own, it may be a good idea to get your certification. For example, if you’re applying for jobs in the pet care industry, you may find that having your certifications will give you an edge over other job candidates. In some states or cities, you may also be required to hold certifications and/or licenses to work in certain positions. How to Get Your Pet Certifications To receive a CPACP certification, you must have a minimum of 500 hours or 90 days of hands-on experience. You’ll also need two completed attestation forms (recommendations). If you work in a pet care facility, you’ll need one attestation from a previous employer or client and one from a... --- ### 9 Surprising Health Benefits To Owning a Dog > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2020-08-24 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/owning-a-dog/ - Categories: Blogs When you own a dog, it’s not just a pet to you, it’s another member of the family. Dogs bring so much joy to our lives, but did you ever stop to think about the health benefits they can bring as well? It’s not likely something you consider when you think about your furry friend. But the surprising health benefits of having a dog can have more impact than you realize. So, what are these health benefits? And is it something that extends to the entire family? Let’s look at 9 health benefits owning a dog can have and how they affect everyone in your household. 1. Owning A Dog Can Help You Lose Weight We all know the importance of losing access weight. And the health benefits of doing so can be tremendous. When you have a furry friend, your opportunities of getting up and moving around are greatly increased. Taking them for a walk or playing in the yard with them might not feel like exercise, but it is. Even a 30-minute walk a day can have a positive effect on your weight loss goals. So, whether they know it or not, your dog is your best work-out buddy. 2. Supports Cardiovascular Health When you have increased physical activity from owning a dog, it’s also going to have a positive effect on your cardiovascular health. Studies have shown that dog owners will have a lower risk of cardiovascular disease than those who do not own a dog. Harvard Medical School has even said that dog owners have lower blood pressure. Along with that, they have lower triglyceride and cholesterol levels. All of that means that, with improved cardiovascular health, you can expect to have a longer, better quality of life. 3. Reduces Stress Daily life is full of stress. And when stress gets to be too much, it can start to have a negative effect on our health, both mentally and physically. But research has proven that petting a dog can lower the stress-inducing hormone, cortisol. Not only in you, but in your dog as well. In addition to that, your levels of oxytocin and serotonin will increase. Sometimes to double their previous levels. And this brings on the feeling of happiness, relaxation, and feelings of love. 4. Decreases Loneliness It’s hard to feel lonely when you have a happy, loving dog excited to see you when you get home every day. And that’s exactly why dog owners enjoy improved mental health. Dog owners tend to have higher self-esteem. And they accept rejection or isolation better than those who don’t own a dog. This helps to ward off feelings of loneliness and depression. And psychologists agree that the companionship of a dog can help the well-being of anyone – from a senior citizen to an introvert or someone suffering from mental illness. 5. Increases Energy Levels Owning a dog can perk up a monotonous and boring life. This keeps you on your toes and increases your... --- ### Learning More About The Yorkie Haircut > Learn about the popular Yorkie haircut styles and find the perfect one for your pet. Get expert tips on grooming your Yorkie here. - Published: 2020-08-21 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/yorkie-haircut/ - Categories: Blogs Untamed Yorkie hair can get out of hand fairly quickly. In the hot months, the length can cause dogs to overheat. In the cold months, the added length may help with warmth, but it certainly doesn’t help with knots. Giving a Yorkie a cut (and owning apet grooming business) is a special task. The length of this breed’s coat makes the possibilities for haircuts endless. Read on to learn how to more about Yorkie haircuts. Understanding Yorkie Hair Before you can understand the Yorkie haircut, you have to understand Yorkie hair. It’s important to understand that Yorkies have hair and not fur. Unlike other breeds with hair (who usually have double coats), Yorkshire terriers have a single coat. They don’t shed the way other dogs do and shouldn’t have their hair cut the same way either. Their hair is different as a puppy, usually thicker and darker. As they grow into their adult coat, it can take on a silky texture, or a wiry coat. Yorkie haircut styles take on five lengths: Shaved Puppy Cut Medium Long Very long Shaved This is, most appropriately, the shortest length for Yorkie hair. It’s kept short on the body, but remains long and shaped near the head and face. This look can (and should) be customized to each Yorkie. Depending on their body and the way their hair lays. Short (Puppy Cut) The puppy cut is the most popular Yorkie haircut, according to a poll conducted by the Yorkie Info Center. This cut makes the coat low maintenance for owners—only needs to be brushed 2-3 times a week. Recommend a leave-in agent to keep dirt at bay. *Yorkie Puppy cut provided by Gabrielle Matt at The Downriver Grooming CompanyMedium Runner-up to the Puppy Cut, this length requires a little more maintenance, but not as much trimming. Playing with these styles also allows owners or stylists more freedom to give the Yorkie a bun or ponytail. It keeps long hair out of their eyes. Again, it can be customized. Hair can be trimmed from the forehead entirely. Long & Very Long (Show Dog Cut) These two can be lumped together for the sheer fact that they both require the most amount of maintenance. Both are beautiful options and allow Yorkies to show off their natural locks. Owners should be warned that daily combing (to remove tangles) and then brushing is required. It saves the groomer from having to remove mats, and the Yorkie from having to endure the process. These styles are usually reserved for show dogs. Again, any of these looks are customizable to what best suits the Yorkie, and what makes them feel happiest. Think about temperament when choosing a length! An active Yorkie may not love having floor-length locks. Tools Needed If the Yorkie has a skin condition, consider spraying them with a conditioning spray before brushing. It creates a barrier and produces less irritation. Combing first and then brushing is crucial for this breed’s hair. After removing the... --- ### Cultivate Loyal Customers with Consistent Communication > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2020-08-14 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/loyal-customers/ - Categories: Blogs Cultivate Loyal Customers with Consistent Communication Every dog grooming salon owner wants loyal customers. After all, loyal, repeat customers appreciate your skills and knowledge. They may appreciate the relationship you have with their dog and they’re likely to recommend you to their friends and family. For service businesses like dog grooming salons, loyal customers can keep your cash flow steady and help you reduce marketing costs because they recommend you. They’re also willing to pay higher prices because they have a genuine relationship with you and your staff. Speaking of staff, usually,employee engagementis also a big part of customer loyalty since they’re your front line workers. So, hiring upbeat, customer-focused people is important because they can keep your customers coming back. Of course, before people can become loyal customers, the ones who are delighted with your business and want to be your BFF, they have to know you exist. Misty Gieczys ofDesigner Paws Salonwith two locations in Upper Arlington and Westerville, Ohio has some proven suggestions on getting found and making your customers fall in love with your salon. It starts with your online presence. Misty says: You need a website You need a Google Listing You need Google Reviews You need a regular presence on social media With a strong online presence, your dog grooming salon helps you get found by new and existing customers. Combine being easy to find with quality service and experience, and yours will be a booked up grooming salon. Imagine this scenario. You’re new in town and want to know the best dog grooming salon near you. Most likely, you’ll turn to Google. Then you’ll quickly scroll through the reviews, assess their location, and if everything looks good, call, or book online. Let’s break that down. First, the prospective customer turns to Google. If your shop isn’t at the top of the search engine results page (SERP), people aren’t going to know you exist. Two ways you can improve your SEO is with online reviews and an updated Google Listing. Reviews are Essential: (Hint: Software Can Help You Get More of Them) Studies show that as much as 84% of people trustonline reviewsas much as they do a personal recommendation. How many reviews does your salon have? Where are they? You can have reviews on Facebook, Google, and other platforms but the Google reviews are going to boost your website rankings most. Misty says, “Those are the hardest ones to get. ” She credits Daysmart Pet’s Reputation Management software for help. Misty says, “Thereputation programhas been tremendous for our business. When you get these reviews, it helps your website ranking so more people find you. Then people see the number of positive reviews and it builds our credibility. ” Designer Paws Salon has 58 reviews at her original location and 48 at her second. Many of those reviews she’s gotten since October. “Since October 2019 when we started using the reputation management system, we’ve gotten 15 new reviews for the original location... --- ### Why You Need a Dog Temperament Test for Your Pet Care Facility > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2020-08-10 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/dog-temperment-test/ - Categories: Blogs Why You Need a Dog Temperament Test for Your Pet Care Facility Almost every pet owner thinks their fur-baby is wonderful. However, as the owner of a pet-services business, taking their word for it could lead to disaster! The truth is, just like humans, dogs have different temperaments and they’re not always sweet. Requiring a dog temperament test for every dog that enters your facility can help protect you, your staff, and other animals in your facility. Don’t risk suffering irreparabledamage to your reputation! Keep reading to learn more about the importance of temperament testing and how to temperament test a dog. What is a Dog Temperament Test? In simplest terms, a dog temperament test assesses whether a dog is a good fit for playing well and interacting positively with other dogs. These tests are designed to check for signs of aggression or any other issues that could impact the dog’s ability to safely interact with others. A dog would fail a dog daycare temperament test, for example, if it showed certain signs of aggression like lunging or growling at people or other dogs. A dog that cowers and shows signs of being fearful or nervous around other dogs may also fail the test. Dogs that are overly nervous are likely to growl, snap, or showother aggressive behaviorsif the other dogs get too near. By requiring a dog temperament test, you’re weeding out dogs that are likely to cause problems in your facility. This helps ensure that your staff won’t have to deal with dog fights and that the other dogs in the facility remain safe. Temperament testing isn’t only for aggression. A dog may not have any aggressive tendencies at all, but if it’s reserved and shy, then it’s not a good fit for playing with dogs that are rowdy and rambunctious. Completing the testing on every dog will help you separate them by personality. This improves the chances that each dog will enjoy their time at the facility and reduce the chances of an injury or incident. Temperament Testing Best Practices While deciding to implement a temperament test is a great first step, the way you do it is also critical. You need to have standards that you enforce across the board and make sure that your staff is properly trained and aware of your policies. First, make sure you have a formal policy for accepting dogs into your facility. Having a verifiable means for evaluating each dog and determining whether to accept them will ensure that every staff member is clear on the guidelines. It will also allow them to easily and clearly communicate the policy to prospective customers. It’s also critical that your staff is all on the same page. Stress the importance of staff communicating with each other regarding each pet’s dog temperament test rankings so no one is ever caught by surprise. One of the best ways to do this is to create a tagging system and keep detailed notes about each... --- ### Why Work Friends Are the Best Friends > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2020-07-30 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/friends-work/ - Categories: Blogs Studies have shown that most people spend about 90,000 hours at work over the course of their lives. That represents about 30 percent of their total time and indicates just how invested people are when it comes to their jobs. As a dog groomer working full time you can probably relate! How do people survive all that time at the groomers? Some stay motivated by thinking about all the money they’re making. Others feel fulfilled as they love grooming dogs. But the majority of people are able to go into work day in and day out and enjoy it because of their work friends. Many people find that their friends at work turn into their best friends over time. They spend so much time with them that they become closer and closer until they’re eventually inseparable. Here are some of the reasons why people say their work friends are also their best friends. Work Friends Share Many of the Same Struggles No matter how much you love grooming dogs, there are probably certain things about it that you wish you could change. For example, you might wish one of your managers was a little bit nicer. Or you might wish that all dogs would stay still when you’re grooming them. Or you might wish you didn’t have to work weekends. Grooming friends share the same struggles as you and help make them a little bit more tolerable. When you know that you aren’t the only one dealing with a bad manager or a misbehaving puppy, it can take the edge off your job. Your colleagues at the groomers will commiserate with you and let you know that they, too, share a lot of the same thoughts and opinions as you. They See Each Other At Their Highest and Lowest Points When you spend eight or more hours every day working alongside your dog grooming friends, they’re going to see you at both your highest and lowest points. They’re going to be there when your boss calls you one day to gives you a well-deserved promotion. They’re also going to be there the day you come back from lunch with tears in your eyes because your boyfriend broke up with you. Similarly, you’re going to be there to see them at their high and low points. It’s going to bring you a lot closer and make you more than just dog grooming colleagues. Over time, as more and more of these situations pop up, you’re going to find your colleagues at the groomers transforming into your actual friends and then later becoming your best friends. It’s a fun journey to take. They Talk About Everything Under the Sun When you’re spending as much time together as you and your colleagues at the groomers are, you’re inevitably going to discuss, well, just about everything. You’re going to talk about: Your ambitious career plans Your wild love life Your crazy family Your amazing dog Your friends outside of work That time... --- ### Do’s and Don’ts of Re-Strategizing Your Business Post-Pandemic > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2020-07-17 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/dos-and-donts-of-re-strategizing-your-business-post-pandemic/ - Categories: Blogs Recognizing that many of our customers have been directly impacted by the pandemic, we’ve created a content series aimed at helping those businesses prepare for and execute on their own re-opening strategies. The series—which will feature blogs and other content assets—will also include tips for how to use their Daysmart Pet software to bring those strategies to life. Even the most seasoned small business owners are being tested by post-pandemic challenges. Tried and true business strategies are no longer fool-proof, and even the most mundane tasks require extra thought. While not every aspect of your business needs to change, they may need to be altered to help you thrive in the new normal. To ensure safety and success, we’ve pulled together a few business pitfalls to avoid and best practices to embrace as groomers reopen their doors. Avoid These 6Pitfalls 1. Resuming business as usual. The term “new normal” has become popular for a reason—doors may have reopened, but it’s anything but business as usual. Small businesses need to develop new cleaning processes and new procedures for customers to abide by. For instance, pet owners may hand off their dogs to groomers on the sidewalk. There must be COVID-19-specific changes made. 2. Not telling customers about new hours and procedures. Communication is vitally important in post-pandemic business. Stores must make sure they let customers know about updated hours of operation, new procedures, cleaning protocols, touchless payments, curbside pickups or mail order products– all of which ensure everyone’s safety. Maintaining trust and reputation are critical to the health of a business – in fact, 31% of consumers say trust is the most important trait when visiting a business, and 31% say the same about reputation, according to DaySmart’srecent survey. 3. De-prioritizing special treatment. Small businesses need their loyal customers and recurring business more than ever. Make sure to separate your best customers and let them know they are appreciated. Special perks could range from giving them priority when rebooking appointments to providing early access to reopened hours. Going the extra mile to reward customers for loyalty will help retain those individuals and build in more reliability and predictability for your business as it emerges out of uncertain times. In fact, it may be valuable for small businesses to filter the types of customers trying to book appointments. Are they recurring customers or one-time shoppers? With limited availability, businesses will want to prioritize the former. 4. Overdoing the discounts. After having lost revenue for so long, many small businesses want to draw in as many customers as possible, especially with the enticement of a discount. However, small business owners must remember that demand is high right after re-opening. Consumers have missed their go-togroomersand will be coming in anyway – there is no need to offer discounts. During this time, businesses should focus on getting the most revenue they can to cover additional costs and recoup from weeks of lost income. 5. Forgetting about your employees. As many small businesses offer... --- ### The Future of Grooming: A Fireside Chat with Victor Rosado > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2020-07-17 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/the-future-of-grooming-a-fireside-chat-with-victor-rosado/ - Categories: Blogs Recognizing that many of our customers have been directly impacted by the pandemic, we’ve created a content series aimed at helping those businesses prepare for and execute on their own re-opening strategies. The series—which will feature blogs and other content assets—will also include tips for how to use their Daysmart Pet software to bring those strategies to life. COVID-19 has changed the face of grooming—at least for the time being. As an industry dependent on in-person interactions, from trade shows to daily appointments, groomers around the world have needed to adjust. To discuss how the pandemic has impacted the industry, we sat down with Victor Rosado. Victor is a member of GroomTeam USA, a world-renowned grooming competition judge, and an internationally and nationally certified Double Master Groomer. He also established Puerto Rico’s first-ever grooming competition, the Puerto Rican Cup, which Daysmart Pet was proud to sponsor. Read on to learn about Victor’s experience and predictions for grooming post-pandemic. How have grooming competitions been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic? The last competition I went to (in person) was the Atlanta Pet Fair. It’s one of my favorites because it was my first ever show when I started competing. When I arrived at the 2020 show, which was early this year, I quickly noticed the presence of concern. The COVID-19 situation was spreading fast. However, we didn’t have enough information at the time; we didn’t know how COVID-19 was going to escalate. My experience at the competition was still great. The venue took care of us by placing hand sanitizer everywhere and attendees also limited contact like handshakes. Eventually, the Atlanta regulators forced the show to shut down early. International attendees like me were concerned about being able to get home with the borders closing. Now, most (if not all) grooming competitions and expos have been cancelled – and it’s had a big impact. Everything has changed. Trade shows and competitions help the grooming industry; it’s where we meet new vendors, discover new products and see new tools and equipment. As groomers, it’s important for us to stay in touch with new developments in the market. It keeps the economy flowing. Online adaptations won’t replace interactions as shows – we need shows to keep our industry together. How is the grooming competition industry pivoting? A: Because of COVID-19, we’ve opened our virtual doors. Kennel clubs, dog shows and grooming competitions are all online. There are actually some benefits to the virtual shows, especially for new groomers. When you’re just entering the industry, you may want to experience a competition but are too shy to show up yourself. Online platforms are made for novices – they offer a more relaxed environment. However, for seasoned groomers, virtual alternatives will never replace a “normal” show. How do you feel about the World Team Grooming Championship being cancelled for 2020? That cancellation hasn’t had a big impact on me. My last competition was 2019 – and we were the gold medal champions of the... --- ### 5 Tips On Being a Successful Mobile Dog Groomer > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2020-07-09 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/mobile-dog-groomer-tips/ - Categories: Blogs Becoming a Successful Mobile Dog Groomer People adore their pets, but they usually don’t love having to drag them to the groomer all the time. That’s probably part of the reason that so many dog owners are looking for mobile dog groomers. If you love dogs and you have that special touch that can put them at ease, you can bring the convenience of a grooming service right to the client’s front door as mobile dog groomer. The pet grooming market is quickly growing in the pet industry–with an annual growth rate of 9%. It’s a fast-growing trend that’s especially helpful for customers who prefer the ease and stress-free experience of having pets groomed right outside their door. You’ll have a great earning potential, you can set your own part-time hours, and you can work with animals every day. But breaking into the market isn’t always easy. Here are a few tips to rise above the competition and have a successful business as a mobile dog groomer. More than 78 million dogs are currently owned as pets in the United States. There’s clearly no shortage of clients out there, whether you live in a small town or a bustling city. To get started as a mobile dog groomer, you’ll need to know the tools of the trade. You need experience in pet grooming, an understanding of the various breeds, and all the equipment to make your business run smoothly. Once you’ve got the basics down, all that’s left is to roll up to your client’s home in your van, take the dogs aboard, and work your magic. Check out these tips to gain more success as a mobile dog groomer. 1. Make a Business Plan Whether you’re just starting out or looking to improve the way you run your dog grooming business, making a business plan is essential. For the grooming business itself, make it clear what you intend to offer. Is it just bathing and grooming or will you offer other options like nail trimming, facials, teeth brushing, or flea/tick removal? Create short term and long-term goals. What are you hoping to achieve on a monthly basis? Where do you see yourself in 5 years? In what ways do you want to expand? Keep a detailed record of everything that you’re spending, what you’ve already invested in equipment, and what your regular earnings are. You need to know where the business stands financially and what challenges you’re facing. 2. Hone Your Styling Skills Of course, you need to have a strong background in grooming before you get started. Once you’re operating your own dog grooming business, it’s all on you to do a stellar job with your client’s dogs. There are many different kinds of coats–long, short, and everything in between. From length to texture, you need to know how to properly care for each kind of coat. Having a good understanding of canine anatomy is also helpful for executing more complicated cuts. 3. Stay Calm Around... --- ### Dog Apparel Trends, Selling Pet Fashion at Your Salon > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2020-07-03 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/pet-apparel-2/ - Categories: Blogs Are you looking to take your dog grooming salon into the stratosphere for your clientele? If so, then you might be looking for new aspects that you can add to your business. One very helpful aspect is to start selling fashionable pet apparel products inside your store, as well as online. It can become a new wave of profit for your dog salon. However, you’ll want to make sure and purchase trendy items that areinright now. Be sure to read this in-depth guide on some of the hottest pet apparel trends. Consider each of these products and see how they line up with your salon. 1. Bow Tie For Your Ride or Die Strategic placement of products in your shop can sometime help you get that extra purchase in for the day. Consider creating a bow tie rack next to your check out. Be sure to account for the size of your customers pets and offer a Tiny, Small, Medium, and Extra large. We as consumers often LOVE finding something custom and unique for our pets, so have your inventory stocked with these simple pet apparel items. Since this accessory is purely FASHION, get creative with the graphic designs on the bow ties that you offer. Switch it up and offer seasonal bow tie prints, keep your customers looking for what you will put out next! Do a photo shoot with your favorite pet clients wearing the seasons newest Bow Ties and use them for promotions. Having a photo next to the Bow tie rack will also help your customers visualize just how cute this accessory really is. 2. Year-Round Sweaters Sweaters are a must-have for any dog groomer that is looking to get a boost from fashion accessories. They’re one of the fan favorites among those that dress their pups up often. Why? because of all the different uses that you have for them. Many people believe them to only be usable in the winter, but that isn’t necessarily the case. Using excessive air-conditioning in the summer can also lead to your pup becoming uncomfortable chilly. However, you don’t want to constantly let them outside for them to get the blood pumping again. Sweaters negate that need. They’re easy to put on and take off. Even uncooperative dogs that don’t like the be dressed up are easy to manage with sweaters. Better yet, there are many different styles. You can sell festive sweaters during the holidays and funny dog sweaters during the rest of the year. It’s vitally important that youunderstand your clientelewhen buying the sweaters. Is your clientele trying to make their dogs as cute and precious as possible? Are they looking for humor in all the dog apparel they purchase? It’s up to you to decide. 3. Festive Polos Okay, so you’ve got the girly and cute sweaters down, but what about getting pet apparel for the male dogs? How can you appeal to their owner’s desire to dress them up cute, yet make it... --- ### Workaholics Day: Important Ways Entrepreneurs Can Achieve Work-Life Balance > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2020-06-29 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/entrepreneur/ - Categories: Blogs National Workaholics Day is a real thing. It’s celebrated on July 5th. The day provides everybody with the opportunity to examine their approach to being an entrepreneur and whether they have the right work-life balance. As an entrepreneur in the pet grooming business, you can find yourself working early and late and even skipping lunch. It feels like you have to be at your groomers at all times to make the key decisions. Being busy all the time is not necessarily a good strategy for pet grooming success or personal happiness. Do yourself and favor and use National Workaholics Day to review your approach to work and life. Read on to learn the most important ways pet groomers and entrepreneurs can achieve work-life balance. Plan Breaks If you have a full schedule of activities you may find you don’t have any time for breaks. As a pet grooming shop owner or employee i’m sure your diary is booked from the start of your day to the minute you leave. A request for an appointment or an additional task means checking if there is an opening next month. Given this kind of calendar pressure you can find that you are working all the time. This is not good for you. You are probably not working at optimum effectiveness. You know taking breaks is important but how do you make sure you take them? You do it the same way other appointments are made in your schedule. Book regular daily appointments with yourself ahead of time for a short break. Use the breaks to re-group. Relax, take a short walk or meditate. You’ll feel the difference and don’t cancel that appointment with yourself. Do What’s Important Spend a little time analyzing how you spend your day. Make a note of what you are doing against a time schedule. Include interruptions, breaks, and calls. At the end of the day analyze what you have been doing. How much of your time has been spent on doing what you are there for? If you own or run the business you are there to build the business. How much time is spent doing other people’s jobs? How much time is spent on reactive tasks like dealing with interruptions, questions, calls or paperwork? You want to be an effective pet grooming owner and not just a busy one. Take Stephen Covey’s advice and “keep the main thing the main thing”. The main thing is to achieve your pet grooming business goals. Schedule time in your calendar to work on your pet grooming business. Fit the other stuff around that. Don’t try to do it the other way around. Banish Time Bandits Time bandits are things that rob you of time. The interruptions, phone calls, paperwork, and a hundred other things that steal your precious time. Do you ever feel like your whole day has been exhausting but you didn’t achieve anything? You need strategies to deal with the time bandits otherwise you can turn... --- ### 10 Tips For Running A Pet Grooming Business > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2020-06-26 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/10-tips-for-running-a-pet-grooming-business/ - Categories: Blogs Pet Grooming Business Plan Are you a groomer interested in going into business for yourself? Have you been grooming in a big box store and thinking “I think I could do this better on my own”; you’re not alone. If you have been ruminating on the urge to start your own grooming business, here are some ideas to start that journey to entrepreneurial independence. Read here for 10 tips for running a pet grooming business. The pet population in The United States continues to climb as new generations enter financial freedom. But many pet parents do not realize that certain dog breeds come with elevated grooming needs. Entering the pet industry means an element of your role will be dedicated to educating pet owners on the importance of grooming and its health benefits. More pets with more grooming needs is positive news for people who run a pet grooming business. There’s plenty of demand for you to meet. Still, it’s important to get the job done correctly. With the right tips, you’ll be on your way to running a successful business. 1. Keep the Bird’s Eye View Before you make any big changes (or start anything new), it’s important to keep your perspective on your pet grooming business. There are a lot of questions to keep in mind while you manage the company. What are your revenue goals? How long do you want to be in business for? What kind of legal classification do you want to have? If you can keep those questions in your head constantly, you’ll be better prepared to meet the challenges of the day. 2. Budgeting Is Key A part of that bird’s eye view is your budget. Like with any business, you need to keep track of your money. It’s more than just how much money you’ll make and spend in a given month. A great budget explains that and can also help you anticipate the future. You should be able to plan out years, not months, with your budget. And that will help you give better service to all those doggies in the long run. Or anything else. To get your financial brain ticking, take a look at these articles on growth strategies aimed at increasing dog grooming revenue potential. Chapter 1: Increase Revenue with Dog Grooming Services Chapter 2: Optimize Profits with Add-On Services Chapter 3: Boost Your Online Digital Presence 3. Be Comfortable with All Kinds of Pets Depending on your business, you could be grooming all kinds of animals. No matter what, they will all be different. If you’re running a dog grooming business, you know that dogs come in different sizes, personalities, and cleanliness. Through your experience grooming already you’ve likely learned how numerous the needs of each dog breed comes with, account for it and factor that into your services. If you deal with other species, you have to be ready for all kinds of animals. You should be prepared to deal with all the possibilities... --- ### What Happens When You Don’t Groom Your Dog? > Did you know that there are more reasons to groom your dog other than odor? Learn more about the benefits of routine dog grooming. - Published: 2020-06-26 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/groom-your-dog/ - Categories: Blogs Are you looking for ways to keep your dog happy and healthy? When we think about improving the health of our pets, we often think about visiting the vet,taking long walks, and buying the right food. But, it’s important to remember that grooming is another important part of keeping your dog healthy. What happens when you don’t groom your dog? Check out this guide to discover why grooming your dog is so important. Removes Dead Skin and Dirt If you don’t groom your dog, dead skin and dirt are going to pile up on their coat. When you brush your dog, you’re not only helping keep their coat healthy and glossy, you’re also helping remove dead skin and dirt as well as dead fur and dandruff. Additionally, brushing your dog’s hair helps to stimulate their fur’s natural oils. When these oils are stimulated, they spread throughout the fur as you brush your dog, which in turn can help their coat look shiny and healthy. Brushing also helps prevent your dog’s hair from matting or clumping. If hair stays matted for too long, it can lead to skin irritation, bacteria growth, and even parasites. No matter the length of their coat, you should brush your dog’s hair every couple of days. Make sure to brush in the direction of their fur, and wait until their fur is dry in order to do so. Brushing your dog’s hair when it’s wet can make matting worse and more difficult to remove. Also, brushes can grab at the wet hair and pull at the dog’s skin, which can cause discomfort. While many dogs love to be brushed, not all of them do. If your dog is resistant to being brushed, there are some things you can do to make them more cooperative. We suggest you start by placing the brush in front of your dog so they can make friends with the tool. Once they’ve familiarized themselves with the brush, reach out with it and lightly touch it to their fur. If they allow you to touch their fur without any resistance, reward them with praise or a treat. Over time, you can increase the pressure of your brush strokes. Flea and Tick Prevention If you don’t groom your dog, they’ll also be more prone to fleas and ticks. Bathing your dog is one of the best ways to prevent fleas and ticks. Although bathing alone may not be able to get rid of these pesky creatures completely, bathing will help you spot them. Once you’ve spotted the fleas or ticks, you can then take the appropriate steps to get rid of them. To remove fleas and ticks from your pet, you can either use a flea collar, a liquid applicant, or a pill. You’ll also need to take the appropriate steps to get fleas and ticks out of your home. Once you discover fleas on your dog, you should wash all of your bedding in hot, soapy water. You should also... --- ### Do You Tip Dog Groomers? 5 Reasons Why You Should Be > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2020-06-12 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/do-you-tip-dog-groomers/ - Categories: Blogs There are63. 4 million homes in the United Stateswith at least one dog living in them. And if you’re one of them, chances are your dog has been to the groomer at least once in its life. Some dog breeds have long hair that will grow unless it is cut from time to time, thus necessitating a visit to the groomer every few months. This service typically includes a bath and a hair cut. Your groomer may also include extras like clipping the nails, cleaning the ears and excising the anal glands. But, do you tip dog groomers? While not everyone sees groomers as a service worker you should be tipping, we think there’s good reason to. Read on for some of our top thoughts on why your dog groomer should receive a little something extra from you each time you go. 1. They’re Performing a Service for You Think about it. You tip most people who perform services for you. You tip delivery drivers, taxi drivers, waiters, hairdressers... the list goes on. It’s practically ingrained in American culture at this point. So, why would you leave a dog groomer off the list? A dog groomer is performing a service for you, and one that can be unpleasant at times. Your dog may have a nasty temper or may be old or sensitive. Your dogs are your babies to you, but to someone else, they may be a bit of handful. As such, you should always tip a dog groomer for performing a service you couldn’t otherwise complete for yourself. 2. They’re Professionals and Should Be Treated as Such Dog groomers are professionals. They’ve been to school to learn how to cut your pup’s hair. Many of them have years and years of experience to get where they are now. They may evenown their own businessand have a goal-oriented mindset. As professionals, you want them to know you recognize and appreciate the work that has gone into their careers. As such, you should give them a little bit of a tip in recognition of that. 3. They Endeavor to Deal with Picky Customers You may love your dog groomer and think they do an excellent job. But if you’ve ever worked in the service industry, you know that people can be petty and picky. Working in the service industry is exhausting, and they probably have had times where they want to throw down their clippers and walk away. Since they voluntarily put themselves in “harm’s way” like this, you should let them know you appreciate them, even if other customers can be picky, rude or a nightmare. A tip is a little bit extra to say thank you for dealing with people that might not be so easy to please. 4. YouLoveTheir Work Does your dog groomer always bring your dog back smelling fresh? Do they give them a fresh cut that makes them positively radiate? Does your dog prance around afterward? And most importantly, does your dog... --- ### The Pawfect Dog Dad Gifts for Father’s Day > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2020-06-11 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/dog-dad-gifts-2/ - Categories: Blogs Anyone can be a pet owner, but it takes someone special to be a dog dad (or mom)! And because Father’s Day is just around the corner – June 16 to be exact, you might be wondering what you can give the dog dads in your life. He’s likely had A LOT of time with his prized pup at home amidst the COVID lock down. Lucky for you, we’ve done the hard bit by researching the best dog dad gifts for dog owners. Check out these pawfect dog dad gifts for Father’s Day. Dog Dad Shirt Some people think giving shirts as a gift is terrible. But it really depends on the print, as well as the person getting the gift. Personally, we think dog dad shirts like these are wonderful. They’re practical and you can give a bunch of them to every dog parent in your circle. Or, if you know custom t-shirt printing shops, you can have one printed with your own design. If you’re feeling generous, you can give 7 shirts, one for each day of the week. Matching Dog and Owner Apparel So some dog dads have taken it to the next level of adorable by matching their outfit with their pups. Finding companies like Dog THREADS who specialize in twinning pup and parent apparel was quite a delight as that image will just makes anyone swoon. Personalized Sticky Notes or Notepad Here’s a fun fact for you. Did you know that the average office dude or gal gets 11 messages via Post-it daily? So if your guy spends most of his time at the office (when not spending time with his dog baby, of course), why not give him something he can use often and remind him of his best pal at the same time? Just think how happy he’ll be when he sees a picture of his furbaby every time he has to write a note. Free Apps Yes, you read that right. We’re saying you should get a dog dad some free apps for Father’s Day. After all, aren’t the best things in life free? Okay, that sounds a bit corny, but hear us out. such as Finding Rover or DogVacay are actually quite useful for dog owners. Finding Rover , for example, helps families find their lost dogs through a virtual database of canine facial recognition, while DogVacay helps dog owners who want to go on vacation find cage-free pet boarding in their region. Now, if the dog dad you’re giving these gifts to isn’t all that tech-savvy, you can take this opportunity to introduce him to the wonderful world of apps. Yes, you may have given him a free gift but he’ll surely appreciate your thought and effort. HEPA Filters Do you know of dog dads who have pet allergies? While some people would just tell these dog owners to get rid of their furbabies, we know for a fact that there’s a way to live with pet allergies... --- ### How to Become a Dog Groomer in One Year > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2020-06-02 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/how-to-become-dog-groomer-one-year/ - Categories: Blogs Become a Dog Groomer Can’t wait to finally fulfill your dream of becoming a dog groomer? Fortunately, you don’t have to wait long! This articles gives you all the insight into becoming a dog groomer in one year. The outlook for the dog grooming industry shows a study rise (around 11% growth between now and the mid-2020’s). It’s fueled by our love for these types of pets. In fact, there are over 78 million dogs owned in the United States. This is a prime business opportunity! The median income of a dog groomer is over $22,710 but things are changing. Boutique services are becoming the rage. Doggie massages, pedicures, hair dying, and aromatherapy has sprung up as part of dog grooming services. There are also no requirements (or degrees) needed to get a start in dog grooming. It’s something to consider if there’s a love for pets and a new, exciting career path is in order. Is “how to become a dog groomer” on the mind? The following will share the process of entering this fun and rewarding industry, what one can expect, and how to launch the business. How to Become a Dog Groomer – Complete Guide A professional groomer will work with a wide range of dog breeds. The majority of this grooming work includes bathing, cutting, styling, trimming nails, and other related activities to give the dog a fresh look. Patience and a love for the animals are the first essentials. Other considerations on how to become a dog groomer may also include: What the market demand is like in the area Whether the physical strength is there to handle the job Will there be enough finances to buy the necessary grooming supplies? If these are answered with little hesitation, then it sounds like dog grooming is a good fit for you. Congrats! Now let’s break down the process on how to get it all started... Months: 1 – 3 The first few months is learning the basics of how to become a dog groomer. These months give an idea of what’s expected, its potential, and getting dirty with hands-on experience. There are a few ways to go about getting the basics down: Start Researching and Practicing Spend some time mulling over articles, videos, and talking with other professionals in the dog grooming business. This will help get an idea of the industry, its requirements, and expectations. Start practicing the bathing, brushing, and drying process with the furry friend that’s in the home or asking to do so for a friend. This will also be the time to start learning and trying different haircuts and styles. Volunteer Once comfortable, work with veterinarians or a pet shelter offering free services for dog grooming to get real-world experience. This will introduce oneself to different breeds of dogs and learn new techniques. Put in the Time Learn the basics by putting in a few hours each day (grooming a handful of dogs throughout the week). This will provide... --- ### Groomer Shares Tips for Success with Dog Grooming Van > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2020-06-01 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/dog-grooming-van/ - Categories: Blogs Mobile dog grooming vans are convenient for their clientele. It’s a personalized service that saves the client time, reduces stress for some dogs, and may even be more sought after in the post-COVID time due to less interaction. As a dog groomer, if you’re thinking about transitioning into a dog grooming van, there’s a lot to consider. From coordinating your grooms to handling drop off and pickups, a dog grooming van has a lot of differences from a physical salon. Krystal Purcell is a 3rd generation dog groomer who runsPooch Paws to Goin Rockland, Ma. She’s a Groom Team USA Alum, an AKC owner/handler, and a seminar leader at grooming events. Krystal says she grew up in the business. Her mom still grooms, and her grandmother was a groomer. “When I was a kid, I’d sit on a stool and help brush dogs and bathe them. In high school, my school had a work-study program, so I’d leave at the 7th period and go work at my parents’ shop. ” Her mobile grooming business started due to a client’s suggestion. “A family friend in Boston wanted me to groom his dogs at his house. He didn’t want to drive an hour to come to us. So I took everything with me; dryer, brushes, table. It was a lot of work. One day he suggested I go to other people’s homes for grooming. He said, “you could get a dog grooming van, and this could be your business. ” Once the seed was planted, Krystal looked around for vans and was able to buy a used one for $6000. That was in 2012. “I was in college by then and had a little money left over from scholarships, and I bought a used van for $6000. Then I drove my van everywhere I could. I drove it to the supermarket, the mall, anywhere people gathered. ” She found it was an excellent advertisement. Now she runs her mobile pet grooming business out of a late model Wag ‘N Tail van and serves an area between Boston and Cape Cod, Massachusetts. Krystal says, “For me, it wasn’t that big of a deal to transition to mobile because I already had a base clientele I’d built working at my parent’s grooming shop. ” If you’re launching a mobile pet grooming business, Krystal recommends being visible. “I recommend having graphics on the side of the van. Make sure your business name and phone number are easy to read. As mobile groomers, we’re moving. So there’s a short time-span for people to see the info they need. ” On the other hand, there’s an interesting phenomenon that mobile groomers experience. “The general public seems to think mobile dog grooming is on-demand like pizza. They think that we can just groom their dog right now and people will stop you in parking lots. So there’s some education that has to happen. ” There’s education on the business side too. Krystal says staying organized has... --- ### How Groomers Can Prepare For Dog Grooming Competitions > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2020-06-01 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/dog-grooming-competitions/ - Categories: Blogs While most dog groomers are familiar with classic“Best in Show”events like Westminster, dog grooming competitions are less well-known in the industry. Classic dog shows are full of poised pups judged on their adherence to breed regulations. However, grooming competitions put a greater emphasis on criteria like balance, structure, and finish of the dog’s coat. The dog’s bone structure and profile still play a role, but the quality of the grooming is paramount. For dog groomers who are passionate about continuing their education, these competitions are the best way to build skills and develop a community of other dog groomers who are as passionate about the dog grooming world as they are. Tammy Siert holds multiple roles within the dog grooming world. She’s a Certified Master Dog Groomer, a Small Animal Education Team forAndis, grooming competition judge, and Secretary ofGroom Team USA. She says,“Most groomers don’t know there are grooming competitions. They may hear about a trade show via social media. They come to a trade show for education and then see this grooming show going on on the sidelines and some of them want to know more. ” Macie Pisa ofThe Laundromuttin Buffalo, NY and a new member of Groom Team, USA says, “As I groomed dogs, I wanted to learn more. The easiest way to get certified is to go to shows. ”Both Macie and Tammy hold leadership positions on Groom Team, USA which Tammy describes as the “Olympics of the dog grooming world. If you want to get an industry job or sponsorships, you need to do this. It’s like getting an M. A. ” Tammy says she started competing in 1994. She’d been grooming for a year and a ½ and her mentor encouraged her. She won Best All-Around Groomer and Best Scissored Poodle at the All American Grooming Show and she was hooked. Macie also caught the competing bug from her first competition. Macie says, “Istarted competing to up my education and won 2ndplace the first time and that set the bug. I’d been working part-time for the city shelter and competed with a Goldendoodle mix. He got adopted at that show. ” In this article, you’ll learn what goes into entering a dog grooming competition. From finding a competition and registering, to choosing a dog and understanding the judges’ expectations, there’s a lot that goes into it. Let’s start with an overview of the preparation. Preparation for a Dog Grooming Competition To participate in a dog grooming competition, groomers often spent months preparing because you’ll want to practice the cut and style you intend to compete with on your chosen dog before the event. The hair will also need time to grow back out. More on finding an appropriate dog for you in a moment. Tammy says, “A lot of the judging is about fixing the breed standard. Does the dog have beautiful hair and bone structure? Is it well-behaved? Can it stand on a grooming table for long periods of time? ”... --- ### How to Future-Proof Your Pet Grooming Shop Post-COVID-19 > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2020-06-01 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/future-proof-your-pet-grooming-shop-post-covid-19/ - Categories: Blogs Recognizing that many of our customers have been directly impacted by the pandemic, we’ve created a content series aimed at helping those businesses prepare for and execute on their own re-opening strategies. The series—which will feature blogs and other content assets—will also include tips for how to use theirDaysmart Petsoftware to bring those strategies to life. Amidst the COVID-19 conversation, a topic on every small business owner’s mind is “the new normal. ” Despite the widespread wish for life to return to what it once was, small business owners, entrepreneurs, employees and consumers understand this is not possible in the immediate future. As communities slowly begin to reopen in the coming weeks, people will return to their favoritegroomerswith a new mindset. To ensure they receive the same quality service and experience,groomingshop owners must anticipate new customer apprehensions and expectations. According toDaysmart Pet’srecentsurvey on consumer loyalty, it takes three to four visits to a business for a consumer to feel comfortable—i. e. having a sense of familiarity and taking the first step in becoming a regular customer. At this rate, it is essential thatgrooming shopowners figure out how to put their customers at ease to attract and retain business. Similarly, when asked what the most important trait is when visiting a business, roughly one-third (31%) of respondents say trust, and more than one-fifth (23%) say consistency in service. These two priorities are heightened in the post-pandemic era—especially as businesses seek to pioneer a “new normal. ” One area wheregroomering shopsneed to focus is on common areas and touching surfaces. Thegrooming shopsexperience is tactile—from hands-on services to crowded waiting areas to, yes, even the checkout experience. While learning about the risks of COVID-19, people have become very aware of how cash, credit cards and every high-traffic item in a business may not be as sanitary as they once thought. Suddenly, the integral touchpoints of agrooming shopsexperience— from POS systems and processing terminals to keyboards and pens—are identified as risky. To deliver consistent service, prepare operations and improve customer engagements,groomersmust future-proof the core aspects of the shopping experience, starting with checkout. Take these four steps to reduce the number of touches needed to complete a transaction. 1. Implement Contactless Payments Contactless payments are more possible than ever. In fact, most credit and debit cards issued in the last five years have NFC (near-field communication) capabilities embedded within the card. Most payment terminals support NFC capabilities. These “tap and go” cards work similarly to Apple Pay or Google Wallet: 1) they don’t require a third-party device (e. g. , a cell phone) to store the credit card information, and 2) can just use the card itself. Not every consumer may know about the possibility of contactless payments. Groomerscan support customers by providing guidelines, instructions or FAQs and displaying them by the payment terminal, on their website, or via social media pages. It is especially important thatgroomersreassure customers that tap-and-go payments are as secure as EMV chip payments. Similar to chip transactions, the... --- ### Increasing the Cost of Dog Grooming at Your Salon > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2020-05-22 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/cost-of-dog-grooming-2/ - Categories: Blogs As a successful pet business owner, you don’t need to be told thatgrooming is essentialto the health of a dog. You may have started the business because you want to help their owners be responsible for the care of their pets. But caring for animals is an important business, even when it’s your passion. The cost of grooming is one of your primary concerns, on top of everything else you need to evaluate as a business owner. But how do you approach dog grooming prices without losing customers? Is there a responsible and ethical way to that? Let’s explore some ways to increase your pricing during such hard times for consumers and business owners. Why You Might Increase Your Prices Pet owners spend over6 billion dollars on groomingand other services on their pet in 2018. This shows that pet grooming is an in-demand service and should be priced accordingly. Though the demand remains strong, the amount of dogs you can get done in a day has changed due to COVID-19 appointment spacing. This should factor into your pricing and customers will learn what it will take to return some form of normalcy. At the start of your business, you set your prices for what you believed was fair and to make a profit. But now, you might be very successful, serve a healthy clientele, and know the ins and outs of running a business. Some people are afraid of raising their prices. They fear they may lose customers, and they might head for the competitors. But if customers appreciate your work and know your value, they will likely continue to see you because they know they’re getting what they paid for. If your prices are set too low, they’re likely to reconsider because the service may less than stellar. But raising your prices is part of running a successful business. Here are some reasons to consider adjusting your prices. The cost of goods has increased and you’re not profiting as much Your services are in-demand Labor, and perhaps your employees have asked for a raise Your overhead cost has increased You want to grow your business You haven’t raised your prices since your business opened You’ve invested in extra education, and you want to offer special services Ideally, assess your prices annually to see if a raise is a wise business move. The Cost of Dog Grooming: How to Increase Your Prices If you’ve looked over your annual profits and reports and decided that you’re ready to increase your prices, you want to do it in the most professional way possible. Scoop Out The Competition To see the dollar amount you should increase, try checking out what the competition has to offer. Chances are, if their prices are significantly higher than yours, based on location, you should probably consider giving yourself a raise. Take into consideration the location of the groomer, the services they offer, how long they’ve been in business, and so forth before deciding to hike... --- ### Re-evaluate Your Dog Grooming Pricing Plan > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2020-05-13 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/dog-grooming-pricing/ - Categories: Blogs If you’re running a dog grooming business, coming up with a dog grooming pricing plan ensures your business comfortably grows and scales year after year. So far 2020 has completely changed how we operate our day to day business, streamlining your profit potential is growing increasingly more complex in the COVID-19 times. It’s time to reevaluate your pricing, make sure you think about it wisely. You will have increased costs associated with running your day to day, new cleaning regimens and distancing your clients appointments out will inevitably shake up your profit margins. Here are four tips to ensure you’re pricing all of your services correctly. 1. Add Up Your Expenses When coming up with a pricing scheme, lots of businesses look around at the other businesses nearby for ideas. However, the most important element in pricing your work is to ensure that you’ve covered all of your expenses. If you’re spending more on shampoo, rent, and the water bill than you’re covering with your washes, your business won’t last long. Be sure to track what new costs will be associated with your new cleaning protocols and factor in replenishing masks, gloves and extra cleaning supplies. A comprehensive calculation of your expenses isn’t easy but it’s vital to figure out how much your business is costing you. When you put together a plan, it allows you to figure out how much your minimum cost is for each treatment but also lets investors trust you with their money. No business plan is complete without an understanding of how much each service costs you as a service provider. Look at your competition, not all businesses will be able to re-open unfortunately and those who do will likely factor in a new pricing strategy to remain competitive. Figure out how much you need to spend on marketing and advertising, factor in supplies, and divide it all by how much business you get. From day one, you’re not going to be at your peak when it comes to customer engagement. It’ll take time for you to get the kind of audience that you’ll need to keep your business afloat. While it’s sure to cost you more to open the doors to your business than to operate it day to day a year in, having those numbers is vital to your business. There’s a lot of information hidden between the costs and pricing scheme that your business needs to survive. 2. Figure Out a Dog Grooming Pricing Menu Your dog grooming pricing menu should be calculated in a way that makes sense for your business model. Some businesses calculate pricing by the hour. Others charge by service. Consider adding a COVID cleaning charge, you are providing a service to your customers in uncertain times and they likely will recognize that you will be taking a hit in order to provide this service to them. Small business owners across the country have made headline news with their struggle and apprehension to return to business... --- ### How to Prepare Clients for your Re-Opening > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2020-05-08 - Modified: 2024-05-02 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/reopen-grooming-salon-communication/ - Categories: Blogs So you’ve been given the green-light to re-open the doors to your salon and allow clients back, you’ve exhaustively cleaned your shop and reviewed new sanitation guidelines with your staff. Now it’s time to initiate communications with your clients to help prepare them for what to expect once they arrive for their post COVID-19 appointment. Staying open will not only require herculean cleaning efforts from your staff, but will also require your clients to adhere to new safety guidelines intended for suppressing the spread of the COVID-19 virus. Many of your clients have been confined to their homes for the past couple of months and will likely require some reassurance from you as a business that you are prepared to keep them safe. In order to best prepare your clients for what the new normal will look like when they come in, they will need you to walk them through expectations. We here at Daysmart Pet have compiled some best practices to consider when reaching out. Below you will find tips from our very own marketing team who want you to be best prepared in this stressful time. What you need to be informing your clients on 1. Reassure clients of your new cleaning protocols 2. What are the services you will be available to offer 3. How your clients should expect to book their appointment Better your Email and Text Communications Camilla, Daysmart Pet Campaigns Manager The Covid-19 virus has many people reconsidering every interaction and as businesses begin to re-open across the US, keeping your clients informed is the key to maintaining your relationships and retaining client loyalty. Here are some tips to help you communicate effectively and win back your customers for a busy (and profitable! ) reopening: Email Communications Catchy Subject Line – On average, email open rates are between 15-25%. As consumers inbox’s fill up – how do you get your email opened and engaged with over the competition? You need to stand out! The first step to a great email is a greatsubject line, in fact, 33% of email recipients will open emails because of a catchy subject line. Choose subject lines that create urgency, incorporate a question in your subject line to rise curiosity, use personalization by adding your client’s name, or end your subject line with an eye-catching emoji. The Right Time – During a time of crisis, when you communicate with customers is as important as what you communicate. You can look at tons ofstatisticsfor the best day and time to send an email to your list, but my advice? Although these statistics can help you decide, its best to draw on your own data rather than just go by case studies. Start testing different send times or run reports for prior emails to see what days and times have performed well in the past. This is where a business management software withemail marketingand open rate reporting capabilities can help! The Right Tone – Now you have your catchy... --- ### 9 Eco-Friendly Pet Products Every Groomer Should Know About > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2020-05-08 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/natural-products-pets/ - Categories: Blogs If you’re a dog groomer, there’s probably not much you wouldn’t do for your customers and their furry companions. Every pet owner wants the very best for their pets. Along with feeling happy and secure, they also want their pets to be as healthy as possible for as long as possible. You can help your clients achieve this by using natural products for pets when they enter your groomers. Using eco-friendly pet products are not just a fantastic way to do your part for the environment, but they’re also a healthy option for each animal you groom. Here are some natural products for pets you can always rely on: 1. Paws and Pals Natural Shampoo Paws and Pals is a natural shampoo made with ingredients like oatmeal, natural oils, and shea butter. Not only is it a great dog shampoo for groomers to use, but it can also be a soothing shampoo for irritated skin. It’s an excellent option for groomers that deal with abandoned or stray dogs whose coats aren’t in good condition. In addition to the all-natural ingredients, the packaging is also made from 100% recyclable materials. 2. Castle Baths Products Among the top eco-friendly dog products for groomers is the Castle Baths selection. There a great selection of products for animals, and there’s also plenty to choose from for humans too. It’s great to know that this company never tests its products on animals during the creation stages. These organic and natural online pet products are 100% green certified, meaning they’ve been classed as one of the most eco-friendly selections available for pets. 3. Wysong Products Pet owners want to take their pets to the groomers with the best grooming supplies. That’s not always just about the hair cut; it’s about every part of the service. Wysong is a company that was created with the best pet care in mind. It provides holistic approaches to pet care and good pet products, like foods and shampoos that are organic. Their shampoo products are ideal for both cats and dogs. Along with having a gentle touch, the shampoo will also protect against fleas, gnats, and ticks. It’s a perfect choice when you want to buy with the environment in mind. 4. Earth Bath Friendly Pet Products One of the best products from Earth Bath is the natural wipes for dogs. Dog owners are forever wiping the dirt from muddy paws as their pets try to run back into their homes after a long walk. These wipes are ideal for owners when they haven’t got enough time to bath their dogs after every walk. They’re great for groomers to keep around in an emergency and sell quickly as an add on in grooming parlors. They’re also 100% biodegradable. 5. Bodhi Doogie Breath Spray Every dog owner has tried some method to freshen their dog’s breath. Whether it’s sprays, chews, or dental sticks, the effects don’t tend to last long. With Bodhi Doogie breath spray, you’re tackling two issues... --- ### One Groomer’s Tips for Handling a Nervous Dog > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2020-04-16 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/nervous-dog-2/ - Categories: Blogs “You Can Lead That Dog into Bravery” Every pet groomer has encountered nervous dogs during their grooming career. As you know that nervousness shows up in so many ways. Some shake and whimper. Others are aggressive or “go flat” on the table. If you’ve been a pet groomer for any amount of time, you’ve encountered all of these. None of them are ideal of course and there’s no “one size fits all” way to handle the behaviors. You know every dog is an individual and reacts differently. Yet, as a pet groomer, it’s important that you develop successful ways of handling such dogs for both safety and sanity. You became a pet groomer because you love animals and you want to spend your time helping them feel and look their best. You also want repeat clients who sing your praises to their friends and family. While you can’t control what happens before the dog comes into your shop, you can control the way you handle the dog once they come through your doors. Award-winning Rachel Ann Stalcoskie ofCountry Clips Pet Groomingin Pocono Summit, Pa shared some of her secret sauce with us. She said, “I have a few special secrets for handling nervous dogs that I share with my trainees. ” Over the course of our conversation, a key theme of leadership emerged. She also has a few favorite products and a process she’s developed over the years. Yet, confidence is key in putting nervous pups at ease. Rachel Ann says, “Every dog is an individual and have different personalities. But the one thing they have in common is they’re pack animals and they want a leader. ” By training her staff to have a kind confidence in their interactions, the dogs relax and feel secure which results in a quiet shop. “We see between 20-30 dogs a day with 5-6 of us working. You can hear a pin drop because everyone is super comfortable. They know exactly what’s going to happen. There will be times I might have two people work on a dog at a time because it’s faster and that works for the dog. Or, I might have them give the dog a ton of breaks and take longer time because that works best for that dog. ” That leadership theme comes up again and again in our conversation. Rachel says one reason dogs can be nervous at grooms is that it’s always new. “A lot of owners will hop from groomer to groomer for whatever reason. That’s the worst thing you can do for your dog. If you find a groomer who cares for your dog, then stay with them. The dog knows the environment, the same person, the same routine. Even if they have a different groomer within that environment, being in the same environment is familiar and that helps the dog relax. ” Be the Leader Rachel Ann says, “The most important thing is that you are in charge and confident. I’ve... --- ### The CARES Act – Just the Facts! > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2020-04-03 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/the-cares-act/ - Categories: Blogs If you own a small business in the USA that: was operating on FEB 15, 2019 have fewer than 500 employees suffered substantial economic injury as a result of this declared disaster are interested in forgivable loans to maintain staff and pay expenses... You should apply right now for these relief loans. FULL DISCLAIMER: we are not qualified, nor certified, to offer financial advice – so please don’t base your decisions solely on what you read here. In short, the opportunity presented by the recent federal stimulus will save thousands of businesses. These loans require no personal guarantees which means that default will not impact your credit rating. The interest rates start low (1%! ) and stay low. Every small business owner should thoroughly understand the three types of programs that will have the most potential impact on their business: 1. Payroll Loans: The Paycheck Protection Program Up to $10 million dollars (payroll dependent) 1% interest rate with a term of 2 years No re-payment required for the first 6 months 100% forgiven if you comply with the terms of the loan Up to 25% may be used for business rent, utilities... Self-employed, independent contractors, sole props eligible (on April 10th) No collateral or personal guarantees, and zero fees for the borrower The so-called PPP is loaning up to $10 million dollars (a factor of your recent payroll totals). If the borrower abides by the terms of the loan, the lender will forgive the amount owed. Yes, you read that right. Step one is putting your hands on complete, correct payroll reports. Step two beginning the application process, which really consists of completing a short application, business tax ID, acknowledges the terms of the program... and then submit that application through a lending agent. That is typically a bank, but there are other SBA-certified lenders like credit unions and other entities. At Daysmart Pet we have partnered with a lending agent who is currently accepting and processing applications. As of this writing, there are some slowdowns in what had been described as an accelerated approval process, so I should point out as of this writing, few if any loans have been funded. So honestly, a bit of a backlog is building – my advice is apply now. And yes, you can (and should) apply for both. 2. Disaster Loans: Economic Injury Disaster Loan Program Up to $2 million dollars Not more than 500 employees No re-payment required for the first 6 months 3. 75% interest rate with terms of 15-30 years NOT currently considered forgivable but terms are very favorable $10,000 advances are being offered, which do not need to be repaid EDITOR’S NOTE: If you were recently denied an advance, you can re-apply For those who have suffered “substantial economic injury” as a result of this declared disaster (and really, who hasn’t? ) AND can prove that they are an existing US small business, maybe eligible for EIDL loans designed to enable you to endure this declared... --- ### Prep Your Puppy For Its First Groom! > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2020-04-03 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/puppy-grooming/ - Categories: Blogs Is your puppy ready for his or her first trip to the groomer? Some puppy grooming anxiety is common when being groomed for the first time, so it’s best for you (and your pup) to be as prepared as possible. A happy, relaxed puppy is a lot easier to groom than an anxious one! Nikki Budaj,a professional groomer and the owner ofScrubberspet grooming salons, shares some of her expertise with these simple tips for getting your puppy ready for its first groom. According to Nikki, if you follow these guidelines, your groomer will love you forever! 1st Puppy Grooming Prep: 1. Brush Them In Advance When something is new and different it can be daunting for anyone — especially a puppy. So getting them used to the feeling of the brush on their fur before their first encounter with a groomer is a great idea. 2. Touch Their Paws a Lot Just like with brushing, the more your puppy is familiar with people touching their feet, the less of a shock it’ll be when the groomer trims their nails. 3. Expose Them to the Sound of Scissors Grab some scissors and without actually touching your dog, gently clip the scissors around their fur to get them used to the sound. This will help prepare them for the real thing! 4. Get ThemAcclimated to Water Make sure your puppy is used to how the water feels and sounds by giving him or her a quick bath in shallow water before your grooming appointment so it’s less of a shock when the groomer bathes them. More Tips and Tricks for Puppy Grooming In addition to its paws, touching your puppy often on the tail and ears will also help him or her become acclimated to this kind of contact. Remember, always ease your puppy into anything new. When brushing them for the first time, let them smell the brush and give them treats so they make a positive association with being brushed. The same goes for the groomer you pick — you don’t want them to just jump right in and overwhelm your puppy. Make sure you explain to them that it’s your puppy’s first groom so they can ease them in gently and give them treats along the way. Before you know it, your puppy will bebarkingfor a second visit to the groomer and your groomer will love you for making sure your puppy is well prepared. For more dog grooming tips and tricks, be sure to check out ourblog page! --- ### Is Your Grooming Business Ready for Tax Day?   > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2020-04-01 - Modified: 2025-02-03 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/tax-day/ - Categories: Blogs - Tags: pet care, pet groomer, pet groomers, small business, tax, tax day, taxes With Tax Day fast approaching, now is an ideal time to reassess your business’s 'tax readiness. ' Operating a small business has always presented potential tax reporting challenges, especially if you’re not using a software platform that provides detailed performance and payroll reports. We’re here to help clear up the confusion—let’s explore common pitfalls, how to avoid them, and tips to stay organized for a smooth tax season!   Common Pitfalls  The most common problem in the grooming industry is tips. Employees are responsible for accurately reporting the tips they receive, but the employer is not free from obligation to report on these. Complexities can arise when multiple service providers are splitting tips on a single client service. If your systems don’t allow you to accurately report the distribution of these payments, you could be reporting that income as having been received by one person, unfairly increasing their tax burden.   Complex commission structures can also create hassles for employees unless you’ve properly defined payments within the software. You may offer certain commission rates for services but other commissions for products. The accuracy of the payroll records you generate drives the accuracy of your reports on the tax liability of employees (and contractors).   Accounting Integration  QuickBooks (or your preferred accounting software) is a great way to record your business expenses and your income details. However, if you are using business management software to run all other aspects of your business (e. g. , appointment scheduling, inventory management, payroll) you’ll ideally want to integrate these systems to maximize the software’s capabilities. Simplifying this connection also means fewer reports for you to print or export for your accountant or tax preparation service.   Classify Your Workers  The grooming industry frequently classifies some workers as employees and other workers as independent contractors. The reporting requirements and tax implications for both are different, but equally important. Independent contractors typically rent some space within a business. They do their own advertising, set their own schedule, and maintain their own client relationships. People who rent space within a shop are required to supply a 1099 tax form declaring the amount of rent paid during that taxable period. This is far from common practice, but it is the law.   Deliberately misclassifying a worker is a crime. Don’t do it—even if they ask you to! The penalties can be significant, and you could be opening yourself to further scrutiny by tax officials.   Deductions  The IRS describes legitimate write-offs as “both ordinary and necessary. ” This means that they deem expenses as “ordinary” if they’re standard for someone with the same job, and “necessary” if they are central to the performance of the job (no, lattes don’t count). You’ll be well served to deduct only expenses for which you have documentation. Didn’t save your receipts? Comb through credit card and bank statements from last year in search of qualifying expenses—it could be very worth your while. Any questions you have about the validity of... --- ### Could COVID-19 Help You Prepare Better Marketing? > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2020-03-30 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/small-business-marketing/ - Categories: Blogs Smart Strategies for Savvy Pet Business Owners Many businesses are finding themselves in survivor mode – a mentality brought on by so many states having force-closed businesses asnonessential. For usually busy pet business owners, who may now have some extra time on their hands, Daysmart Pet has compiled this list of small business marketing tools and tactics. If you’re looking to keep working on your business, or struggling to find ways toseize this momentand thrive, check this list for things you might not be doing: 1. Get your Digital House in Order! With millions currently homebound, the “digital footprint” of your business has never been more important. This digital footprint is more than your website – it’s the combination of all the digital platforms on which your business is listed or active. Not only is our current unwelcome downtime an opportunity for you to engage with existing clients online, but also presents the potential to attract new clients and win new business. Screen time is likely to leap with folks trapped at home, so any of your online shortcomings will soon have a MUCH bigger audience. This is an opportunity to invest the time to improve your digital footprint. Put your best foot forward with unified messaging, across all your platforms, that best represents your brand. Where to Start? Google My Business! Set up aGoogle Business Accountand, at the very least, update address, hours and phone number – this legitimizes your business to Google. That’s important. Step Two? Thoroughly read, and carefully respond, to all of your online reviews here. Help it’s Yelp! Turn this occasional nemesis into a real ally. Better your business on Yelp by asking your customers to review you there. It sounds simple, but many can’t seem to make it a consistent priority. Don’t be afraid to ask your best customers and don’t be shy to review others – partners, vendors, nearby businesses – involve yourself in this community. Face it, it’s Facebook –You can’t escape Facebook, so dive in already! If you don’t have a business page right now, set one up. If you haven’t connected it to your website, do that next. Stay positive and get engaged –make and share contentthat aligns with you and your brand – what you have built, why you started, what you think is next... 2. Expand Your Small Business Marketing Brand! No business can afford to ignore what is being written about them online. When90+% of consumers are reading online reviewsyou had better invest time in this, even if you consider it a necessary evil. Establish your routine for checking Yelp, Google and Facebook for the reviews that are shaping the conversation about your business and impacting your digital footprint. Here are some ways to optimize your efforts inonline reputation management: Some Sample Tactics: Mind Your Business– There are tools and dashboards that can help you “listen for postings” about your business. There are others that automatically send texts or emails to your clients after each... --- ### How Dog Groomers are Addressing COVID-19 > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2020-03-20 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/dog-groomers-addressing-covid-19/ - Categories: Blogs We here at Daysmart Pet Software stay in constant communication with business leaders and influencers in the pet industry year-round. We’ve mobilized this communication channel to tap into the insights from our business owners and industry leaders on how COVID-19 is impacting their business and changing operations. Dog groomers are seeing varying impacts across the country so being informed is always the first step to addressing disruption in a time like this. Check our our updated webinar where we interviewed industry leaders and business owners on how they’re re-opening through COID-19 here: We have compiled alist of resourcesfrom the CDC and SBA on how to best stay informed and how to best protect your employees and clients. If your business has taken a financial hit due to the COVID-19 Pandemic and you are looking for assistance take a look and apply for The CARE Act Loans that are available to you at this time. As things are rapidly changing, pet salons should expect to make changes to operations on the fly. The following quotes are a snapshot of how we as an industry are responding to the disruption COVID-19 has brought. This is a time to initiate and maintain strong communication with your clients, reinforcing your commitment to your trade and remain visible as a local small business. Tammy Siert – The Velvet Touch Pet Salon Highly awarded groomer and owner ofThe Velvet Touch Pet SalonTammy Siert had a moment to break away and share some of what she and her team are doing to best protect her clients and staff. “Our number one concern is always for the safety of our clients and employees. Starting Monday we started extra cleaning practices, disinfecting our front counter after every client, including door handles, etc. We are also allowing curbside drop-offs. Clients can prepay over the phone and we are delivering pets to clients’ cars. We haven’t experienced many cancellations yet in fact, we are busier. ” Alicen Ingle – Pet-Agree Over atPet-Agreein Jasper Indiana, they have posted notifications and sent out email campaigns notifying their customers on how they’re directly addressing the COVID-19 virus. “As an AKC S. A. F. E Certified Salon understand and trust that we have taken further precautions in are already established cleaning and sanitizing protocols! You, your pet’s and our staff safety are my 1st concern. If you are sick or have any symptoms give us a call we will come pick up your pet. Should you not want to leave your vehicle when you arrive for your appointment please let us know we will have a staff member come out to meet you. We do not expect to ever have more than 5 people in our lobby at any time but if you are at all concerned give us a call and use one of the above-mentioned options. ” Víctor M. Rosado Zamora ICMG NCMG We’ve reached out toVictor RosadoAll Breeds FCPR International Dog Show Judge and decorated Groom Team USA competitor for... --- ### Staying Informed with COVID-19: Resources for Small Businesses > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2020-03-17 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/small-business-owners-covid-19-resources/ - Categories: Blogs TheCOVID-19 pandemicis causing anxiety for small business owners across the country. The business landscape is rapidly changing, and we are all trying our best to protect our employees, support our customers, and address the financial stress. There is a lot of online information and resources aimed at assisting businesses with best practices. We have compiled a list of resources that we feel you as small business owners can use to stay informed. Keep Planning as Things Evolve The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has published anarticlewith helpful links to provide businesses and employers interim guidance on how to best operate during this outbreak of thecoronavirus disease. Having an Infectious Disease Outbreak Response Plan should be top of mind, the CDC suggests. Important Considerations for Creating an Infectious Disease Outbreak Response Plan All employers should be ready to implement strategies to protect their workforce from COVID-19 while ensuring continuity of operations. During a COVID-19 outbreak, all sick employees should stay home and away from the workplace, respiratory etiquette and hand hygiene should be encouraged, and routine cleaning of commonly touched surfaces should be performed regularly. Know your Obligations as an Employer The U. S Department of Labor’s Wage and Hour Division has a Q+A available onPublic health emergencies and the fair labor standardsaimed at giving context for employers and employees during the COVID-19 emergency. Knowing how to best protect yourself as a business owner, and as an employee, can help mitigate the widespread uncertainty. What are an employer’s obligations to an employee who is under government-imposed quarantine? WHD encourages employers to beaccommodating and flexiblewith workers impacted by government-imposed quarantines. Employers may offer alternative work arrangements, such as teleworking, and additional paid time off to such employees. How many hours per day or per week can an employee work? TheFLSAdoes not limit the number of hours per day or per week that employees aged 16 years and older can be required to work. Can an employee be required to perform work outside of the employee’s job description? Yes. The FLSA does not limit the types of work employees age 18 and older may be required to perform. However, there are restrictions on what work employees under the age of 18 can do. This is true whether or not the work is listed in that employee’s job description. Small Business Owners Need To Communicate With Customers The U. S Chamber of Commerce has made available aResponse Toolkitto provide message examples to directly address anxious clients. Tailoring these communications to best fit your customer relationships is an opportunity to emphasize your commitment to the health and safety of your employees, and convey your need for the support of your clients as well. Check out the suggested social media posts to share accurate information. Use the official hashtags: #COVID_19, #COVID19 We all have a part to play in preventing the spread of COVID-19. Make sure you are regularly practicing these healthy habits. If you think you are getting sick with COVID-19, follow... --- ### Supporting Women-Run Businesses > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2020-03-13 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/women-run-businesses/ - Categories: Blogs International Women’s Day was March 8, but support for women-led businesses should remain top of mind all year-round. Women entrepreneurs are key players in driving the economy and contributing to the business community at large. DaySmart Software, makers of Daysmart Pet, is proud to equip our customers with the tools they need to fuel their work and grow their grooming businesses. To celebrate National Women’s History Month, we wanted to highlight four Daysmart Pet customers and women-led small businesses to inspire the next generation of women entrepreneurs. City Dogs Grooming | Bellingham, Washington City Dogs Grooming is the premier, independent, locally-owned grooming salon in Whatcom county. It offers professional, knowledgeable, compassionate and contemporary grooming for all breeds of dogs. Lee Ann Kelly, the owner, has been grooming professionally for more than 25 years and has offered exceptional service at City Dogs since 1997. City Dogs prides itself on valuable veterinarian referrals as well as positive relationships with many other pet care professionals and organizations in the community. For more information, check them out on Facebook and Instagram. Dog-Gone Beautiful | Northville, Michigan Dog-Gone Beautiful (DGB) is Northville’s new, clean, state-of-the-art, fun and friendly pet grooming salon. Owned by Stephanie Cook, DGB is a cage-free facility that allows groomers to build a positive, loving relationship with their pet. This type of appointment gives pets the opportunity to socialize prior to his/her grooming. DGB prioritizes superior products, safety first and flexible appointment times. Learn more on their Facebook and Instagram pages. Modern Pet Salon | Weddington, North Carolina Modern Pet Salon (MPS), owned by Danyelle Stephen, is Weddington’s first full-service pet grooming salon. MPS is a unique facility built on one common goal—providing a superior customer experience. Its distinctive identity has sparked the interest of the Weddington/Waxhaw community and residents of its surrounding areas. With more than 25 years of staff experience, customers can rest assured their pet is in capable, loving hands. Explore MPS on Facebook and Instagram, and check out their many awards here. Smoochie Pooch | Fort Wayne, Indiana Smoochie Pooch in Fort Wayne, ran by Elli Bultemeier, offers a wide array of services because it believes customers should have a choice when caring for their four-legged companions. Smoochie Pooch specializes in mixing and matching their treatment services to give pets the perfect grooming experience. If customers are not sure what their pet needs, Smoochie Pooch offers no-obligation consultations. They also use the finest shampoo and conditioner made here in the U. S. , called Espree. Discover Smoochie Pooch’s work on Facebook or read this article to learn how they use Daysmart Pet software. --- ### Dog Spa & Resort: Learn More About This New Pet Trend > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2020-03-09 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/dog-spa-resort/ - Categories: Blogs When was the last time your dog got a good grooming? Experts recommend getting your dog groomed about once a month. This is ideal for maintaining your pet’s health and wellbeing. A dog spa and resort are becoming a popular way to pamper your four-legged family member. These doggy salons take traditional grooming services a step further with special features. So what spa services for dogs do they offer besides getting scrubbed, clipped, and styled? Here’s everything you should expect when bringing your pet to a dog spa and resort. Impressive Menu of Dog Spa and Resort Services A dog spa and resort will go beyond the standard full-service wash, cut, and dry. They offer extra primping services, either as package deals or a la carte. Bathing Expect to find dog soaking baths with special bathing systems to massage the dog. A dog spa and resort may also offer innovative hair coloring techniques. These refresh a dog’s natural coat color or let you try something new. Haircuts You can expect more artistic-inspired haircuts and styles for your pet at a spa. Groomers base these on the dog’s unique breed and coat type. They also offer special grooming techniques to help the dogs to shed less. You can book sanitary or facial trims as well. Pedicures Pedicure services are also on most dog spa menus. This includes trimming, shaping, and painting your pup’s nails. You can choose from a clear coat or a variety of colors. Spas also use salves that help condition pet paws. This works to prevent dryness and cracking. They also offer coconut oil massages for a pup’s pads and nose. Treatments Other common menu items include conditioning or shed control treatments. These can help to relieve skin allergies for pets as well. Deshedding treatments are one of the most popular add-on services at a doggy spa. This is because shedding tends to happen year-round for certain breeds. Some spas offer facials to help reduce tear stains on a dog’s fur. Oral and Gland Care Oral care is another key service offered by dog spas. Dogs receive teeth brushing and breath fresheners. They also get ear cleanings and ear pluckings. Many spas will even express anal glands to help control unwanted odors. Pet colognes are another popular service. All the Right Tools... Spa professionals use special brushing tools and techniques. These help to stimulate the natural production of oil for your dog’s skin and coat. Other grooming products work to remove loose hair. Dog spas carry a variety of brushes for different coat types. This includes wire pin, bristle, and slicker style brushes. Special combs and rakes are used for targeting matted hair. Quality Dog Spa and Resort Products A spa for dogs will likely only carry top-of-the-line products and brands. Their spa features the latest equipment, tools, and professional dog supplies. Some salons only use organic, all-natural ingredients. They favor hypoallergenic products, without any harsh additives. This includes gentle shampoos and conditioning treatments with fresh... --- ### How to Grow Your Business with Instagram > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2020-03-05 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/how-to-grow-on-instagram/ - Categories: Blogs Social media today is not what it was 10 years ago. It is no longer a place exclusively for connecting with old friends from high school or sharing your most recent vacation photos. Today’s social media landscape has evolved into a legitimate channel for brand-building, marketing, and even sales—with Instagram emerging at the head of the pack. According to the platform itself, Instagram now hosts more than 25 million business profiles and 80 percent of its users say they follow at least one business on the app. Mind you, Instagram business profiles are being used for much more than window shopping. According to Instagram, 71 percent of its users are taking action, such as visiting a company’s website after viewing a post, or calling, emailing or direct messaging the business. With newer features such as Instagram shopping—where users can view products on Instagram Stories and purchase them directly—people are increasingly seeing Instagram as a place for consumerism. Your grooming business can and should take advantage of this platform to grow your business. If used strategically, Instagram can increase revenue alongside brand awareness. Read on to find out how to grow on Instagram: Share content that represents your grooming business You run a high-quality grooming shop, so your photos should be high-quality. While camera focus and lighting may not be as important on personal Instagram profiles where photos are for the memories, you want to represent your space and your services accurately and professionally. This does not mean you need to invest in a multi-thousand-dollar camera. A modern smartphone should do the trick. Share photos that show users what it would be like to walk into your shop. From photos of the workplace to your groomers, to your furry clients with fresh cuts—Instagram provides users with a preview of the experience they will have at your grooming shop. It can even be the deciding factor of whether you win their business. Showcase your best work, any and all promotions, and don’t be afraid to incorporate your business’s personality into the content. Most important is to match quality with quantity. 70 percent of Instagram posts aren’t seen by users due to the sheer volume of content in their feeds, so it’s important to post consistently. Start a social media contest Incentivize followers to do your work for you by designing social media contests that engage customers and encourage foot traffic. Contests are fun and everyone likes a prize. Check out a few examples: After a visit to your shop, customers who post a photo of their pet’s newest hairdo and tag your business on Instagram get 10% off their next purchase. Customers who share your latest Instagram post will be entered to win a free nail trimming on top of their next haircut. If you have business profiles on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn, encourage your audience to follow you on Instagram, too—they may get a $5 coupon for one of your retail products! The most effective contests will encourage followers... --- ### 8 Websites Every Dog Owner Should Bookmark > Having a dog means knowing all there is about the dog world. Here are a few dog websites to follow for all of the dog owners out there. - Published: 2020-02-28 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/dog-website/ - Categories: Blogs The way we look at personal pets over the years has changed, but humans have cared for animals forever. First, as cattle and workers; now, pets are looked at as part of the family. Dogs are man’s best friend, and they make our lives so much better. This companionship comes with its anxieties, however. We wonder if we are taking care of them to the best of our abilities? Who will care for them while we’re away? Doing some research on the top dog websites will help make us the best pet parents possible. 8 Dog Websites Every Dog Owner Should Bookmark1. Bring Fido Everyone needs a good vacation every once in a while. New dog owners know the dilemma between bringing your pet with you or trusting someone to watch them at home. Luckily, hotels have begun to open up their policies to include our four-legged, furry, friends. On Bring Fido, you can check out the ever-expanding trend of pet-friendly hotels, bed and breakfasts, vacation rentals, and events. 2. Dogster This website is full of dog advice; it’s a must-have for all new dog owners. Dogster’s weekly website features offer guidance straight from the teachings of respected vets and trainers. It also offers a collection of blogs focusing on a range of topics from dog breeds, grooming, training, and health topics. There’s a fantastic advice column where you can post your own dog-related questions and receive community information or feedback. This dog website even includes a “Photo” tab where you can learn how to make the best of a doggie photo-op and browse pictures other dog owners have shared of their furry companions. 3. MSPCA Dog Website MSPCA is a great resource for dog owners! This website hosts a library of important information we might for about until tragedy strikes. Get ahead of the game and use the free information around you to best prepare yourself and your family. MSPCA offers material on disaster preparedness, home insurance, and poison control. 4. I Heart Dogs This company was founded on the “Every Dog Matters” motto. Every profit via products sold from I Heart Dogs is equated to a certain number of meals which were donated to dogs in need. They have donated over 7 million meals since start-up alone! So now you can spoil your own pup while helping out less-fortunate dogs, a win-win situation for all dog lovers. You can buy human and canine merchandise, pet supplies, healthcare items, housewares, and even jewelry through I Heart Dogs! 5. Barkbox Monthly subscription crates and packages have been all the rage with us, humans, lately. Why shouldn’t we treat our pets similarly? With Barkbox, you can! Barkbox is a monthly subscription box that brings all the best treats, toys, outfits and more straight to your door! They have boxes specially designed for little, medium, and big dogs with an extra special design for our tough chewers. Barkbox is backed by a satisfaction guarantee, so if a goodie isn’t quite... --- ### The Risks of DIY Dog Grooming: 5 Reasons to visit a Pro > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2020-02-26 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/diy-dog-grooming/ - Categories: Blogs A recentpet owners surveyrevealed that as of 2017, there were about 89. 7 million dogs owned in the US, an increase of more than 20 million since 2000. This massive number of dogs has led to an increase in the demand for quality pet care, with some people opting for DIY dog grooming. But does choosing to groom your furry friend yourself come with any risks? Or should you opt to take your cute, lovable pet to a professional? In this article, we’ll tell you why it’s always a good idea to take your dog to a certified pet groomer. But first, what are the dangers associated with DIY dog care? DIY Dog Grooming Risks: Risk 1: Shaving Your Dog at the Wrong Time Sure, it does sound like a great idea to give your dog a haircut in the summer. After all, what’s better than getting rid of that excess hair when the heat hits the 80s? Well, shaving your dog when the weather gets hot can interfere with their natural body temperature regulation. First of all, shaving at this time can make your dog extra prone to sunburn. Secondly, dogs like Pomeranians, Huskies, and German Shepherds are highly efficient when it comes to trapping air within their undercoat, which keeps them cool during the summer. Moreover, shaving in the summer can result in damage to hair follicles. This leads to the coat growing back dull, or worse, in patchy places. The best alternative is to brush the dog regularly to remove any excessive undercoat. Risk 2: DIY Dog Grooming Can Result in Washing Your Dog Improperly Most homeowners know that their dogs need a regular bath, but where do they go wrong while doing so? A common mistake many DIY pet care providers do while washing their dogs is washing inside their pets’ ears. So what’s wrong with that? Well, water inside the ears can create the perfect breeding ground for bacteria and lead to infection. Another top risk with DIY dog grooming is leaving water inside the pet’s nose. This usually causes discomfort, irritation, reverse sneezing, and coughing. The best way to avoid that is by cleaning your pet’s entire head with a wet cloth. Risk 3: Poor Rinsing Of Your Dog Just as it is crucial to get it right when it comes to cleaning your dog, it’s essential to rinse your pet correctly. Why? Because poor rinsing can cause severe hair loss, skin irritation, and matted fur. Dry shampoo will usually crust and mat or tangle your dog’s hair. Also, shampoo residue can leave the hair of your pet dull. So how can you avoid this? The best way is to make sure that you use a decent level of water pressure while rinsing. Ensure that the water penetrates the layers of your pet’s undercoat. Risk 4: Brushing a Wet Coat When’s the right time to brush your dog’s hair? Many DIY dog groomers think they can do it after a bath. Unfortunately,... --- ### Customer Spotlight: Victor Rosado & The Puerto Rican Cup > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2020-02-17 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/spotlight-victor-rosado/ - Categories: Success Stories Bringing Together the Latin American Grooming Community With the Puerto Rican Cup Here at DaySmart Pet, we’re committed to supporting the global grooming community, and as part of that, we seek to showcase trailblazers in the industry and identify opportunities for continued education. We spoke with Victor Rosado, a member of the world champion GroomTeam USA and world-renowned grooming competition judge, to talk about his inspiring career and recent grooming competition, of which DaySmart Pet is a sponsor. On February 9-10, Victor hosted the first-ever Puerto Rico Cup on his home island of Puerto Rico, presenting grooming professionals in the region with an opportunity to demonstrate and hone their craft while gaining visibility. We sat down with Victor to discuss his passion for grooming and the impact he believes investing in the industry will have on his local community. Q: How did you turn your background in grooming into the accomplished career you have today? A: I was a commercial groomer for years, working 24/7, until one day I decided to close my store because the work was taking over my life. I still wanted to groom dogs, but with a little more time for myself. My goal was to get certified as a Master Groomer, and I found out you can compete in grooming competitions and get certified at the same time, so I entered one and ended up winning. That’s when I caught the bug for competing, and I haven’t stopped since. I also lead seminars around the world and am an international grooming judge. No matter what, there is always passion and determination behind my work because I love what I do. Q: What inspired the idea of the Puerto Rico Cup? A: The day Hurricane Maria hit Puerto Rico in 2017 was the day I was supposed to fly out for the Grooming World Championship in Belgium. Because of the disaster, it took me a while to make it to my team, but they never gave up on me. They helped in whatever ways they could, and we went on to win the Gold. That sort of team spirit was inspiring. The island survived the hurricane, but it did cause a lot of damage and I wanted to help restore the area. In my career, I’ve been involved in countless grooming shows around the world but never one in Puerto Rico. I wanted to do something not just for Puerto Rico but also for the all of the Latin American countries. I wanted to contribute to morale and the local economy. The Puerto Rico Cup – which I hope to continue for years to come – is like a grooming Olympics, with three main competitions. The namesake competition, the Puerto Rican Cup, is only for Puerto Ricans or people living in Puerto Rican communities around the world; the Latin American Cup is given not to an individual but to a country; and the Student Cup is open exclusively to grooming students. We had an... --- ### What is the Cost of Cat Boarding and is it Worth it? > The cost of cat boarding is an important factor in how your business handles boarding. Learn what to charge for cat boarding here. - Published: 2020-02-11 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/cost-of-cat-boarding/ - Categories: Blogs You’ve packed your bags, filled up the cat’s food and water bowls, and pulled out a few of their favorite toys... so you’re all ready to go. Not so fast! Leaving your cat alone at home isn’t always a good idea. So what are you supposed to do instead? Cat boarding! It’s easy, keeps your cat (and home) safe, and isn’t as expensive as you think. We’ve put together this guide to walk you through the cost of cat boarding. So let’s get started! What Is The Cost Of Cat Boarding? The exact cost of boarding your cat depends on where you leave them and where you live. The average cat boarding cost is $25. 00, but some boarding services are a lot more expensive than others. Here’s a quick look at the different options, and prices, available. Kennel Some kennels will board cats as well as dogs. A kennel will give your cat a place to sleep, routine meals, and regular litter box cleaning. This is the cheapest boarding option out there. You’ll only have to spend between $15 to $20. However, if your cat doesn’t like dogs, this might not be a good choice for them. Being stuck with loud and constant barking can make the experience stressful and scary for your cat. Cat Hotel Cat hotels are much nicer than traditional catteries. These hotels go above and beyond the basic care required to keep your cat healthy. Your cat will get their own space with a luxury bed, window perches, aquariums, and giant play areas. They may even get to socialize with other cats. Some of these cat hotels will require you to bring your own food though. Make sure you check the feeding routines before you drop off your cat. While this boarding option is nice, it is anything but cheap. You should expect to pay a minimum of $40 for a shared room (meaning your cat will be staying with other cats). If your cat needs its own room, the cost will only go up. Cattery A cattery is similar to a regular kennel, but they only take cats. This makes it a good place for people who want an inexpensive boarding option but don’t want their cat around dogs. A cattery will also provide the same basic care as a kennel, and they cost about the same price. Animal Hospital Some animal hospitals also offer boarding services. This means there will be medically trained staff taking care of your cat at all times. If your cat does have a medical problem, the staff can treat them right away. This gives many cat owners the peace of mind their kitty will stay safe and healthy while they’re gone. However, this type of boarding service is often more expensive than other choices. If you thought $40 was a lot of money, you might have to spend more at an animal hospital. At-Home Pet Sitter You might not want to take your cat out of... --- ### How to Brush Your Dog's Teeth (And Why You Should Make It a Priority!) > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2020-02-04 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/brush-dogs-teeth/ - Categories: Blogs A report by the American Pet Products Association concluded that 68% of American households keep pets. Cats and dogs are the most popular pets, with the number of pet dogs totaling 90 million. If you love your dog, his health is a priority. But, how often do you think about your dog’s dental health? Cleaning your dog’s teeth should be part of their regular hygiene maintenance routine. Yet, dog owners hardly consider this crucial activity. In honor of National Pet Dental Health Month, we have wrote tips on how to brush your dog’s teeth and why it’s essential. How To Brush Your Dog’s Teeth: 1. Get the Right Toothbrush and Toothpaste A canine toothbrush is almost similar to what we use. However, it has softer bristles, and it is smaller. If you don’t get a dog’s toothbrush in your local store, an infant’s toothbrush can suffice. You can also use a finger toothbrush to ensure that you clean all the seemingly hard-to-reach points. Other than the toothbrushes, a clean washcloth or gauze can do the magic. A gauze is particularly a better option if your dog has sensitive gums or teeth. On matters of toothpaste, you need to have a pet-friendly toothpaste that’s safe to swallow. Doggy toothpaste comes in a variety of flavors, from chicken to vanilla mint. With time you’ll know the flavor your pet prefers. You’re now on the right track. You can even include your doggy’s brushing in one of your dog Instagram captions. You never know the number of people you’ll educate on dog brushing. 2. Orient Your Dog to Teeth Brushing If you are expecting Fido to open his mouth wide on the first teeth brushing attempt, the joke is on you! Just like in children, you’ve got to introduce teeth brushing in dogs systematically. Attempt to clean your dog’s teeth when they are in their most calm state. Start by putting a pea-sized toothpaste on your finger and let doggy taste. If your dog likes it, you’re probably in for a smooth ride. It will be easier to introduce the toothbrush at that point. The gradual introduction of tooth brushing ought to start when a dog is still a puppy. It reduces the chances of rebelling. But if you want to start when your dog has already matured, it’s still possible to get the dog to enjoy tooth brushing. While at it, consider an appropriate routine for brushing your dog’s teeth. You can choose to do it every day after dinner or breakfast. Over time, your dog will be familiar with the process. 3. Open Doggy’s Mouth Before you can open your dog’s mouth, it would be advisable to have your dog get used to the idea of your finger in the mouth. You can do this process a couple of times to make your dog comfortable with the whole idea. As positive reinforcement, have treats on your hand so that your dog can open his mouth with no resistance. You... --- ### Choosing The Right Leash For Your Dog > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2020-01-28 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/walk-a-dog/ - Categories: Blogs Once you get a dog, giving it as much as it gives you is important. This means that you need to take care of your dog by providing them with a balanced diet, enough water, and the right amount of attention, too. Exercise is also essential for them, the only problem is that most owners have trouble learning how to walk a dog or they don’t know what leash to use. Read on to learn about the different types of dog leashes. Choosing the Right Leash Finding the right leash for your dog is the first step to training them. This is because the leash you will use will have a greater impact on your training experience than you think. Different leash types help you control your dog in different ways. Most people think control leashes are the best for training dogs for walks. Leashes with built-in shock collar controls, ones that prick your dog, and leashes that tighten the collar are among these leashes. This will work if you’re in a rush to train your dog but will have adverse side effects, too. Among the unintended effects will be the dog’s aversion to leashed walks. It can make them dislike the walks if you use these on them. Use these standard leashes instead to train your dogs. 1. Standard Dog Leash The most basic leash is often the best choice in teaching your dog how to walk. This is because they’re long enough to restrain your dog and are durable enough to keep your dogs in check. They’re also versatile enough to use for adult dogs and puppies. The main issue with these leashes is the lack of features. This forces dog owners to adjust to doing what they can to adjust to their dogs. It can be a chore to do so when you have an adult dog to worry about. They’re the most uncontrollable if they’re new to leashed walking. They may even break the leash depending on the breed of the dog. 2. Harness The harness-type leash is a great choice if your dog is energetic. A regular leash with a normal collar can choke an excited dog. This has no permanent damage but can inconvenience your dog. This also allows you to have more control over your dog. A harness often wraps your dog’s torso instead of their neck. This makes it perfect for dogs who need much guidance during the walks. It’s also perfect for smaller dog breeds since they often slip out of regular collars. Some harnesses are easy to adjust for the different dog sizes, too. 3. Chain Leashes This leash type allows you to replace standard leashes for something stronger. It’s a great way to keep dogs who destroy their leashes in check. Most dogs have a knack to chew on leashes if they feel like it’s too short. This causes most leashes to have a short life expectancy with these dogs. They will understand that the new leash... --- ### Pets with Purpose: Why Is Training Your Dog So Important? > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2020-01-25 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/training-for-dogs/ - Categories: Blogs Training for Dogs Owning a dog can bring lots of joy to your life. But obedience training for dogs is a vital part of socializing them. Without the right training, your dog will struggle to integrate with your friends and family, as well as other dogs. In some cases, this can be stressful or embarrassing. And in serious cases, it could have devastating consequences. As a good dog owner, it’s your responsibility to ensure your dog is properly trained. Ideally, you should bring your dog to obedience classes when it’s still a puppy. During this time in your dog’s life, your dog will be a lot more receptive to training and will have a greater capacity for learning. Obedience classes are also a great place for your dog to get some experience interacting with other dogs. In this article, we give you all the reasons why training your dog is important. It Teaches Your Dog Life Skills When you properly train your dog, you’re giving it the skills it needs to live peacefully among humans and other animals. You might think that domestic dogs have easy lives compared to how they’d live in the wild. But living in a human household puts pressure on your dog that it needs to learn to deal with. Failure to properly train your dog could result in destructive behaviors. For example, they could become anxious and chew up your furniture when you’re not around. Or they could also behave aggressively towards people or other pets. Alleviate Stress If you don’t properly train your dog, you’re doing it a lot of harm in the long-run. Well-trained dogs can integrate well with humans and are generally calm and relaxed. On the other hand, if your dog hasn’t been properly trained, it could be aggressive and scared. If your dog displays anxious behaviors, you can help them by making them feel more secure. If they’re fearful of visitors, you could set up a baby gate that can separate them from the visitors. You could also simply put them in another room. On the flip side, if your dog is over-excitable and jumps up at visitors, you should train them to greet people properly without being so boisterous. It’s important that these kinds of things are addressed early on, as they could cause the dog or other people to be harmed. It Helps Avoid Conflict It’s important that your dog gets experience socializing with other people and other animals. If your dog is uncomfortable with others, it could lead to conflict and perhaps even injury to your dog or someone else’s pet. It simply isn’t practical to keep your dog away from other animals permanently. Inevitably, your dog will be approached by another at some point in time. In order to avoid anxiety or aggression around other animals, your dog should interact with others regularly. Taking your dog to obedience training for puppies when they’re still young is a great way to do this. This doesn’t... --- ### Do Dogs Dream? Everything You Need To Know About The Science Of Doggie Sleep > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2020-01-22 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/dogs-dream/ - Categories: Blogs There’s a reason dogs are considered man’s best friend. We share a lot in common with our furry friends, from their unique personalities to our love of food, and so much more. But one question that many dog lovers often ask is ‘do dogs dream? ’ I mean, they sleep 12 to 14 hours per day, so something must be going on there. It’s nice to imagine that our canine companions are having dreams like we are, and the thought is even comforting. But is it true? There are many scientists trying to find exactly that answer, and what they’ve come up with might pleasantly surprise you. So do dogs dream, and if so, what do dogs dream about? Here’s what we know. Do Dogs Dream? As dog owners, we’ve all seen our dogs twitch or even act out running while they’re asleep. This can sometimes last for a split second, or even minutes! When dogs do this, many times we’ll assume that they’re dreaming. Well, it turns out that the assumption is probably correct. Science has long pointed to many animals being able to dream, including animals as small as fruit flies and rats. Considering that dogs are much smarter and have more sophisticated brains than rats, it’s no surprise that dogs dream, too. Dogs are just as capable as humans at achieving REM sleep, which is where the majority of dreams happen. It’s at this stage that dogs are more likely to move their legs and react to their dreams, as this is the deepest state of dreaming. What Do Dogs Dream About? So what exactly are dogs dreaming about when they’re kicking their little legs or barking in their sleep? The answer lies in the pons, which is the part of the brain that controls your movement while you sleep. In puppies, just as well as babies, the pons is underdeveloped, leading to a lot more movement. To try and figure out what dogs might be dreaming about, researchers temporarily disabled the pons in certain dogs to see what their movements might be like. In perhaps predictable results, the dogs kicked their legs like they were running and barked like they were chasing things. Basically, dogs dream about doing dog things. We don’t know exactly what they’re dreaming about, but chasing small animals and playing wouldn’t be unreasonable guesses. All Dogs Dream Differently All dogs dream, but not all dogs dream the same. The science suggests that large dogs have longer but less frequent dreams, while small dogs have many shorter dreams. Puppies also tend to dream more than adult dogs, likely because they’re taking in and experiencing so much. Something as small as a chihuahua, for example, has a new dream about every ten minutes while sleeping. A golden retriever, on the other hand, may dream as little as once every 90 minutes of sleep. A dog’s life experiences heavily impact their dreams as well. Like humans, dogs likely dream about what they experience... --- ### Canine Wisdom: 9 Intriguing Facts About Dogs You Probably Didn’t Know > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2020-01-14 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/facts-about-dogs/ - Categories: Blogs No one else out there in the world is as important as your furry friend. They throw a party every time you walk into the house by greeting you at the front door. Everyone knows that dogs are man’s best friend; it’s not a secret! However, there are several interesting facts about dogs, their features, and their behaviors that many dog owners do not know. Understanding your dog a bit more can help you communicate with them a bit better. Here are several things that you may have never known about your pooch. The facts ahead may actually blow your mind! 9 Interesting Facts About Dogs: 1. Why They Tilt Their Heads One of the cutest features about pups is when you talk to them and they tilt their heads at you as if to say what was that, human? Turns out, they aren’t trying to be cute, they’re simply trying to hear you better. Many dogs with protruding noses and mouths feel they can’t see very well beyond their snout, so they turn their heads in order to see you better and line up the tone of our voice with our body language. 2. No Two Noses are the Same Every human has fingerprints and toeprints that are 100% individualistic to you and you alone. Whether you knew it or not, your dog has the same uniqueness in their nose. Take a look at it and you’ll see the bumps and grooves that make it a special muzzle. While there may be dogs out there that look similar to your pup, none of them have the same markings and patterns on their nose, and that’s a fact! 3. Stare at You While They Go Potty You’ll never know the true meaning of a staring contest until you adopt a dog and take them outside to do their business. When that happens, you will undoubtedly be stared down by your dog while they go number 2. While it may feel as if they’re looking at you like do you mind? ! , they’re actually looking at you for protection. Dogs realize that they’re at there most vulnerable state when going to the bathroom, so they watch you (their great protector) to make sure all is good. 4. They Aren’t Actually Color Blind Many people have an inaccurate perception that all dogs are color-blind when they aren’t... at all. Not only do they have a heightened sense of smell, but they can also see colors for what they are. However, the pups do have a hard time distinguishing the so-called “forbidden color combinations” from each other such as red with green and blue with yellow. While your dog may not be able to see a Christmas elves’ socks clearly, they can see other colors just fine. This is a folk-lore that’s just simply not true! 5. They Have the Green-Eyed Monster Too If you have more than one dog at your house or had a baby introduced to the... --- ### Customize Loyalty Programs to Reward & Retain Clients > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2020-01-07 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/customize-loyalty-programs-reward-retain-clients/ - Categories: Blogs Develop a Small Business Loyalty Program to Boost Client Retention Your competitors are showering window shoppers, social media followers, and even (perhaps, especially) the city dog catcher with an innovative array of enticing special offers. Everyone is looking for the right groomer, so how do you make sure it’s you, get new regulars and grow your business while creating ongoing loyalty? Tips from industry experts will help your patrons stay happy while scheduling recurring appointments and developing steadfast relationships that benefit both parties. Identifying Satisfied and Regular Patrons Contented visitors: Might have been clients with no to minimal personal interactions and without forming genuine connections Will come back until discovering other places they prefer Consider your destination a convenience and like acceptable prices, sufficient products, adequate location, unexciting experiences Continuous loyal clients: Are repeat patrons who utilize your services and products regularly, enjoying built-in affiliations with their favorite groomer and other shop personnel Serve as brand advocates who praise your shop to everyone they encounter, bringing in new clientele Know your shop, management, and employees well enough to forgive occasional minor slipups, like running behind, since they enjoy doing business with you Don’t defect to competitors with better offers or more perks. Instead, they honor their authentic relationships with your crew Converting satisfied clients into loyal ones will gain their exclusive business while their free publicity will encourage family and friends to expand your customer base quickly. That involves gratifying treatment through exceptional guest service; gracious phone, text, e-mail, and in-person communications; plus persuasive incentives to frequent your shop each time Fido needs to freshen up! Establishing Preferred Customer Status Habitual clientele who bring in referrals deserves rewards to keep returning and building your business. Starting or upgrading your small business loyalty program involves determining what makes your parlor unique. Then, decide how you can forge lasting bonds that will dazzle your regulars enough to spread the news to their social circles. To select plan types that fit your shop, answer these questions: Which products and services are popular with your top customers? How often do they request particular treatments or buy certain merchandise? What specific new or underutilized menu items or retail goods would you like to promote? Do those consumer purchases have low- or high-profit margins? An organized system is necessary to document and sustain your reward programs. Start defining your own small business loyalty program points setup under Messaging & Marketing > Loyalty Rewards Points Setup in Daysmart Pet. The handy application tracks each client’s status. It informs you when every person is eligible to receive a bonus, so redeeming it during checkout is easy. Start your free pet grooming software trial today to get these and numerous other timesaving customer management features. Exploring Successful Plan Types Welcome prizes are great ways to give back, show regulars how much your shop values them, and foster continuous patronage. Consider basing points and awards on these criteria: Referrals and reviews: For new client referrals and positive online... --- ### What to Pack When Boarding Your Dog? Find Out Here! > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2020-01-06 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/dog-bag/ - Categories: Blogs Whether you are going on a weekend getaway or a 10-day cruise, you need to pack not just for you, but for your furry friend. Failing to pack the right items can negatively impact your dog’s health and enjoyment of his time with a dog boarder. Read on to learn what to pack in a dog bag when boarding your dog. Focus on Familiar Objects and Scents You might think that boarding your dog is a good time to buy your dog a nice, new blanket or toys. But that’s the last thing you should do. When dogs are away from their owners and their home, they might feel scared, angry or anxious. You can help your dog feel more comfortable and settled by packing beloved and familiar items in your doggy bag. Keep in mind that dogs experience the world through their nose while humans do this through their eyes. So when your dog has items with your scent, it activates a part of the brain that is also triggered when they do things they enjoy. In other words, just smelling home makes your dog happy. And when you are boarding dogs overnight, they could use all the extra happiness hormones they can get to help them cope. So, as you pack your doggy choose familiar objects and scents instead of new and exciting objects. What to Pack in your Dog Bag when Boarding your Dog When it comes to putting together an overnight dog boarding bag, think practical and familiar. Here are the items you’ll need to leave with your dog boarder. Dog Bag Essential = Identification Your pup’s identification is one of the most important things you can have. A collar with a tag that states your name, phone number and address as well as your dog’s name is a must. A microchip is also wise. But if you are going on a 10-day cruise, you won’t be able to come to claim your dog if he ends up at a pound or vet clinic. So make sure you include emergency contact information. A friend or family member is probably your best choice because they likely know your dog well. You should make sure your dog boarder has your vet’s name, telephone number, and address also. That way, the boarder can get your dog’s health records just in case. Remember, the more information you leave, the better the dog kennel staff can react in case of an emergency. A Scented Blanket or Sweater No, we don’t mean a perfume or beef-flavored item of clothing. Pack something that has your individual scent on it for your four-legged friend to sleep with. If you can, pack a sweater you’ve worn and haven’t laundered yet so that there is lots of scent on it. This can make a huge difference for your pup if he or she feels homesick. Favorite Snacks and Toys If your dog will be staying somewhere other than home, he or she will need... --- ### Jumpstart January with the Latest Pet Technology > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2019-12-18 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/jumpstart-january-pet-technology/ - Categories: Blogs Are you ready to jumpstart the first month of the new year with new pet technology innovations? The use of technology is expanding very fast. It is being more and more integrated into the daily lives of average Americans. Almost 90% of all Americans use the Internet and 77% own a smartphone. As you can see, technology use has become standard in our world today. It makes sense that innovators are developing new technologies for our furry friends. For many pet owners, their pets are family members. The market for innovative pet technology products is strong. With so many pet owners using technology at home, they expect a well-run pet business to be up-to-date also. Let’s take a quick look at some new pet tech products. Then we’ll look at new grooming technology that may be helpful for your business. Pet Technology Expansion Pet technology has exploded over the past few years. Take a look around, there are innovative products everywhere. If you have several pets, you may wish to ensure they can’t eat each other’s food. You can buy a special bowl for this. Fill the bowl with food and shut the lid. Then, through use of an infrared tag on your pet’s collar, it will open only when that pet is near. For a chubby pet, you may wish to keep track of his food intake. You can buy a pet bowl that will sync to your smartphone. Enter the brand of pet food. Now the bowl keeps track of the ingredients and how many calories your pet ate. For that same chubby pet, you can get a pet door with a built-in conveyor belt. If he can’t get through the door on his own, you don’t have to go running to help him. You can get cameras and other technology set up so you can see and talk to your pet when you’re at work. You can even get a robotic pet sitter. You can interact and play with your dog from anywhere with an Internet connection! Pet Technology With the average pet owner getting so tech-savvy, you can’t get left behind. Owners will expect their groomers to be using sophisticated grooming technology. After all, they can play with Fido while they’re at work. That means they’ll expect their groomer to be well into the 21st Century. There is one caveat here, not everything has to be super high-tech. Advanced grooming technology can take over some things. But there will always be room in the grooming business for a pair of scissors and a good comb. Pet Software One of the most important pieces of grooming technology you should have is software. The right grooming software will make running your business a breeze. If you’re in the grooming business, chances are you like animals and working with your hands. You’re not too interested in spending hours poring over appointment books. It’s complicated to keep track of client databases, payments, and appointments by hand. Plus, it... --- ### Boarding Cats and Dogs That Are Part of Same Family > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2019-12-09 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/dog-cat-boarding/ - Categories: Blogs Owning pets that are well and truly part of the family can be a wonderful thing. But when it comes time to take a vacation or out-of-town excursion, your pets will need to be looked after. And while you may want to bundle them up and take them along with you, this is not always an option. This is where dog and cat boarding comes in as a safe, reliable, and stress-free option for pet care while you’re out-of-town. But if you’re nervous or hesitant about sending your beloved fur babies away, here’s what you should know about pet boarding to put your mind at ease... Dog and Cat Boarding: What You Should Know Don’t let your excitement around a long-awaited or much-needed vacation be dampened by the separation of your pets. The idea of separating cats and dogs in the same household may be distressing. But there are plenty of boarding facilities that offer accommodation for both. Keeping your cat and dog together while you’re away is a great way to ensure they are safe and comfortable. It will also ease your conscience, save you money, and travel time. Dog Boarding Facilities Traditionally, most people might think of dog boarding facilities as dog kennels kitted with small, intimidating cages. But this could not be further from the truth. Dog kennels involve individual, designated areas for each canine, which is usually an 8-by-8-foot run. This allows enough room for your dog to move around, and sleep quite comfortably. To add to this, your dog will be let out and walked by trained staff anywhere from 4-6 times a day. Most dog breeds are usually kept separated in case one pup is a little more meek, aggressive, smaller, or larger than another. There are also options to sign your dog up for group play, which allows your dog to interact with other canines throughout their stay. However, this is completely optional. When your pup is checked in for boarding, you’ll need to fill out a comprehensive questionnaire regarding their diet, allergies, mobility, and personality. You will also need to make mention of special medications or past medical history, if any. Bear in mind that your pooch must be up-to-date on rabies, Bordatella, and DHPP vaccinations. They may need to undergo a quick temperament test if you sign them up for group play, too. Cat Boarding Facilities Cat boarding amenities are very similar to that of dog boarding. Cats are either placed in their own individual area in spacious cages or allowed to roam freely in cat-friendly condos/suites. Cage-free facilities offer individual cat bungalows for sleeping as well as a large open area for group interaction with other felines. These open areas often include a sunroom, scratching pads, toys, windows, and bird feeders for plenty of entertainment. Cats will need to be fixed and up-to-date on rabies vaccinations before you sign them up for boarding. They will also undergo a quick snap test which tests for FIV, FeLV, and heartworm.... --- ### Your Grooming Business New Year’s Resolutions for 2020 > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2019-12-05 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/new-years-dog-grooming-business/ - Categories: Blogs The New Year presents every business with the opportunity to set new goals and kick-start fresh initiatives. The key to realizing these aspirations—and truly adding value to your dog grooming business—is making sure they are both mission-critical and attainable. Enhancements that would be “nice to have” won’t sustain your motivation all year round. As you determine your dog grooming business New Year’s resolutions for 2020, make sure these four items make the list. 1. Commit To Eco-Friendliness At Your Dog Grooming Business Going green is easier than ever, and what was once an eco-differentiator for your shop is now becoming an expectation from consumers. Eco-friendly products are increasingly available, affordable and as effective as traditional brands. Not only will your dog grooming business help the environment, but a commitment to doing so will impress your customers. In Nielson’s 2015 Global Corporate Sustainability Report, 66 percent of consumers said they are willing to spend more on a product if it comes from a sustainable brand. Additionally, 81 percent of millennials expect their favorite brands to make public commitments to corporate responsibility. While this may seem like a big ask for a dog grooming business, showing an investment in community and citizenship will go a long way with customer loyalty. 2. Track Social Media Success. Starting to share campaigns on social media is important, but do you understand how those campaigns directly or indirectly impact your dog grooming business? Right now, you may be pushing out social media content with little insight into what types of posts are working or why. In 2020, you should analyze your social campaign effectiveness with these focuses: Record your digital footprint—use a spreadsheet to keep track of 1) post engagement to see the success of the social campaign and 2) followers and likes to see how campaigns affect your overall social presence Analyze web traffic—understand how your campaigns lead to web visitors by tracking 1) total traffic, 2) traffic by channel and 3) visitor location (where are your visitors coming from? ) Establish campaign objectives—are your efforts focused on finding new prospects? Promoting a new offering? Creating brand awareness? 3. Step Up Customer Satisfaction. Focusing on customer service seems like a no-brainer, but 2020 is the year to start going beyond just asking, “are you happy with today’s service? ” Take the time to learn what you can do to make customer service your business’s differentiator. Consider adding services your customers want, and make sure the services you already deliver are catered to the people paying for them. Whether it’s soliciting customer suggestions, making the online booking experience more convenient or simplifying checkout, there is always more you can do to enhance customer retention. 4. Boost Productivity At Your Dog Grooming Business With your busy schedule, work/life balance can seem like a luxury not afforded to a small grooming business owner. Yet by enhancing productivity, you can make it possible for you and your employees. Set expectations with your staff from the onset, delegate... --- ### New Years Goal Setting for Grooming Salon Owners > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2019-12-04 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/new-years-grooming-salon/ - Categories: Blogs As a pet grooming salon owner, how do you identify success? Is your success in your grooming techniques and using the best equipment? Or do you set regular goals for yourself to become the best groomer in the business? 2020 has officially come, and this is the best opportunity to start setting new goals for your grooming business. Some of these goals may have to do with improving your grooming techniques or renovating your business. Other goals include ways to boost sales and improve your marketing. With every New Year, there is always room for improvement. Work into 2020 with these New Year’s resolutions for a grooming salon. Boost Grooming Salon Sales You chose to own a grooming salon because you love working with animals. But face it, making money and getting sales is also extremely important. A goal you should make each year is to find ways to boost sales. If you haven’t started this goal yet, 2020 is the perfect first year to get into that New Year habit of making more money. What are some ways to boost sales? You can start by advertising and release special offers. These include a free product for a basic grooming service and monthly or weekly grooming discounts. You can also improve your marketing strategies. Try a new marketing approach, such as running a blog or making some promotional videos. You can also revamp your website and monitor your Google local search results closely. All of these factors contribute to increasing brand awareness and boosting your sales performance. Improve Customer Service Your customers are the most important aspect of your business. If a pet owner isn’t satisfied with the service they receive at your grooming salon, they will easily do business with another groomer. Treat each customer with respect, show compassion, and don’t be afraid to be a little personable with them. Customer service doesn’t only include offering a great service. Pet owners often need help washing their dogs. You also may get clients who are new dog owners and may have questions. Listen to their questions and give your customers honest advice. Humans aren’t the only important customers. As a groomer, you’re also working with some furry friends. Improve the way you treat your animals. Maybe you notice some dog breeds are more aggressive or some dogs are skeptical about getting washed. Do what you can to research and improve the treatment of animals. Your store’s upkeep and cleanliness is also an important customer service factor. If your salon is dirty, your customers won’t want to do business with you. Grooming is a selfless business. Get the dogs clean and make your human customers as happy as you can. Improve Your Grooming Salon Location The first thing a customer looks at is your shop. They want to see what equipment you use, what services you offer, and the cleanliness of the shop. They’re trusting you with their dog, and they want what’s best for doggo. Do what you... --- ### Celebrating Strategies for Entrepreneurial Success > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2019-11-27 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/celebrating-strategies-for-entrepreneurial-success/ - Categories: Blogs Entrepreneurs are critical vertebrae in the backbone of the U. S. economy, which is why professionals—aspiring and seasoned—should spend National Entrepreneurship Month recognizing and learning about their contributions. Every entrepreneur has their own formula for business success, though most are connected by a few commonalities: creativity, innovation, risk-taking and work ethic. Most important, they know how to position themselves with the right resources to take advantage when opportunity strikes. As someone who works with small business owners every day, I have seen several strategies for success. To celebrate and share stories of entrepreneurship, here are three best practices I learned from Daysmart Pet customers that any businessperson can benefit from. Identify a Gap in the Market The best entrepreneurs have a full understanding of the market—from where it is lacking to where it is oversaturated. No savvy professional wants to open a business where there is already steep competition and little opportunity to differentiate. Instead, they should identify what consumer needs haven’t been filled or what challenges haven’t been solved. Therein lies the opportunity to capitalize on a gap in the market and become a leader in the space. In other words, instead of reinventing the wheel, see who already has a wheel and figure out where they want to go. A great exemplifier of this is Colleen Medere, who owns and operates Bubble Puppy Pool House, Michigan’s only dog groomer and pool house where dogs can enjoy a 30-minute swim lesson followed by a full grooming session. As a pet owner herself, Colleen knew two things about dogs: not only do they love to swim, but a tuckered-out pup is easier for her employees to groom and for her clients to pick up after an appointment. It would be a win-win for dog owners who want to pamper their pets and, to an extent, themselves. Colleen ran with this idea—using scheduling software to make it easy for customers to sign up for both pool and grooming services at once, and offering unique promotions such as the “dip and clip special. ” Become an End-to-End Expert—or Partner with Someone Who Is Entrepreneurs can’t rely solely on the next “big” idea. They need to understand how to run a business—and what to do if the next big idea excels. Small business owners wear multiple hats, including manager, HR pro, marketer and accountant. So, if an entrepreneur only knows how to fill one or two of these roles, they need to find a partner with complementary expertise. A great business idea won’t scale if it isn’t supported with the right operational and financial infrastructure. For example, Mike Conners, the owner of Haute Dogge Grooming Salon in Tennessee, wanted to buy a business that gave him more work-life balance after serving in the United States Air Force for almost 20 years. Mike’s daughter, Jennifer Bartman, was a pet groomer, so together they opened a grooming salon with three employees. While Jennifer ran operations, Mike managed the behind-the-scenes of the business, such... --- ### National Mutt Day is Coming – Everything You Need to Know! > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2019-11-26 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/national-mutt-day/ - Categories: Blogs National Mutt Day National Mutt Day is here again, bringing attention to all of the mixed-breed dogs who are stuck in shelters instead of enjoying a happy life in a loving home. Purebred dogs tend to get adopted faster causing shelters to become overrun with these abandoned mutts. Unfortunately, if they’re unable to find homes, some of these poor dogs might wind up spending their entire lives in a shelter or getting euthanized to make room for more animals. What Is National Mutt Day and Why Does It Exist? Animal Welfare Advocate and pet expert, Colleen Page, started National Mutt Day back in 2005 as a way to draw awareness to the plight of the mixed-breed dog and to help facilitate adoptions. The event was so successful and the mixed-breed shelter population was so high, that we now celebrate it twice a year, on December 2nd, and July 31st as a way to both save these animals from being euthanized and to help them find their forever homes. Why Is Mutt Day Important? National Mutt Day is important to celebrate the special qualities that all mutts share, as well as to bring awareness to their situation. By having a holiday dedicated especially to them, we can help these pups find the happy home and loving companionship they’ve been waiting so desperately for. People tend to steer towards purebreds thinking they’re special and easier to train. However, mutts are just as loving and they learn just as quickly. In many ways, owning a mixed-breed dog is much better than owning a purebred. Mixed-breeds tend to live longer and healthier lives and they are also much less expensive than their purebred counterparts. Additionally, they all have a unique appearance, so when you choose a mutt, you also get an adorable one of a kind companion. When you’re looking to adopt, although it might be tempting to opt for the purebred, remember that a dog’s personality is far more important than it’s pedigree. If you’re looking for a faithful and loving pet that will have a long and healthy life span, it might be better to steer toward the mixed-breed dogs. How Can I Observe This Day? There are several ways that you can show your appreciation of mixed-breed dogs on National Mutt Day, including: Adopting – You’ll feel rewarded when you save the life of a mixed-breed dog by adopting it and taking it home. Volunteering – By volunteering at your local pet shelter, you’ll get the satisfaction of knowing that you spent your time making a mutt’s day better Donating – Donating money to your local shelters helps them financially and helps ensure that they won’t have to euthanize as many mixed-breed dogs Posting – Making posts about the holiday and/or posting pictures of your mixed-breed dog on your social media using the hashtag #NationalMuttDay and asking for shares or retweets will help raise awareness and might help some mutts find their forever homes Loving – Giving your mutt... --- ### Every Pet Groomer’s Christmas Wish List > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2019-11-25 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/dog-groomer-christmas/ - Categories: Blogs With the festive season fast approaching, and your work schedule getting busier by the day, have you stopped to think about your dog Christmas gift list? Look to reward yourself, and ring in the new year, with our top picks: All I Want For Christmas Is... . A Soft, Shiny, Great Smelling Pup! Nobody likes a smelly dog, right! ? With so many brands of luxury dog shampoos on the market, it was tough to find one that ticked all the boxes. Fear not, we’ve found it! Our top pick this year is the ‘Precious Pets Luxury Shampoo’. This shampoo naturally cleanses, conditions and moisturizes your dog’s skin and coat. With its range of scents including lavender, vanilla, and even citrus, it will have even the grubbiest dog smelling wonderful in no time! Not only that, it’s made from all-natural ingredients containing no sulfates or parabens, making it suitable for all different types of coats and even the most sensitive puppies! After your clients get a whiff of their dogs once they’ve been bathed in this luxury shampoo, they will be sure to return! Dog Christmas Gift – No Fur All Over The Couch? Anyone that has a dog that sheds (which is most), feels the pain! Constantly having to get the vacuum out, lint rolling anything and everything you wear then sitting on the couch only to realize the dog sneakily jumped up again, leaving a trail of fur behind them! Why not relax this holiday season and leave the vacuum in the closet for more than a day! With the ‘Furminator Deshedding Tool’, this dream could come true! This product is a must-have this holiday season (and all year round). It’s specifically designed to reach deep beneath your dog’s topcoat to easily and gently remove undercoat and loose hair without damaging the dog’s delicate skin. Not only does it clean hair from the dog, it even cleans itself! The FURejector button cleans and removes any hair left behind in the brush. This product is recommended by veterinarians and professional groomers. It’s a must-have for every groomer out there and comes in a variety of different sizes suitable for all your client’s pets, from tiny Chihuahuas to the great big Bernards! More Time And More Money! Grooming a dog means keeping it relatively still, with shampoo in one hand and your brush in the other, it’s certainly a job for the multi-tasker! What you need is the Oster Hydrosurge Deluxe Power Bather. The only bathing system on the market that is UL listed for use in animal bathing! You can save up to 75% in shampoo usage, 75% in water usage & 50% in time & labor over hand bathing. Produces a vigorous, penetrating, combing spray of shampoo & water that enhances the effectiveness of shampoos, dips, & conditioners while using less product, time, water, & labor. Includes: wall or cart mountable power unit, custom re-circulating pump with stainless steel screen filter, high-density, custom bather hose, custom... --- ### Decorating Your Grooming Salon For The Holiday Season > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2019-11-13 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/decorating-grooming-salon-holiday-season/ - Categories: Blogs Christmas is coming around quickly and your stations will be fully booked, but is your grooming salon in the holiday spirit? Decorating for Christmas is the perfect way to attract new customers, create a better client experience and keep stressed-out employees in the holiday spirit. Set yourself up for a great customer experience by creating an inviting storefront during these peak holiday months with these top grooming salon decorating tips: Deck the Windows Attract the attention of passers-by; transform your windows with eye-catching Christmas displays such as a small tree with colored ornaments that align with your brand’s colors. Don’t underestimate the power of what people see from the street. You’ll be surprised at how many clients you can engage with a festive display that creates a fun and welcoming environment. Sparkling Stations With clients pets spending the majority of their time at the grooming station, this is a great place to add some decoration! Drape garland around the legs at each station or add some sparkling lights for an extra touch of magic. Remember, don’t go ‘over festive’ with your station decorations – their needs to be room for pet grooming around your decor! Spruce Up Your Merch Don’t forget about your retail products – spruce up your displayed merchandise with colored or burlap bows to create a gift-inspiring holiday feel for your product displays. This is a great opportunity to draw attention to your products and upsell with special holiday gift wrapping for the perfect Christmas surprise. Light It Up Lights are a classic Christmas decoration, and that’s no surprise seeing as it is scientifically proven to make you happier! Spread the Christmas joy by adding twinkling lights throughout your grooming salon. Try wrapping them around the front desk, windows, stations or even outside to add a holiday glow and make certain areas brighter. Extra lighting is especially great in your grooming salon, especially for that freshly scrubbed dog photo! Creative Christmas Tree The classic Christmas tree is a must-have to complete the festive look! You don’t have to be boring, though – get creative by decorating your tree with handmade pet ornaments or decorate it with accessories from around your grooming salon. You could also make this into a fun bonding activity or competition for employees to decorate and make ornaments for the tree, boosting employee morale and team collaboration. Remember- you may want to consider making your tree as pet-friendly as possible, just in case a roaming dog gets free! Consistency is Key When decorating, wild isn’t always wonderful. Too many decorations will make your grooming salon look cluttered and disorganized. Try to keep your decorations consistent to your branding by choosing a theme that suits your brand. Stick to one-holiday decor style for a classy look and feel. For trendy groomers, try a rustic Christmas style. Looking to show off your fun, lively brand? Try a colorful theme! Remember, decorating your grooming salon doesn’t have to be a boring yearly task. Make it... --- ### Maintain Morale During the Holidaze! > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2019-11-07 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/grooming-morale/ - Categories: Blogs The holidays seem to be everyone’s “busy season”, but in the grooming business, we know this is a fact. Grooming tables are filled with Pets as everyone seeks for their dogs to look their best for their family gatherings and pictures, pictures, pictures! Grooming staff face longer days at work, and the same holiday pressures as everyone else: decorating, shopping, seeing friends and family... a healthy work-life balance is always desirable, it’s nearly impossible during the hectic holiday season. Boosting staff morale should be on every grooming owner’s list of year-end priorities. The demands can leave many employees feeling overwhelmed, but fear not – here are several tips to boost your employees holiday cheer this year: Take Time to Recline While spending more time with work colleagues might seem a counterintuitive way to relax, blowing off steam together is a great way to bond as a team. Hosting a holiday party to boost employee morale provides a chance to socialize and take a break from the business. When planning your holiday event, always set a clear budget and consider all expenses. Choose a venue that fits the style of your team and serves to achieve the goals you have for the event. For some teams, a fancy dinner might be best, while others would be much more at home in a bowling alley. Book your venue early – or host the event at your shop or someone’s home. Don’t ignore non-traditional venues, especially during the holidays when bookings are high. Make sure to pick a date and time that works with employee schedules to ensure your best attendance. Recognize & Reward Employee recognition is directly linked to employee motivation. Everyone likes to be recognized (and rewarded! ) for their efforts. The frantic holiday season is the perfect time to show your staff appreciation. Recognizing staff could be from anything from a thank you card, a holiday bonus, Christmas gift, or even an extra day off when the busy season dies down. Feel free to have fun with this – consider humorous awards that memorialize shared experiences, like giving a helmet to a staffer who endured the most problem clients that year. Showing your appreciation, not just for their extra hours during the holidays, but for the year as a whole, instills a sense of commitment that drives employees to work harder, striving to attain team goals and to grow professionally. Minimize Stress The holiday season is supposed to be a relaxing time, and although most people report being happier this time of year, recent studies have shown that 35% of people are more stressed at work during this time of year. The biggest sources of stress include balancing work responsibilities with their own busy holiday schedule, heavier workloads and fewer employees on hand. There’s a reason innovative workplaces are now offering fun office games and activities at work. It gives employees time to let off some steam and step away from work. Although most grooming salons won’t have... --- ### Bring in More Clientele to Your Kennel by Offering These Activities > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2019-10-22 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/dog-activities/ - Categories: Blogs People love their furry friends and will usually invest lots of time and money into their care. If you’re looking to attract more clientele to your kennel then getting a little creative with the types of dog activities you offer can help a lot. Check out these ideas for fun dog activities that will have four-legged friends barking at your door. Dog Activities: Doggy Spa Day Even animals like to feel their best and offering a spa day as one of the dog activities can help owners do that for the pets. Give out shampoos, nail clippings, hair trimmings and even massages (which mostly equates to belly rubs in this case). You can also take this time to educate owners on certain care tricks for their dogs. For instance, share some great tips on taking care of the bottom of their paws that might get rough and chaffed. Also, offer some samples of any of the professional grooming products that you used for owners to take home. Splash Pool Party Some dogs really love the water and appreciate a good pool day or fun at the lake. So here’s another great idea for dog activities to attract clientele to your kennel. Although it might get a little messy, the canines will definitely enjoy splashing around in miniature doggy pools and slides. The best thing is that it’ll be fairly easy to set up. All you really will need are some pools or tarp mats and water- then let the games begin. Dogs will have a blast being free to get as wet as they want and of course shaking themselves completely dry. Obedience Training Course The dogs might not think this one sounds very fun but owners will definitely appreciate a good obedience training course for their pups. Offering quality training courses is something that most dog parents would love because they might not have the knowledge or patience to start it themselves. But the course doesn’t have to be dreadful to the dogs. Consider setting up interactive games that are actually fun, such as tunnels, obstacle courses, and hoops. And don’t forget to give out treats at the end for jobs well done. Fetch & Frisbiees Day There aren’t many dogs in the world that don’t enjoy a good game of fetch with their owners. That’s why having a fetch and frisbees day is one of the most perfect ideas for dog activities. This event is very cost-effective and low maintenance in setup. The only supplies that you really need are tennis balls and frisbees. Make sure there is enough space or multiple sections for everybody to enjoy their fetch games. You can even host some tournaments to appease the more competitive attendees. Dog Activities Dress-Up Day You don’t have to wait until Halloween to see some cute canines dressed up in costumes to be even cuter. Consider hosting a doggy dress-up day for owners who love giving their pups some personality something to look forward to.... --- ### These Funky, Modern Dog Beds Your Dog Is Sure To Love > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2019-10-09 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/dog-beds/ - Categories: Blogs You finally caved and got the puppy you’ve been dreaming of – now comes the time to buy supplies for it. It needs food, toys, bowls, and something no dog can go without. A dog bed. Luckily there are plenty of cozy, modern dog beds to choose from. There are plenty of modern dog beds that will be perfect for your new furry friend. Check out some of these funky bed options that will serve your dog from the time they are a puppy to when they become an elder. Modern Dog Beds 1. Bowsers Donut Bed The Bowsers Donut Bed is the perfect bed for about any dog. They come in a variety of sizes colors, and patterns. If your crate training your pup there is a cushion inside this bed that can also work as a crate pad. When the time comes to wash it, you won’t have to throw the entire bed in the wash. All out have to do is take off the cover. The fun donut shape will help your dog feel secure so they can sleep soundly through anything. 2. BUDDYREST Orthopedic Bolster Dog Bed Elder dogs are just as vulnerable to arthritis as their owners are. If yours shows signs of it, then the veterinary approved BUDDYREST Orthopedic Bolster Dog Bed is a great option for them. It’s pressure calibrated to ease arthritic pain and promote joint health. It’s waterproof so if your elder pup has an accident in it you won’t have any problems cleaning it up. 3. SUPERJARE Elevated Pet Cot With Canopy A family gathering isn’t a family gathering if not everyone can join you. The SuperJare Elevated Pet Cot will allow your dog to sit out in the yard with you and remain cool even in the hottest summer months. It raises off the ground which keeps them off your hot patio pavement and the canopy gives them shade. It’s easy to install and portable so it would be simple to take your dog with you on camping trips as well. 4. FurHaven Jumbo Ultra Plush Sofa Style Couch It’s tough to find a bed that can hold all of your dog depending on how large it is. The FurHaven Jumbo Ultra Plush is spacious enough to do the job. Jumbo is in the name after all. It contains an orthopedic egg crate that promotes joint health for older dogs. The cover of the bed is machine washable which makes for super easy cleaning. 5. Best Friends by Sheri Luxury Faux Fur Donut Cuddler The Best Friends bed is the perfect bed to pick up if you have a small puppy. The fluffy fur will remind them of their mother which will make them feel safe and secure. The ring provides neck support which will add to their comfort. You won’t have to worry about your pup having a reaction to the materials because they are pet safe. It will be easy for you to keep the... --- ### Bring People into Your Groomers with a Halloween Dog Costume Contest > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2019-09-24 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/dog-halloween-events/ - Categories: Blogs What’s better than a cute pup? A cute pup who’s dressed up in an adorable Halloween costume! If you know how to make the most of this spooky season, Halloween is actually a great opportunity to grow your grooming salon business. It gives you a chance to host a fun, pet-friendly dog Halloween events like a dog costume contest. This is something that many dog owners would love to attend. But if you want to make it really successful, you need to make sure everyone has an amazing time from the moment they walk through your doors. Here are a few tips to help you host the ultimate grooming salon Halloween event. Dog Halloween Events 1. Get the Word Out You can’t decide to have a last-minute Halloween party and expect it to be a success. The best parties happen when they’ve been carefully planned. You need to consider details like how long you want the party to last and how you’re going transform your grooming salon into the perfect party space. Think about how many of your employees you will need to help you out on the day-of, and consider having a few of them support the planning process, too. Most importantly, start getting the word out as soon as possible. The last thing you want is to plan a huge Halloween event only to have a few pets and their families show up. Marketing the event well ahead of time ensures this doesn’t happen. It gives dog owners a chance to work the event into their schedule and to plan their dog’s costume. Some easy event marketing tactics include putting up flyers in the store and at local businesses, sending email invites to salon clients, and posting the event details on social media. You can also create a public event on Facebook which will boost the amount of exposure and foot traffic for your dog Halloween party. 2. Create a Schedule Most parties are laid-back settings where people can go with the flow and have a good time. When you host a party for the general public as a business, though, it’s better to have a bit of structure. Create a schedule for the event before the big day arrives. Determine how much time you’d like to give people to show up and mingle until the dog contest begins. Consider whether you’d like to have dog-friendly Halloween games at the event to encourage people to talk and make friends before the contest. Plan for them to hang around after the winners have been announced as well. You may want to have a DJ and a dance area at the party to keep the fun going for a little while. Also, write a timeline for yourself and your staff to follow before the party begins. This is where you can detail any last-minute preparations you need to have ready like decorations and food. 3. Set Specific Rules for the Dog Costume Contest Be sure everyone understands the... --- ### How Much Exercise Does A Dog Need Everyday? > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2019-09-18 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/dog-exercise/ - Categories: Blogs Dogs are known as a man’s best friend for a reason, they are cute, loyal and lovable additions to any family. However, they’re also a lot of work! New dog owners frequently underestimate how much time and energy they take up. But how much exercise does a dog need everyday? Dog exercise, in particular, is one area that demands a considerable effort. Insufficient exercise can lead to unhealthy and hyperactive animals to have at home. No two dogs are the same. It’s important to know how much exercise they need, but hard to figure out what that means in practical terms! How Much Exercise Does A Dog Need Everyday? Find Out Below! 1. Apply the 5 Minute Rule for Puppies Puppies are an absolute joy to have in the house. They’re cute little balls of fur that you just want to cuddle all day long! But they can also be little terrors that chew their way through your property, leaving a trail of mess as they go. It’s vital that they get enough exercise and time outside. The 5-minute rule is a good one to follow. Here’s how it works: Decide the minimum amount of playtime and exercise they need by multiplying their age in months by 5. The numerical answer reveals the time in minutes you should spend exercising them. For instance. A 6-month-old puppy should get a 30-minute walk or play session at least once a day. You could do this twice a day to tire them out. As they get older, dogs can enjoy much longer periods of exercise. 2. Adult Hounds Need More Exercise As people, we tend to think of a child reaching adulthood at age 18. However, life isn’t as clear-cut in the canine world. The true age at which a puppy transitions to adulthood depends on different factors. The breed can make a particular difference. For instance, larger breeds mature later than smaller ones. In general, though, dogs move into adulthood between 6 and 18 months of age. As we just noted, dogs need more exercise as they get older. In adulthood, the majority will benefit from a bare minimum of 30 minutes per day. Anywhere up to 2 hours is better. Games, long walks, doggy play dates and so on are all options at your disposal. Dog owners take different approaches. Some will go on one long walk in the middle of the day. Others will go on a number of shorter walks instead. 3. Take It Easier on Seniors Sooner or later we all move from adulthood into old age. It’s an inevitability for all of us- our dogs included. Older dogs still need exercise. However, the amount and intensity should both be reduced. They may no longer have the energy or mobility of youth! After years of chasing sticks and running wild, they’ve earned the right to take it easier. You’ll know your dog better than anyone at this point. Judge the amount of exercise they need according... --- ### A Calm Dog Is a Happy Dog & Most Effective Dog Calming Aid > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2019-09-05 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/dog-calming-aid/ - Categories: Blogs Did you know that 3. 2 million shelter animals get adopted each year? Out of these, half of them are dogs while the other half are cats. Adopting them is only the beginning. Like humans, dogs can suffer from anxiety, regardless of the reason. It’s likely that the dog you adopted also feels anxious and scared right after living on the streets or a dog shelter for some time. That’s why you need to have the best dog calming aid. That way, you can reassure your companion that everything will be okay. You need to calm them and get them on your side before officially training them. The Most Effective Dog Calming Aid It’s sad to know that dogs can get affected by separation anxiety. Around 14% of them have this disorder. That means these dogs can’t find any form of comfort when they’re separated from their family members or left in solitude. The worst part is that dogs often exhibit undesirable behaviors when coping with their anxiety issues. They might defecate or urinate in the house, destroy furniture, and bark a lot. Most owners often dismiss these symptoms as lack of training and discipline. If your dog is experiencing these symptoms, it’s high time to start thinking whether they’re having anxiety issues. Regardless, you need to give them the best dog calming aid. Here are some that you can use: 1. Under the Weather – Calming Soft Chews Some dogs aren’t keen on wearing shirts or collars to calm down. That’s why these calming chews can help alleviate anxiety regardless of your dog’s breed and temperament. It supports relaxation and helps them start exhibiting balanced behaviors. The chews have ginger, which helps in making their stomachs settle. It also has Chamomile and L-Theanine that makes them relax and have a restful sleep. Last but not least, these chews have L-Tryptophan, which converts into serotonin once they absorb it. 2. I Heart Dogs – When You’re Away Comfort Cuddler Dogs that have separation anxiety will always miss you whenever you leave them alone, even for a short while. Your dog loves your scent since it makes them think you’re there. That’s why it’s important to leave something of yours whenever you’re not there. The Comfort Cuddler is a great anxiety reliever since it has a pouch that allows you to store an item of clothing with your scent. Your pooch can now use this as their pillow and cuddle it up. The result is that they’re relaxed and comfortable even when you aren’t there. 3. ZenCrate – Best Dog Calming Aid Relief Crate Does your pet get scared by storms or fireworks? If so, this anxiety aid gives them a safe space they can always fall back to. The best part about the ZenCrate is that it doesn’t just function as a wooden box—it has some amenities that help in calming down your pet. This space plays soothing music while making a gentle airflow. It does so as... --- ### How to Make Your Dog Instagram Famous! > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2019-08-29 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/dog-instagram/ - Categories: Blogs Did you know that dog Instagram accounts with over one million followers can generate up to $16,000 per post? That kind of cash can make a huge difference for your household or business. But how do you create a successful enough dog Instagram to reach those figures? With the number of pet Instagram accounts floating around, it can seem very trial-and-error to build up a massive following. Are some people just lucky? Fortunately, there are some tips and tricks for achieving Insta-fame. Read on to find out how to make your dog Instagram famous. Figure Out Your Dog Instagram Quirk’s A recent poll revealed that around 60. 2 million households across America own at least one dog. On the one hand, that means that there is no shortage of dog-lovers who will be delighted by the pictures of our furry friends. On the other hand, you have to remember that everyone will always think their dog is the best dog on the planet. No matter how cute or intelligent you think your dog is, you will still need to find a way to make your dog stand out from the pack. Proving that the experts think there’s something extra special about your furry friend is one way to jump through these hoops. If you have a pure breed, consider entering your dog in dog competitions. If your pal starts winning medals and gaining traction in the big leagues, people will be sure to pay attention! Of course, every dog has his or her quirks. Maybe they have a goofy grin or know how to follow unusual commands. Leaning into the qualities that make your dog different is crucial to their success as an Instagram dog. Keep Your Pup Looking Fresh Human Instagram influencers always look polished for their Instagram photo-ops. The same should go for your dog! Getting your dog groomed on the regular is a must when it comes to Insta-fame. Plus, a puppy spa-day is a perfect opportunity for a post! (Especially if you happen to work for or run your own grooming business–flaunt your dog and promote your business all at the same time! ) If you happen to find a grooming product you love, go ahead and show it off on your account! This can be a great way to make connections in the pet industry and could lead to paid endorsements. Post Consistently and Build Your Fanbase Once your followers start trickling in, make sure that you’re delivering the content they crave by posting consistently. Don’t go crazy and flood people’s Instagram feeds with dozens of pictures a day, but try to post at least once or twice daily. It’s also important to engage with your fans. It may be difficult to answer each and every comment left on your posts, but try to answer enough that your followers feel like they’re part of your account and your dog’s life and not just watching from the sidelines. You should also spend some time... --- ### Daysmart Pet Teams up with Groomers to Clear Shelters > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2019-08-23 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/clear-the-shelters/ - Categories: Blogs At Daysmart Pet, we have two passions: small businesses and animals. That’s why this year we teamed up with our customers to contribute to Clear the Shelters, a nationwide pet adoption drive hosted by NBC and hundreds of shelters across the country. Since 2015, Clear the Shelters has helped more than 250,000 pets find their forever homes, and this year, Daysmart Pet wanted to play a part. Daysmart Pet tapped our groomer network for this good cause because there’s nothing that says “welcome home” like a fresh bath, trim and treat for newly adopted pets. Daysmart Pet reached out to our customer Pawlished Paws Boutique & Spa, who agreed to donate free grooming services to newly adopted pets from Mary S. Roberts Pet Adoption Center during Clear the Shelters. New owners could present their voucher letter at the time of grooming and Pawlished Paws waived the cost! This year, Mary S. Roberts Pet Adoption Center had 39 adoptions on the day of Clear the Shelters – and thanks to Pawlished Paws, both new adoptees and their pet parents started their lives together with a clean start. It is thanks to organizations like these that deserving pets are finding homes, and Daysmart Pet was proud to help bring them together. If you know any customers considering adopting a shelter pet, please share our blog post on all the reasons that it’s a great idea. In the meantime, read on to learn why Pawlished Paws Boutique & Spa and Mary S. Roberts Pet Adoption are excellent examples of how small businesses can make a big difference in local communities. Pawlished Paws Boutique & Spa is a family-owned grooming business open seven days a week in Riverside, California. The staff is fully licensed and certified to groom your pet, offering services such as bath and brush, deep coat conditioning, nail trimming and gentle ear cleaning–finishing off with a Blueberry Facial, a dash of cologne, bandanas or bows. Pawlished Paws’ Express Groom service includes standard grooming without waiting in a kennel. They will immediately groom your pet after drop off, and call you before the grooming is complete. Stop by to check out the full-service doggy bakery (The Barkery), featuring the famous Doggy Birthday Cakes and other holiday and seasonal treats. Mary S. Roberts Pet Adoption Center is a nonprofit organization committed to giving homeless cats and dogs another chance for a healthy and happy life. All animals at Mary S. Roberts stay in their care until a good, loving home is found. No healthy, adoptable animal is ever destroyed. If space is not available to admit a pet, or if the pet cannot be accepted due to any other reason, owners are referred to other facilities and organizations. All pets receive food, a comfortable environment, medical attention, and loving socialization from both staff and volunteers who monitor the physical, emotional and mental health of the animals daily. A progressive “stress reduction” program helps keep residents healthy, happy and adoptable, and all... --- ### Can Dogs See Ghosts and Other Supernatural Beings? Find Out The Facts > Can your furry friend see ghosts or other supernatural beings? Learn more about your pets instincts from this Daysmart Pet blog. - Published: 2019-08-06 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/can-dogs-see-ghosts/ - Categories: Blogs Can Dogs See Ghosts? Maybe you’ve noticed that your pooch tends to stare off into the distance at times. You’re probably wondering what they’re thinking, or even worse if they possibly sense some kind of supernatural activity. This issue has been long debated by pet and ghost hunting experts alike. So, can dogs see ghosts and if so, how can we owners tell? Read on to learn more about this unusual phenomenon and weird dog behavior. Your Dog’s Senses are in Overdrive Dogs have an extremely keen sense of hearing, sight, and smell. Their eyes can detect even the tiniest of movements, even something as minuscule as a floating speck of dust. A dog’s nose is anywhere from 1,000 to 10,000 more sensitive than yours, and he can also hear high frequencies at up to four times the distance that a human can. With these extremely sharp senses, your dog’s behavior might look a little odd. Whether they’re pricking up their ears or strangely staring into the distance, it’s likely attributed to these heightened senses being stimulated. There is even some evidence that dogs and other domestic animals can sense incoming disasters like earthquakes. Due to their unique senses, they can feel the vibrational change in the earth much sooner than we can. Some experiments have also shown that dogs can smell so strongly, that they can detect some forms of cancer in humans. They’re also able to help people with diabetes and seizures since they can detect signs of distress sooner. Anything from dilated pupils to subtle changes in body odor can alert a dog to trouble. And, of course, since these domestic pals have such a strong sense of smell, they’re used in airports and by law enforcement to sniff out drugs, bombs, guns, and even dead bodies. When your dog begins acting strangely, it’s not always because there’s a ghostly intruder nearby. Their intense sense of smell, hearing, and sight can cause them to act unusual, even if you don’t see it. So, Can Dogs See Ghosts? If you’re still not sure whether or not dogs can see ghosts, a lot of it has to do with your personal beliefs. If you feel that there are spirits among us, your dog’s strange behavior may lead to you believe that there’s one in your home or near you any time he acts unusual. Remember that a dog’s total field of vision is much wider than ours, so they can see things at a much greater distance. They’re also more adept to see things move at dusk, at twilight, and at dawn. The dog could see a small animal running in the distance, or they could just notice leaves rustling, which can trigger their unusual behavior. Dogs that seem to bark at nothing likely see something you can’t. Some people have reported that their dogs start to bark suddenly or cower in a corner. While there’s no definitive proof that they see a ghost, it still could... --- ### Brain Games for Dogs: Promoting a Happy Disposition > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2019-08-01 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/brain-games-for-dogs/ - Categories: Blogs An idle mind is the Devil’s workshop. This is true for humans and dogs. A lack of mental stimulation for dogs and humans has negative consequences. While some downtime is healthy for all of us, nothing good can come from persistent boredom. Now imagine your favorite preschooler with hours of time and nothing to stimulate them mentally. It would not end well! As a canine caregiver, you’ve experienced this with dogs firsthand. Dog behavior specialists believe canine cognition levels match the cognition levels of humans at ages three to five years. Just like human caregivers plan novel ways to stimulate their kid’s brains, dog caregivers need to provide brain games for their dogs. Explore ways to provide mental stimulation for dogs below. What We Know About Dog Brains We know that exposing dogs to more complex environments increases the size of their brain and increases connections between existing neurons. Dogs that have the opportunity to solve problems, learn new things, and navigate novel experiences are happier. Just like humans! Brain Games for Dogs When you think about brain games for dogs, think about stimulating all five senses. Smell (of course! ), taste, sight, hearing, and touch. Also, remember the importance of variety. Dogs will get bored with the same two or three stuffed squeaky toys. Rotate toys in and out. Rotate games in and out. Let’s look at some examples of brain games for dogs. Play Hide and Seek Do you remember this game from childhood? If you have a child you probably know that at a certain age, this game never ever gets old! Dogs are no different. They love to play hide and seek. The good news is that dogs are happy to always be the seeker. And dogs are just as excited to seek you, a toy or food. If you’ve never done this before, start out by hiding you, the toy or food in a place that your dog will successfully find. With each success, you can make hiding places more challenging to find. Set Up an Agility Course for Them Agility courses are great brain games for dogs. If you have a large open space at your disposal, you can set up an agility course for your dog. Here are some easy ideas to get started. Set up a seesaw. Teach your dog to run up one side, wait for its weight to shift the plank, then run down the other side. Create a tunnel from empty boxes or use a child’s flexible fabric tunnel. Teach your dog to run through the tunnel. Place cones in a line with enough space for your dog to weave around them. Food rewards work especially well here to get your dogs attention. High-value food is a great reward when they learn and complete an obstacle. Teach Them New Words and New Tricks Did you ever wonder if dogs recognize words? Not in the way humans do, but researchers do believe that dogs can associate a sound... --- ### Adorable Dog Wedding Ideas > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2019-07-26 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/dog-wedding/ - Categories: Blogs Including Your Dog In Your Wedding In the United States, 85 million families have a dog. If you are one of those millions of people that own a dog, you may consider them part of your family. And if you’re getting married, you don’t want to leave anyone out of the family, right? When making the guestlist for your special day, there’s one significant invitation you won’t want to forget. Explore dog wedding ideas to include your pet. Dog Wedding Ideas To Include Your Pet: Give Your Pup a Role One of the easiest ways to have a wedding with your pet is to make sure that you give them a role. This one of the best ways to subtly integrate them into your wedding. The first thing you should do is try and figure out which role (or roles) you want your pet to play. Flower Dog If you don’t have anyone that would be a good candidate for flower girl, you can assign your dog to this role! They will be able to carry a basket of flowers in their mouth, letting some of the flower petals fall out as they trot down the aisle. If you decide to do this, you should make sure that the flowers are safe and won’t hurt your dog if they decide that they want to try and eat a few of the fallen flowers. Ring Bearer Your dog obviously won’t be able to hand you the rings, but they can do a really good job of bringing them to you. If you want to make your dog your ring bearer, you could tie a cushion onto their back and attach the rings to that. You could also hook them onto the dog’s collar so that all the dog has to do is just walk to the front of the wedding ceremony. Dog of Honor This is another way you could make your dog part of your wedding party. You should consider how obedient your dog is and how comfortable they are with social settings. If you think they’ll behave, you could have them walk down the aisle along with your wedding party. You should still probably have someone hold them on a leash, but you can decorate the leash to fit your ceremony. The Flower Boquet If your dog is small enough, you could use them to replace your flower bouquet! This is a cute trend that has started on social media. Not only will you save money on having to buy some flowers, but you will also be able to hold your adorable puppy and include them in all the wedding photos. Honored Guest If you aren’t sure if your dog behaves enough to be a part of the actual ceremony, you could always have them as an honored guest. This will be a much calmer and less demanding job than the other ones above. That way they still can be at your wedding and watch you marry... --- ### What To Expect When Working At A Dog DayCare > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2019-07-10 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/dog-daycare-job/ - Categories: Blogs Dog Daycare Job According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, jobs in the pet industry are expected to grow 11% by the year 2024. If working with pets, especially dogs sounds like a great way to spend your time and get paid for it, then a dog daycare job may be the right career for you. Read on to learn how to find a dog daycare job and what to expect working at one. How to Find a Dog Daycare Job To find this dream job, start looking in your area for different doggy daycares. Maybe you have one that you always take your pooch to. Or if you have friends who take their dog to a daycare, ask them which ones they like or don’t like. If you can’t find any, a simple Google search for some in your area can help you find some. Once you find them, go on their website and see if they have any job openings. You could even contact them to see if they’re hiring but just haven’t gotten around to posting the job online. If they don’t have a job application page, a place to contact them, or even a website, then go into their daycare and ask if they are hiring. Sometimes this is the better option because then they get to know you and recognize your face. Plus, going into the actual location shows that you are committed and ready to work for the job. What to Expect at a Dog DayCare Job If you found the perfect daycare for you to work at and got hired, congrats! Or maybe you want to find out what it’s like to have a dog daycare job before you even apply. Well, this section has all of the answers for you. Clean Up After Dogs A lot of your time will be spent cleaning up after the dogs. This is true at most shelters as well. Someone’s got to do it, and most of the time, that ends up being you. This seems like a gross, but easy enough task. Until you realize that there are so many dogs, and they all like to try and smell and roll in each other’s poop while you’re trying to pick it up. Also check your shoes before you go home or get in your car because chances are there will be some lingering. Closing and Opening the Gates Can Be Difficult When you have to let the dogs out into the yard to let them play, sometimes opening the gate can be difficult. You can feel like you’re a sales associate working on Black Friday trying to make sure that all of them don’t escape at once. Your Arm Can Be Sore From Throwing the Tennis Ball At the end of the day, your arm may be sore from throwing around the tennis ball for so many dogs over and over. But it’s so worth it to be able to see the dogs... --- ### Lost Dog! How to Avoid the Unthinkable (And What to Do If it Happens) > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2019-07-01 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/lost-dogs/ - Categories: Blogs July is lost pet prevention month. Lost pet prevention month was created in 2014 to give pet parents focused, in-depth resources, tools, and strategies for preventing losing pets, how to find lost dogs (& other pets! ) if the unthinking does happen, as well as advice for getting them home quickly if they go ‘AWOL’ (Absent without a leash). Every year, the Humane Society of the United States estimates that 10 million pets get lost. It can be overwhelming to figure out what to do when you have a lost dog or cat. There are several different resources to consider when you have a missing pet. Most importantly, you should try to remain calm, hold on to hope, and try to use as many different tools as you can. Many owners are able to be united with their pets as long as they follow a few crucial steps, as missing even one of them could mean losing your pet. Today we talk about how to find lost dogs. Read on to learn why it is important to have a process while searching for your lost dog, as well as how you can prevent it from happening in the future. How To Find Lost Dogs The first reaction people generally have to a lost dog is to panic. This is a completely understandable and normal emotion to feel, but in order to search most effectively, you need to come at it with a level head. Take a few minutes to regroup and formulate a plan based on this list. The sooner you are able to search, the better your chances are at finding your pet. As well, delegate tasks if you are able to other family members so that you all can get the most done as quickly as possible. 1. Contact Local Organizations The very first step you should take is to call local animal shelters and animal control agencies. The likelihood of your pet being there will depend on many different factors, such as how long ago they went missing, and the region you live in. As a general rule, file a missing pet report for any shelters or organizations within a 60-mile radius of your home. To find these shelters, search online or check phonebook. In the event that there are no local shelters, contact the police department to file a report. Provide a description of your pet to them, as well as a clear picture for them to display in the event that they see your dog. 2. Search the Neighborhood Once you have contacted as many agencies in the area as possible, begin to search your neighborhood. It can also be helpful if one person is able to begin contacting shelters, while the other is checking the immediate area. Searching the neighborhood a few times a day is a crucial step to finding your pet, even if it has been a while. Moreover, try to let the local postal workers and delivery drivers know... --- ### Promote Your Dog Groomers In Preparation For Bring Your Dog To Work Day > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2019-06-14 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/take-your-dog-to-work-day/ - Categories: Blogs ‘Take Your Dog To Work day’ is just a few weeks away (on June 21st to be precise), and no one wants to bring a scruffy looking, smelly dog to work. This is the ideal time to come up with fresh new ideas to promote your dog groomers. Of course, as a pet professional you have a few other things on your plate. For example hiring more staff to handle all the clients coming in, buying more supplies, organizing your dog groomers for the take your dog to work day as well as overseeing the day-to-day operations. This is one of the busiest times of the year for groomers. However, as a grooming business owner, you must understand the critical role that marketing plays in the ongoing health of your business. And with the take your dog to work day approaching it is the right time to take your marketing strategy a step further to keep a steady stream of new clients coming in, and existing clients coming back for more. With this in mind, here are some of the essential marketing tips for your dog groomers in preparation for take your dog to work day. Social media Schedule a couple of social media updates ahead of time to post in the coming weeks or days as we approach the take your dog to work day. Post some inspiring content about dogs, for example, how to be kind to animals or more exciting ask your fans to share photos of their dogs in their best outfits. This could stir a whole series of images with tips on how your clients should dress their dogs. Be sure to include some of your products or services, but do not make it all about your pet business since you want your followers to click the like, share and re-tweet buttons so be sure to include some fun and non-promotional tips. Give a little something extra To the days leading to take your dog to work day, give away some goodies, such as dog biscuits, leashes, stickers, magnets, calendars, and pet food can covers, printed with your business logo and theme color also include your business name, physical address, phone number and email address. This will advertise your dog groomers and will go a long way to let your clients know you appreciate their business. Prepare the ‘take your dog to work day’ offers This is a great time to have promotional offers. You can provide an early bird discount for your clients. This is where clients have to book a grooming appointment. The earlier the booking, the more the discount while last minute booking has no cuts or even quite pricey. As a groomer, this will make your job easier, as you get to plan. You could also set up some attractive displays of your bestselling dog treats, and mix in some pet toys, or consider a Buy one Get one Free Offer, or offer free baths and bulk discounts on... --- ### Unique Dog Names – Creative Names For Your New Pup! > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2019-05-22 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/unique-dog-names/ - Categories: Blogs Unique Dog Names The situation in the dog park is getting untenable. We can’t all be out there yelling the same thing. If nothing else, it leads to some very confused dogs. There are lists upon lists of the most popular dog names out there but what about choosing unique dog names? You don’t always want to walk the beaten path. If your dog is a little more unique, you might want to do them justice with a unique name. Don’t worry. Here’s our list of top unique dog names! Unique Dog Names: Peeves “This is my pet, Peeves”. Simple, effective, but always good for a laugh. It’s also cute; the kind of name you could give to a little yapper or, with a sense of irony, to a big lug. And if anyone questions you too closely, you can always claim you named them for the poltergeist from Harry Potter. Gelert While we’re on the subject of things vaguely linked with Harry Potter, let’s dip into mythology for the name “Gelert”. Gelert is a legendary dog associated with Beddgelert in Wales. It’s a sad but beautiful story of a loyal hound that protected its master at the expense of its own life. Bring Gelert back to life with this name, and you’ll have an interesting story to tell people, too. As for the Harry Potter link, the sinister Grindelwald’s first name is the similar “Gellert”. Now let’s hope he turns out to be an Animagus. Garm Let’s stick with the legends and folklore theme for a moment. Garm is a Norse wolf straight out of legend, a guardian of the underworld. Like Gelert, it’s one of the lesser known wolf legends, which makes it a little unique. We love this one. It’s more functional as a name than the more famous Fenrir, but it has some old-school cool factor behind it. It also sounds like a noise your dog might make. Furdinand Naming your dog is a chance to indulge in some silly fun. Unlike an unlucky child, your dog will never learn that it has a ridiculous name by human standards. But you’ll still get the joy of using it in public. That’s what makes “Furdinand” a good candidate. This one is just subtle enough to slip under most people’s radar, but you’ll still give your vet a good chuckle. Cat We love a dog name that causes a little confusion. Calling your dog “Cat” is a fast pass to that. This one’s worth it just for the looks you’ll get when you yell it in the park. There’s also a delicious irony in it. Your dog will never know that it shares its name with its most better rival in the pet world. Just don’t ask us what you should do if you get a cat later. Floof Trust the internet to make dogs even cuter. Floof is an internet term for fur or something furry, though it has expanded to a more general word... --- ### Be Aware of How Your Kennel is Being Evaluated by Prospective Boarders > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2019-05-14 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/dog-boarding-facility/ - Categories: Blogs Dog owners are choosy when it comes to picking a dog boarding facility for their furry friend. They want to be sure their pooch will be safe, happy and healthy – that means finding a boarder who they feel confident in. Knowing what pet parents are looking for in a boarding business can make a big difference in the overall success of your pet care company. After all, if you want to claim your share of thenearly $70 billion dollarsthat Americans spend caring for their pets every year, you need to know exactly how to make your boarding service stand out in this competitive marketplace. Here’s what prospective boarders consider when they are evaluating your boarding business: What Is Your Dog Boarding Facility Reputation Like? Dog owners often start their search for a kennel by speaking with other dog parents at the dog park, at work, or on social media. How your current clients see your business has a huge impact on what your prospects think about you. Be sure to keep tabs on your social media feed, checkonline reviewsites and work on building and maintaining positive relationships with everyone who’s involved with your business. Does It Feel Like Home? According to arecent study of American pet ownersby Joybird, 77% of respondents said they let their pets roam freely throughout their home, and fewer than one in 10 keep their pets outside. Prospective boarders are often seeking a boarding facility that closely mimics the environment their dogs have at home – that usually means they prefer their canines have access to a comfortable, home-like setting rather than spending their days locked up in a small metal kennel. Are The Dogs Safe? Dog owners want to feel confident that their pooch is safe while in your care. This means your prospects will want to see that you’ve taken steps to prevent your dog from running away, avoid conflicts with other dogs, and have a plan in place if an illness or other emergency occurs. How Experienced Are You and Your Staff? Pet parents want to know that you have experience dealing with all types of dogs, including dogs that may have specific medical needs, behavioral concerns or other unique issues. Given the fact that pet boarding is a largely unregulated industry, demonstrating that you’ve taken the time to earn credentials likepet first aid courses, dog training courses, and theAmerican Kennel Club’s Canine Good Citizenprogram can help prospective boarding find confidence in you. Keeping In Touch With Pet Owners From Your Dog Boarding Facility Dog parents are relying on technology more and more, especially to keep an eye on their pets, and that’s something they may look for in a boarding facility as well. Your clients want to know that you’re available 24/7, and they also expect regular updates on their pet. This can mean setting up regular social media updates, sending video messages to owners, or even making time for video chats between the dog and their parents. To... --- ### Customer Spotlight: Rachel Ann’s Country Clips > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2019-05-10 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/customer-spotlight-rachel-anns-country-clips/ - Categories: Success Stories DaySmart Petcustomers are passionate small business owners who excel at what they do. As part of our commitment to supporting and educating entrepreneurs, we aim to showcase our customers’ expertise in growing successful businesses. Rachel Stalcoskie, co-owner of Rachel Ann’s Country Clips with Bruce Kolar, has a story that shows how a passion for pets can change careers. Rachel has always loved animals—so much so that she started her career as a zoo animal caretaker. She began grooming pets in her basement before deciding to open her own grooming salon servicing all breeds and even hard-to-handle pets. Today, she runs Rachel Ann’s Country Clips with her family and staff, one of whom is her 10-year-old daughter, Gwendolyn, the youngest competitive groomer in the United States. Continue reading to see how Rachel has expanded her business to offer services to the community and translated her passion for animals into her daughter’s aspirations to become a grooming icon. Q: How did you know that you wanted to open a pet grooming salon? A: Helping animals, interacting with people—they’re both my passions. Prior to opening my own grooming salon, I was a certified vet technician and worked in veterinary hospitals. Then, I started working in kennels and training myself to groom. Still learning, I began grooming in my basement, teaching myself and improving my skills. Now, I’ve been grooming for about 16 or 17 years. I opened my first shop in Pocano Lake, PA, and was there for five years. Country Clips—the shop that I own and run now—has been in its current location for about 30 years. I bought the business and took it over. Q: How did you make the transition from grooming in your basement to operating Country Clips? A:I wanted to continue to grow and expand so I could offer more to the community. I wouldn’t be able to make the same impact grooming out of my basement on my private property. I needed a storefront to be more reachable and available, so more people could find my business. But I also wanted to work for myself—I’m very particular about the quality of services I provide, and that particularity has paid off. When you treat your clients well, they’ll spread the word about your business, and I think a lot of word-of-mouth got me to where I am today. Q: What are some of the biggest challenges you face as a small business owner, especially as a woman? A: I run a very particular business and the hardest thing can be finding employees and keeping them. I have a specific process for everything done in the shop and it’s important that my employees stick to that. That said, we’ve always been like family here. I’ve treated employees as such and gotten great feedback from them. And, of course, my number one priority is the safety of the pets. Animals can’t talk, so when they come in, we need to make sure they’re safe and comfortable. I need... --- ### Daysmart Pet Employees: Adopt a Shelter Pet Day Stories > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2019-04-29 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/shelter-dog-employee-stories/ - Categories: Blogs Shelter Dog Daysmart Pet Employee Stories In celebration of National Adopt a Shelter Pet Day this April 30th, we asked some of our Daysmart Pet employees about their pet adoption experience. As you might expect, their expectations varied, their experiences differed, but they all agreed that adopting a shelter dog was one of their best decisions. The situations that led each person to consider adoption were as unique as the dogs adopted. Annie, one of our Customer Success team leaders, shared her adoption story: “We had been eyeing this blue heeler puppie on PetFinder for a couple of days, called about her, and was told she would be at an adoption event and that we should come apply to adopt her. We showed up at the event... and she wasn’t there! The foster never brought her, and the event staff said rumor had it the foster family was going to keep her. Since we were already there, we took a look around, and all the dogs were going bonkers, except this little blue pittie who was laying in his crate; calm, quiet, and with the best “puppy eyes” we’d ever seen a dog muster. We took him to the “get acquainted area” and he immediately started sitting and laying on command. We asked for details on him and were told that he arrived at the shelter just a few hours before us. He was found wandering the street and was brought in directly to the event. We were the only ones to apply to adopt him that day, so he was ours! However, he had stage 2 heartworm and was 20 pound underweight, so he couldn’t be medically cleared for adoption. We had to do a “foster to adopt” program, where we housed him and brought him treatments, and the rescue center paid the vet bills. It took about 3 months of treatment to rid him of the heartworm, but he was finally medically cleared for adoption! We named him Chance, because he really got a second chance at life with our adoption. ” In contrast to Annie’s story of serendipity, determination and second chances, one of our UX leaders, Tonya, took a more deliberate approach and found the process “very formal”. Like any good Product Manager, she lays out the steps involved in bringing home her shelter dog, Ranger: Call rescue to confirm he was still available (PetFinder isn’t always current) I had to submit an application My vet had to vouch for me I had to meet the dog I had to bring my dog with me for a second visit I had to pay for vaccinations, neutering, and chip Pay the $300 adoption fee It took over a month to bring him home. Tonya went to say that she was surprised at how scared he was: I assumed he would get along with Toby, the Rottweiler, which he did. Toby was a sweetheart, kind of a big goof, and I think Ranger just followed his... --- ### Dog Grooming Fails and How to Avoid Them As a Groomer > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2019-04-16 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/dog-grooming-fails/ - Categories: Blogs It’s one thing to know all the latest pet industry trends. It’s another matter entirely to know how to groom a dog successfully and not get caught up in the common dog grooming fails. And if you’re looking to start a dog grooming business, you need to know the difference. Here are some of the most common dog grooming fails that rookie groomers make — and what you should do instead. Dog Grooming Fails Biting Off More Than You Can Chew The most common dog grooming fail? Biting off more than you can chew. In grooming, this usually happens when you accept a project that you haven’t built up the skills to deal with. Let’s say an owner comes in with an Afghan hound. The dog is beautiful and sweet and the owner is looking for a regular groomer, so of course, you say yes. Here’s the problem: you’ve never groomed an Afghan hound before, and they’re one of the most difficult breeds to groom, along with Komondors (for the famous dreadlock coats) and Bichon Frises (who have hair instead of fur). If you take on a dog that you don’t actually know how to groom, there’s a good chance you’re going to do a bad job. Not only does that cost you a return customer, but it can also cost you that owner’s friends as well, as the owner will go home and talk about what a terrible job you did. Failure to Brush Around Bath Time Failing to brush before bath time is high on the list of dog grooming fails. Dogs with long hair can easily get matted when they get wet, and like long hair, long fur tends to get tangled when it comes in contact with water. That will make brushing much more painful later on (and mess up your grooming job further down the line). Plus, brushing helps remove any dead hair from the dog’s coat, and any tangles can trap dead hair. So before (and after) they get out of the tub, make sure to get acquainted with the brush. Nail Trimming with the Wrong Tools For many owners, trimming their dog’s nails is a difficult task best left to those who know what they’re doing. Hint: that’s either you or the vet. Unfortunately, nail trimming doesn’t get any easier for groomers, especially if the dog doesn’t like having their nails trimmed. However, there are things you can do to make it easier (or harder). For example, cutting a dog’s nails with dull clippers is a surefire way to create a terrible experience for everyone involved. Humans have nails, but dogs have claws, and claws contain nerves and blood vessels. They’re also directly attached to the phalanx bone at the end of the toe. When you cut a dog’s claws with dull clippers, you crush the nails instead of cutting them. This can do a lot of damage to the claws and significantly increases the risk of slipping and injury. It’s... --- ### 7 Common Toxins to Keep Away From Pets | National Poison Prevention Week > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2019-03-20 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/what-is-toxic-to-dogs/ - Categories: Blogs People love their pets. People love their pets so much; sometimes they love them more than other people but are they all clear on what is toxic to dogs? Probably not. According to a survey conducted by the American Pet Products Association in 2018, about 85 million U. S. families own a pet. That means 68% of U. S. households own at least one pet with the majority being dogs or cats. When pet owners travel, they need someone to look after their beloved family member. Often they entrust them to a professional pet daycare or kennel. If you own one of these pet facilities, it’s important that you do not expose any of the animals to dangerous toxins or poisons. Do you know what is toxic to dogs? For National Poison Prevention Week, let’s take a look at the most common toxins that pets may encounter while boarded. Keep reading to find out what is toxic to dogs! What is Toxic to Dogs? Read On To Learn About 7 Common Toxins to Keep Away from Pets Do you own a pet daycare, dog kennel, or another pet service? Take the time this week to check out for any potentially harmful substances that could put boarded animals, and your business, at risk. Here are 7 common poisons to look out for: 1. Human Medications Some of the most dangerous substances a pet can accidentally ingest are human medications. Nearly 50% of all calls to the Pet Poison Hotline come from people whose pets ate prescription or over-the-counter drugs. Be sure you keep the following out of reach from pets like dogs and cats: Acetaminophen A common class of anti-inflammatory drugs found in cough and cold medicines and the name brand medication Tylenol. They cause dry eyes and liver failure in dogs but pose a bigger risk to cats. Even a little bit of acetaminophen can kill felines. Amphetamine Amphetamines are the active ingredient in most ADHD and ADD medications like Adderall, Concerta, and Ritalin. Ingesting small amounts causes severe heart problems, high temperatures, tremors, and seizures. Antidepressants Antidepressants like Celexa, Effexor, Paxil, and Prozac cause serious neurological problems in pets. Side effects include agitation, sedation, seizures, and tremors. NSAIDs Another class of anti-inflammatory drugs that includes name brands like Motrin, Aleve, and Advil. They cause kidney failure as well as intestinal and stomach ulcers. 2. Household Cleaners Most household cleaners are harmful to humans as much as animals. Polishes, sprays, and detergents all contain dangerous chemicals that you shouldn’t breathe in or ingest. The products with the highest risk for pets include strong alkaline and acidic cleaners. These include: Calcium/lime removers Drain cleaning solution Lye Toilet cleaning solution Rust removers Even if the product claims to be natural on the packaging that does not mean it’s safe. Most spot removers, surface cleaners, and glass cleaning products pose less risk, but you should still keep them out of reach from pets. 3. Vet-Prescribed Drugs The medications a vet prescribes... --- ### What’s New With Daysmart Pet groom? Find Out Here! > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2019-03-04 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/whats-new-q1/ - Categories: Blogs Your online reputation is more important than ever, and largely out of your control. While we can’t promise you anything but five-star reviews, our latest add-on gives you an easy to use dashboard that shows you what is being said, and where. It allows you to solicit more reviews from customers you think are likely to say nice things. It allows you to respond to reviews (positive or negative) from within the dashboard and even export reviews you like to your own website. Our newest add-on is now available for cloud and desktop users and integrates with your existing software, so after some simple setup steps (that we’ll walk you through) there are no other logins, no separate bills to pay, or systems to manage – this is a new menu item right within the software you use everyday. Want to learn more? Read our recent blog post on the subject. Want to get started? Call our Sales team to get this added to your account at (800) 376-0123. Mobile & Cloud Over the last few months, we’ve devoted ourselves to making significant progress in our mobile app and cloud service experience. Here’s a rundown of the latest enhancements in the mobile apps for Daysmart Pet groom. Service Exceptions and Pricing Levels You can now set up service exceptions and variable pricing levels. This enables different employees to charge different prices for performing the same service. If your staff includes beginner, intermediate and expert service providers, they can now charge (and be compensated) appropriately. *This feature is available in Deluxe and Premier editions only and will not work for Remote Access users. When editing a service, you can set prices for each price level. Now, when you schedule this service, these prices will override the default service price with the price level of the employee assigned to that ticket. Duration Exceptions Employee price and duration exceptions can now also be set from each service. For services requiring processing, processing or finish durations can also be set within the service. *Employee exceptions are supported for both Cloud and Remote Access users. Improved Checkout Process We’ve improved the usability of the checkout process in order to streamline the delivery of receipts and to prompt for rebooking at checkout. If you’d rather not see one or both of these checkout pop-ups, we’ve also added a control to suppress one or both of these prompts to further speed your checkout process. Marketing Campaigns The Daysmart Pet grom apps now have a new marketing campaign screen (in the More tab) where you can turn recurring and one-time campaigns on and off. You can also see the deliverability statistics for any deployed campaign. While creating marketing campaigns remains difficult on such a small screen, you can now monitor and manage marketing campaigns from the palm of your hand. Online Booking We have been making continual improvements to the Online Booking process, and in recent months have added key features like allowing clients to log... --- ### How To Start A Kenneling Business > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2019-03-04 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/how-to-start-a-dog-kennel/ - Categories: Blogs Bringing your dog on vacation with you is unnecessary stress. A dog kennel gives owners a place where they can drop off their pets to rest and enjoy themselves for the week. A lot of pet owners choose this option making it a lucrative business opportunity. But if you don’t have the right guidance and know how to start a dog kennel business, then you may find yourself in over your head. You will need to organize the property, meet government regulations, and put together a pricing and marketing structure among other things before you are ready to open your doors. But once those happy pups come running through the door and the dollars start rolling in it will all be worth it. Continue reading to learn how to start a dog kennel business and create a rewarding business today. How To Start A Dog Kennel Business: Select Your Target Market Your target market will mostly depend on the demographics in your area. Who is leaving town and why? Are there families who will need their pets watched for a week at a time over school vacations? Or are there a lot of professionals who need someone to watch their dogs during the day? Recognize what the needs are for a kennel in your neighborhood so that you can capture a target market early on. Consider Your Growth Potential One of the best parts about opening a kennel is that it’s a business that you can expand at any time. There is no reason to take out a huge loan just to open your doors. Try to start with a basic building and a set of basic services and then expand from there. The only limit to your growth potential is the care with which you take the steps and make business decisions. Brush Up on Your Skills Before you open a kennel, you will want to learn as much as possible about interacting with different kinds of dogs. A great way to do that is by volunteering at your local shelter. You may also want to take a certificate course on dog training and dog handling to ensure you are able to handle anything that comes your way. Consider the Costs There are a lot of costs that will come up when you go to open your kennel. First, there is the actual cost of the building. But then you will also need to pay for insurance and for work to be done on the property to make it suitable for your needs. You will also need to purchase items for a large play area and crates for the dogs to be housed in while they are indoors. Some kennels no longer use crates. In that case, you will want to figure out what you will do with dogs that misbehave or don’t get along with the others. Create a Business Plan Like any business, your kennel will need a detailed business plan. You should write out... --- ### If Pets Had Thumbs Day is March 3rd: What Would Your Dog Do? > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2019-03-01 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/if-pets-had-thumbs/ - Categories: Blogs We have all seen some bizzare holidays pop up in our calendars, but this one really tickled me – “If Pets Had Thumbs Day”. This holiday is the perfect day, for all dog owners, to imagine what life would be like if our dogsactuallyhad opposable thumbs! Here’s somePAWsome things I think they would get up to: Open The Fridge Bottomline, there would be no food left. Text You To Ask You To Bring Him Back a Bone If dogs have thumbs, they would have phones too! Take a Selfie I mean who doesn’t like taking selfies, they would probably use Snapchat filters too *sigh Actually, Clean Up After Himself If only this was true. Use the Computer Be careful they don’t sell the cat on ebay. Hog The Remote Next thing you know – they will be signingup forDOGTV. Hitch Hike To The Park Dogs love the park and I’m positive, if they could, they would hitchhike thereeveryday. Read The Newspaper The ‘Daily Dog’ would be a hit! So there’s all the wacky things we think dogs would do if they had thumbs, but the possibilities are endless! What do you think your dog would do? Comment below. --- ### How to Run a Successful Kennel Facility > Interested in starting your own pet boarding business. Learn what it takes to run a successful kennel facility. - Published: 2019-02-14 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/running-a-successful-kennel/ - Categories: Blogs Dog are an important member of the family. So, if people need to board there dogs, they’re going to be choosy. As they should. There are about 9,000 boarding kennels for dogs in North America. Chances are there are at least 2 or 3 choices for customers to consider in your area. Each kennel is as different as the next. From the play yard experience to the extra services that you offer but the most important thing is a positive experience for your customers and their dogs. Here are some things to consider for running a successful kennel facility: The Atmosphere You should invite your customers to tour your kennel if they are considering. Showing your customer around should make them feel more at ease. Set up an appointment. When they arrive, show them the layout, play areas, and living/sleeping quarters and make sure they walk away with a feeling that their dog would be safe and happy staying in your boarding facility. Running a Successful Kennel Layout The floor plan should have at least three specific areas. A pickup and drop off area, social and play areas, and quiet sleeping areas. There should be gates between each area to keep dogs where they belong. Make sure you have efficient security and monitoring capabilities. You’ll want all your staff to be aware of everything happening in the facility at all times. Social Space Your staff should watch spaces where dogs interact with one another. They should have training in dog behavior and know what to do if a fight breaks out. Every dog should have access to play space. Very social dogs can mingle together and play. More reserved or skittish dogs need their own patch of grass. Ensure your staff know how to decide where clients dogs fit best. Get as much details from the client as possible about their dog and discuss where their dog will be happiest. Quiet Space Make sure your kennel offers a quiet place for dogs to sleep, eat and relax. This space should be plenty big enough to fit a crate or individual kennel in. All dogs should have their own spot to sleep. It should be a comfortable temperature, clean, and well lit. Make sure these quiet spaces present good hygiene and clean equipment. Allow clients to bring their own dog’s blanket, bedding, bowls and any comfort items to make them feel more at home. Hygiene and Safety Dog kennel spaces should all be clean and orderly. Walking spaces should be clear of debris and clutter. You don’t want any dogs to get hurt on stray tools or equipment. Play areas should be in good repair and fenced in for safety. Check for broken toys or equipment in the play yard. A mixture of grass and dirt makes for a paw-friendly play zone. Too much concrete can cause paw pads to bruise or scrape. Bad odors are a sign of poor hygiene practices. Poor hygiene can lead to sickness in... --- ### Doggie Daycare: Everything You Need To Know > Thinking of signing your pup up for doggie daycare? Here's everything you need to know. - Published: 2019-02-06 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/everything-doggie-daycare/ - Categories: Blogs Doggie Daycare Eighty-five million people in America are proud pet owners. 60 million of those people are dog owners. Dogs are like family to families, and they want to ensure the best care of them possible. But when you need to leave for an extended period or are unsure about keeping your dog home alone for a few hours, dog daycare could save the day. What stops most people from placing man’s best friend in dog daycare is the price. How affordable is it, and is it worth it? If you’re wondering how much does it cost to board a dog, in this article, we’ll take a look at dog daycare prices so you can decide whether or not your furry friend (and you! ) could benefit from this service. What is Doggie Daycare? Dog daycare is essentially a service provided for owners to drop off their pets when they’re unable to watch them. If you have a full-time job that keeps your dog in a crate the majority of the day, many owners use doggie day to give their dog the opportunity to play freely and socialize with other dogs. When pet parents go on vacation, some dog daycares offer kennel and overnight boarding. And some pet owners view dog daycare as a chance for their dog to release some energy for an extended period. What Can I Expect From Doggie Daycare? There are many benefits to pups who attend dog daycare. Playing Most dog daycares offer a play area for dogs to roam and exert energy. They’re allowed access to outdoors (weather permitting) or indoor roaming area. Playing areas should be quite large and safe for all dogs. Because there’s usually a variety of dogs in doggie daycare, a good company will separate large dogs and small dogs into two playing areas to avoid injuries. Toys are traditionally included with playtime, although it’s important that they are safety-approved. Naptime Dogs need naps, too! Doggie daycare should offer a comfortable place for your pet to rest, usually in kennels or other secluded spaces. If you’re curious about how your dog would get their rest, reach out to the staff to inquire about naptime. Feeding A long day at dog daycare will probably require one feeding. It’s likely you’ll need to bring your dog’s food, so alert the staff if you plan to do so. Be sure to mention any allergies or restrictions your dog has. Walks Some facilities take dogs for walks to let them do their business. Arriving with a leash for your dog is key if you want them walked. Ask the staff if or how they manage potty breaks or if you need your pup walked. Qualifications of Doggie Daycare While each daycare will have different requirements to meet before your dog comes on board, there are some basic standards to adhere to. Vaccinations Each dog daycare will require certain vaccinations and vaccination record, and medical history. These vaccinations will need to be updated... --- ### 9 Places All Dog-Lovers Need To Visit At Least Once > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2019-01-15 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/dog-friendly-vacations/ - Categories: Blogs Dog Friendly Vacations The average American worker has just about two weeks of paid time off every year. That’s not very much in the grand scheme of things, which means you need to make the most of it. You’ve probably thought of many dream vacations but never considered what it would be like to bring your dog. Or you may have decided it’s too difficult to find a dog friendly vacation with proper lodging and places to go to for activities if you have a pet with you. But we’re here to tell you that there are a ton of awesome dog friendly vacations you can take with your dog. All it takes is a little planning and research. Check out this list of the best dog friendly vacations and start traveling today! 1. Hike the Appalachian Trail If you have an adventurous spirit, then there is no better trip for you than hiking the Appalachian Trail with your furry best friend. Imagine navigating the expanse of nature with your dog, it truly sounds magical. But, in order to take this trip, you will need to do a bit of planning. There are a couple paths on the trail that don’t allow dogs. In addition, you will need to take precautions to keep your pet fed, hydrated, and safe. That starts with making sure you have enough dehydrated dog food for the trip. You should also purchase booties for your pet if you plan on hiking a lengthy distance. You will need to treat your dog for fleas and ticks before the trip to ensure they are properly protected. 2. Visit the Grand Canyon Although it’s a national park, the Grand Canyon allows dogs on the South Rim trail. This is a great place for viewing the expanse of the canyon. But, they, unfortunately, don’t allow dogs on the inner canyon trails. This is for the dog’s safety as well as the safety of wild animals. However, they do offer a kennel at the south rim where your dog can be dropped off for the day. 3. Head to Washington D. C. The nation’s capital is replete with well-manicured walking trails through heavily wooded parks and around the national monuments. In this highly walkable city, you will be able to take your pet almost anywhere, so long as you don’t go inside. In D. C. that’s not really a problem. There is so much to see and do outdoors. Try taking a walk through the Tidal Basin, hiking the trail through Rock Creek Park, or taking the ten-mile stroll out to George Washington’s house at Mount Vernon. Even in the winter time, D. C. makes a nice place to visit with your pet. The winters are mild and snow is rare. 4. Take a Spin Around Austin Austin’s slogan is, “Keep Austin Weird” and what better way to do that than by bringing your silly pup along on vacation with you. Austin is an excellent city to bring... --- ### National Dress Up Your Pet Day: The Best Pet Costumes! > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2019-01-08 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/dog-in-costume/ - Categories: Blogs If you’re like so many animal lovers out there, there’s nothing you like more than an opportunity to dress up your dog in costume and show it off. That’s where National Dress Up Your Pet Day comes in. Let your pet show off their inner Fashionista while you celebrate your love for them and pay homage to the pet fashion community. Dog in Costume What Is National Dress Up Your Pet Day? National Dress Up Your Pet Day was founded in 2009 by Celebrity Pet Lifestyle and Animal Behavior Expert, Colleen Paige. Celebrated on January 14th, it’s an opportunity to have fun with pet fashion while giving your dog in costume some extra attention and drawing awareness to pet adoption. How to Observe National Dress Up Your Pet Day Observing National Dress Up Your Pet Day is super easy. It’s all about having fun while celebrating your pet. Here are some great ways to mark the holiday: Dress Up Your Pet – Whether you’re going for a full-on costume or just a tasteful accessory, dress them up and take lots of pictures so you can remember the day fondly and compare pictures year after year. Adopt A Pet – Don’t own a pet? This holiday is the perfect time to adopt one. One of the reasons for the holiday is to bring more attention to shelters and find homes for more pets. Take the opportunity to welcome a new fur baby into your life. Volunteer At a Local Shelter – There are so many pets that need homes, along with love and attention. Taking the time to volunteer can ensure that you’ll brighten a lonely pet’s day. While you’re there, donate some money in your pet’s name to help other animals in need. Plan A Pet Parade – Organize a pet parade in your community as a way for people to show off their pets in their fanciest attire. Have a Party – Why celebrate alone with your pet when you can make it a festive occasion. Invite all of your pet loving friends to attend and consider giving out a prize for the best costume. Post On Social Media – Let the world see how important your furry friend is by posting their pictures in their costumes on social media. Be sure to use the hashtag #DressUpYourPetDay. Cute Costumes for Your Furry Friend Having trouble coming up with costume ideas? We’ve got you covered. Here are the best costume ideas to help your pet go the extra mile and show off their inner diva. Punk Rocker – Find a mohawk elasticized hairpiece and put it on your pet’s head. For an extra splash of excitement opt for a neon color like green or pink. Eighties Superstar – A big hairpiece along with lots of colorful accessories will ensure that your pet shows off their ’80s sense of style. Lots of tulle and a big hair bow can give off a Madonna or Cyndi Lauper vibe. Bride Or... --- ### Year-End Review for your 2018 Goals > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2018-12-19 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/dog-grooming-review/ - Categories: Blogs With 2018 coming to an end it’s time for your dog grooming year-end review! Check out these 3 key strategies to reviewing 2018 and setting up a dog grooming business plan for 2019 to maximize success in the year to come! 1. Identifying and Boosting the Performance of your Staff & Retail Sales Have you completed your year end review for each of your employees and your retail sales. Do you know which employee or product performed the best? Keep reading to find out the key thing to understand about your top employees and best selling retail products. Key things to understand about your top performers. Identify the 5 W’s: Who is the top performing staff member? Who is your top performer? What is unique about their job performance? When do they market their skills? Why are they performing better than others? How do they interact with their team and clients? These questions are clues as to how you can coach and mentor your dog grooming staff. Use this Q&A to identify key qualities among each staff member. Share examples and create a team environment that allows your lead performers to be mentors. Use these examples when you are coaching your low performing staff and find out where they need coaching and work on those areas. Stay constructive and remember we learn from our mistakes. Create a mentoring program. Pair a struggling employee with a successful one and allow them to shadow for the day. Create a part time assistant program that will allow for the struggling employee to gain extra training. They can then practice the skills they have learned by working independently on the opposite days. Make sure you have a dedicated team of staff. If there is a staff member that is compromising the integrity of your team, you may want to consider cutting ties. A team that operates in a positive atmosphere will always outperform. You may feel cutting your losses may cut your revenue but if your team performs better in return, you have made again. Incorporate pricing levels for dog grooming services. Start the new or struggling employees out at a lower price level to promote an incentive for growth. Set goals within each price level that must be reached and maintained in order to move to the next pricing level. This concept will motivate your employees to meet specific expectations and grow quickly. This creates the ability for the stylist to receive a raise as reward for their progress. Suggested goals would be- retail per guest, service per guest, guest retention, and re-booking. All of these goals can be monitored within your software program. You may want to consider team goals as well. Market your dog grooming business and staff through your software. The opportunities for marketing to your clients are endless. Create a loyalty program that will boost referrals. Create automated marketing emails thanking customers for visiting your dog grooming business. Within your emails add links to online booking, Instagram... --- ### Business Software: Your Pet Groomer’s Holiday Season Secret Weapon > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2018-12-17 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/pet-groomer-holidays/ - Categories: Blogs The holiday season can present unique opportunities for a pet groomer—from sending out special deals to earning new customers and rewarding return ones. It can also cause chaos in your pet groomer business. More customers and more deals can mean an influx of sales, foot traffic and stress. As a pet groomer, you’re only human—and tech is here to help you maximize these opportunities. Here’s a few reasons why investing in the right business software can help you go from surviving to thriving this holiday season—and beyond. Online Booking Competition can be fierce over the holidays—with more customers on vacation, home from school or looking to spend, sometimes, the most convenient option wins. Online booking makes it easy for clients to book appointments 24/7 and on the go. Instead of having to talk on the phone and look at their schedule, customers can see all your open slots (with adjusted holiday hours) and find the one that works best for them—and you’ll be automatically notified when a client books online. Bonus: Social Media Integration! Business software enables your clients to book appointments directly from your Facebook business accounts. By adding the “Book Now” button, you gain more clients with a seamless user experience. Automatic email and text reminders Customers are busy during the holiday season, too—but if they miss or show up late for appointments, it costs you money. Automated reminders are easy to set up and remove the time-consuming task of calling each client to remind them of appointments. Once clients book an appointment online, your software will automatically notify the client by email. Then, as the appointment nears, clients will receive text reminders and can confirm if they are coming. Employee Scheduling Setting schedules and filling shifts can feel like a jigsaw puzzle—especially with more appointments and adjusted holiday hours. Employee scheduling software can help you set reoccurring schedules, so you don’t need to make a new schedule every week. You can simply tweak it one week to accommodate special requests, then go back to normal the next week. Plus, during the holidays, you can keep track of paid time off. This is the best way to assure your employees are getting paid for the days they miss, without paying them for extra days once they’ve used all their personal or sick time. Pet Groomer Marketing Email campaigns can be extremely useful during the holiday season. You can notify your client list of promotions, discounts or new services. With the right software, you can create professional looking emails that are customized to different types of customers and can help generate new leads that fuel business after the holiday season is over. Integrated Credit Card Processing You need to make sure your payment processing doesn’t slow you down this holiday season. Rather than juggling two systems (your business software and your payment processing system), the right business software can integrate the two for a speedy checkout experience. That way, you can track your clients and their purchases... --- ### 2018 Marketing Campaigns Review & Plan for 2019 > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2018-12-17 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/marketing-campaigns-review/ - Categories: Blogs In order to strategize your 2019 marketing campaigns we first must take a look at how 2018’s marketing performed. It’s easy to get caught up in the frey of managing staff scheduling, product inventories, bills, and push out a marketing campaign as you come up for air; all while having a life. Having creative ideas for content to win new customers is a never ending process. But how often are we cranking out our creative content on social media and then moving onto the next? It’s time to start tracking the effectiveness of your social media campaigns as 2019 is all about quality content. In order to strategize your 2019 marketing campaigns we first must take a look at how 2018’s marketing performed. Here are some tips on performing a 2018 marketing post-campaign analysis. As good practice, keep records of your digital footprint. Do a monthly crawl of your social channels and record your followers/likes. By keeping up with these stats you will be able to check how your campaigns affect your social channels Record engagement, see how many re-shares and comments a campaign has on your social channels. Check your open rates associated with email campaigns, cross reference your bookings and sales during that campaign period. Themes – Review your campaigns strategy and objectives Were your efforts centered around brand awareness, targeting existing customers, targeting new customers or selling a new offering? Organize your campaigns by themes: were your efforts centered around: 1. Brand awareness 2. Targeting new customers 3. Customer retention 4. Selling a new offering Review your web traffic, your digital footprint should reflect your business in its entirety. Any efforts you place into campaigns will likely be reflected in your web traffic Total Traffic – macro goals of getting eyes on your website is a good measure of effective campaigns Traffic by channel Location of customers – look into where visits to your site derive, you may be surprised! In 2019 make retaining your existing customers a priority as it is 5x cheaper to hold on to your existing clients than to find new ones. See below our step by step video on how to set up marketing campaigns in Daysmart Pet and make your marketing strategy even more automated! Read More 2018 Grooming Review Articles: Identifying and Boosting the Performance of your Staff and Retail Sales Benefits of Integrated Credit Card Processing in 2019 --- ### Set Your Grooming Shop up for Success > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2018-12-05 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/grooming-success-2019/ - Categories: Blogs Some of your best friends in life go by the names of Rufus, and Max and Bella. What can you say? You’re an animal lover. It’s no wonder that you own an animal grooming shop. Research shows that the United States pet grooming business has increased by nearly 7% during the last five years, reaching revenue totaling $8 billion in 2018. So, now is a great time to be in business. The question is, do your groomers have what it takes to keep you in business? Here’s a rundown on 11 animal grooming tips for 2019 that’ll set your groomers up for success. Let’s get started! 1. Have the Proper Animal Grooming Supplies on Hand Here’s a rundown on some grooming supplies that your groomers should have access to: Clippers Safety scissors used to trim hair Toothbrush plus animal toothpaste Hair dryer Shower spray attachment Shampoo designed for specific animals/ pet species Detangler/conditioner Nail file and trimmers Brush Metal comb Ear cleaner Cotton balls It may also behoove your groomers to use ophthalmic ointment in the animal’s eyes to shield them from debris and shampoo. Styptic powder can also come in handy if they accidentally cut a dog’s nail way too short, for example. 2. Use the Proper Grooming Approach Your groomers should begin grooming by touching the animal’s various body parts in a gentle manner. Pets become familiar with positive associations through praise and repetition. So, it’s critical that your groomers are kind yet firm in their intentions. The whole point is to help the animal to enjoy the grooming experience. 3. Master Combing and Brushing Combing and brushing should feel good to your animal client. After all, it distributes the skin’s natural oils, and it also removes tangles and dead hair. If an animal’s coat is particularly thick, your groomers should comb all of the way to the animal’s skin. Of course, being patient and gentle is paramount. If your groomers aren’t careful and apply too much pressure, they can cause brush burn, a form of skin irritation. Also, pulling tangles too hard will cause the animal discomfort. In this situation, a detangler may need to be applied to dry hair so as to loosen stubborn knots. 4. Use the Correct Brushes Various brushes can be used for a variety of animal coats. For instance, you can use a pin brush or curved slicker brush for a long, straight coat. Meanwhile, a regular slicker brush is ideal for hair that is medium length and for a coat whose undercoat is dense. A rake can be especially handy for brushing an undercoat in an animal’s shedding season. You can also use a rubbery curry or grooming mitt for brushing a short, smooth coat. Once you’re finished brushing, an all-purpose comb can come in handy for working those small knots that your brush might have missed. 5. Handle Nails with Care When grooming an animal’s nails, your groomers should pick up the first foot and search for the... --- ### Looking for a Pet Bathtub? Here Are the 10 Best Products On The Market > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2018-10-09 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/pet-bathtub/ - Categories: Blogs If the only time you’re in need of a place to wash your pet is when he rolls in mud in the backyard, you’ll probably be able to get away with washing him up in your own bathtub, or hosing him down on the back porch–but the fact is, as a groomer (or a pet owner with mess-prone animals! ), a standard bathtub or utility sink may not cut it. Luckily, for those of us who spend a little more of our time washing pets, there’s a whole host of specially-designed pet-washing tubs for your choosing. Say goodbye to slipping around on your knees and spending hours mopping up the bathroom floor; check out the 10 best pet bathtub products on the market! 1. Home Pet Spa Wash Enclosure Here it is: the Home Spa Pet Wash Enclosure! One of the market’s most-luxury pet bathtub models, this pet bathtub is sure to transform your pet-washing game entirely. The Home Spa Pet Wash Enclosure has a partial covering that serves to keep pets fully in the tub throughout the wash; no more wrestling with those big, wet pups! The tub comes complete with strategically-placed jets and an attached shower wand–everything you need to keep those pets happy and smiling! 2. Mustee 28CF Utilitub Combo This tub is a bit more traditional, but every bit as effective as the Home Pet Spa. The Mustee 28CF Utilitub Combo bath is plenty big and durable enough to accommodate any size pet (okay, well, “any size” under 300 pounds! ) with ease! This pet bathtub comes complete with 4 steel legs, which make it extremely durable, and a pull-out spout that can stretch up to 24 inches, which makes it super effective for washing! 3. Lilys Pet Collapsible Tub A less-substantial and expensive option, Lilys Pet Collapsible Tub is ideal for groomers whose furry friends are on the smaller side. If most of your clients are small dogs or other small animals, this bathtub may be just the option you need. The tub is entirely portable, as its durable fabric and PVC pipes collapse so it can be transported in a more compact bundle by its vinyl handles. This tub is cheap, antibacterial, and long-lasting! 4. Master Equipment Everyday Pro One of the most groomer-friendly pet bathtub options, the Master Equipment Everyday Pro is like that second set of hands you always wish you had! This model boasts a stainless steel stand, shampoo rack, multiple faucet hookup options, and four different leash hooks. It’s also big enough to accommodate most any size pet, so you’ll always have the convenience of this Master Equipment tub on your side. 5. Booster Elevated For the fun and convenience-loving groomer, the Booster Elevated tub may be the perfect fit. It’s designed to be equal-parts functional and user-friendly. The Booster Elevated bathtub comes in 4 colors, each of which is equipped with a one-size-fits-all entryway and nonslip rubber flooring. And get this–while your client shakes dry, just snap... --- ### Reasons Why Cost of Dog Grooming is Greater Than Your Own Haircut > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2018-10-01 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/cost-of-dog-grooming-3/ - Categories: Blogs The Cost Of Dog Grooming Let’s face it – bringing your favorite furry friend in for a haircut may not be something you like to do, especially when they finally realize the ride they got to take was to the groomer. And, then, there is the cost of dog grooming – why does it cost so much? In fact, there are quite a few reasons for this. Let’s take a look. #9: You don’t wait eight weeks without washing or brushing your hair. Just imagine that for a moment. If you are the type of person who can’t stand going a day without a shower, imagine what you may feel like after eight weeks. Even all of the licking they do doesn’t get the deep down clean of a true bath. #8: Your hairdresser doesn’t give you a sanitary trim. Yes, down there. There is no reason why your hairdresser is taking a sharp object near your private areas. And, that’s a good thing, but it also means they are really doing the work for your pet. Not only does every dog fear trims in this area, no pet groomer wants to slip here. #7: Your hairdresser doesn’t remove the boogies from your eyes. Have you ever tried to wipe your dog’s eye? That black, gooey substance that comes off is nothing but downright gross. This could be one of the reasons you are paying a bit more for your dog’s haircut. #6: Your haircut doesn’t include a manicure and pedicure. But, your pet’s does. Your dog and cats hair is likely to look fantastic, but they also will have their nails done, too. And, that in itself is no easy task. #5: The likelihood of you pooping on the hairdresser is pretty slim. Is your pet one of the many that walk into a groomer’s shop, gets anxious suddenly, and immediately has to go to the bathroom? Yes, the groomer has to clean up after that. #4: Your hairdresser doesn’t wash and clean your rear end. Remember, there can be eight weeks in between appointments here (and sometimes those at-home baths don’t do a great job in this area). However, your pet’s rear will be clean just as he or she needs. #3: Your hairdresser doesn’t clean your ears. On a dog, the ears are one of the most sensitive locations. And, when it comes down to it, they need extra care to prevent water from getting into them. Your pet’s groomer knows how to properly clean them, too, giving them that too-cute look. #2: You sit still for your hairdresser. At least, that’s the hope. Even if you move around a bit, it is not likely you are going to scratch your ear randomly or start barking when someone walks in the door. #1: You don’t bite or scratch your hairdresser. And, one of the most important reasons why the cost of dog grooming is a bit more is simply this – you don’t bite. But,... --- ### 7 Pet Business Ideas for the Animal-Obsessed > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2018-09-10 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/animal-groomer/ - Categories: Blogs Are you pet-obsessed? Do you dream of working with piles of puppies or cuddling with cats? Would you love to become an animal groomer, dog walker or pet photographer? We have good news: the pet business is booming. In 2017 US pet owner spent $69. 51 billion on their pets. In 2018 that number is expected to rise to $72. 13 billion. If you love pets and want a piece of that pie, check out these pet business ideas. Who knows? Maybe you can turn your passion for pets into your new job as an animal groomer or pet photographer. Start Walking If you love the outdoors or just want some extra exercise, dog walking might be one of the perfect pet business ideas for you. Plenty of people with pooches work long hours, but still want their pet to get the daily exercise it needs. That’s where you come in. If you live in a smaller town, you can freelance with fliers or advertise in the local paper to get the word out. If you live in a large city, link up with an online listing service and update your LinkedIn profile to find new customers. Stock up on bags and look into adjustable collars and leashes that can fit multiple sizes of dogs. Turn out Treats Search out your inner gourmand and start a pet treat company. Gourmet pet treats are all the rage. You can peddle your wares to local boutiques and vet offices, but don’t stop there. Nowadays, gourmet treats for pets are popping up all over: at coffee shops and even local human bakeries. This is a great business venture because it’s very low risk. Initial start-up costs are low. You’ll only need to buy ingredients, baking molds, and packaging materials. Once you’re certified and have a little bit of experience under your belt, you can budget more towards advertising and expanding. Animal Groomer Becoming a certified animal groomer takes time and dedication, but it’s so worth it. If the idea of beautifying a bulldog or putting bows on beagles tickles your fancy, then contact a local groomer and ask about an apprenticeship. Look for postings at local pet stores for an assistant groomer. Be aware that being an animal groomer isn’t all glitz and glam. You’ll have to deal with unruly and dirty pets too. New programs can relieve some of the burdens by making appointment scheduling and billing easier. With a bit of experience, you can learn the tricks of the trade and eventually open your own grooming shop. Doggie Day Care Does the idea of a pack of dogs make you smile? Dog sitting is one of those pet business ideas that people love to imagine, but prepare for the reality. Running a doggie day care is no easy task. It takes a lot of energy and attention to detail. You’ll need to feed, walk, water, and play with each and every dog. If you’re watching several, you’ll need to... --- ### National Pet Memorial Day: 9 Unique Ways to Honor a Lost Pet > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2018-09-05 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/honor-lost-pet/ - Categories: Blogs This Sunday, September 9th is National Pet Memorial Day. On this day, pet owners honor their pets, both past and present, and think about and share with others the important role their beloved pets have played in their lives. Have you recently lost your beloved dog? If so, you’re likely going through some stage of the grieving process. Because pets touch our hearts and improve our lives, a lost pet can be just as painful as losing a human companion. What about remembering your pet after death? Just like there are ways to memorialize a person who’s died, the same is true of our pets. In honor of National Pet Memorial day, we’ll give you nine unique ideas for a lost pet memorial. Which one is the perfect way to honor your pet’s precious memory? 1. Decorative Urn If you choose to cremate your lost pet, you may wish to preserve his remains in a decorative urn. Far from a modern idea, the use of memorial urns dates back at least 5,000 years. Storing cremated remains was–and still is–a way to show deep respect for a lost loved one. You could choose a bio-degradable urn that will allow you to spread your pet’s ashes in nature. If you choose to keep the urn in your home, you can choose from decorative urns made from marble, wood, ceramic, or metal. 2. Digital Tribute Social media is useful for more than just keeping in touch with people. It’s also the perfect place to showcase your pet’s memory and celebrate the joy he brought to your life. Start by gathering your favorite photos and videos of your pet. Next, write a meaningful tribute to your lost pet–a poem, a song, or a dedication. Now you’re ready to share your memories with the world. You could post your tribute on your own personal social media channels or blog. You could also create an online memorial using a free service like I Loved My Pet. 3. Plant a Tree Want a reminder of your lost pet that will also give back to the environment? Why not plant a tree in your pet’s honor? If you have space in your yard or garden, consider planting a tree, shrub, or plant in memory of your pet. You might also consider adding a bench with an engraving or a small statue that reminds you of your pet. Was there a park or a natural area where you enjoyed walks with your pet? See if they have any upcoming event where they’ll be planting trees or other activities to beautify the area. 4. Custom Jewelry Want to make sure your pet is always close to your heart? A custom piece of jewelry could be one of the best ways to memorialize a pet. Perhaps it’s a locket with your pet’s photo inside. You could also get a necklace or a ring with your pet’s name engraved on it. Another idea is to start a charm bracelet in... --- ### 8 Professional Dog Grooming Supplies You Need In Your Grooming Salon > Set up your grooming salon for success with these 8 must-have tools for pet grooming! Plus expert tips and advice from DaySmart Pet... - Published: 2018-08-08 - Modified: 2025-02-10 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/dog-grooming-supplies/ - Categories: Blogs - Tags: dog grooming, dog grooming supplies, dog grooming tools, grooming tools, new business, pet care, pet groomer, pet grooming The number of pets present in households has risen dramatically over the last 10 years. Looking at dog ownership alone, over 45% of US households have at least one pet.   If you’re one of the many people who love animals and want to turn your passion into a career, opening a dog grooming business is a great way to get started.   To set yourself up for success, you’ll need the right tools to provide top-quality service for a variety of furry clients. DaySmart Pet has put together a list of must-have dog grooming supplies you’ll want on hand when you open your doors!  1. A Grooming Table A grooming table provides a stable, comfortable surface for dogs during their grooming session. Investing in a quality table can make the difference between a smooth, efficient appointment and a stressful, messy one.   Most grooming tables include attachment points for a dog harness to help keep dogs securely in place. Some models even fold up, making them a great option if you plan to offer mobile grooming services.  2. A Bathing Station The first step in grooming a dog is removing the dirt and debris that has collected on their coat since the last visit. An old-fashioned bath is essential for this, so having a good bathing station is a must!   While some groomers may use a standard sink, we recommend against this, as fur can quickly clog drains and damage your pipes. Instead, invest in a large dog tub with a hose attachment that’s rated for up to 250 pounds. This will make your job easier and keep everything running smoothly!  3. Shampoo and Conditioner Using the right products is essential to returning dogs to their owners looking their best. The better they look (and smell! ), the more likely their owners will book future sessions with you in the future.   When checking off shampoo and conditioner from your grooming supplies list, make sure to include a variety of dog-safe options, such as flea shampoos, de-shedding shampoos, white coat products, and high-quality conditioners.   Tip: Always ask your clients if their dogs have any skin allergies you should be aware of!  4. Ear and Eye Cleaning Kit A dog’s ears and eyes are particularly susceptible to dirt and grime. If not cleaned properly, this residue can lead to infection.   To run a successful dog grooming business, it's important to be equipped to address these needs. Invest in tools or kits specifically designed to make ear and eye cleaning as easy and safe as possible.   You can even consider special eye drops to protect dogs' eyes from shampoo or conditioner runoff.  5. Brushes and Combs Every dog deserves to feel their best, and the right tools can make them look and feel fabulous! From silky smooth to thick and fluffy, different coat types types require different brushes and combs to achieve that perfect look.   Start with a soft brush for thin-haired dogs and... --- ### 7 Top Tips To Keep Your Canine Cool This Summer > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2018-06-20 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/canine-summer/ - Categories: Blogs Keep Your Canine Cool This Summer! It’s ‘officially’ summer on June 21st and with the temperatures rising this can cause a lot of discomfort for all of us, including our canine friends. Don’t get fooled by their running and excitement! Here are 7 top tips on keeping your dog cool and contented this summer season. 1. Thirsty Canine When we go for a walk on a hot day, you can agree with me that most of us will remember to pack bottled water before we even tie our shoes. How many of us remember to carry some for our dogs? Not many, right? Well it is important to carry water for our canine friends as it is to carry ours. On a hot day walk, you dog frequently gets thirsty. Consequently, stumbling across a pothole of stagnant water, serves as a recipe for invitation to take a lick. What we do not know, however, is how long the stagnant water has been laying around. In addition, the longer the water has been on the pothole, the higher chances are that it is infested with microbial organisms that can cause infection upon consumption. We, therefore, should always remember to carry water for our canine friends next time we take them out for a walk. 2. Screen Me Up Sunburn is not just a condition experienced by humans. The intense sun rays also penetrate on the surface of the skin of our pets, and can cause sun burns. Consequently, it is advisable to apply some sunscreen on the surface of your canine to prevent them from experiencing effects of sunburn. If you’re having trouble finding a canine-specific sunscreen, look for one that’s safe for human babies or sensitive skin. 3. I’m Coming With You! Do not leave you dog in the car on a hot day please. When packed under the sun, temperatures inside your car increase drastically. Should it happen that you have left your dog inside the car, the escalating temperature takes a toll on them, and they begin to develop signs and symptoms attributed to heat stroke. In case one is not around to remedy the condition, this high temperature is serious and could lead to death of your canine friend. 4. Exercise Time As much as we would like to keep our dogs in shape, it is important to limit the amount of exercise we expose them to, especially during hot seasons. Exercises have a tendency to increase our body temperature, a situation which is worsen by high environmental temperature conditions. If not checked, the rapid increase in temperature can endanger dogs. 5. Shade For me To prevent your dog from being exposed to high environmental temperature conditions, it is important to constantly be on the lookout as to whether your dog is under shade or not. In addition, ensure you always have your dog walking in the shade whenever you are walking on the streets. 6. Yum, Frozen Treats Chilled treats such as ice provide... --- ### World Environment Day: Simple Ways To Make Your Grooming Salon More Green > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2018-05-31 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/green-groomers/ - Categories: Blogs World Environment Day is the perfect time to remind ourselves that “green” is everyone’s responsibility. Rising environmental challenges remind us that it’s important that we play a leadership role in preserving our planet. Interestingly, when a grooming business goes green, they do more than improve the environment. They tend to improve their bottom line too. At the same time, environmentally-friendly pet groomers can make for healthier and more productive employees. There are many ways to make going green an asset to your grooming salon. According to a 2013 EPA survey, Americans generated more than 250 million tons of trash, about 87 million tons of which was recycled and composted. Recycling is on the rise in recent decades, and environmental responsibility is fashionable in some quarters. Businesses like pet groomers play a unique role in advancing this trend. There are millions of organizations across the world involved in the creation and consumption of resources. So businesses play a big part in setting a standard that contributes to a safer, cleaner natural environment. Below are a few steps that, however small, can make your salon a leader in the ongoing efforts to preserve the environment. Go Green, Literally! How do you, and your employees, actually get to the grooming salon every morning? Many prefer the use of personal cars because modern life is defined by rushing around and getting somewhere fast has become the primary goal for some. Even in cities with robust public transportation, some prefer the convenience and speed of personal automobile travel. As a pet grooming owner, you can work against that tendency by encouraging your staff to use public transport options. If public transit is not available, encourage employees to carpool by setting up a matching system or providing attractive incentives. Carpool initiatives are great for the environment and your salon. After all, pooling helps you save on parking expenses and encourages deeper bonds and social connections between employees. Waste Not. Technology plays a major role in many grooming businesses, and can help to make certain grooming processes more environmentally friendly while cutting resource costs. But while digitizing records helps save paper and ink, our computing tools do create a waste of their own, sometimes known as e-waste. As technology rapidly develops, older tools are discarded for new. It is important to responsibly deal with obsolete equipment, as it sometimes contains dangerous components or chemicals. The good news is that many electronic parts are recyclable, but not every groomer takes the time to ensure their e-waste is actually recycled. With millions of tons of e-waste created every year, this is a major opportunity for the grooming community to go green. Find green substitutes Most grooming salons have a fair amount of “single use” materials, from the morning coffee cup, the lunch time plastic fork and knife, even break room napkins... But many of these materials are terrible for the environment, as they cannot be recycled. Being plastic doesn’t mean recyclable. It’s a good idea to replace... --- ### Dog Shedding: The Optimal Brush For Your Breed > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2018-05-25 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/dog-shedding/ - Categories: Blogs With the warmer weather upon us, all dog owners knows what this means- shedding! Unless your lucky enough to own a dog that doesn’t shed you’re more than likely going to need a great brush to get rid of the unwanted hair, before it ends up all over the couch! With so many dog shedding brushes and dog grooming tools available, it’s challenging to try to figure out which one is best for your shedding dog. 34,239. That’s the number of results you got when you do a quickAmazon. com search for dog brushes. That’s a lot of brushes to have to click through before finding the right one for your shedding dog. A dog brush is the most basicgrooming toolfor any groomer to have. But, with so many dog brush options available, it’s challenging to try to figure out which one is best. Read our helpful guide on how to select the right brush. Read our helpful guide on how to select the right brush and make shedding season a breeze. Dog Grooming Tools: Slicker brush Slicker brusheshave rows of thin wire pins close together which help remove loose fur and detangle. It’s typically in a rectangular shape and the wires are angled slightly to not scratch the skin. When using a slicker brush, you need to be careful not to use too much pressure. Because of the wires, it can irritate the dog’s skin. Rake Arake brushis the best brush to use to get into long and heavy coats. (And no, I am not talking about a garden rake. ) Rakes are brushes designed to remove tangles and dead undercoat near the dog’s skin. They are often shaped like a shaving razor and feature one or two rows of tightly-spaced pins. Pin brush A pin brush is a shaped like paddle brush with long, flexible pins. They are often plastic or rubber. This brush is used to get debris and hair out from your dog’s coat. These are usually used on long fur coats. The bristles are farther apart to allow the coat to be brushed easily. Bristle brush Thebristle dog brushis best for short-haired dogs. This brush has soft bristles close together that will bring out the shine in your dog’s coat. Stripping comb A stripping comb has extra fine stainless steel wires that are close together. This comb trims out the undercoat to remove loose fur without pulling. It’s great for wiry coats. Soft Slicker Dog Brush This dog brush has reinforced coated tips to not irritate your dog’s skin. It’s perfect for delicate areas such as underarms or paws. The soft slicker brush is one of the few brushes recommended for curly haired dogs to fluff their fur. Now that we have had a quick rundown on the basic brushes, here are the coat types used for each brush. There are 4 different basic dog coat types. It’s important to know what brush is used for what coat. You wouldn’t want to use... --- ### 5 Trends in the Pet Food Market to Watch in 2018 > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2018-05-16 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/pet-food-market/ - Categories: Blogs The pet food market is rapidly changing and as a pet groomer it’s important to understand the latest trends. Here’s what you need to know to be able to advise your customers on feeding their furry friends. Want to make sure your furry friend stays healthy and happy? If so, pay attention to his diet. Good nutrition is just as important for pets as it is for their human parents. The pet food market is constantly changing. Manufacturers are striving to provide better quality products that support pet health and well-being. Dry food and canned meat are no longer your only options. Pet owners nowadays expect quality above everything else. Some prepare pet food at home to make sure their beloved friends receive adequate nutrition. Others seek out foods with proven health benefits. With the advances in food manufacturing, new trends are coming out every year. 2018 is no exception. We’re going to see an increase in product offerings, such as functional pet food, micro-targeted food, and GMO-free formulas. What Does the Pet Food Market Look Like This Year? In 2017, the global pet food market reached $78. 7 billion. Experts predict that this number will go up over the next few months. More and more people are adopting pets, helping to boost the industry. This is largely due to the increase in the number of one-person households and seniors living alone. The increasing number of online pet stores is a driving force for industry growth. Today, anyone can order dog and cat supplies with the click of a button. Plus, new brands and products are being launched every year. Pet owners can choose from hundreds of goodies, from treats and snacks to organic food. Manufacturers are now required to have their products tested by third-parties, which helps increase transparency. The FDA assesses any claims they made, such as hairball control, GMO-free, and high-calcium. These initiatives help propel the pet market and ensure it meets customers’ needs. These new regulations make this the best time to tweak your pet’s diet. Simple changes, such as switching to grain-free food and going organic, can boost their health and well-being. This leads to a longer, happier life, fewer medical visits, and balanced nutrition. Ready to give it a try? Let’s take a look at the pet food industry trends that will dominate 2018: Raw Pet Food Increases in Popularity This year, we’re going to see an increase in the popularity of raw dog food. Until recently, controversy surrounded raw goodies. However, it’s one thing to feed your pet with raw meat or eggs, and another to use store-bought raw treats. Raw food works in balance with your pet’s body and immune system. Over time, it can lead to a healthier skin, shinier coat, and greater energy. Commercial raw pet food is usually made with organ meat, which has a large amount of protein and minerals. Liver, kidneys, brain, and other organs contain vitamin A, vitamin D, and B-complex vitamins. These nutrients... --- ### Daysmart Pet Software: Top Sponsor of Atlanta Pet Fair & Conference 2018 > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2018-02-27 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/123pet-software-top-sponsor-atlanta-pet-fair-conference-2018/ - Categories: Blogs The southeast’s largest trade show, educational conference, and competition for professional pet stylists and service professionals is back again! March 8-11, 2018 marks the return ofAtlanta Pet Fair & Conferenceto the Georgia International Convention Center along with more than 100 exhibitors. Produced byWorld Pet Association(WPA) and sponsored in part by Daysmart Pet Software, Atlanta Pet Fair & Conference is your one-stop-shop for everything you need to improve your grooming or pet service. From expert-led sessions and demonstrations to the latest tools and products at reduced prices, you’re sure to find countless new ideas, tips, tricks, and techniques to improve your business and customer experience while inspiring your creativity and passion. Not to mentionthe most exciting array of grooming competitions in North America over the span of four days. Groomers and pet stylists alike will receive competitor gift bags sponsored byDaysmart Pet Softwareand the chance towalk away with bragging rights (and more than $20,000 in cash and prizes! ! ) Keeping you up-to-date and in the know, the conference will also provide a complete lineup of expert-led education. From thought-leading and in-depth seminars to hands-on workshops and live demonstrations, you’ll experience four days of top-quality learning opportunities, helping you to improve your techniques, gain insight on new industry best practices, and boost your overall business knowledge. These expert-led sessions include industry-leader and Daysmart Pet Software user,Brett Wilson’s “Mobile Grooming: The Good, Bad, & Ugly,” “Employees: Engaged vs Motivated,”andLynn Switanowski’s “Create Posts that SELL in Less than 140 Characters. ” Missed Brett Wilson’s sessions? No problem! Brett will be there to share his experiences, knowledge, and tips and tricks, as well as best practices and experiences in usinggrooming softwareto run and market your business at the Daysmart Pet Software exhibit (booth 451). Daysmart Pet Software will be among the show’s top sponsors and exhibiting from Friday through Sunday, demoing and featuring the latest additions to our award-winning grooming software, including “Pet Ready for Pickup” text alerts, mapping enhancements with integrated directions to your next mobile grooming appointment, andCardConnectcredit card processing integration, among others. Daysmart Pet will be featuring a show-exclusive special, offering attendees 50% off their first 3 months when they sign-up for the show special in the booth, complete with guided installation and beginner training session, unlimited support and training, and unlimited updates and software enhancements. Attendees who sign-up for the show special will also be automatically entered to win one Samsung Galaxy tablet per day through Sunday, pre-installed with the Daysmart Pet Software application! Brand-new for 2018, Atlanta Pet Fair & Conference will now feature new onsite training for groomers, providing additional value to attendees, say WPA officials. Among these: a demo on the new Löwchen trim technique presented by industry expert, Shannon Moore; a LolliPups demonstration by Dawn Omboy; and a session unique to the industry focusing solely on ways groomers can help manage the problem of fleas and ticks by Dale Sanson. Where new knowledge means power and new products mean profitability, Atlanta Pet Fair &... --- ### How Investing in a Grooming App Can Help Your Business > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2018-02-16 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/grooming-app/ - Categories: Blogs How Investing in a Grooming App Can Help Your Business Tons of businesses are investing in mobile apps to better reach their clientele. Are you considering investing in a mobile app for your grooming business, but thinking that it might not pay off? Well, think again. These days, mobile apps are almost expected of businesses, even small ones. And not having one can hurt you more than you may think. Want to know more? Read on to find out about the many ways that investing in a grooming app can help your business. A Grooming App Will Increase Your Visibility The average American spends 162 minutes on their mobile device per day, and 86% percent of that time is spent on, you guessed it, apps. And if you’re not making your business available to this crowd of cell-toting, app-viewing consumers, then you’re essentially invisible to them. Investing in an app (even a super-simple one) will ensure that you are visible to each consumer base that could possibly be interested in your services. It Will Help You To Be More Accessible Have you ever tried to access a business’ website from a mobile browser? In the best case scenario, the tiny type is difficult to read. In the worst case scenario, the formatting is completely wonky, giving a very unprofessional appearance. In this day and age, constant accessibility is a must for businesses. If people find your information difficult to read, they’ll likely move onto the next shop without a thought. Additionally, a grooming app will also allow customers to access your physical business with ease. By having your phone number and address in plain view on your app, prospective customers won’t have to do any digging to find out where you are. Take things a step further by providing a map or link to navigational help to find your shop. With a grooming app, you can make your business accessible to consumers in every way possible. Ensure Loyalty A mobile app is an easy way to launch a fun loyalty program, or even digitize a preexisting one. All it needs is a dash of on-brand design and a sprinkle of tempting rewards. Loyalty and rewards programs are low-pressure ways to say thank you to return customers and to get brand new customers back in your door. This type of program is especially successful for grooming businesses, as it is a service that people need for their pets again and again. Talk To Your Customers In Real Time Using a grooming app, you’ll have the ability to not only engage with your customers but to do so in real time. From customer satisfaction surveys to promotional offers, contacting consumers before and after they make a purchase or book an appointment will lead to a better interaction and more memorable experience. It Will Increase Sales And Bookings When it comes to the success of a grooming app, convenience is the real name of the game. If a customer can book... --- ### Grooming Salon Management Overview > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2018-02-10 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/grooming-salon-management-overview/ - Categories: Blogs Being an owner or manager of any business is not easy. It requires a lot of patience and multitasking to accomplish everything needing done in a days time. Over the next few months we’re going to take you through some of the basics and dive a little deeper into salon management. This is critical to operating your business and becoming successful. Did you know, more than 70% of salons close after 5 years? Poor management, or lack of, is a key contributor to this. Let’s take a brief look at some keys areas you should be focusing on. Employees The backbone of every industry, even more so in our service businesses. They can be both a blessing and a curse, and managing them can be a challenge. Personality traits create conflict and pettiness tends to set in. Scheduling Appointment scheduling is a hot topic. How to schedule dogs? Should we bring them all in in the morning (block scheduling), or schedule actual appointments? Scheduling has never been easier with the help of Daysmart Pet. You can fully customize your schedule to fit your preferences and satisfy your customers. Within Daysmart Pet, you can even schedule your staff complete with break times, vacation, and holidays. Bookkeeping An hour or 2 a day worth of bookkeeping and you can manage your own finances easily. Utilizing integrated tools such as Quickbooks, makes this even easier. Marketing Every day there are articles written about the best way to advertise your business. How to get new customers is an ongoing conversation at many trade shows. Facebook, your website, and the most lucrative word of mouth, are our favorites. We will visit marketing more soon! Customer Conflicts An unhappy customer often turns into more than just one customer. It can oftentimes turn into many. How to properly de-escalate the situation and retain the customer can be critical to keeping your client base happy. We are not saying there aren’t bad customers, but keeping them from spreading the wrong things about your business is critical! Cost Analysis – Making Money Finally, are you actually making a profit? Up until now, you have devoted a lot of time and resources to managing your business and dealing with the daily operations, but are you making money in the process? Are you profitable? We are, after all, in business as an owner to make money, not just have our pet stylists collect a paycheck while we wonder where it went. A cost analysis will help you break down your expenses and see how much you are actually spending and where to then get a better handle on your finances and turn those costs into potential revenue! As a manager/owner, we devote countless hours to our business often working well over 8 hours a day and even 6-7 days a week. We cannot sit by idly and think our business will run itself. There is a ton of responsibilities and juggling them all can take its toll. Stay with... --- ### Business Basics 1 – Planning Your Opening > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2018-01-29 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/business-basics-planning-your-opening/ - Categories: Blogs So, you’ve decided it’s a great idea to become an owner. You’re tired of working for someone else and see greener pastures on the other side. Now what? Going into business for yourself is not a simple matter. There are many factors to take into consideration before signing a lease for a space or purchasing an existing business. Let me guide you through just a few things to take into consideration. Step 1: Have a Support System Before committing your life to your business you must make sure your family is on board. Owning/operating any business takes a far more significant time commitment than that of being an employee. You can no longer simply clock in and out and go home. The forty-hour work week is now gone. Plan to work upwards of sixty. That being said, this means time away from spouses, children, even your own pets (taking them to work helps). So first, and foremost make sure you have the discussion with your spouse or significant other to make sure they are committed just as much as you. Step 2: Formulate a Business Plan A Business Plan is just that, a plan! I have never witnessed a successful business opening without having a plan. Do your research. How much space do you need? How many employees? What are your demographics? These are just a few of the questions you need to answer. A great reference to turn to is Grooming Business in a Box. Step 3: CASH! ! ! Now that you have formulated your business plan, you now know what your operating expenses will be for the first 6-12 months. Time to stock pile some savings to help you breathe a bit easier come opening day. During this time, you also will have build-out and equipment expenses and should now be obtaining capitol to fund these purchases. If at all possible, do not take out loans. Be patient and save. You will have less of a burden upon opening and will be able to operate without worry. Step 4: Sign the Lease Get the lease signed, buildout your salon, and open for business! ! The grooming industry is ever changing with techniques, however, the “business” side never changes. You can grow and learn, but the core principles remain the same. We want to see success in everyone’s salons, and by simply doing the research ahead of time you are more likely to succeed. Did you know, most salons close after just 3 years due to lack of capital (money)? Stay tuned for more in-depth discussions on these topics, and even salon layout! How We Can Help We offer a top-of-the-line pet grooming software that would make a perfect addition to your arsenal of grooming tools in the new year. The software allows you to conveniently schedule your services, track transactions and communicate with clients automatically. Contact us to find out more about the right grooming products to help you to take your pet salon to... --- ### Pet Grooming Tips: How To Have Success in 2018 > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2018-01-10 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/pet-grooming-tips-18/ - Categories: Blogs Every single dog your salon grooms may have multiple issues that need to be taken care of. Were it your dog, you would likely address things like ear infections or ear mites. Considering that owning a dog helps you live longer, you should always do your best to help your pet live longer, too. When it comes to the ultimate success of a grooming salon, there are many opportunities to up-sell and add-on services. Consider gift cards, a great POS system, and pet/client management software for your site. You’ll need to keep in touch with your clients in an easy way to remind them that their pet needs an annual check-up or grooming services. We’ve done the research and have compiled a list of a few essential pet grooming tips for the success of your salon and unleashing the maximum potential for your pet grooming business in 2018. Software Reminders Your clients need reminders of when their pets need vaccinations. It is time to have the software installed on your online business site that includes a customizable vaccination system. This will send out automatic alerts at the scheduled time. That way, clients can receive the e-mail, simply click the button embedded and schedule the appointment for a check-up or vaccinations. This is an automatic tracking system that will make a huge difference in your business. While pets are family members and very important to people, their regular shots or health check-ups often go overlooked. This system will make it easy for you to remind your clients that your pet is due for a trip to the grooming station or the vet. Loyalty Programs One of the best business pet grooming tips is how to keep your clients coming back. You can show your clients how much care by having a loyalty program incorporated into your business. You can install a system that tracks the activity of your client. With each visit and transaction, you can define the points and awards they receive. The system will also let a client know when they are eligible for a discount, award, or free pet grooming tips and services. Your clients will be more inclined to drop in and make sure their points and visits are documented. Everyone likes a free service, award, or discount once in a while. This will make your clients (and their pets) feel like you value them. Gift Cards or Certificates Gift cards and certificates will not only boost revenue through additional sales, it will also bring in new clients. Usually, a person buys a gift card or certificate for a friend. Having gift cards available for purchase is one of the most effective tips to boost your business. As people utilize their gift cards, you will make new relationships and bring in new clientele. You can either print out certificates through cool templates or use a certificate that is customized for you with software tools. Consider using promotional materials around your salon or clinic that will... --- ### 10 Great Benefits of Enrolling in Dog Grooming Classes > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2017-11-22 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/dog-grooming-courses/ - Categories: Blogs Do you have little to no experience in dog grooming and want to start a career in the field? Here are 10 great benefits of enrolling in dog grooming classes. Taking care of a dog’s coat plays a vital role in their health. That’s why inexperienced people should consider enrolling in dog grooming classes. Grooming involves full body washes, coat drying, pest control baths and dematting. There is also eye and ear cleaning, nail trimming, de-skunking, teeth brushing, and coat styling. Doing these things keeps diseases and infections away from your dog. Problems caused by a lack of grooming include: skin irritations from fleas and ticks dandruff and dry skin patches eye and ear infection dull fur coat from the insufficient flow of natural skin oils hidden abnormalities and untreated wounds stress on ankle joints due to long nails Dog grooming classes give you the tools to deal with these and other problems. Read on to learn more. Benefits Of Dog Grooming Classes Though dog grooming classes are voluntary, they give students important information. One institution offering certification is the National Dog Grooming Association of America (NDGAA). Taking such courses provides the following benefits: 1. Teaches You The Proper Grooming Techniques Grooming dogs well requires having the right tools, products, and proper technique. You’ll learn how to handle, restrain, and care for them. You’ll know how to brush teeth, clip nails, and use scissors or clippers. Many dogs don’t like being groomed and may cause trouble when the process begins. Chasing a loose dog within your premises could be dangerous. It increases the risk of injury or damage to property. 2. Show You How To Deal With Dog Stress Visits to grooming salons can be stressful for a dog. Signs of stress show up when they get their or when they get home. Notable signs of dog stress include digestive problems, diarrhea, isolation, lethargy, and aggression. Dog grooming classes show you how to create a less stressful environment for the dog. You’ll learn how to deal with a stressed animal. You’ll also know what to tell the dog owner. Having the right skill helps in planning and preparing the grooming process. It ensures the visit ends in a positive way for both the dog and its owner. As you know, a stressed dog owner may agitate the dog further. 3. Learn Safety And Health Lessons Grooming the dogs involves delicate procedures. These must uphold safety and health standards. You’ll learn how to handle the animals safely. You’ll learn to use the right equipment to prevent the spread of disease. You’ll learn to use shampoos and flea killing products that don’t harm the animal. You’ll take care when brushing the animal to avoid hurting them when pulling tangled hair. Lastly, you’ll know how to fumigate your shop after cleaning an infested dog. This keeps the area flea and tick free. 4. Get De-Skunking Training No matter how much you train a dog, they still approach any foreign animal in... --- ### New Mobile App Features: Flexibility on the Go! > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2017-10-23 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/new-mobile-app-features/ - Categories: Blogs One of the greatest things about Daysmart Pet Software, beyond its flexibility, is how fast we can release new features and functionality. We are constantly enhancing our software to make it as efficient and user-friendly as possible for our clients and have recently made some great updates and added new features to our mobile app. We understand how important it is to always have your business software available. With our latest mobile updates, being away from your shop doesn’t mean out of the loop. Enhancements to our mobile app include: • Improved Mobile Performance • Context Sensitive Appointment Cards • Embedded Maps for Driving Directions • Vaccination Campaigns and Notifications • Pet Ready for Pickup? Send a Text to the Owner! Context Sensitive Appointment Cards It’s all about context, isn’t it? With our new appointment cards, the functions available to you and your staff all depend upon whether that appointment is in the past, present or future. Now, when editing an appointment, you are presented with an “appointment card”, which loads faster, and shows an appointment summary with several commonly used functions for that appointment, given its context. Future appointments can be rescheduled, current appointments could be marked as a ‘no show’, and past appointments can be voided. By presenting only the relevant functions, outstanding tasks can be easily accomplished from the appointment book. Get Driving Directions with New Embedded Maps Mobile groomers can now find their next appointment with our new embedded map feature. Right from the appointment book, you can access directions to your next appointment. Simply maintain your client addresses and Daysmart Pet will now guide you with turn by turn directions to your next groom, along with an estimated length of journey and expected arrival time. Just another step toward keeping you on schedule and keeping your clients satisfied. Vaccination Notifications Keeping track of vaccination status of every pet can be a real hassle. Admitting pets with expired vaccinations can be a real liability. Daysmart Pet now makes it easy to run campaigns that remind owners of upcoming expirations. Pets with expired vaccinations associated with their pet record will now spawn a warning when you try to book an appointment for that pet – keeping you up to date on expiration dates! Text Notification When Pet is Ready for Pickup Making the most of every minute is the secret to getting more done each day. It is our mission at Daysmart Pet to make every task more efficient. When a grooming is complete, you normally go into the appointment and check that groom as complete, so groomers know which dogs are done. Within that same appointment, you can now check a box to send a text message to the client: “Your pet is ready for pickup”. Then it’s on to the next dog! As long as the client has a valid mobile number and you have enabled the messaging service, there are no more finding phone numbers, calling clients and leaving messages. This simple... --- ### 5 Pet-Friendly Instagram Photo Ideas for Groomers > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2017-10-16 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/5-pet-friendly-instagram-photo-ideas/ - Categories: Blogs Instagram is one of the best ways pet groomers can market their business. To rock your pet marketing, here are 5 pet-friendly Instagram photo ideas! Though the internet is home to millions of different websites, we all know what people really use the internet for: looking at pictures of pets. It’s no secret that the “pet picture” market is booming — there are even pet Instagram accounts that make pretty big money doing it. Pet marketing has gotten so big that there are now numerous how-to guides on catapulting your pet to Instagram and Facebook stardom. Naturally, pet-focused businesses like groomers, walking services, and pet stores want to get involved, but it can be tough to figure out just what kinds of Instagram photo ideas will be successful. That’s why we’re here! We want to provide you with some great ideas for crafting fun photos with pets in your grooming business. After all, this is kind of a science at this point. Ready? Let’s get our paws dirty and dig into our 5 pet-friendly Instagram photo ideas for groomers. But First, Some General Instagram Photo Ideas You thought it was as simple as just uploading pictures of cute animals? Not quite. At one time on the internet, it was as easy as just uploading a picture of a cat or a dog. Now, it’s a bit more complicated. Pet celebrities have figured out the best ways to garner an audience with their photos. With that said, here are some great tips for creating really great pet Instagram photos. First, make sure your captions are great. While breathtaking photography is a useful aspect of Instagram photos, it’s also important to connect to your audience with the caption. They can be funny, thought-provoking, or just plain silly. It all depends on the photo! Second, creating regular and consistent content will help your pets a lot. This means that you shouldn’t post 20 photos one day and then go silent for a month. Post regularly, don’t post too much, and keep a consistent spacing between your posts. Lastly, one aspect of pet Instagrams that really connects viewers is creating a pet persona. This means that you acknowledge each pet’s unique features and personality. This can extend into the caption and the photo itself. Humans love stories — it’s a proven fact — so creating that background story makes people identify with the pet! Now let’s get into the Instagram photo ideas! 1. Take us behind-the-scenes Who doesn’t love a good behind-the-scenes look? In terms of Instagram photo ideas, there’s tons of golden content waiting behind the scenes. Maybe you’ve got a dog who always makes a big mess during bath time but does it in a goofy way. Or maybe you have a pet who will obediently sit there and let you make a unicorn horn out of their hair. Is there a pet who just loves to get dried off and sits there with blissfully closed eyes? Whatever it is,... --- ### 3 Pet Product Marketing Tips for Dog Grooming Products > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2017-09-18 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/pet-product-marketing-tips-for-grooming/ - Categories: Blogs You’ve officially launched your successful pet grooming business. You’ve got a good client base built up, and what’s more, you’ve created a few homemade dog grooming products your clients just love. So what’s the next step for your well-received supplies? Great dog grooming products deserve to be seen, known, and purchased. Our clients love their pets, and they love the product you’re using on their pets- so whatever you’d created must be great! How about selling it? Any doubts you might have been understandable. After all, the world of pet product marketing (like most types of marketing) can be very competitive but doubt your product not! You can, and you will conquer the game of pet product marketing. Below, we’ve listed and explained three essential steps you need to take to sell your product. Dog Grooming Products Marketing Tip #1: Patenting and Distributing The Local Level First, make a list of all aspects of your product. Include things such as size, shape, color, and dimension. Attach a list of instructions for the product. If possible, take pictures of any prototype or demo you’ve developed. Next, check into any industry regulations your product will need to meet. (For example, pet food will need to meet certain ingredient and labeling standards. ) After this comes the scary part: you need to get a lawyer. A lawyer who specializes in patenting products, to be exact. Be sure to ask about any documents you will need to sign or fees you need to pay to get your product on the market. Additionally, you should get a CPA who can help you project costs for creating and patenting your product. Here’s where things start to get exciting: Your next step will be designing your product’s packaging and look. If you have an eye (and the software) for design, you can do this yourself. However, it’s advisable for you to work with a design firm to hammer down your product’s visual brand. After this, you’re ready for production! To produce a small line of your product and distribute them to a small pool of people–friends, family, and the like. Listen to their feedback. Consider adjusting the product based on that feedback. When your product passes small production, make a larger production that includes samples. Give these samples to local pet stores, pet magazine editors, veterinarians, and others who can help bolster your product. From them, gather feedback and testimonials. These are key to selling nowadays. The Regional Level Move from the local level to the regional level. Distribute your product at big shows and events hosted by the likes of the RSPCA or the Humane Society. While at these shows and events, take the time to network with other booth runners so they’re aware of and can distribute your product. The National Level Now it’s time to move from the regional level to the national level. Connect with nationally known distributors and shopping networks who can easily push your product. Dog Grooming Products Marketing... --- ### How to Set up a Marketing Campaign with Yelp > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2017-08-28 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/yelp-marketing/ - Categories: Blogs Help With Yelp As a business owner, there is an ever-increasing number of social media channels that you need to monitor and manage. While there are others, with more than 125 million reviews posted since it’s 2004 inception, Yelp is just too big to ignore. While advertising on Yelp may be beyond the means of many small businesses, there are some simple ways you can encourage your current customers to post a review and thereby raise your social media profile and bolster your business reputation online. Think Links With the flexible email marketing tools within Daysmart Pet it is easy to include a link to your Yelp listing, just edit one of the email templates within the Messaging and Marketing module. Once inside the template, it is easy to add a hyperlink and edit the display label and the ‘mouse over text’ to really get your point across. Encouraging clients with an embedded link is a great way to grow your reputation. If you’re confident about your quality you might consider including a Yelp button on your emailed receipts. Adding similar links to your email signature, marketing communications, and appointment reminders lets your customers know you want their help getting the word out. You might also mention Yelp on any appointment reminder cards you hand out during re-booking, on your business voice mail system, or you could include a prominent QR code which links to your Yelp listing within your waiting or checkout areas, so that customers can use their phones to get started on your next review while they are still on site! Cuts Both Ways One word of caution: if a customer is unhappy, providing links to Yelp can prompt someone who is angry to make their displeasure public. It’s obviously best to try to resolve any customer satisfaction issues before they reach a boiling point (and before they reach for their phone). If you do receive a “less than glowing” review, it’s best to do a few things: Cool Off – if you’re upset, don’t fight fire with fire (the pros use water! ) Be Responsive – you should post a professional, polite and specific response Look down the road – assume this review and your response will live forever; you’re not just writing to the person who posted it, but to the hundreds (thousands? ) of others who will read this in the future. You want it to be reflective of your business and indicative of your approach to customers. That said, not all customers are always right, some are just plain wrong (you may be thinking of one right now). Some restaurant chefs have become “internet famous” with their pithy retorts to outrageous reviews. If it is in keeping with your brand, it is probably in bounds. But beware of trying to be too smart, too funny or too dismissive. Yelp and others are clearly here to stay, it’s a game you need to learn to play. Want to learn more about Daysmart... --- ### Top 7 Advantages of Pet Grooming Software > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2017-07-16 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/top-7-advantages-pet-grooming-software/ - Categories: Blogs You work in a great industry where you get to combine your passion for animals with your career. This year, it’s estimated that US pet parents will spend over $7 billion on their pets, about $5 billion of which will be spent on grooming and boarding. The Department of Labor expects the industry to see a very healthy 11% growth through 2023. But for pet grooming companies big and small not having the right systems in place can mean lost opportunities, lost revenues and lost clients. Pet grooming software can help a pet grooming business compete in a highly competitive and increasingly complex industry. As your grooming business expands, so do your management responsibilities. Let’s look at the advantages of incorporating pet grooming software into your business structure. More Time Doing What You Love No one goes into pet grooming thinking: I hope I spend all my time behind a desk doing “paperwork”. You went into pet grooming because you love dogs — and maybe cats too. You enjoy making that connection with our 4-legged friends and seeing the pleased look on pet parent faces when you reveal your work. You love working with the others in the shop to deliver outstanding care. A great pet grooming software is designed specifically for the pet grooming industry. It’s intuitive. It “understands” what you’re trying to manage and what you need to get the most out of your day. With the right software, you can book and cancel multiple appointments at once. Automatically update your website regarding your availability. And have all of the information you need at your fingertips to provide exceptional service. Pet grooming software can cut your time spent managing administrative tasks in half. It’s like having a personal assistant who’s on top of the game and does everything before you even realize that it needs to be done. Fewer Missed Appointments You hate having to have a “missed appointment policy” that costs your clients money. You know that things come up and sometimes people just forget. You want to do what’s right for the client, but missed appointments cost you money. You try to set up a schedule for yourself to call and remind people. But the task can be time-consuming and often it doesn’t work. Fortunately, pet grooming software solves this problem by allowing you to customize and automate appointment reminders. Clients can choose text or email. They can be sent a friendly reminders several days before and the day before. They scheduled that appointment for a reason. They don’t want the trouble of having to reschedule. A software that includes automated appointment reminders is a win-win for you and your clients. Greater Mobility Being stuck behind a desk taking calls and booking appointments is a thing of the past. Pet grooming software offers you the flexibility to book, review and manage your appointments anywhere — on your phone or device. Need to stay on the grooming floor? Have to run out for coffee? No... --- ### Track Performance Statistics to Strengthen Your Business > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2017-04-07 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/track-performance-statistics-strengthen-business/ - Categories: Blogs Many shop owners who excel at creativity are less confident when handling mathematical duties. That can make monitoring key business data contributing to your shop’s progress challenging. Tracking your team’s performance may seem daunting and time-consuming, but examining guest and staffer statistics is vital to setting and reaching achievable goals. Basing your targets on the following growth indicators instead of revenue figures ensures that you’ve structured your operation properly for long-range success. Focus on Key Growth Indicators New customers per month: Assessing referrals by different categories will help you determine which marketing and advertising efforts are the most lucrative. Emails and social media may outshine newspaper and Yellow Page ads, for example. Capitalize on the most effective vehicles strategically to lure and engage prospects. Returning new guests: Although the industry average is 35 percent, aim for a 50-percent or higher retention rate of new clients. When they enter your shop initially, making introductory experiences fabulous and monitoring their satisfaction will increase their recurring possibilities. Offering welcome specials for their next pre-booked appointments will help convert first-time customers into returning guests. Loyal patron retention: The industry median for retaining repeat visitors is roughly 75 percent. Oversee records to discover which staffers are keeping clients, and which are losing clients. Check all employees’ statistics routinely. Investigate any variations within your team. Since the cost of landing a new customer is five times higher than hanging onto a current one, rewarding your regulars is key. Daysmart Pet will streamline your guest loyalty program with prizes like free and discounted services and products. Successful retention efforts will heighten your growth and profit potentials. Visit frequency: This metric represents how often each customer does on-site business in your shop. Track visit frequency by individual departments, since customers might return more often for retail shopping than for grooming services. Prebooking sessions with Daysmart Pet’s online appointment booking simplifies the scheduling process for busy clientele. This easy add-on feature lets patrons book open slots on your website at their convenience, no matter the time of day. Retail merchandise: Examining product purchases goes beyond noting which workers sell the most take-home items to revealing other valuable insights. Do certain bathers or groomers have much higher sales for some merchandise? While profitable, that pattern could mask a problem. Have personnel settled into stale routines of using and recommending the same preparations repeatedly? Will their limited choices suit all clients? Are employees uneasy about using other options? The answers to these questions will help you decide who needs training in which specific areas. Average ticket: To increase the average dollar amount each guest spends per visit, maximize up-selling situations, cross-selling menu items, add-on ticket enhancers, and retail product sales. Productivity: What portion of your business hours is your staff serving customers and contributing to your revenue? How hard is securing open slots for clients? Ideally, your productivity should be 75 to 80 percent to leave room for last-minute appointments. Run Powerful Software Reports Daysmart Pet expedites setting benchmarks... --- ### How to Use Email Marketing to Boost Client Retention & Sales > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2016-08-09 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/email-marketing-boosts-client-retention-sales/ - Categories: Blogs How can you cultivate lasting connections with guests between appointments? Social media may be a go-to pick for speedy communications, but some will miss your efforts. Email newsletters and marketing messages are direct, reliable, and affordable ways to stay in touch. Retaining customers is the fastest revenue-raising strategy. A mere 5% client retention increase can boost profits by up to 75%! Learn to use all the tools available in Daysmart Pet to maximize client retention and growth by optimizing your email marketing efforts. Develop Your Customer Contact List Collect all your clients’ email addresses, but make sure you offer them an opt-in to receive marketing material from you. The first thing to avoid is spamming your clients. Assure customers that you don’t sell their personal details. Balance resistance with monthly or weekly drawings for those signing up for your marketing emails. Reward winners with incentives like free services. Daysmart Pet automatically links client email addresses not only with online booking and reminders but with marketing features as well. Some news may be appropriate for all active clients, but email marketing shines as a retention tool to bring back certain guests. So create targeted lists by selecting customized filter criteria. In just a few clicks, Daysmart Pet will create a campaign that matches exactly the clients you want to reach. Common options include unique subsets like those who haven’t been in recently to remind them that they’re due for cuts, colors, and other routine services. Also, sort by guests who’ve been absent longer than normal intervals. Money-saving promotions will lure infrequent visitors into returning, and another popular approach involves presenting birthday bargains 30 days before (or after) annual celebrations. Choose Templates All email messages need attention-grabbing looks to stand out from inbox clutter. Daysmart Pet supplies more than 50 fully customizable templates to inspire and enhance the artistic appeal of your pet marketing ideas. Pick from seasonal, holiday, birthday, and general designs with vivid, pastel, or black-and-white graphics. Each impressive theme offers additional versatility through multiple layouts. Cover Popular Topics Be a credible resource so customers will wait and read your messages eagerly. Engaging clients beyond your shop extend your valuable services. So have fun exploring subjects that interest you and your guests. Inform while encouraging patrons to return. Your topic scope is as broad as your business. Share the scoop on trends, care, before-and-after makeovers, top stylist tricks, product benefits, and promotions. Feature timely news including appointment openings, vacation schedules, and salon milestones like anniversaries and celebrations. Upgrade any slacking service’s sales with bargains such as nail and eyebrow deals. Make sure to include a link to your Online Booking site as well. Extend your engagement further by providing active social media links and invite your audience to interact with your shop on Facebook and Instagram. Select Photos Today’s busy clientele can’t spare time to peruse text-heavy presentations. So minimize descriptions and increase eye-catching visuals. Offering content that’s beautiful yet informative will snag greater readership. Showcase stylists’ talents... --- ### Daysmart Pet Version 12: Built with your work style > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2015-09-17 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/123pet-version-12-built-with-your-work-style-in-mind/ - Categories: Blogs Spend more time with clients and your craft. Version 12 takes care of the rest. Booking an appointment has never been faster, and running your own e-mail marketing strategy has never been easier. Get the details on your clients to take the guesswork out of scheduling. Everything from your basic management to the bells and whistles of running your business with your own unique flair is included in the newest version of Daysmart Pet. Every day, we make your feedback and ideas a priority. In Version 12, we are proud to offer up more tools and enhancements that will help you accomplish your daily tasks and manage your business’s time efficiently. We’re working harder so you don’t have to. Text Appointment Confirmations. Cut down on no-shows with the new completely automated text message confirmations. Clients can now reply to their SMS reminder to confirm their appointment, which updates your schedule in real time. Your Day at a Glance. Your upcoming day is clearly represented in our new Dashboard, complete with Productivity Meter, Upcoming Appointments, and more. Get to know your First Time Clients and track who is Due for Checkout. Score your Business with Business Summary. Keep track of business health and stay informed of client retention, referrals, and sales benchmarks. Administrators can password protect this screen. Your Email Marketing Strategy. Choose from 30 all new email template designs, designed with your business in mind. Effortlessly put your best foot forward for new clients and returning ones with sharp, instant campaigns and appointment notifications. EMV Credit Card Processing Support. EMV Processing is all about keeping your business and clients safe from fraudulent charges. Integrated credit card processing now supports chip-based cards with new card readers. Smarter Client Booking. Book your client’s next appointment with their most recent purchases and pre-paid balances at your fingertips. Daysmart Pet takes the guess work out of scheduling, making every second count during your busy day. To confirm your eligibility for Daysmart Pet Version 12, please sign in to your account. --- ### New: Email Marketing for Cloud Users > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2015-06-02 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/new-email-marketing-for-cloud-users/ - Categories: Blogs Get the word out about your business with valuable Email Marketing features that are now available to Daysmart Pet Cloud users. Your marketing strategy comes to life with up to 5,000 emails, free of charge. Between marketing materials and appointment reminders, keeping in touch with clients is easier than ever. OUR KEY FEATURES Select by pet and define your audience with new filters that guarantee your message gets to the right client at the right time. Take your pick of beautiful, flexible email templates that will look consistent regardless of browser or mobile device. Feeling inspired to make a few changes? Modify your content with our easy to use editor, complete with custom features. Unlock your business’s growth potential and make all your marketing materials completely unique to you. Monitor progress with our marketing dashboard. Get the status of your campaigns and optimize your communications. Search by campaign for easy access and organization, putting you in control of your messaging. Any questions? Feel free to reach out to us. We’re always here to help answer your questions and help you find your software solution. --- ### New: Importing Data for Daysmart Pet Cloud! > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2015-05-01 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/new-importing-data-for-123pet-cloud/ - Categories: Blogs Daysmart Pet is proud to continue improving to better suit your needs – from our tried and true patrons who have grown with us, to our brand new users. We’re committed to improving the accessibility of your information. The newest update to our Daysmart Pet Cloud features now allow you the option to import clients, products, services, employee information and client notes to your cloud. New users should take note that this feature is extremely helpful when you first get started with Daysmart Pet, as importing any previous data is easier than ever. Whether it is from your previous software system or a simple spreadsheet, you’ll be able to pick up right where you left off with your data. We’ve made it simple to upload your business’s information with our unique mapping feature, which automatically organizes your data but still allows you to customize fully before importing. If you are an administrator, simply pull up the Options screen and expand the Support option. From there, you can be prompted to Import My Data. Any duplicates of your information can be updated with your most current information, or you can ignore the new entry. Daysmart Pet will automatically suggest columns for your files, but as mentioned, how you streamline your information is entirely up to you. As always, if you have any questions about this new functionality (or anything at all! ) please do not hesitate to reach out to our team: (800) 604-2040. --- ### New: Features, Including Appointment Reminders! > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for… - Published: 2015-03-20 - Modified: 2024-12-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/blog/appointment-reminders-and-notifications/ - Categories: Blogs One of the awesome things about Daysmart Pet Cloud, beyond its flexibility, is how fast we can release new features and functionality. In the most recent release we’ve made it easier to keep clients and employees informed about appointment booking changes. New Appointment Notifications Cut down on no-shows and scheduling errors with our new client & employee notification options that make sure everyone is informed when appointments are made, changed or canceled. You can choose to turn on/off e-mail or text message notifications for each category, as well as customize message templates for e-mail and text message notifications. Appointment Book Schedules We’ve also made improvements to the appointment book which make it easier to distinguish between an employee with a schedule entered, an employee with no scheduled entered and an employee who does not have an active Remote Access account. We added a helpful shortcut link to quickly enter a work schedule for unscheduled employee. We also made a few minor improvements: Backend changes to Daysmart Pet Cloud and Remote Access which will improve reliability. Improved various user interactions, specifically related to booking resources, ticket creation, ‘right click’ menus and client notes. Other miscellaneous fixes and improvements. --- ## Partners ## Tesimonials ### Truly changed my world. - Published: 2025-02-19 - Modified: 2025-02-28 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/testimonial/truly-changed-my-world/ Johnelle Ciano, owner of Emma Marie's Grooming & Daycare, used to dread all the paperwork and hassles of business management after a long day of grooming. But switching to DaySmart “was so easy to set up. I’m able to groom two extra dogs a day and save hundreds of hours every year. ”See Their Story. --- ### Very happy to have made the switch. - Published: 2025-02-19 - Modified: 2025-02-19 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/testimonial/very-happy-to-have-made-the-switch/ Jayme Montero of Purrdy Paws says, “I always had a deep connection with animals and knew I would follow my dreams of helping them and their people. I began using DaySmart 10 years ago, when other software wasn’t supporting the volume of clients or keeping information organized. ”See Their Story. --- ### Simple, user friendly. - Published: 2025-02-19 - Modified: 2025-02-19 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/testimonial/simple-user-friendly/ Mike Conners trusts DaySmart Pet to manage Haute Dogge: “Being able to text or email to confirm has been a lifesaver for us. To top it all off, their customer service is fantastic. We’ve had some pretty silly questions along the way, and they’re the nicest, most patient people. ” See Their Story.   --- ### It saves me tons of money! - Published: 2025-02-18 - Modified: 2025-02-19 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/testimonial/it-saves-me-tons-of-money/ With DaySmart Pet, we can send clients prompts to write reviews about their experience with us. The positive reviews help us gain and retain more customers, which improves business overall. The appointment reminders are a big help, too. I don’t have to pay someone to sit there and call clients, which is a waste of time. Instead, clients get reminders automatically to ensure they will attend or reschedule their appointment accordingly. It saves me tons of money! --- ### They really listen. - Published: 2025-02-18 - Modified: 2025-02-19 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/testimonial/they-really-listen/ The team behind DaySmart Pet always tries to navigate the challenges of the industry and figure out what functions would be most helpful to users. They pay attention to what customers have to say and are able to stay ahead of our needs by developing new solutions to our problems. Every so often, I call with feedback, and they really listen. I’ve also met the staff at trade shows and they’re amazing. --- ## Support Resources ### Database Password Recovery - Published: 2024-02-06 - Modified: 2024-02-06 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/support/forms/database-password-recovery/ - Type: Support Forms Online Form - Serial Number Recovery Authorization --- ### Serial Number Recovery - Published: 2024-02-06 - Modified: 2024-02-06 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/support/forms/serial-number-recovery/ - Type: Support Forms Online Form - Serial Number Recovery Authorization --- ### Reset Password - Published: 2024-01-26 - Modified: 2024-01-30 - URL: https://daysmartsoftware.formstack.com/forms/password_reset_form - Type: Support Forms Forgot your password? Click here to request a reset. Click here to reset your password. --- ### Updating DaySmart Pet Software - Published: 2023-09-06 - Modified: 2023-09-06 - URL: https://downloads.daysmart.com/123Pet/123PetUpdate.exe - Type: Downloads and Drivers --- ### DaySmart Pet Version 13 - Published: 2023-09-06 - Modified: 2023-09-06 - URL: https://downloads.daysmart.com/123Pet/123PetSetupV13.exe - Type: Downloads and Drivers --- ### Remotely Connect To My Business - Published: 2023-09-06 - Modified: 2023-09-06 - URL: https://get.teamviewer.com/8938zc2 - Type: Downloads and Drivers --- ### Transferring Data > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for 14-days! - Published: 2023-09-06 - Modified: 2023-10-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/support/forms/transferring-data/ - Type: Support Forms Online Form - Data Transfer Request Form --- ### Update Account Information > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for 14-days! - Published: 2023-09-06 - Modified: 2024-02-02 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/support/forms/update-account-information/ - Type: Support Forms Online Form - Update Account Information --- ### Hardware Requirements > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for 14-days! - Published: 2023-09-06 - Modified: 2024-03-05 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/support/forms/hardware-requirements/ - Type: Support Forms Single or Client Computers The following hardware specifications are recommended if you are using DaySmart Pet on one computer in your business. Follow these specifications for the Solo, Standard, and Professional editions of DaySmart Pet. For adequate performance to run the software, please follow at least the minimum hardware specifications. For optimal performance, please follow at least the recommended hardware specifications. Single or Client ComputersItemMinimumRecommendedProcessorRecent Intel Core i3 or Ryzen 3 @ 3. 1Ghz or BetterRecent Intel Core i5 or Ryzen 5 @ 3. 3Ghz or BetterMemory6. 0 GB8. 0 GBFree Hard Drive Space4. 0 GB6. 0 GBInternet Connection30 Mbps50 MbpsOperating SystemWindows 10, (32 or 64-bit, all editions), Windows Server 2012, Windows Server 2008/R2, Windows Server 2003/R2, Windows Server 2016Screen Resolution1920×1080 pixel minimum resolution requiredNote: DaySmart Pet software will run on any PC or laptop that meets the requirements listed, above. Server Computer in Network The following server specifications are for the server computer holding your database. You will have a server computer if you are using the Multi-Computer or Multi-Location edition of DaySmart Pet software. For all other computers in the network, follow specifications for “Single or Client Computers. ” Server computer in networkItemMinimumRecommendedProcessorRecent Intel Core i5 or Ryzen 5 @ 3. 3Ghz or BetterRecent Intel Core i7 or Ryzen 7 @ 3Ghz or BetterMemory8. 0 GB10. 0 GBFree Hard Drive Space4. 0 GB6. 0 GBInternet Connection30 Mbps50 MbpsOperating SystemWindows 10, (32 or 64-bit, all editions), Windows Server 2012, Windows Server 2008/R2, Windows Server 2003/R2, Windows Server 2016Screen Resolution1920×1080 pixel minimum resolution requiredNote: DaySmart Pet software will run on any PC or laptop that meets the requirements listed, above. Multiple Locations When running DaySmart Pet from multiple locations, each location will have a server and one or more client computers on the local network. All locations must be connected to the Internet, and be using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to share files and information between the locations. For each location, follow the specifications listed under “Server Computer” for the computer holding the database (one per location), and the rest of the computers at each location (clients) should follow the specifications listed under “Single or Client Computer. ” However, when using DaySmart Pet at multiple locations, you must have a full-time Internet connection at each location. --- ### Transfer of Ownership > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for 14-days! - Published: 2023-09-06 - Modified: 2024-01-30 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/support/forms/transfer-of-ownership/ - Type: Support Forms You can perform a transfer of ownership electronically within your account management settings. Simply follow the instructions listed below to update your information. Instructions Click here and sign into your DaySmart account. Once you’re signed in, click the Edit Contact Info button under your Account Owner section. Click on the Change Business Name/Owner link in the bottom left corner. Fill out the form with all the new contact information and you’re all set. Please note that if you are a Desktop user and do not have an online account please call us at (800) 604-2040 and we can provide a form for you to submit instead. If you have used Remote Access, then you would have an online account or if your software is registered by user credentials then you also have an online account. You can find if your software is registered by user credentials within your software by: Go to Help in the upper right corner Select Registration Info If you see an email address next to “Account:” then you would be able to handle your Transfer of Ownership through Account Management To continue utilizing our integrated payment processing under the new ownership, it is necessary to obtain a new MID (Merchant Identification Number) for the new owner, along with canceling the old MID to avoid issues. You can reach out to our Payments department directly at (800) 982-6419. If you have any questions about transfer of ownership, please don’t hesitate to contact us at support@daysmart. com or (800) 604-2040. --- ### Support Account Password > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for 14-days! - Published: 2023-09-06 - Modified: 2023-10-31 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/support/forms/account-password/ - Type: Support Forms Online Form - Account Password Authorization --- ### Rebate Request > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for 14-days! - Published: 2023-09-06 - Modified: 2023-10-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/support/forms/rebate-request/ - Type: Support Forms This rebate form requests a $135 rebate for the purchase of a VP3300 mobile card reading device. To be eligible for the rebate, one must: Have an account through CardConnectHave purchased the VP3300 mobile card reading deviceHave processed a minimum of $1,000 in credit card transactions through their CardConnect accountHave submitted this form within 90 days of your merchant account being approved by CardConnect (Boarded) Please allow 7-10 business days for the rebate to fully process. Offer not valid on any processing devices outside of the VP3300. Rebate will be redeemed in the form of account credit on your DaySmart subscription(s). Limit of 1 rebate per merchant. --- ### Domain Name Transfer > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for 14-days! - Published: 2023-09-06 - Modified: 2023-10-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/support/forms/domain-name-transfer/ - Type: Support Forms Online Form - Domain Transfer Agreement --- ### Data Retrieval Request > Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for 14-days! - Published: 2023-09-06 - Modified: 2023-10-24 - URL: https://www.daysmart.com/pet/support/forms/data-retrieval-request/ - Type: Support Forms Online Form - Data Retrieval Request --- ### Online Gift Cards - Published: 2023-09-06 - Modified: 2023-09-06 - URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9xD_M_uKEXc - Type: Training Videos --- ### Running Reports - Published: 2023-09-06 - Modified: 2023-09-06 - URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uhqZm3nCbLo - Type: Training Videos --- ### Resources - Published: 2023-09-06 - Modified: 2023-09-06 - URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ENh6Hd4K-78 - Type: Training Videos --- ### Payroll - Published: 2023-09-06 - Modified: 2023-09-06 - URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sZebR_rE83Y - Type: Training Videos --- ### Online Booking Service List - Published: 2023-09-06 - Modified: 2023-09-06 - URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yuUCLb6ekmg - Type: Training Videos --- ### Bulk Void - Published: 2023-09-06 - Modified: 2023-09-06 - URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LRY-9Gisvl0 - Type: Training Videos --- ### Closing a Ticket - Published: 2023-09-06 - Modified: 2023-09-06 - URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-g8vKCzWLRg - Type: Training Videos --- ### Email & Text Marketing - Published: 2023-09-06 - Modified: 2023-09-06 - URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oOFDmUqlIHg - Type: Training Videos --- ### Employee Access - Published: 2023-09-06 - Modified: 2023-09-06 - URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KqcopRze9c0 - Type: Training Videos --- ### Loyalty Points - Published: 2023-09-06 - Modified: 2023-09-06 - URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WdEPoUTwbdY - Type: Training Videos --- ### Merging Clients - Published: 2023-09-06 - Modified: 2023-09-06 - URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=heZoxHJS2TE - Type: Training Videos --- ### Multi-Ticket Checkout - Published: 2023-09-06 - Modified: 2023-09-06 - URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3qDPk7w-f1g - Type: Training Videos --- ### Online Booking Employee Display Options - Published: 2023-09-06 - Modified: 2023-09-06 - URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HofaAvZS1LQ - Type: Training Videos --- ### Online Booking Passwords - Published: 2023-09-06 - Modified: 2023-09-06 - URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IesiHUNSGZA - Type: Training Videos --- ### Getting Started - Published: 2023-09-06 - Modified: 2023-09-06 - URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jyqLxnIptQQ - Type: Training Videos --- ### Adding Products - Published: 2023-09-06 - Modified: 2023-09-06 - URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yQbu3NrOJRE - Type: Training Videos --- ### Adding Notes - Published: 2023-09-06 - Modified: 2023-09-06 - URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c-mtJtmd3OU - Type: Training Videos --- ### Adding Employees - Published: 2023-09-06 - Modified: 2023-09-06 - URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ThaWgiTH29M - Type: Training Videos --- ### Adding Clients & Pets - Published: 2023-09-06 - Modified: 2023-09-06 - URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gCDQkvr9aiM - Type: Training Videos --- ### Adding a Tender Type - Published: 2023-09-06 - Modified: 2023-09-06 - URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ckhowGhN5jg - Type: Training Videos --- ### Adding a Service - Published: 2023-09-06 - Modified: 2023-09-06 - URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HtCaKfnH1bI - Type: Training Videos ---