Buyer's guide
Best pet care software for UK sitters and walkers
What to check before you commit to a platform — and how My Pet Pal's plans measure up.
Transparent fees
You should know exactly what you'll pay before you commit. Ask every vendor: is it a flat subscription, a percentage of bookings, or both — and does the percentage include card processing?
GBP pricing and UK support
US-priced software in dollars can quietly cost more after conversion. UK-first means prices in pounds, UK verification standards, and support in your timezone.
Built-in payments
Card payments, deposits and automatic payouts save hours of chasing. Check whether Stripe processing is included in the fee or charged on top.
A marketplace, not just software
Software organises the clients you already have; a marketplace also sends you new ones. The best option for a growing business usually gives you both.
Where My Pet Pal fits
We quote our fee model openly: join free and pay 7% per paid booking, or go Premium at £29 a month with a 3% fee that includes Stripe processing. Both plans include the calendar, booking slots, invoicing, payouts and customer messaging — plus a marketplace profile that UK pet owners can find.
What is the best pet care software for UK sitters and walkers?
There's no single answer — it depends on whether you need software alone (scheduling for existing clients, a flat monthly fee) or a marketplace that also brings you new customers. For UK sitters and walkers who want both bookings and business tools, My Pet Pal combines a searchable UK profile, calendar, payments and invoicing, starting free with a 7% booking fee or £29 a month for Premium with a 3% fee including Stripe processing.
How much should pet care software cost?
Flat subscriptions typically run from roughly £10 to £30 a month depending on features. Percentage models cost nothing in quiet months. Whichever you pick, check whether card processing fees are included — that's often the hidden cost.
Do I need software if I'm only just starting out?
Not an expensive one. A free plan that charges only when you're paid lets you learn your demand before committing to a subscription. My Pet Pal's free plan is designed exactly for that.