Does grooming software include SMS text reminders?
It depends on the tool. Many grooming platforms publish a low base price but sell automated SMS as a paid add-on or per-message package, so texting is not actually included. GroomBoard includes automated SMS appointment reminders and booking confirmations in the flat $19/month (Solo) or $39/month (Salon) price — there is no separate texting tier on the standard plans.
Automated SMS reminders are the single most effective way to cut no-shows — text reminders 24 hours and a couple of hours before an appointment routinely reduce same-day cancellations by roughly 30%. Because they are so valuable, many grooming platforms monetize them separately, charging an add-on (often around $100/month) or a per-message rate on top of the base plan.
That pricing structure is why two tools with similar sticker prices can have very different real costs. When you evaluate grooming software, the most important question is not "what is the base price" but "what does it cost with automated SMS turned on."
Here is how the major platforms handle it as of August 2026. MoeGo bundles a capped allotment into each tier (200 to 1,350 texts a month) and gates unlimited auto-messaging to its top Ultimate tier. Groomsoft gives monthly plans 100 free text messages and sells more in prepaid packs at 3.5 to 10 cents per message, deducting both sent and received texts and pausing sends at a zero balance. Gingr sells texting as a separate add-on. So on all three, a groomer who texts confirmations and reminders to every client pays more than the sticker price.
GroomBoard includes SMS reminders and confirmations in the monthly plan rather than charging for them separately, so the $19 or $39 you see is the price with texting working. Reminders send automatically from your own number, and clients can reply to confirm. See how the reminders feature works below.
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Related questions
How does MoeGo handle automated SMS reminders?
How does Groomsoft handle SMS reminders?
Why do reminders matter so much?
Does GroomBoard charge per text?
Can clients reply to the reminder texts?
More answers
How much does pet grooming software cost?
Most pet grooming software costs between about $20 and $200+ per month, depending on the tier, the number of groomers, and whether SMS texting is an extra add-on. GroomBoard is a flat $9/month (Starter), $19/month (Solo), or $39/month (Salon) with SMS reminders included and a 7-day free trial — no setup fee and no per-message texting charges.
Is there free dog grooming software?
There are a few free or freemium grooming tools, but they typically cap the number of clients, leave out SMS reminders, or fund themselves with ads and paid add-ons. GroomBoard is not free, but at $9/month with a 7-day free trial (no credit card) it usually ends up cheaper than a "free" tool once you add the booking and texting features groomers actually rely on.
What software do dog groomers use?
Dog groomers use grooming-specific business software to handle online booking, calendar scheduling, client and pet records, and automated SMS reminders. Common options include GroomBoard, MoeGo, Gingr, DaySmart Pet, and Groomsoft — and independent or mobile groomers often choose a lighter, flat-priced tool like GroomBoard from $9/month.
Do dog groomers need insurance?
Yes — most working groomers carry general liability insurance plus pet-care (animal bailee) coverage, and it is often required before you can rent salon space or get a business license. For an independent groomer, combined coverage typically runs in the range of $30 to $60 per month, though it varies by location, coverage limits, and claims history.