The Top Features to Look for in Pet Business Payment Software

Your pet business runs on systems, from appointment scheduling to end-of-day reports. When it comes to your payment system, you need one that not only processes transactions but also helps manage memberships, collect tips, track revenue, and protect customer data. The right software can streamline your operations and elevate client and staff experience.

If your payment system is still stuck in 2015, it’s time for an upgrade. Today’s pet parents expect fast, contactless, and hassle-free payment options—and your business should deliver. Whether you’re checking out a bath-and-brush or billing for boarding, the right payment software makes all the difference.

Let’s look at the most important features to consider when choosing the right payment system for your pet-care business.

business owner and customer comparing phones to see payment sent and received

1. Integrated Payments

A true time-saver, integrated payment systems are directly connected to your booking and customer management software. That means no more switching between platforms or manually reconciling charges. Integrated systems automatically pull customer info, services, and totals—so you can check out faster and with fewer errors.

Why it matters:

Reduces manual data entry
Keeps your records clean and centralized
Speeds up check-ins and checkouts

2. Contactless & Mobile Payment Options

Pet parents love convenience—especially when they’re in a hurry or on the go. Offering contactless and mobile payment options like Apple Pay, Google Pay, and tap-to-pay allows for a quick, hygienic checkout. Many modern pet-care facilities also embrace curbside service, making mobile payments a must.

Look for:

Tap-enabled terminals
Mobile card readers
Digital wallets and pay links

3. Secure Cards on File

Repeat clients are your bread and butter, and securely storing their payment methods on file helps both sides. It simplifies future checkouts, enables online payments through customer portals, and reduces friction at pickup.

Bonus:

Some software lets you store multiple cards per customer, which is ideal for families with multiple pets or shared payment responsibilities.

4. Recurring Billing & Memberships

Whether you’re offering a VIP membership for frequent groomers or monthly packages for daycare pups, your payment software should support automated recurring billing.

Great for:

Monthly grooming packages
Unlimited daycare plans
Training class subscriptions

A good system will handle auto-renewals, notify pet parents of upcoming charges, and allow easy plan management—all while keeping you out of the billing weeds.

5. Built-In Tip Collection

Your staff works hard to keep pets clean, calm, and cared for—so tipping should be simple and encouraged. A great payment platform will allow clients to add a tip at checkout, with options to choose a percentage, dollar amount, or custom amount.

Pro tip:

This supports staff retention, improves morale, and incentivizes exceptional care.

pet parent leaving tip while picking up dog from boarding

6. Automated Invoices and Receipts

Tired of tracking down invoices or printing receipts manually? Today’s payment tools should automatically send itemized receipts via email or text. This is especially helpful for:

Clients with multiple pets
Customers who need records for pet insurance
Clear communication of service charges

Some systems also allow clients to pay directly from their invoices, making the process even smoother.

7. On-the-Go Payments

If you offer training at parks or participate in events and pop-ups, remember that you need to be able to collect payments from anywhere. Look for software that offers portable terminals or app-based processing from your phone or tablet.

This flexibility ensures you’re ready to process payments whenever and wherever your business takes you, from the dog salon to the dog saloon.

8. Real-Time Reporting and Reconciliation

Your payment software should do more than just process transactions—it should help you understand your business. Look for a built-in dashboard with:

Real-time revenue reporting
Daily settlement summaries
Tip tracking
Tax calculations

Even better? Integration with accounting platforms like QuickBooks for a seamless back-office experience.

9. PCI Compliance and Security

Handling payment information means following strict security standards. A trustworthy payment platform should be PCI-compliant by default, with built-in encryption and fraud protection. You shouldn’t have to worry about managing compliance yourself.

10. Customizable Checkout Options

Pet care is personal, and your checkout process should reflect that. The right software will let you:

Offer upsells (like treats, toys, or spa add-ons)
Include taxes and service fees
Customize receipts with your branding

This creates a polished, professional experience your customers will remember.

11. Flexible Payment Plans & Deposits

Flexible payment options can benefit high-ticket services like training programs or long-term boarding. Make it easier for pet parents to commit by offering:

Deposit collection at the time of booking
Split payments over time
“Book now, pay later” functionality

This flexibility can help boost bookings and improve client satisfaction.

pet parent adding their credit card to their customer portal

Choosing the Right Payment Software for Your Pet Business

Not all payment systems are created equal—and many weren’t designed with the pet-care industry in mind. Choosing a platform that understands your business can streamline operations, reduce stress, and improve the experience for your clients and team alike.

Look for a solution that:

Integrates with your booking and client management software
Works for both online and in-person payments
Offers security and flexibility
Supports the unique needs of pet businesses

Gingr Payments Has You Covered

If you’re a Gingr customer, Gingr Payments delivers all these features—and more. It’s our most comprehensive payment processing integration yet, purpose-built for pet-care businesses.

What makes Gingr Payments stand out?

Fully integrated with your Gingr app: Manage payments, reporting, and customer details all in one place.
Powered by Stripe: Trusted infrastructure with industry-leading fraud protection and secure transactions.
No monthly fees: Just pay per transaction. You can sign up without risk—there are no hidden fees or surcharges.