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DaySmart Pet (once known as 123Pet) has been around a long time, and longevity has real value — but it's also why a lot of groomers go looking for something else. The interface can feel dated, newer tools have leapfrogged it on ease of use, and for a solo groomer the whole thing can feel like more system than the job requires. If you're shopping for a DaySmart alternative, the good news is the grooming software space has gotten a lot better and a lot more varied. Here are six worth considering, sorted by who they suit. We make Teddy, so we'll be clear about our own fit and where a competitor is the smarter pick.
Why groomers leave DaySmart
The reasons cluster around modernity and simplicity. A dated interface that's slower to learn and teach to new staff. A desire for cleaner mobile and texting experiences. And sometimes the sense that DaySmart is built for a bigger, more traditional storefront than the lean shop the groomer actually runs. DaySmart still serves established multi-staff salons well — but if you're not that, there are lighter, more modern options.
6 best DaySmart alternatives at a glance
1. Teddy — best for independents wanting a modern tool
If DaySmart feels dated and heavy, Teddy is the clean, modern counterpoint. It's built for solo groomers and small teams, with unlimited two-way texting included, request-based online booking, a pet-profile CRM, digital intake and agreements, and Square POS — all set up in an afternoon rather than configured over a week. The gap in feel between an established platform and a modern one is exactly what makes groomers switch. See Teddy vs DaySmart for the direct comparison. Free trial at tryteddy.com.
2. MoeGo — best for growing and mobile operations
If you're leaving DaySmart because you're scaling up rather than simplifying, MoeGo's depth and route optimization make it a strong landing spot for growing and multi-van businesses. It has a learning curve, but it's built to grow with you.
3. Gingr — best for grooming plus boarding
Running boarding or daycare alongside grooming? Gingr handles multi-service facilities well and is a natural DaySmart alternative for operations that are about more than just grooming.
4. GrooMore — best on a budget
GrooMore keeps things simple and cheap, a good fit for a small shop that found DaySmart both pricey and more than they needed. You trade depth for affordability and ease.
5. Pawfinity — best for record-heavy salons
Pawfinity offers deep, customizable client and pet records, appealing to salons that want to track a lot of detail. A fuller alternative for groomers who live in their data.
6. Groomer.io — best clean, focused option
Groomer.io keeps the scope tight and the design clean, aimed at independent groomers who want purpose-built scheduling without a sprawling feature set — a modern feel without a lot of overhead.
How to choose your DaySmart alternative
Match the tool to your direction. Simplifying and modernizing? Teddy or Groomer.io. Scaling up or going mobile? MoeGo. Boarding too? Gingr. Watching every dollar? GrooMore. Then trial the two closest fits against your real week — the tool that feels effortless is the one to keep. Our best pet grooming software roundup and grooming scheduling software guide compare them further.
For most groomers leaving DaySmart because they want something modern and texting-first, Teddy is the natural home — but pick whichever tool disappears into your day.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best DaySmart Pet alternative?
For independent groomers wanting a modern, simpler tool, Teddy is a strong choice thanks to its clean interface and unlimited texting. Growing or mobile operations may prefer MoeGo, while facilities that also board often choose Gingr. Match the alternative to your size and direction.
Why do groomers switch away from DaySmart?
Common reasons include a dated interface, a steeper learning curve for new staff, and the sense that it's built for larger traditional storefronts than a lean modern shop needs. DaySmart still suits established multi-staff salons, so smaller shops most often look elsewhere.
Is there a more modern alternative to DaySmart?
Yes. Newer platforms like Teddy and Groomer.io offer cleaner, more modern interfaces and mobile experiences than DaySmart, with faster setup. Teddy also includes unlimited two-way texting, which appeals to groomers who communicate with clients constantly.
Can I move my data from DaySmart to another platform?
Generally yes — most grooming software supports importing client and pet records. The main adjustment is learning the new workflow, so plan your switch for a quieter week to get comfortable before your calendar fills back up.
Which DaySmart alternative is cheapest?
Budget-friendly options like GrooMore keep costs low with a simpler feature set. Teddy also offers strong value for small teams by including unlimited texting rather than charging per message, so compare total cost including messaging, not just the base price.
