Already using Collar?
Australian businesses save A$1,200-5,000+/year switching from Collar
An honest, side-by-side comparison to help you decide what's right for your Australian pet business.
The Facts at a Glance
Collar
collar.app- Founded
- ~2021 (estimated)
- Headquarters
- England & Wales, UK
- Focus
- Multi-vertical pet services + Vet
- Est. Customers
- Unknown (newer entrant)
- Pricing
- Monthly subscription (A$100-415/month) with service listing limits
Double Fee Alert for Australian Businesses
- •A$100-415/month subscription with service listing limits (3/6/12 services)
- •UK-based payment processing: 2.9-5%+ (vs Petboost 1.7% + $0.3 + 1.2-1.4% booking fee)
Pay subscription AND face service limits (upgrade required as you grow)
Petboost
Built in Sydney- Founded
- 2022
- Headquarters
- Sydney, Australia
- Focus
- Multi-vertical pet services
- AU Presence
- Native (built in Sydney)
- Pricing
- $65-240/mo + 1.2-1.4%or $0 with card volume*
*Subscription waived as a bonus reward: Pro at $7,500+/mo, Max at $20,000+/mo in card payments
Consider Collar only if
There are limited scenarios where Collar may suit you better:
- UK-based pet businesses wanting local UK support
- Businesses wanting native iOS/Android mobile apps for pet owners
- Multi-location/franchise operations needing enterprise features
- Vet clinics (Collar specifically targets vets)
- Businesses wanting gym-style membership programs
- Operations needing route management for mobile services
Petboost?
Purpose-built for Australian pet businesses with a design-first approach our customers rave about:
- Australian pet businesses wanting local support and compliance
- Multi-service operators needing unlimited services (no 3/6/12 service caps)
- Businesses wanting to avoid A$100-415/month subscription fees
- Owners who value granular automation control (not all-or-nothing)
- Solo operators or small teams looking for simple, modern software
- Anyone wanting transparent pricing without service listing limits
From large daycares to solo groomers, businesses Australia-wide
Where Each Platform Excels
An honest look at how each platform handles key functionality.
Feature Comparison
Collar vs Petboost
Pet Owner Booking Experience
Self-service booking flow for pet owners
Petboost works instantly from browser; Collar requires app download and account setup
Native iOS/Android app with account creation
Passwordless phone login, progressive info collection, 24/7 booking in under 2 minutes, no download required
Pet Profile Visibility (Owner)
What pet owners can see and manage about their pets
Both offer pet profile visibility; Petboost accessible without app download
Pet profiles visible in native app
Full pet profile with vaccinations, care notes, family pets, emergency contacts
Service Listing Limits
Number of services you can offer
Collar caps services: Essential=3, Premium=6, Business=12. Petboost is unlimited.
3/6/12 services depending on plan
Unlimited services included
Monthly Subscription
Base software cost
Collar: A$100 (Essential), A$205 (Premium), A$415 (Business)
A$100-415/month
$65/month (waived at $7,500+ in card payments)
Booking Engine
Core scheduling functionality
Both strong booking systems
Comprehensive scheduling
Magic Schedule + Quick Force dual modes
Payment Processing
Card payment rates
Petboost transparent AU rates
Stripe-based (rates not disclosed)
1.7% + $0.1 + 1.2-1.4% booking fee (AU Stripe)
SMS Payment Links
One-tap payment collection via SMS
Petboost differentiator
Native Mobile App
iOS/Android apps for pet owners
Collar has native apps
Full screen web app (PWA)
Memberships
Recurring revenue programs
Different approaches: both valid
Gym-style memberships
Packages with visual tracking
Package Management
Prepaid credits tracking
Petboost excels here
Unknown
Coffee-card visual + 24/7 self-service
Course Management
Group training courses
Petboost purpose-built
Unknown
Native courses with templates
Pet Attributes
Pet profiling tags
Petboost comprehensive library
Unknown
2,000+ pre-built attributes
Route Optimisation
Mobile service routing
Collar ahead for mobile
Collar Route™
Vet Support
Veterinary clinic features
Collar unique positioning
Dedicated vet vertical
Multi-Location
Multiple site management
Collar ahead currently
Native + Enterprise franchise
Coming 2026
E-Commerce
Product sales
Collar has product sales
Built-in product sales
Space Hire/Parks
Venue rental bookings
Collar unique positioning
Dedicated vertical
Staff Management
Team scheduling and payroll
Collar more comprehensive
Schedules, timesheets, pay
Team member management
Analytics
Business reporting
Collar more comprehensive
30+ reports + Collar Insights™
Standard reports + Xero
Marketing Tools
Email campaigns, promotions
Collar built-in marketing
Built-in marketing suite
Basic
In-App Chat
Customer messaging
Both supported
SMS Notifications
Automated reminders
Both supported
Intelligent SMS delivery
AU-native SMS (+61)
Accounting Integration
Accounting software sync
Stripe auto-syncs to Xero/QuickBooks
Unknown
Via Stripe bank feeds
Feature Comparison Collar vs Petboost | C Collar | P Petboost🇦🇺Australian-Built |
|---|---|---|
Pet Owner Booking ExperienceSelf-service booking flow for pet owners Petboost works instantly from browser; Collar requires app download and account setup | Native iOS/Android app with account creation | Passwordless phone login, progressive info collection, 24/7 booking in under 2 minutes, no download required |
Pet Profile Visibility (Owner)What pet owners can see and manage about their pets Both offer pet profile visibility; Petboost accessible without app download | Pet profiles visible in native app | Full pet profile with vaccinations, care notes, family pets, emergency contacts |
Service Listing LimitsNumber of services you can offer Collar caps services: Essential=3, Premium=6, Business=12. Petboost is unlimited. | 3/6/12 services depending on plan | Unlimited services included |
Monthly SubscriptionBase software cost Collar: A$100 (Essential), A$205 (Premium), A$415 (Business) | A$100-415/month | $65/month (waived at $7,500+ in card payments) |
Booking EngineCore scheduling functionality Both strong booking systems | Comprehensive scheduling | Magic Schedule + Quick Force dual modes |
Payment ProcessingCard payment rates Petboost transparent AU rates | Stripe-based (rates not disclosed) | 1.7% + $0.1 + 1.2-1.4% booking fee (AU Stripe) |
SMS Payment LinksOne-tap payment collection via SMS Petboost differentiator | ||
Native Mobile AppiOS/Android apps for pet owners Collar has native apps | Full screen web app (PWA) | |
MembershipsRecurring revenue programs Different approaches: both valid | Gym-style memberships | Packages with visual tracking |
Package ManagementPrepaid credits tracking Petboost excels here | Unknown | Coffee-card visual + 24/7 self-service |
Course ManagementGroup training courses Petboost purpose-built | Unknown | Native courses with templates |
Pet AttributesPet profiling tags Petboost comprehensive library | Unknown | 2,000+ pre-built attributes |
Route OptimisationMobile service routing Collar ahead for mobile | Collar Route™ | |
Vet SupportVeterinary clinic features Collar unique positioning | Dedicated vet vertical | |
Multi-LocationMultiple site management Collar ahead currently | Native + Enterprise franchise | Coming 2026 |
E-CommerceProduct sales Collar has product sales | Built-in product sales | |
Space Hire/ParksVenue rental bookings Collar unique positioning | Dedicated vertical | |
Staff ManagementTeam scheduling and payroll Collar more comprehensive | Schedules, timesheets, pay | Team member management |
AnalyticsBusiness reporting Collar more comprehensive | 30+ reports + Collar Insights™ | Standard reports + Xero |
Marketing ToolsEmail campaigns, promotions Collar built-in marketing | Built-in marketing suite | Basic |
In-App ChatCustomer messaging Both supported | ||
SMS NotificationsAutomated reminders Both supported | Intelligent SMS delivery | AU-native SMS (+61) |
Accounting IntegrationAccounting software sync Stripe auto-syncs to Xero/QuickBooks | Unknown | Via Stripe bank feeds |
Last updated: January 2026 • Based on publicly available information
Our Focused Approach
We do fewer things exceptionally well rather than many things adequately. Our customers consistently tell us our design and user experience is miles ahead. Here's where we've intentionally focused elsewhere:
| Feature | Status | Our Approach |
|---|---|---|
| Native iOS/Android apps | Considering | Full screen web app works well; native apps add complexity |
| Route optimisation | Focused elsewhere | Use Google Maps; we focus on service delivery |
| Multi-location management | 2026 | Single-location focus first |
| Vet clinic support | Focused elsewhere | Different market with different regulatory needs |
| E-commerce/product sales | Focused elsewhere | Focus on service bookings |
| Space hire/park rental | Focused elsewhere | Niche vertical |
| Staff payroll | Focused elsewhere | Use dedicated payroll software (Xero, MYOB) |
| UK localisation | Considering | Australia-first focus |
If any of these are dealbreakers today, Collar may be better suited for your current needs.
Built for Australian Businesses
US-based software simply can't match these Australian-specific advantages.
Payment Processing
Payment Provider
Card-Present Rate
Card-Not-Present Rate
SMS Payment Links
Terminal Compatibility
| Payment Processing | Collar | Petboost🇦🇺 |
|---|---|---|
| Payment Provider | Stripe-based (assumed) | Stripe AU (native) |
| Card-Present Rate | Unknown | 1.7% + $0.1 + 1.2-1.4% booking fee |
| Card-Not-Present Rate | Unknown | 1.7% + $0.3 + 1.2-1.4% booking fee |
| SMS Payment Links | Unknown | ✅ 1.2-1.4% Petboost + 1.7% + $0.3 Stripe |
| Terminal Compatibility | Unknown | Stripe WisePOS-E |
SMS Functionality
Basic SMS Reminders
In-App Chat
Timezone
| SMS Functionality | Collar | Petboost🇦🇺 |
|---|---|---|
| Basic SMS Reminders | Supported | Native AU support |
| In-App Chat | Built-in | Built-in |
| Timezone | UK (GMT/BST) | AEST/AEDT |
Real Cost Comparison
Based on typical Australian pet business transaction volumes.
* For illustrative purposes only, based on industry averages. Your actual costs may vary.
| Cost Type | Collar | Petboost🇦🇺 |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Subscription (Premium tier) | A$205/month = A$2,460/year | $780/year (waived at $7,500+/mo) |
| Service Listing Limits | Limited to 6 services (Premium) | Unlimited services |
| Payment Processing (~$300K GMV) | Unknown rates | ~$5,610 (1.7% + $0.3 + 1.2-1.4% booking fee) |
| Petboost Booking Fee (on $300K GMV) | N/A | ~$4,200 (1.2-1.4%) |
| Total Annual Cost (incl. transaction fees) | A$2,460+ (subscription + processing unknown) | ~$10,590 (incl. $780/year subscription if applicable) |
You may be paying twice with Collar
A$100-415/month subscription with service listing limits (3/6/12 services), plus uk-based payment processing: 2.9-5%+ (vs petboost 1.7% + $0.3 + 1.2-1.4% booking fee). With Petboost, you pay $65/month (waived at $7,500+ volume) and competitive AU payment processing rates.
What Could You Save?
Calculate your savings
Your savings depend on your business size and payment volume. Use the calculator below for a personalised estimate.
Which plan is right for you?
Enter your numbers and see
Business Pro starts at -/month with 0 appointments included. Business Max at -/month gives you unlimited appointments.
How much customers pay you via card
Appointments you expect each month
Reminders and notifications sent
💡 Consider Business Max
At 100 bookings/month, Pro would cost $15/month (including $0 in overage fees). Max costs $15/month, which is $0/month more but includes unlimited appointments.
Business Pro
Hit -/month in card payments and your monthly fee is waived
Generous SMS Limits
Pro includes 0 SMS/month, Max includes 0. Most businesses never hit these limits. You've set 300 SMS/month. You'll need 1 SMS Power-Up Pack ($15).
When to Upgrade
At your current revenue, Business Max becomes better value at ∞ appointments/month. You're at 100. Pro includes $0 in overage fees, but is still $0 cheaper than Max.
Your Savings
Save $666+ per month compared to typical competitors.
Quick Plan Comparison
Business Pro
- • -/month (waived at -+ card payment volume)
- • 0 appointments included
- • -/appointment after 0
- • 0 SMS/month included
- • - transaction fee
Business Max
- • -/month (waived at -+ card payment volume)
- • Unlimited appointments
- • No per-appointment overage fees
- • 0 SMS/month included
- • - transaction fee
Both plans include SMS Power-Up Packs at $15 for 500 additional SMS if needed.
* Estimates based on 100 transactions averaging $100 each, 100 appointments, and 300 SMS. Actual costs vary based on transaction volume, average ticket size, appointments, and SMS usage.
From solo operators to
multi-van fleets
Petboost fits your business. Whether you're a one-person mobile groomer or running a large facility with multiple staff and spaces.
Solo Superstars
One-person operations with streamlined scheduling and automated payments.
- 1-tap booking management
- Automated invoicing & receipts
- After-hours self-service booking
- SMS reminders on autopilot
Growing Teams
3-10 staff with resource management, shared calendars, and team coordination.
- Multi-staff scheduling
- Per-resource capacity limits
- Team permissions & roles
- Shared customer database
Large Operations
Dog walking van fleets, multi-space facilities, and high-volume businesses.
- Fleet/van management
- Multi-space capacity tracking
- Volume pricing available
- Advanced automation rules
Making the Switch
It's easier than you think. Here's what to expect if you decide to move from Collar.
Migration Complexity
Customer Data
Export available; import assistance provided
Booking History
Not imported; fresh start in Petboost
Package Balances
Manual reconciliation recommended
Timeline
2-3 weeks typical
Keep Your Existing Hardware
If you're using a Stripe WisePOS-E terminal with Collar, you can bring it across to Petboost. No new equipment needed.
We're here to help. We provide migration assistance for businesses switching from Collar.
Contact us for a migration assessmentWhich Is Right for Your Business?
Collar may suit you if:
- You're UK-based and want UK support
- You're a veterinary clinic
- Native iOS/Android apps are important
- You need route optimisation for mobile services
- You rent out dog parks, paddocks, swimming pools, or event spaces for pets
- You need franchise/multi-location management today
- You want 30+ built-in reports without needing external analytics tools
- Gym-style membership programs are central to your business model
Petboost?
- You're an Australian business wanting local support
- Payment processing costs matter to your bottom line
- You want to earn $0/month (waived at $7,500+) (pay only when you earn)
- Transparent pricing is important to you
- You value comprehensive pet attributes
- You're multi-service or planning to expand verticals
From large daycares to solo groomers, businesses Australia-wide
Still unsure? Book a no-pressure demo and we'll help you figure out if we're the right fit, even if that means recommending someone else.
Collar vs Petboost FAQs
Common questions about switching and comparing these platforms.
Ready to see Petboost in action?
Start your 14-day free trial, then activate Business Pro for 30 days with 0% Petboost fees. Only pay Stripe processing fees.
Last verified: 9th January 2026 | Pricing and features sourced from collar.app
Found an error? Let us know and we'll correct it promptly.
Collar® is a registered trademark of its respective owners. This comparison is based on publicly available information and is not affiliated with or endorsed by Collar.