Skip to main content

Quick start checklist

Ready to hit the ground running? Follow these steps and you’ll have your first booking in Barkway in no time. 🐾


1) Add your business details

  • Go to Manage → Settings.
  • Pop in your name, upload a logo, and pick your accent colour.
  • Set your opening hours and time zone so Barkway knows when you’re really open for business.
tip

Think of this as setting out your “shop front” - it’s the first thing clients will see on invoices and emails.

2) Create your services

  • Open the user menu, then go to Manage → Services.
  • Add your core services with price and duration.
  • Add extras like nail trims or teeth cleans as separate services.

Clear services mean Barkway can do the maths for you. 🧮

3) Choose deposits and discounts

  • Decide if you’d like deposits to secure bookings.
  • Pick between a fixed amount or a percentage.

This helps cut down on no-shows and keeps cash flow smooth.

4) Add your first client and pet

  • Click Clients → New Client.
  • Add their details and notes (like “always prefers texts” or “runs late”).
  • Then add their pet with breed, temperament, and a photo if you have one.
tip

Want to save clicks? Use Save & Add Pet to add both in one go. Perfect for new walk-ins.

5) Make your first booking

  • Click New Booking at the top of the app.
  • Pick the pet, add services, and confirm the time.
  • Add a deposit or discount if needed.

Your calendar now has its very first Barkway booking 🎉

6) Turn on email reminders (optional)

  • Go to Manage → Settings → Notifications.
  • Enable Booking reminders and set the lead time.
  • If you want thank-you emails, switch on Auto Thank You too.
note

SMS reminders are not live yet and are not a priority right now. We plan to add them later as a paid add-on.

7) Send and get paid

  • Invoices are created automatically when you save a booking and kept up to date when you edit it.
  • Share the public invoice link or PDF when you’re ready.
  • Record payments as you receive them (cash, bank transfer, or other).

That’s it!

You’ve just gone from zero to fully functional Barkway in minutes. From here, the calendar, invoices, and reminders have your back - so you can get back to what matters. ✂️

Need a hand?

Email the Barkway team and we’ll point you to the right place.