Separate free tiers from trials
An ongoing free plan and a time-limited trial are different offers. Check the expiry, required payment details, data access after the trial and whether a paid subscription begins automatically.
Test the pet-specific gaps
A generic appointment calendar may not keep separate pet profiles, handle multi-pet households, track daycare capacity or allocate boarding space. Work through your requirements before assuming a low subscription cost means a low total cost.
Check limits that appear later
Review staff and location limits, reminder allowances, payment requirements, branding, support and exports. Record the cost of the first upgrade that would satisfy your needs.
Use a trial to answer a short list
Choose three realistic fictional scenarios: a routine booking, a change and a full-calendar exception. Ask the vendor to demonstrate anything you cannot verify yourself. Do not treat an advertised trial as proof that every feature is included.