You may Lose 15% of your Clients per YEAR*
What Can YOU Do?
Aren’t these startling statistics? Especially since the puppy buying season is almost upon us. Most people adopt a pet when the weather is warm enough to spend time outdoors. House training is easier when you can skip paper training. And of course, people like to take their new friends to parks or on walks to socialize them. But unless they are prepared, this cute cuddly little puppy can grow up into an out of control beast.
Education is Key
Desperate owners ask clinics and store clerks for drugs to calm their anxious dogs or restraining collars and muzzles that offer a quick fix. But education of the pet owner key—before it bites or attacks another.
This is where your clinic or pet store can help by providing information to new, and even experienced pet parents. Some ideas include:
- Sending a monthly (or weekly) newsletter address various concerns.
- Email promotions of programs you or a partner are hosting.
- Advertise local obedience programs in your newsletter or hand out flyers.
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Offer competitions and prizes. My cocker, Buffy and me at DogFest. Offer monthly “Ask-a-Vet” or “Ask a Behavior Therapist” programs, or maybe just host a discussion group.
- Consider offering competitions with prizes.
Exercising
A tired dog is a good dog. I read in a training manual decades ago, and it still holds true. Young dogs especially need exercise or their boredom creates behavioral issues. I always recommend to new pet owners that they take an obedience class, especially during the winter. This way the dog is tired at least one day during the week, while the deep snow and slippery sidewalks may restrict dog walks. And practice training gives both of you a way to bond and exercise indoors and out.
Educating people on how to exercise a dog properly and how to know if your pet is feeling stressed are key components to any exercise plan. So is learning about different methods to exercise a dog. My favorite is an attachment to my bicycle, called a “springer”, for running my dog.
The Results
Become the go-to for your clientele with pet related problems and watch your business soar as people attend your sessions and visit your clinic or store more often.
Kay9 Environmental can help write content for newsletters, emails, or ads to promote your services. Please contact me at Sandy@Kay9environmental.com or go to my Contact page.
