Running a pet business today means going head-to-head with more competitors than ever—boarding kennels, groomers, dog walkers, and daycare facilities are popping up in every town.
Even loyal pet parents are tempted to explore new options when deals, trends, or convenience pull them in another direction. For business owners, the question becomes: How do you stand out in a crowded market and win over new customers without slashing your prices?
That’s where creative marketing and customer-first strategies come in. In this blog, we’ll explore 10 innovative ways your pet business can attract fresh faces, increase bookings, and build long-term relationships. From eye-catching promotions to unique partnerships and loyalty-building offers, these ideas will help you grow sustainably while staying true to your brand.
1. Launch a “First-Timer Special”
Everyone loves an incentive to try something new. Offer a discount, free add-on service, or welcome gift for first-time customers. This lowers the barrier to entry and creates a positive first impression that can turn a trial visit into long-term loyalty.
Ideas to try:
- First grooming session includes a free nail trim or teeth brushing
- Boarding customers get a complimentary daycare day
- “Welcome Kit” with treats and a branded toy for new clients
2. Host a Community Pet Event
Becoming a hub for pet lovers is a powerful way to gain visibility. Host a pet adoption fair, doggy social, or training workshop in collaboration with local shelters or trainers. Events not only bring new people through your doors but also position your business as a caring, community-centered brand.
3. Create “Instagrammable Moments”
Pet parents love to show off their furry friends online. By adding a photo wall, seasonal backdrops, or branded props at your facility, you encourage customers to share their experiences. User-generated content (UGC) is free marketing and spreads your business name to new audiences.
But how do you gather UGC? One simple tactic is to offer a monthly giveaway for anyone who tags your business on social media. This drives shares and helps you track engagement.
4. Partner With Local Businesses
Team up with veterinarians, coffee shops, groomers, or pet boutiques to cross-promote services. You could offer package deals, referral discounts, or even co-host events. These partnerships let you tap into existing customer bases that already love pets.
Examples:
- Partner with a local vet for discounted wellness exams for your boarding clients
- Offer a “Coffee + Canine” discount with a nearby café for pet parents who show proof of booking
- Collaborate with a pet supply store to create bundled “new pet parent” starter kits
5. Offer Memberships or Loyalty Programs
Recurring revenue models like monthly memberships or punch-card rewards give pet parents extra incentive to keep coming back. For new customers, knowing there’s added value over time makes it easier to choose you over competitors.
Membership perks could include:
- Discounted boarding or grooming packages
- Priority booking during busy holidays
- Free birthday treats or spa upgrades for pets
6. Leverage Social Media Challenges
Run a fun online campaign, like a “Cutest Pet Trick Contest” or “Best Dressed Dog Halloween Contest.” Encourage entries through photo or video submissions, with winners receiving discounts or freebies. Social media challenges spark engagement, drive word-of-mouth buzz, and expand your reach.
7. Highlight Customer Testimonials and Reviews
Trust is everything in pet care. Feature glowing customer reviews and success stories prominently on your website and social media. New customers want reassurance that their pets will be in safe, loving hands—and nothing proves it like another pet parent’s endorsement. To gather these reviews, email every happy client after their visit, prompting them to leave a review. You can also leave a QR code flyer in your lobby that scans to your Google My Business page.
8. Create Educational Content
Position yourself as the local pet expert by offering blog posts, quick tips on social media, or short videos about pet health, training, and care. This not only builds trust but also improves your search engine visibility, helping new customers find you online.
Content ideas:
- “Top 5 Things to Pack for Your Dog’s Boarding Stay”
- “How to Tell if Your Dog Needs Professional Grooming”
- “Local Dog-Friendly Spots You Shouldn’t Miss”
9. Run Seasonal or Holiday Promotions
Tap into pet parents’ desire to celebrate with their furry friends. Offer special packages for Valentine’s Day (“Puppy Love Spa Day”), Halloween (“Howl-O-Ween Boarding”), or Christmas gift certificates. Seasonal promotions give customers a timely reason to book with you.
10. Simplify the Booking Process
At the end of the day, the easier it is to book with you, the more new customers you’ll win. Offer online reservations, mobile booking, and automated confirmations so busy pet parents can book in seconds. Convenience is often the deciding factor between you and a competitor.
If a pet parent compares two kennels—one requires phone calls during business hours and the other allows 24/7 online booking—the second option almost always wins.
Grow Smarter With the Right Tools
Attracting new customers doesn’t have to mean competing on price or overextending yourself. By embracing creative promotions, community-building, and modern tools, you can set your pet business apart and create lasting connections with pet parents.
With Revelation Pets, you can take many of these strategies to the next level. From seamless online booking to automated customer communications and marketing integrations, our software helps you deliver the kind of convenience and professionalism that today’s pet parents expect.
Attract and retain new customers with the right tools. Start a free Revelation Pets trial now!
Share this article
