The Power of Google Reviews: Why Your Kennel or Cattery Needs Them

Do you Google businesses before making a decision?

Chances are, you do. Whether you’re looking for a pet boarding facility, a groomer, or a vet, a quick Google search is the first step. But with multiple businesses appearing in the search results, how do you decide which one to choose?

Google lists businesses and displays essential details like location, hours, website, and—most importantly—customer reviews. A star rating next to each business makes it easy to compare options at a glance.

If you’re choosing between a kennel with a 2-star rating and another with 4.5 stars, which one would you trust with your pet? The answer is obvious.

Why Google Reviews Matter for Your Pet Business

Google reviews aren’t just digital word-of-mouth—they’re a powerful decision-making tool for pet parents. Here’s why they’re essential for your kennel or cattery:

• First impressions matter – Reviews are among the first things potential customers see in search results.
• Trust and credibility – 88% of consumers trust online reviews as much as personal recommendations.
• Social proof – More reviews signal that your business is established and trustworthy.
• Pet parents are cautious – Since pets are family, pet parents rely heavily on reviews to make informed decisions.

More reviews = more trust = more bookings.

How to Get More Google Reviews for Your Pet Business

Encouraging satisfied customers to leave a review is easier than you think. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide:

• Search for your business – Type your kennel or cattery name and city into Google.
• Find your profile – On the right-hand side, you’ll see your business profile with a “Write a Review” button. Click it.
• Copy the review link – Once the review box pops up, copy the URL from the address bar.
• Send an email request – Paste the link into an email to past and current customers, asking them to share their experience.
• Make it easy – Shorten the URL or hyperlink it to make your message look cleaner.

💡 Pro Tip: Preload a 5-Star Rating!

Want to subtly encourage positive reviews? Here’s a trick: The Google review URL typically ends with a 3 (neutral rating). If you replace it with a 5, it pre-selects a 5-star rating when customers open the link.

Example:

• Original URL: …3
• Optimized URL: …3,5

Customers can still adjust the rating, but seeing five stars pre-selected may nudge them in a positive direction!

Google reviews are free and easy to collect, and they are one of the most influential factors in attracting new pet parents to your business. A well-reviewed kennel or cattery stands out in search results and builds trust instantly.

Take a few minutes today to send out review requests and see the difference it makes in your bookings!

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