The relationship counts says, Matthew Salois, PhD, citing recent metrics from the AVMA’s most recent Pet Ownership and Demographics Sourcebook < link >. Based on the research, he is confident developing a strong veterinarian-client bond can help get more pets into practices on an ongoing basis for the preventive healthcare we know they need.
Salois also noted the difference by species. The research found that even for dogs nearly one in five don’t see a veterinarian at least once a year. Forty six percent of all cats and 44 percent of companion horses don’t get to the vet annually, and 88 percent of pet birds don’t.
Source: DVM360, October 22, 3019. Link.
Whatever steps you and your team can take today to get clients from any veterinarian to their veterinarian will, in the end, improve the chances those pet owners will get their favorite animals in to you.
INSIGHTS: One place to start is within clinic records. Consider a “we want you back” campaign and use a combination of letters, postcards and social media. Isolate clients whose pets have not been seen using 14 months as the minimum and 20 months as the maximum absentee time period. Consider social media as the place to present the benefits of regular care and wellness. Stage complementary direct mail pieces every two to three weeks. After six to nine weeks, have staff members call to talk to the pet owner, update the clinic record and inquire about new or additional pets.