Growing up, I was always surrounded by pets. Along with my family, my aunts, uncles, and Grandparents all had either a dog, cat, or other type of domestic companion.We also all had the same veterinarian. A visit to our vet was always a positive experience and she knew our family (and our pets!) like the back of her hand.

About a year ago I decided it was time to get a dog of my own. Soon after, I had all of the supplies and my new fuzzy companion there was one thing I was missing, a veterinarian! Being away from my home town, I turned to referrals from all of the pet owners I knew.

The Truth: Pet owners trust the opinion of fellow pet owners FIRST. All other research and opinion is secondary.

Referrals are the backbone of any veterinary practice. Building strong relationships with your current pet owners will create a successful, self-sustaining business built upon an atmosphere that is honest, hard-working and compassionate.

• Offer free gifts and veterinary promotional items, such as personalized pet food lids to show appreciation
• Send congratulations cards and business greeting cards to share in celebrations
• Show concern for pet dental health with personalized veterinary toothbrushes
• Appointment reminder postcards and other veterinary marketing allow you to keep growing and strengthening relationships with your pet owners