In today’s digital age, having a strong online presence is essential for pet businesses like boarding facilities, groomers, veterinary clinics, and pet resorts. One of the most powerful yet often overlooked tools is your Google Maps listing. Optimising this can dramatically increase your visibility and help pet parents find your services quickly. Here’s how to make the most out of your Google Maps listing, ensuring it’s working hard for your business.
1. Claim and Verify Your Business Listing
First and foremost, if you haven’t claimed your business on Google My Business (GMB), do so now. This step is non-negotiable. By claiming and verifying your listing, you’re telling Google that you’re the rightful owner and that your business is legitimate.
How to do it:
Visit Google My Business and sign in with your business account.
Search for your business name and follow the prompts to claim it.
Complete the verification process, which may involve a phone call or a postcard from Google.
2. Ensure Accurate and Complete Information
Your business information should be comprehensive and accurate. Pet parents searching for “pet groomers near me” or “24/7 vet services” need to know your exact services, operating hours, and contact details. Inaccurate information can lead to frustrated customers and lost business.
Key details to include:
Correct business name, address, and phone number
Detailed business categories (e.g., “Pet Boarding Service,” “Veterinary Clinic,” etc.)
Current operating hours, including holiday hours
Your website and booking links
3. Use High-Quality Photos
A picture says a thousand words, and for pet businesses, showing your facilities, happy customers, and adorable pets can make all the difference. Listings with quality photos get significantly more clicks and engagement.
Tips for great photos:
Use a mix of interior shots (grooming areas, waiting rooms, play spaces) and exterior shots.
Include images of your staff interacting with pets to convey warmth and trust.
Keep photos updated—seasonal decorations or events are a plus!
4. Encourage Reviews from Happy Clients
Word of mouth is powerful, and online reviews act as digital word of mouth. Ask your clients to leave reviews, especially after positive experiences. This boosts your credibility and helps potential customers trust your business. If you use pet management software like Pettle, you can also add tags to clients to identify them. If you think that certain clients were very happy with their service and are likely to give you a review, you can add that as a tag to reach out at a later stage.
How to request reviews:
Include a review request in your follow-up emails or texts.
Display signs at your front desk or reception area with a QR code linking to your Google review page.
Offer a small incentive (like a discount on their next visit) to encourage feedback.
5. Leverage Keywords and Descriptions
Optimising your business description with relevant keywords helps your listing rank higher when pet parents search for services. Use natural language to describe what you offer, but incorporate terms like “pet grooming,” “boarding,” and “emergency vet.”
Example of an optimised description: “At [Your Business Name], we specialise in pet grooming, boarding, and 24/7 veterinary care. Our experienced team ensures that your furry friends receive the best care, whether it’s a simple bath or overnight stay.”
6. Utilise Google Posts
Google Posts are an underrated feature that allows you to share updates, special promotions, or news directly on your Google Maps listing. These posts appear alongside your business info and can help drive more traffic to your website or promote upcoming events.
Ideas for posts:
Seasonal grooming specials (e.g., “Summer Trim Special!”)
Pet boarding availability during holiday weekends
New services like “Luxury Pet Spa Treatments”
7. Monitor and Respond to Reviews
Engaging with your customers shows that you value their feedback and care about their experiences. Respond to both positive and negative reviews professionally. For negative feedback, a thoughtful response can showcase your commitment to resolving issues and maintaining high standards.
Best practices for responses:
Thank clients for their feedback and highlight any positive points they mentioned.
Address concerns raised in negative reviews with empathy and a willingness to make things right.
Be prompt; timely responses reflect active management.
8. Keep Your Listing Updated
Business details can change, and it’s crucial to keep your Google Maps listing current. Outdated information can frustrate potential clients and impact your reputation.
Remember to update:
Operating hours during holidays or unexpected closures
New contact information or additional services offered
Photos and posts to keep the content fresh
Conclusion
Optimising your Google Maps listing is more than a one-time task—it’s an ongoing effort. For pet boarders, groomers, vets, and resorts, a well-managed listing can significantly increase visibility and attract more clients. Follow these steps to ensure your business stands out and stays top of mind for pet parents searching for quality care.
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