The medical industry has been using digital communications for years, automating scheduling, digitalizing records, and even using SMS marketing to help bring better care to those in need; but what about our furry companions? Our pets deserve the same medical attention. For most people with pets, the answer is a resounding, yes. Maybe you’ve tried keeping in touch with your clients, but it has not been as successful as you hoped. If email isn’t getting though to your patients, what else can you do?  Did you know the open rate of SMS marketing is 98 percent compared to 22 percent for email reminders?

Here’s a few ways SMS marketing can be used to help provide the best care possible for our four-legged and feathered friends:

1. Medication Reminders 

Flea and tick medications can expire, so it’s common to purchase these medications in 3 or 6-month increments, getting more as you need them or run out. However, remembering to pick up more medication may be overlooked by busy pet owners. SMS messaging is great way to remind pet owners that medications are running low and need to be replenished. 

2. Local Alerts 

As a veterinarian, it’s important to keep your customers apprised of any wildlife challenges, or health threats to the local population of pets. For example, when food is scarce in rural areas, large predatorily animals may encroach into urban areas looking for food. Small dogs and cats can fall victim to these larger predators. Keeping pet owners aware of safety issues and local news regarding wildlife is a great way to ensure happy, health patients, while also encouraging pet owners to be vigilant about their pet’s health and well-being. 

3. Get Some Feedback

One of the best ways to measure your clinic’s success is by gathering feedback from your customers. While some people may ignore an email survey, offering surveys via SMS marketing is a great compromise. SMS marketing for veterinarians makes it easy to stay connected with consumers, and listen to what they have to say. 

4. Confirm Appointments 

In areas where veterinarian services are scarce, keeping a schedule of appointments is about seeing as many patients as possible in a timely manner. If pet owners forget, or are late to an appointment, it can cost the clinic valuable time and resources. SMS marketing is a great way to confirm patient appointments and gives pet owners the ability to confirm without making a phone call; it’s as easy as, well, a text!

5. Have Some Fun!

Let’s be honest, cute cat videos rule the Internet. As a vet, you should embrace your customer’s love of animals and enjoy sharing fun, related content that will brighten their day. What’s more, the loss of a pet can be equal to losing a family member; be a source of healing by letting pet owners know you’re there for them, not just as a service, but as a friend in times of need. SMS marketing for veterinarians is a great way to see more engagement from pet owners, and ensure that your providing the best care possible for your furry patients.