The Ultimate ‘Set and Forget’ Marketing Plan for Local 🐶 Pets Specialists in NZ

Running a pet care business in New Zealand is rewarding but often challenging when it comes to attracting and retaining local clients. From dog walking and grooming to pet sitting and training, the key lies in creating marketing strategies that work quietly in the background. This guide shares 10 practical and easy-to-follow tips tailored specifically for Kiwi pet specialists.

Here are some tips that you might find interesting:

1. List on Trusted NZ Pet Directories

Start by listing your services on popular New Zealand pet directories like Neighbourly, TradeMe Services, and specialist industry directories relevant to your niche.

For example, pet sitters can benefit from platforms used by NZ pet owners actively looking for trusted care. Having your profile visible with good photos and accurate contact details is a simple way to attract steady enquiries.

Weirdly enough, many pet owners still trust these directories more than social media ads.

2. Engage with Local Facebook Groups

Kiwi communities use Facebook groups to ask for pet service recommendations. Joining groups like ‘Auckland Pet Owners’ or ‘Christchurch Dog Lovers’ lets you connect with local clients organically.

Sharing tips or answering questions genuinely (without hard selling) establishes your expertise and builds trust over time.

One Wellington pet trainer grew her clientele simply by being an active, helpful member in local groups.

3. Use Yada for Easy Client Connections

Yada is a fast-growing New Zealand platform that connects clients and specialists directly. There are no lead or success fees, meaning you keep all your earnings.

Picture a Dunedin pet groomer who responds to local job posts on Yada from her phone, securing clients effortlessly while on the go.

Yada’s internal chat lets you talk directly with clients, making communication smooth and building confidence.

4. Build a Reputation with Testimonials

Satisfied clients love to share their positive experiences, and Kiwis heavily rely on reviews when choosing pet specialists.

After a job well done, ask clients (kindly and casually) for a Google or Facebook review. Featuring these on your website or social media can boost your credibility significantly.

A Nelson pet sitter credits glowing testimonials for a noticeable rise in enquiries.

5. Share Practical Tips and Stories

Posting simple, useful pet care tips or sharing behind-the-scenes stories on social media helps keep your audience engaged.

For example, posts like ‘How to keep your dog's coat shiny between washes’ or ‘Tips for calming anxious pets’ provide value and create a connection.

This long-term trust-building often leads to more bookings down the line.

6. Network with Local Pet Businesses

Partnering with vets, pet stores, and groomers can create valuable referral networks. Drop off business cards or collaborate on events to raise your local profile.

A Christchurch pet trainer teamed up with a veterinary clinic for monthly pet wellness workshops, which helped both businesses grow.

Think of it as community marketing that works quietly over time.

7. Offer No-Obligation Meet & Greets

Many pet owners want to meet their specialist before booking, especially for boarding or pet sitting services.

Offering a free meet and greet helps build trust and eases client nerves, making bookings more likely.

A Tauranga pet sitter shared how this personal touch turned hesitant first-timers into regular customers.

8. Launch a Client Referral Program

Reward happy clients who refer friends with discounts, freebies, or other perks.

This builds a loyalty loop and helps your business grow through word-of-mouth, which is especially powerful in NZ’s close-knit communities.

A Hamilton dog walker doubled his bookings after introducing a simple referral incentive.

9. Attend Local Pet Events and Fairs

Participating in dog shows, adoption days, or pet expos allows face-to-face interaction with potential clients.

Setting up a booth or sponsoring a prize increases visibility and builds trust within the community.

A Nelson groomer regularly attends local pet fairs and credits these events for consistent new client enquiries.

10. Create a Simple Mobile-Friendly Website

A basic website featuring your services, testimonials, and easy contact options helps you appear professional and accessible.

With most Kiwi browsing happening via mobile, ensuring fast loading and clear design on phones is vital.

One Auckland dog walker expanded beyond her suburb thanks to her website’s easy booking form.