HOW TO ATTRACT PET OWNERS AND THOSE WHO BUY FOR THEM TO YOUR SHOP

We recommend having a permanent pet department in-store, offering cards, gifts and more for pet owners, pet lovers and those who buy for them.

Here are suggestions on how to pitch your business as playing in this space. Shoppers make assumptions as to what you stock in your business. Pet related products could be outside those expectations. hence, these suggestions to reach outside your business and find interested shoppers.

1. Water bowl. Have one out the front of the shop. Keep it clean and full.
2. Being dog friendly. Make sure people passing by know they can come in with their dog. Also, post photos on social media of dogs in the shop.
3. Treats. Give away treats at the counter.
4. On socials. Post regularly about dogs, cats and other pets. Show you are committed to pets. be subtle in connecting with what you sell.
5. Host events. These could be online events like the cutest cat photo in town where people post photos on your feed or an in-store dog show where people walk their dogs through and shoppers vote.
6. Promote local animal shelters.
7. Have a pet pic wall. Where people post pics of their pets. This brings a visual warmth to the shop.
8. Educate. Show people how your pet products can bring smiles and love to those who can no longer have pets in nursing homes, apartments and elsewhere. Plush, Perfect Petzzz and similar work well here.
9. Window. Regularly pitch pet related products in your front window if you have one.
10. Use the counter. Give pet owners and those who buy for the an opportunity to bug on impulse at the counter.
11. Have a broad range of products. Cards, mugs, bowls, dog bandannas, plush, books, homewares items, coasters, screen cleaners, key rings. The broader the range the better.
12. Refresh. Change the display around to keep it looking fresh.
13. Participate. Look out for pet related events in your community. Participate.