How to Get More Client Reviews for Your Vet Practice (and Why it Matters)
If there’s one thing we know about pet parents, it’s that they love talking about their pets. And if there’s another thing we know, it’s that they also love talking about their experiences — especially when it comes to the people they trust with their furry family members.
So, when it comes to growing your vet practice, client reviews aren’t just a “nice to have” — they’re your online reputation, your word-of-mouth 2.0, and your secret weapon in the fight for visibility in Google’s ever-elusive search results.
Let’s dig into why client reviews matter (a lot), and how you can start collecting them faster than a Labrador hoovering up a dropped sausage.
Why Reviews Are Basically Internet Gold
You already provide a brilliant service. But unless potential clients see that, they’ll never know. And in 2025, guess what people trust more than your shiny website or expert team bios? That’s right: other pet owners.
Here’s why client reviews are such a big deal:
Social proof: Reviews give nervous new clients a reason to trust you — without you having to say a word.
SEO brownie points: Google loves fresh, frequent reviews. They can help your practice rank higher in local search results. This will also play a part in if you are recommended by Large Language Models (LLMs) like ChatGPT or Gemini.
Feedback = growth: Constructive reviews can highlight what’s working well and what needs a tweak.
They’re free marketing: Glowing testimonials are powerful, persuasive, and 100% free (unlike that swanky billboard you considered).
Why Clients Don’t Leave Reviews (Even When They Love You)
Sometimes, clients leave your practice thrilled — their dog’s wagging, their cat’s no longer hissing, and yet... crickets online.
Here’s why:
They forget.
They’re busy.
They don’t realise how helpful it is.
They think it’ll take ages.
Your job? Make it so easy and appealing that they can’t not do it.
How to Get More Glowing Reviews:
Alright, let’s get to the practical bit. Here’s how to start gathering five-star reviews:
1. Just Ask (But Do It Right)
Train your team, receptionists are often well placed to do this, to ask for reviews at the perfect moment — ideally after a great appointment. Try something like:
“If you’ve been happy with our care today, we’d really appreciate a quick Google review. It helps other pet owners find us!”
Keep it friendly and low-pressure — nobody likes a guilt trip.
2. Make It Ridiculously Easy
Send a follow-up email or text with a direct link to your review page. The fewer clicks, the better. Bonus points if you include a thank-you and a cute dog GIF.
3. Use Signage in Your Practice
A cheeky sign at reception saying, “Did we make your tail wag? Leave us a review!” can work wonders. QR codes are your friend here.
4. Automate the Ask
If you use a practice management system with review automation (e.g. Vetstoria, PetsApp, or Animana), set it to send review requests after appointments. Less faff, more feedback.
5. Respond to Reviews (Even the Odd One-Star)
Replying to reviews shows you care. Thank people for the good ones, and handle the not-so-good ones gracefully (deep breaths — no snarky replies!).
6. Feature Reviews in Your Marketing
Turn standout testimonials into social media posts, website quotes, or framed prints in your waiting room. When people see that others love you, they want to join the fan club.
Bonus Tips (Because You Deserve Them)
Run a review drive: “Leave us a review in April and you’ll be entered into a draw to win a pet hamper!” Just check you’re not violating any review platform guidelines (no bribery, just fun incentives).
Thank your reviewers: A quick message or shoutout on social media goes a long way.
The Bottom Line?
Client reviews are one of the most powerful — and underused — tools in your marketing toolbox. They build trust, boost visibility, and attract more of the clients you want. So don’t be shy — ask for those five stars, and give future pet parents a reason to choose you over the vet down the road.
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