In the pet care industry, everyone loves feeling valued—from the furry guests you care for to the pet parents who trust you with their beloved companions. Memberships are a simple way to show that appreciation while offering meaningful benefits and discounts. If launching a full membership program feels like a big leap, starting small with targeted discounts for special groups is an easy first step.
For example, memberships can help you extend savings to groups like veterans, active-duty military personnel, teachers, seniors, and first responders. This approach not only helps these groups feel valued but also allows your facility to test the waters with memberships while keeping things simple and effective.
Why Memberships?
Memberships help your business stand out by making clients feel like they belong to something more than just a transactional relationship. Offering an annual or monthly membership plan that includes discounts reinforces long-term commitment. Many facilities already give service discounts off-the-cuff—like a quick 10% off for military families who ask—but there’s a better way. By integrating these discounts into a formal membership structure, you make the process easier, more transparent, and more convenient for everyone.
A More Efficient Discount System
Consider how discounts often play out when done informally: a customer asks if you honor military service, and the front desk scrambles to adjust their invoice. You might remember to apply the discount this time, but what if a staff member forgets next time? A membership-based discount system solves that problem. Once you’ve enrolled a client in, say, a “Military Family Membership,” the discount automatically applies to future bookings—whether boarding, daycare, or special add-ons—without anyone having to remember. This not only streamlines operations but also ensures fairness and consistency.
Common Groups for Discounted Memberships
While military and first responders are the most commonly mentioned groups, you could tailor memberships to any segment of your community:
- Military and First Responders
- Teachers and Educators
- Seniors
Determining the Discount
Many facilities default to a 10% discount, but you could experiment with percentages that make the most sense for your business. Some locations even provide different tiers—like 5% for military families on general services and a little extra off for extended stays. Just remember to keep it simple and consistent. The discount should be easy to apply and easy for clients to understand.
When and How to Promote It
Do you need to shout these memberships from the rooftops? Not necessarily. Some businesses prefer to have it available quietly and apply it when asked. Others, especially those in communities where these groups are prevalent, make it more visible. If your facility is located near a military base, you might feature a prominent “Military Discount” badge on your website. If you serve a town with a large population of teachers, consider adding a simple mention on your membership page or in your FAQs.
Other simple ways to promote your discount program could include:
- A printed sign on your front desk
- An email announcing your program
- Occasional posts on social media
Leveraging Software for Smooth Implementation
Integrating discounts through memberships is easiest when you have a robust software system. With the right platform, you can:
- Create Specialized Membership Types: Set up multiple membership categories, like “VIP Military” or “Teacher’s Club,” each with their own discount rules.
- Automate Discounts: Once a client is enrolled, their discounts automatically apply to boarding, daycare, or add-ons—minus certain services you choose to exclude, like grooming.
- Adjust to Seasonal Rates: Dynamic pricing might raise your boarding rate during holidays or high-demand seasons, but that membership discount ensures your loyal members still feel valued.
- Maintain Flexibility: Want to reward your top customers or longtime clients? Create a VIP membership tier that offers a consistent discount and sets them apart.
Inside of Goose, you would set up these memberships as $0 memberships; meaning, you wouldn’t charge these groups on a monthly basis to enjoy that discount. You are free to create as many tiers as you would like.
Building Loyalty Beyond Discounts
Discounts are just the beginning. Consider pairing them with other membership perks, like priority booking during peak seasons or exclusive members-only events. These “membership clubs” build a sense of belonging and can help prevent price-sensitive clients from shopping around. The discount becomes more than just a deal—it’s part of a relationship built on trust and appreciation.
Putting It All Together
Offering memberships as a vehicle for discounts isn’t just a nice gesture—it’s a strategic approach to client relations. By formalizing how you provide discounts to special groups like military families or teachers, you ensure that your generosity is both recognized and easy to manage. Such a program enhances your facility’s reputation and solidifies ties with the community you serve.
At the end of the day, memberships that incorporate targeted discounts help you give back to those who matter most. They streamline operations, provide clarity, and foster loyalty. It’s a win-win, ensuring your best clients keep coming back and feel genuinely appreciated every time they walk through the door.
.svg)
