September has arrived, and it's time to embark on another exciting month of engaging content, meaningful connections, and impactful storytelling! As the seasons shift and pet care needs evolve, we're here to guide and inspire you through every step of your social media journey. Get ready to dive into a world of innovative strategies and actionable insights that will not only captivate your audience but also strengthen the bond between pet parents and their furry companions. Together, we'll create engaging, informative, and impactful content that not only resonates but also makes a positive difference in the lives of pets and their families!

September 1st is a reminder that these pesky parasites are not going anywhere anytime soon. Time to discuss preventatives and keep those furry friends protected. And don't forget, it's also Ginger Cat Appreciation Day! Spice up your posts with fun facts about those charming orange kitties or share heartwarming stories of your ginger patients.

                  As we soak up the last bit of summer on September 4^th for Labor Day, remember to notify clients about your clinic's hours during the long weekend. Safety tips are essential, covering BBQ precautions, water safety, critter awareness, and safe travel practices!

                   On National Hug Your Hound Day, September 10th, seize the opportunity to engage your followers by encouraging them to share heartwarming photos of themselves embracing their furry companions – a  delightful addition to your feed!

            September 23rd marks the arrival of autumn - it's the First Day of Fall, y'all! This is a great opportunity to discuss seasonal safety topics and engage your clients by asking what their pets are looking forward to most with the changing season.

On September 28th, raise awareness about the importance of rabies prevention for World Rabies Day. Remind clients that rabies is a present concern and share relevant facts and figures from your state's health department.

National Dog Week is September 18th-24^th and it's all about our canine companions! Highlight your K9 patients and share dog-related content all week. You could host a doggy photo contest, share interesting dog facts, or provide some lighthearted dog comics.

Cats might be mysterious, but you can help your clients understand their subtle happiness cues as well as highlight all of those awesome ways we can keep our feline friends happy! Celebrate Happy Cat Month and consider involving your clinic cat to share this valuable information.

Though not exclusive to pets, use this month to educate clients on safe and unsafe foods and diets for their furry friends in honor of Food Safety Education Month. Consider hosting a Q&A, or address frequently asked questions about nutrition that pop up during appointments. Chances are if one of your clients has a nutrition or food-related question, another does as well!

Explore different pet insurance options available and provide clients with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions for Pet Insurance Month.

Dive into what it truly means to be a responsible dog owner. Discuss comprehensive care, from dietary and medical needs to overall well-being for Responsible Dog Ownership Month.

September is Animal Pain Awareness Month. Shed light on signs of pet pain and raise awareness about commonly overlooked conditions causing discomfort. Make sure clients know what to look out for when it comes to discomfort and pain in their companion!

Observances are a little few and far between this month... here are some additional ideas to help you fill that content calendar:

When is the last time you introduced your staff? If it's been a while, consider a meet-the-staff series! Be sure to include info about your team like the types of pets they have at home, their favorite part about working in veterinary medicine, and other fun facts that will help your clients get to know them a little better.

Instead of just snapping photos of patients, try embracing a #SeptemberSelfie vibe and invite staff to take selfies with patients! Clients will love seeing staff treating patients just like they do their own pets.

Take your clients back to school with some pet trivia this September!

There you have it - a range of ideas to work with! Go forth and bring these concepts to life and incorporate them into your content calendar. Is your time too limited? The September Social Media Toolkit is a valuable resource designed to simplify your workload. Included in the toolkit is visually appealing graphics, carefully crafted captions, versatile templates, and all the support you need to get your content scheduled so you never miss a beat!

Included this month is...

• 16 Beautifully designed graphics
• A 3-Minute Narrated Autumn Safety Video
• Expertly crafted captions
• Links for templates that include Facebook, Instagram, and Stories sizes so you can jazz up your own photos from the clinic
• Tutorials to assist you and your team with adding your logo to your graphics, utilizing the templates, and scheduling your content in advance for peace of mind
• Access to free assistance and help from VHA's resident social media and marketing expert, Laura.

Remember, the toolkit is available to VHA members and non-members alike. At just $60 a month and no commitment required, we encourage you to give it a try and see the results for yourself! Whether you're looking to supplement your current social media efforts or seeking a complete solution, the September Social Media Toolkit has you covered. Elevate your online presence, engage your audience, and drive meaningful connections with pet owners. Don't miss out on this invaluable resource for veterinary clinics. Order your toolkit today and unlock the power of compelling social media content!

We use Microsoft OneDrive for file transfer and a link to download your content will be emailed to you within 24 hours.

Welcome to the dog days of summer, where we celebrate the wag-tastic month of DOGust! August is bursting at the seams with incredible pet-related observances and exciting opportunities to engage, entertain, and educate your beloved clients. Get ready to dive into a month filled with furry fun and endless PAWsibilities!

It's time for the all-important monthly preventative reminder as we kick off August. Mark your calendars for August 1st, not only to ensure you clients keep their pet protected from fleas, ticks, and mosquitos, but also to celebrate the Universal Birthday for Shelter Dogs. Combine the joy of safeguarding pets with the opportunity to honor shelter dogs and make this a memorable month of care and compassion.

     We all know the power of a slobbery kiss from a happy pet, but what if their breath leaves much to be desired? Get ready to harness the dental magic of Fresh Breath Day on August 6th and remind your clients that if       their furry companions have less-than-pleasant breath, it might be a sign that a dental check-up is in order. Let's use this observance as an opportunity to promote oral care and help pets maintain fresh, healthy smiles!

Get ready to celebrate our fabulous feline friends on August 8th, International Cat Day! It's the purr-fect occasion to showcase our beloved feline patients, engage with your audience by requesting adorable cat photos, or share fascinating feline facts that will make your followers' whiskers twitch with delight. Let's make this day a meow-nificent celebration of all things cat-related, because our furry friends deserve the spotlight!

Gear up for some epic pooch pampering! National Spoil Your Dog Day arrives on August 10th, offering the paw-fect opportunity to educate your clients about healthy and safe ways to indulge their furry companions. From invigorating sniff walks and extra playtime to brain-building puzzles, luxurious pup massages, and scrumptious, nutritious treats, let's inspire pet parents to shower their dogs with love and care in ways that promote their well-being. Get ready to unleash the ultimate spoiling session for our canine friends!

Get ready to tickle your funny bone because August 16th is Tell a Joke Day! I can't resist a good punny and cheesy pet joke. Share a couple of lighthearted gems with your clients to brighten their day and bring smiles     to their faces. Then, encourage them to join in on the laughter by sharing their own hilarious pet jokes.

It's time to set the record straight about black cats! Despite the superstitions, we know they're absolutely purr-fect. Celebrate National Black Cat Appreciation Day on August 17th, and shine the spotlight on these elegant "tiny house panthers." Feature black cat patients or invite clients to share their own black cat photos. Let's celebrate the enigmatic charm and beauty of black cats together!

Mark your calendars for August 20th, World Mosquito Day! It's the perfect occasion to delve into the nitty-gritty details of the risks mosquitoes pose to our furry friends. Let's use this opportunity to raise awareness about the importance of year-round heartworm prevention and emphasize just how crucial it is to safeguard our pets from these pesky insects. Together, we can ensure a happier, healthier, mosquito-free life for our beloved companions!

Get ready for a crucial observance on August 22nd: Take Your Cat to The Vet Day! It's time to address the common tendency among well-meaning cat owners to provide reactive rather than proactive vet care, unlike our canine companions who often receive routine preventative care. Additionally, this is a purrfect blog topic - explore the differences between reactive and proactive care (and their associated costs), provide tips on making travel to your office more comfortable for feline friends, highlight the steps your clinic takes to reduce cat stress, and emphasize the importance of regular and consistent veterinary care for our beloved feline companions. It's time to prioritize the well-being of our aloof yet adorable kitties!

Get ready to unleash the excitement because August 26th is International Dog Day! One paw-some idea to celebrate is by hosting a "Then and Now" extravaganza. Invite your followers to share the oldest photo they have of their furry companions and compare it to a recent one, showcasing the heartwarming journey they've shared. Let's make this day a heart-melting celebration of the incredible bond between humans and their four-legged best friends!

On August 28th, we honor and remember our beloved pets who have crossed the Rainbow Bridge. Rainbow Bridge Remembrance Day provides a meaningful platform for grieving owners to share photos and cherished memories of their departed furry companions. Let's create a supportive environment where they can reflect on the immense joy their pets brought into their lives. Engagement is key on this day, so remember to respond to comments and provide comfort during this heartfelt journey of remembrance. Together, let's honor the eternal bond between humans and their cherished pets.

    Get ready for a heartwarming initiative called Give A Dog A Bone Week! Running from August 10th to 16th, this dedicated week focuses on supporting stray animals and pets belonging to individuals experiencing            homelessness. It is a meaningful awareness project led by the Pets of The Homeless Organization. If your clinic is involved in this compassionate work, seize the opportunity to highlight your participation during this       special week. You can also use the provided map to locate donation centers or even consider becoming a donation center yourself. Let's come together and make a positive impact in the lives of these deserving            animals!

August is National Immunization Month and, while this observance isn't specific to pets, it presents a wonderful opportunity to shine a spotlight on your clinic's vaccine recommendations. Take it a step further by delving into a detailed blog that breaks down the importance of vaccines in pet health and the specific vaccines you recommend. Let's seize this month to educate and empower pet owners to make informed decisions about their furry friends' immunizations.

As families gear up for the back-to-school season in August, it's essential to be aware of potential hazards for our furry friends. While most school supplies are non-toxic, it's still important to remind pet parents to keep these items safely stored away from curious kitties and dogs. Amidst the scented crayons and glue sticks, let's ensure a pet-friendly environment by spreading the word about responsible storage and keeping our beloved companions out of harm's way.

So there you have it, the ideas are in your hands! Now it's time to bring them to life by creating your content and scheduling it out. But wait, if you're strapped for time, don't worry—we've got you covered! Introducing our August Social Media Toolkit, designed to make your already busy life a little easier. Inside, you'll find a treasure trove of aesthetically pleasing graphics, expertly crafted captions, and customizable templates to share the fun stuff, from adorable patient photos to behind-the-scenes glimpses of your amazing staff. And if you're ready to take convenience to the next level, reach out to Laura! She can customize and schedule the content for you, giving you a truly hands-off experience.

Included this month is...

• 19 Beautifully designed graphics
• 19 Expertly crafted captions
• Links for templates that include Facebook, Instagram, and Stories sizes so you can jazz up your own photos from the clinic
• Tutorials to assist you and your team with adding your logo to your graphics, utilizing the templates, and scheduling your content in advance for peace of mind
• Access to free assistance and help from VHA's resident social media and marketing expert, Laura.

Remember, the toolkit is available to VHA members and non-members alike. At just $60 a month and no commitment required, we encourage you to give it a try and see the results for yourself! Whether you're looking to supplement your current social media efforts or seeking a complete solution, the August Social Media Toolkit has you covered. Elevate your online presence, engage your audience, and drive meaningful connections with pet owners. Don't miss out on this invaluable resource for veterinary clinics. Order your toolkit today and unlock the power of compelling social media content!

We use Microsoft OneDrive for file transfer and a link to download your content will be emailed to you within 24 hours.

Attention, veterinary social media managers! This July, let's rev up your online presence and create a buzz among your followers. We've got the best tips, tricks, and trends to help you deliver an engaging and informative experience for your audience. From pet fire safety to celebrating ice cream, we'll guide you through the exciting adventures that await this month. So, fire up your favorite content creation tool (ours is Canva!), and let’s plan your content calendar for the month!

July 1st - Preventative Reminder: You know the drill! July 1st is also ID Your Pet Day so double dip by reminding clients to not only protect their pet with monthly preventatives but to check their tag to ensure all of the info is up-to-date and accurate. Here's a fact to share with your following - according to Animal Control Officers across the country, there tends to be about a 30% increase in missing pets around the July 4th holiday.

July 4th - Independence Day: Celebrate with some last-minute reminders about distraction techniques for firework-frightened pets, reminders about BBQ safety, and information about heat safety!

 July 6th - World Zoonoses Day: This is a great opportunity to discuss the impact of pet health on the overall health of families and communities! Discuss core vaccines, common zoonotic diseases, and how pet owners can ensure the health and safety of everyone, their pet included!

 July 10th - Kitten Day: Hip Hip, Hooray! It's Kitten Day and one of the most adorable reasons to celebrate. Show off some throwback photos of the cuddly kittens that have come to see you, and encourage cat owners to show off photos of their cats now and when they were kittens if they have them.

 July 11th - All American Pet Photo Day: This is a great excuse to get your paws on some great snapshots to update your cover photo, or to put together an adorable little slideshow in stories/reels. User-generated content is great for you because it saves time and effort, and helps your clients feel better connected to your clinic!

July 15th - Pet Fire Safety Day: It's estimated that about 40,000 pets die in residential fires each year, most from smoke inhalation, and 500,000 pets are affected overall. Providing essential educational content on pet fire safety is a must. Make sure to cover the important points, such as always supervising pets around controlled fire like candles and fireplaces, having a fire evacuation plan, and discussing the importance of having a pet fire safety sticker in their windows!

July 16th - Ice Cream Day: Encourage your followers to treat their pets to delicious frozen delights with homemade, pet-friendly recipes. Share ideas that will have tails wagging and whiskers twitching with excitement. Remind your audience about moderation and avoiding harmful ingredients.

July 17th - World Emoji Day: Join in on the emoji fun by inviting your followers to spell their pet's name using emojis. Celebrate their furry companions and showcase their unique personalities. It's a playful twist to engage your community and show appreciation for their pets. Let the emoji spelling extravaganza begin!

July 20th - Get to Know Your Customers Day: Engage with your valued customers on a personal level by showing genuine interest in their pets' stories and needs. Celebrate their furry family members and express gratitude for their trust and support. Let's build strong relationships and enhance customer satisfaction!

July 26th - National Dog Photography Day: Celebrate the art of capturing our canine companions in stunning photographs. Encourage followers to share their favorite dog photos, offer tips on composition and lighting, and even host a dog photo contest.

July 31st - Mutt Day: Embrace the unique charm and love that mutts bring into our lives. Share heartwarming stories, adorable photos, and the benefits of adopting mixed-breed dogs. Let's celebrate the diversity and beauty of mutts while spreading the message that every dog deserves love, regardless of their pedigree.

July Highlights:

Pet Hydration Awareness Month: Share valuable tips on keeping pets hydrated and healthy during the hot summer months. Educate your audience about the signs of dehydration and provide creative ways to ensure proper hydration for their furry friends. Let's quench the thirst for knowledge and keep our pets cool and well-hydrated!

Independent Retailer Month: Give a shout-out to your loyal customers for supporting your in-house or online pharmacy. Express gratitude and encourage others to support local businesses!

 National Lost Pet Prevention Month: Join forces to raise awareness and empower pet owners to take proactive steps in keeping their furry companions safe. Share valuable tips on preventing pet loss, such as microchipping, proper identification tags, and creating a pet emergency plan.

Join us this July as we raise awareness, celebrate our furry friends, and create engaging content that resonates with our audience. Let's make a positive impact on the lives of pets and their owners through the power of social media!

Running short on time you can devote to social media? No worries - we have the purrfect solution for you. July's Social Media Toolkit is designed to elevate your clinic's social media presence effortlessly and effectively. For just $60, you'll receive a curated collection of 16 ready-to-post pieces of content, thoughtfully crafted with pet-centric themes and engaging visuals. Each piece can be easily customized with your clinic's logo, ensuring a personalized touch. We've also included expertly written captions that are as easy as copy and paste, saving you time and effort. But that's not all! Our toolkit provides templates for creating custom pieces, allowing you to showcase your clinic's unique personality and services. Plus, you'll have access to tutorials that guide you through utilizing the toolkit to its fullest potential. Whether you're looking to supplement your current social media efforts or seeking a complete solution, our July Social Media Toolkit has you covered. Elevate your online presence, engage your audience, and drive meaningful connections with pet owners. Don't miss out on this invaluable resource for veterinary clinics. Order your toolkit today and unlock the power of compelling social media content!

We use Microsoft OneDrive for file transfer and a link to download your content will be emailed to you within 24 hours.

It's almost June! Check out these content ideas to help you connect with your audience on social media. From highlighting pet health tips for the summer season to showcasing gone but never forgotten pets on World Pet Memorial Day, we've curated engaging content ideas that will leave a lasting impact on your followers. Also provided are expert tips on optimizing your social media posts and leveraging effective storytelling techniques to drive engagement and trust. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting to create content, this June edition is packed with insights to help you shine on social media. Let's jump right in and make this June a month of impactful connections and valuable engagement with your online community!

Monthly Preventative Reminder (June 1st): As schools let out for summer and outdoor activities increase, remind your clients about the importance of protecting their pets from fleas, ticks, and mosquitos. Emphasize the risks associated with spending more time outdoors and offer tips on preventative measures.

National Hug Your Cat Day (June 4th): Engage with your cat-owning clients by encouraging them to share selfies of themselves snuggling their feline friends. Remind clients that while not all feline friends enjoy a snuggle-sesh, they can give their beloved cats their own custom version of a hug like extra treat or two, or some good quality chin scritchies!

Pet Appreciation Week (June 4th - June 10th): Dedicate this week to showcasing essential elements of successful veterinary social media. Educate your audience with informative posts, entertain them with in-clinic photos of beloved pets, and engage them by asking how they show appreciation to their pets!

National Best Friends Day (June 8th): Celebrate the special bond between pets and their best friends. Encourage clients to share heartwarming photos of their pets with their closest companions, whether humans, furry buddies, or even a beloved stuffed toy.

World Pet Memorial Day (June 13th): Create a compassionate space for pet owners to remember and honor their beloved companions who have crossed the rainbow bridge. Craft a thoughtful message and invite clients to share stories and photos, fostering healing and community support.

 Father's Day (June 18th): Pay tribute to all the amazing dads and father figures out there!

Take Your Cat to Work Day (June 19th): If you have a clinic cat, seize the opportunity to highlight their contributions to the clinic. Describe their "on-the-job" duties, such as official treat tester, client greeter, or seat warmer, and share photos of them in action.

Summer & National Selfie Day (June 21st): Celebrate the start of summer and National Selfie Day together. Encourage clients to share their favorite selfies with their pets and ask what their furry friends are most excited about this summer.

National Hydration Day (June 23rd): Provide valuable information on keeping pets hydrated during the hot months ahead. Share tips for increasing hydration, guidelines on monitoring water intake, and the importance of staying hydrated for pet health.

Cat World Domination Day (June 24th): Playfully engage your audience by asking what laws they think would be in place if cats ruled the world. Encourage clients to share their humorous and creative responses.

National Social Media Day (June 30th): Celebrate the impact of social media on communication and interaction. Engage your audience by seeking their input on what they enjoy seeing on your clinic's social media. Express gratitude to your clients for their support, comments, shares, and reviews, emphasizing the importance of their online presence for promoting an independently-run vet clinic.

There are lots of monthly observances to sprinkle into your calendar! Here are some awesome ideas:

    Adopt-A-Cat Month and Social PETworking Month: These two observances can be seamlessly tied together. Social PETworking utilizes social media platforms to connect pets in need with loving homes.        Collaborate with a local shelter or rescue organization to help promote their available cats during Adopt-A-Cat Month. It's the perfect opportunity to showcase the adorable feline friends seeking their forever families!

National Microchipping Month: While microchips are crucial year-round, June provides an excellent opportunity to emphasize their importance. Since you've already covered National Chip Your Pet Month last month, you can further elaborate on the topic or reshare the valuable information you shared in May. Highlight the benefits of microchipping and how it helps reunite lost pets with their owners.

National Pet Preparedness Month: Take this chance to educate pet owners on the essential steps they need to take to prepare for potential emergencies. Tailor your content to the specific challenges your area may face, such as tornadoes, hurricanes, or earthquakes. Share tips on creating emergency kits, evacuation plans, and keeping pets safe during disasters.

Summer Safety Considerations: As the summer season kicks off, pet owners need to be aware of various safety considerations. Create a comprehensive blog post that covers a range of topics, such as swim safety, hot pavement precautions, and protecting pets from heatstroke. Compile all the necessary information in one place, and use it as a resource for posting on these specific topics throughout the summer.

By incorporating these observances into your content calendar, you'll provide valuable insights, foster engagement, and establish your clinic as a trusted source of information for pet owners!

No time to turn these ideas into content? No worries, VHA’s June Social Media Toolkit is your stress-free solution!

We understand that running a veterinary clinic and managing social media can be time-consuming. That's why we've created the ultimate June Social Media Toolkit to simplify your content creation process. Get ready to elevate your clinic's online presence with high-quality, educational, engaging, and entertaining content that will captivate your audience all month long!

Here's what our June Social Media Toolkit has in store for you:

1.     15 Ready-to-Post Content Pieces: Our toolkit includes a variety of pre-made posts tailored to the month of June. From adorable quotes about pets, to educational information on pet hydration, we have filled the calendar with posts that will educate, engage, and entertain your following.

2.     Summer Safety Video: We've got you covered with a professionally crafted video that highlights essential summer safety tips for pets. This attention-grabbing visual asset will not only educate your followers but also add a dynamic touch to your social media feed.

3.     Captivating Captions: Crafting compelling captions can be a challenge, but we've done the hard work for you. Our toolkit provides ready-to-use captions that perfectly complement each post. Simply copy and paste, and you're ready to go!

4.     Tutorials and Support: We want to ensure that utilizing the toolkit is a breeze. That's why we provide step-by-step tutorials to guide you through adding your clinic's logo to the content and scheduling your posts efficiently. You'll also find helpful tips and tricks to make the most of your social media strategy.

5.     Fun Photo Templates: Enhance your visual storytelling by using our customizable templates to showcase photos of your adorable patients. These eye-catching templates are designed to spark joy and generate excitement among your followers.

With VHA's June Social Media Toolkit, you can say goodbye to the stress of creating engaging content from scratch. We've carefully crafted a collection of assets that will save you time while ensuring your clinic's social media remains informative, entertaining, and visually appealing.

Don't miss out on this opportunity to elevate your social media game. Get your hands on our June Social Media Toolkit and enjoy a month filled with captivating content that will delight both your existing and potential clients!

We use Microsoft OneDrive for file transfer and a link to download your content will be emailed to you within 24 hours.

Welcome to May! With the start of the spring season, it's also the busiest time of the year for most clinics. We've put together some awesome ideas to help you get a jump start on the month and make the most out of all that May has to offer! These ideas will help you stay organized, promote your clinic's services, and engage with your clients on social media. So let's dive in and make this May a success.

Don’t forget to send out a preventative reminder on May 1^st!

Dog Anxiety Awareness Week runs May 1-7th and is a great opportunity to highlight the 3 S's - Separation, Sound, and Strangers - which are the most common triggers of anxiety in dogs. Share information about signs and tips for managing anxiety in regular posts and direct interested clients to your stories for more details. By raising awareness and providing guidance, you can help improve the well-being of pets and their owners.

May 3rd is Specially-Abled Pets Day, a great opportunity to celebrate pets with disabilities who are living life to the fullest. Consider reaching out to the owners of wheelie dogs, triPAWDs, and other specially-abled pets and ask if you can feature their inspiring stories on your social media page. Share some of their favorite photos and describe how you've helped them overcome challenges related to their condition. These stories can help raise awareness about pets with disabilities and inspire others to help these pets live long and fulfilling lives. Celebrating these pets will not only make them feel special, but it will also make you feel good knowing you've made a positive impact.

May the 4th Be with You on Star Wars Day! This day is not only for Star Wars fans but also for pet lovers who love to have some fun. Consider engaging your followers by asking them if their pets were Star Wars characters, which side would they be on - the dark side or the light side? You can also encourage them to share what their pets would do if they had the force. If you're feeling creative, ask your clients to share their pet photos and then use Canva to Star Wars-ify them. This can be a fun way to interact with your clients and increase engagement on your social media page. Have fun and may the force be with you!

Cinco De Mayo is a great time to highlight dog breeds from Mexico! If you have a Xoloitzcuintli visiting your clinic, give them a feature! Chances are you don’t, but you likely see plenty of Chihuahuas, which are also native to Mexico. Take this opportunity to share fun facts and interesting information about these festive breeds. The AKC website offers a wealth of knowledge about both the Xoloitzcuintli and the Chihuahua. Check out this link for some great insights: https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/lifestyle/mexican-dog-breeds-xoloitzcuintli-chihuahua/

Be Kind to Animals Week and National Pet Week are both celebrated May 7^th-13^th! Here are some ideas for both:

Be Kind To Animals Week is a great way to raise awareness about the importance of animal welfare and the role that veterinary clinics play in promoting it. Consider collaborating with an animal welfare organization or the Humane Society to share their content on your social media. This will help raise awareness of their work and show that your clinic is committed to supporting animal welfare.

National Pet Week is a great time to feature the beneficial role that pets play in the lives of their owners! Be sure to include companionship, mental health, increased physical activity, social interaction, reduced stress, and the fact that they could help boost immune health!

National Animal Disaster Preparedness Day is on May 8th, and it's a crucial reminder for pet owners to be prepared for emergencies. Natural disasters like tornadoes and wildfires can strike at any time, so it's important for pet owners to know exactly what     they would do in case of an emergency. Take some time to consider the most likely disasters in your area and create educational materials that can help pet owners plan for these events. A family disaster plan should always include provisions for pets, and it's important to consider all the factors involved in keeping pets safe during an emergency. Use this day to raise awareness about disaster preparedness for pets and help your clients keep their beloved companions safe.

Veterinary Receptionists are AWESOME! Your reception team is often the first and last impression on every client that walks through your doors. Celebrate your amazing receptionists on May 10^th , National Receptionist Day, by featuring them on social media!

The role of pets in our lives is evolving, and many people now consider themselves as "pet parents." Celebrate National Dog Mom's Day on May 13th by acknowledging the important role that our canine companions play in our lives. This day isn't just for women - anyone who loves and cares for their dog as a part of their family can be a dog mom or dad. It's a great opportunity to share photos of staff dog moms and their pooches and to encourage your followers to share their own selfies with their pet or pet photos. By celebrating National Dog Mom's Day, you'll show your appreciation for all the love and care that dog moms (and dads!) give to their furry family members.

       Celebrate all types of moms on Mother's Day, May 14th! Whether they have human children or fur babies, this day is for all the amazing moms out there. If you have a staff member who is a parent to both furry and human children, consider featuring a photo of them with their pack on social media. It's a great way to show appreciation for all that they do both at work and at home.

Celebrate National Rescue Dog Day on May 20th by highlighting the importance of rescue and adoption. Did you know that a little over half of pet dogs were either adopted from a shelter or rescue group, taken in as a stray, or acquired from a friend or relative? Share this information with your audience and encourage them to consider adopting their next furry friend. Collaborate with a local rescue group to showcase adoptable pets and spread awareness about the joys of rescue.

It's about to get hotter than a cat on a hot tin roof! Heat Awareness Day is coming up on May 27th, and it's time to remind pet owners about the dangers of the dog days of summer. Don't let them be clueless in the face of scorching temperatures - educate them on the signs of heatstroke and how to keep their pets cool. And if you're feeling extra creative, whip up some sizzling designs in Canva to spread the word all summer long!

If your clients are anything like me, their dog is definitely included in the Memorial Day festivities on May 30^th! Ask clients to share photos of their pet enjoying Memorial Day weekend and be sure to give some safety reminders a little bit beforehand. My favorite ones to remember are:

·       Bones at the BBQ and other dangerous foods

·        Fireworks and large gathering safety

·        Safe swimming and spending time around water practices for pets

I mean, we celebrate pet month every month, but consider a special series of patients and showcase your staff pets for Pet Month!

Foster Care Month can be used to spread awareness about the amazing work that foster-based rescues do. Encourage pet owners to get involved in this fulfilling line of volunteer work by sharing information about local rescue groups and the benefits of fostering. Celebrate the difference foster parents make in the lives of animals in need!

Chip Your Pets Month is the perfect time to promote your microchipping services. I love the idea of telling or sharing a lost pet reunited with their owner thanks to a chip kind of story. Remind clients “it’s hip to chip!”, show them how easy a microchip is placed, and break down the real cost and process of registering and anything else you feel they should know about microchips!

                         Asthma and Allergies Month is a great opportunity to show owners what allergies and asthma actually look like in pets! If you have an itchy boy or wheezy gal that can help demonstrate allergies and asthma- show them off (with owner approval, of course!) to help other clients recognize what allergies and asthma look like in real life!

May is Lyme Disease Prevention Month, which means it's the perfect time to spread awareness about this serious disease that can harm our furry friends. With more people taking their dogs out for walks and hikes in the warmer weather, it's important to educate pet owners about the risks of Lyme disease and how to prevent it. Share tips on tick prevention, such as using tick repellents and checking your pet for ticks after outdoor activities. And don't forget to mention the symptoms of Lyme disease as well as the importance of Lyme testing.

If you just don't have the time for social media, VHA can lend a hand! For $60, you’ll receive 16 graphics, captions to copy and paste, templates to customize, and tutorials to assist you with topics like scheduling your content, adding your logo, and more. Included this month is an infographic about Heat safety and a series post about microchips, and everything you need to get May scheduled and squared away! Get back to doing what you are passionate about - caring for pets and the people that love them!

We use Microsoft OneDrive for large file transfers, and a link will be emailed to you within 24 hours. If you are experiencing any issues with purchasing or receiving your content,This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

“May your heart be light and happy, may your smile be big and wide, may this blog contain helpful information inside!” – An Irish Proverb…sort of.

Happy March! Let’s talk about what’s coming up this month and how to harness these dates and observances to entertain, educate, and engage your clinic’s clients!

     Kick off the month with a Preventative Reminder. Spring is on its way and will be here before you know it, and so will those pesky fleas, ticks, and mosquitos.

Employee Appreciation Day is on March 4th. Your clients LOVE the staff at your clinic - they trust them with some of their most precious and treasured friends. Celebrating your staff today is good for employee morale AND engagement with clients. A team photo, some employee features – whatever you do, make sure your team is involved!  

We know you have seen some very unique and sometimes, downright strange pet names. March 7th is Unique Names Day and a great time to feature some totally unique and awesome names. I saw a video from a clinic recently that would fit this adorable observance so well. Have staff members take turns opening an exam room door, clipboard in hand, and calling out some of your clinic's most unique names (or make some up – Beef Shreddington, Sheriff of Snortingham and The Great Catsby are two of my favorites I’ve ever heard!) Stitch them together and ask your clients to share their pet’s unique name or the most unique pet name they have encountered.

It's International Women’s Day on March 8th and time to celebrate the women of your clinic. From inventing new technologies, shattering glass ceilings, and shaping the future of vet med, women have been pushing vet med to new heights for as long as animals have needed care. Celebrate all of the women of your clinic today who are thriving and succeeding in your neck of vet med!

  Daylight Savings Time starts on February 12th, and I always like to remind clients that the time change might throw their pet off a bit. With Spring Forward, it's not uncommon for pets to be a little confused about why 

  they are up an hour early, and they might not be ready for breakfast when it's served, or might not have to potty when taken out!

Shamrocks, pots of gold, rainbows, everything green - what’s not to love about St. Patrick’s Day? Ask your clients to show off their lucky little shamrocks and share an Irish saying that definitely relates to the bond we share with our pets. Here are some of my faves:

“When I count my blessings, I count you twice.”

“A good friend is like a four-leaf clover, hard to find and lucky to have!”

“Beware of people who dislike cats.”

Spring is officially back in action on March 20th! Celebrate The First Day of Spring by highlighting some seasonal safety reminders. Make sure these are all on your list:

• Safer spring cleaning: Bring some light on noxious fumes and toxic chemicals.
• Spring cleaning for pets: check their essential gear, wash what you can, and replace what can’t be cleaned.
• The great resurgence of parasites
• Signs of seasonal allergies in pets
• Consider a microchip the best way to say goodbye to winter and hello to spring is to get outside and enjoy the great outdoors. More outdoor time can mean more chances to be separated, and a microchip can help ensure reunification.

National Puppy Day and Cuddly Kitten Day are both on March 23rd! This is the perfect chance to feature all of those new pets that have come to see you for their first exam recently. Because little puppies and kittens are so irresistible, I suggest a twofer by highlighting recent “My First Vet Visit” photos in your stories, and making a post asking clients to share photos of their pets as puppies and kittens!

  Sorry not sorry for the earworm but cats deserve our R-E-S-P-E-C-T! Respect Your Cat Day is on March 28th and a great time to talk about those finicky felines. There is a lot of mystery out there surrounding cat behavior

  and good cat care. Pick some topics to post that you feel passionate about (it’s people who expect their cat not to scratch their couch but provide no appropriate scratching surface for me) to help cat parents be better

  cat parents!

Doctor’s Day is on March 30th and a great time to feature your veterinarians for many of the same reasons you celebrated your staff on March 4th. Some fun ideas for featuring your doctors could be “Facts about Dr. X You Might Not Have Known” or, if you have a multiple doctor practice, play match the pet to the vet and feature photos of your doc’s and their various personal pets.

March’s monthly observance is a doozy, Pet Poison Prevention Month!

Here are my suggestions:

Run this as a weekly feature, blog about it, or compile it into a helpful video. There is WAY too much to cover in a single post. A smart move would be to break this information down into the following subcategories:

• Medications: The Pet Poison Control Center reported medications accounted for almost 40% of calls they received in 2020. Human meds, meds for other pets, or too much of their own meds, are all topics worth addressing.
• Foods: I’m sure you feel like a broken record, but there are still people out there who need reminding.
• Plants: Houseplants are all the rage and spring bouquets will be making their way in soon. Review with clients what plants are okay and what plants are downright deadly. With Easter coming up next month, a no lilies for kitties reminder is in order!
• Household Items: Common cleaners, rodenticides, insecticides, antifreeze, pool chemicals, and more are all hiding in many households. With Spring moving back into town, a lot of those chemicals and poisons will be making their way back into clients’ households.

There is a lot of ground to cover in March, and VHA has already done the hard work for you! For $60, you’ll receive 15 graphics, captions to copy and paste, templates to customize, and tutorials to assist you with topics like scheduling your content, adding your logo, and more. Included this month is a video about pet poison prevention, an infographic-style Spring safety post, and everything you need to get March scheduled and squared away!

We use Microsoft OneDrive for large file transfers, and a link will be emailed to you within 24 hours. If you are experiencing any issues with purchasing or receiving your content, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

It may be the shortest month in the year, but February is packed with holidays and observations to fill your calendar with content! Here are some important dates to keep in mind:

Let’s switch it up and start with everyone’s favorite monthly observance – It’s Pet Dental Health Month! Here are some ideas to help get those wheels turning:

• Show the power of dental health with some before and after photos
• Tell a story about a more complicated cleaning and steps pet owners can take to avoid getting to that point.
• Feature some dental-focused products that you recommend, carry in-house for purchase, or that are available in your online pharmacy.
• Share some photos of pet teeth in the various stages of dental disease to help pet owners.

Additionally, Pet Dental Health Month is a great time to have a special offer! Here are some of my favorites:

• Offer a small discount for appointments booked in February for dental appointments.
• Give a service (free nail trims are always a big hit!) for anyone who books a dental appointment in February.
• Dental health goodie bags are always fun! Throw in a dental chew or treat, a toothbrush and toothpaste, and plenty of literature about dental care.

Remember -- It's important to set a deadline to avoid client frustrations, and it's important not to overburden yourself or your staff. Instead of limiting your special offer to appointments that only occur in February, consider having your offer apply to appointments made in February that occur within the next few months (Make a dental appointment this February for a date between February 1st - THE END OF YOUR DEADLINE, and receive YOUR SPECIAL OFFER!) Doing this will allow you to see your regularly scheduled exams where you can make a dental recommendation without forcing them to rush back the following week to take advantage of your special offer - with the added benefit of spaced-out appointments and future bookings!

February is also home to Spay and Neuter Awareness Month, as well as National Cat Health Month! If you would prefer to focus on these topics, the same special offers and awareness posts can be translated over if you would prefer!

Kick off the month with a Preventative Reminder! Last month on the 1st we were all too busy with New Years' wishes and resolutions. It’s time to get those reminders going because prevention is a year-round effort and protecting pets from parasites is an excellent way for owners to show their pet all the love!

If you see exotics, be sure to feature your favorite hedgie patients on February 2nd! This could take a little planning as they aren’t the most common pet, so be sure to gather those photos now! If you don’t see exotics, have fun celebrating Groundhog Day!

Everyone’s favorite goofball breed is celebrated on February 3rd! It’s Golden Retriever Day and the perfect opportunity to highlight all those golden treasures you see in your Facebook and Instagram stories. February 3rd is a twofer because it’s also National Doggy Date Night. Encourage your followers to make a date with their pooch for a special dinner, relaxing belly rub, stroll through the park, or a movie marathon cuddle session on the couch!

Valentine’s Day is coming up fast! There are tons of cute ways to celebrate Valentine’s Day on social media, but my favorite idea would be to post pets at their appointments in stories with all of the cute heart stickers and love songs you can muster. Additionally, make a Facebook post asking pet parents to share their sweet furry Valentine in the comments. Don't forget to share some safety reminders a few days before (no chocolates or champagne for pets and no lilies in the bouquet for cat owners!)

Valentine’s Day can be all cute and fun, but February 14th is also Pet Theft Awareness Day. While pet theft can't always be prevented, there are tips you can share with pet owners that can help mitigate their risk such as microchipping, never leaving pets alone in cars, and being vigilant about supervision.

It’s like a second Valentine’s Day just for pets! National Love Your Pet Day is on February 20th. Give more details about the human-animal bond, or ask your clients what they love most about their pet!

Walk Your Dog Day is on February 22nd and could be an excellent opportunity to help connect your community in the outside world. I love the idea of facilitating a group walk among clients - throw out a post to see if anyone would be interested - you never know who could make a new best friend!

No one, and I mean NO ONE, appreciates a dog biscuit quite like our canine companions. Dog Biscuit Appreciation Day is on February 23rd and a good time to ask your followers- which biscuit makes all of their dog’s snack dreams CRUMB true? The results might be surprising, but they also might be the good old classic Milk-Bone!

Spay Day is February 28th and if your team volunteers time for spay/neuter clinics or if you work with a local shelter to provide these services, brag on yourself a bit today! You can also remind clients of the importance of this procedure for non-breeding pets, highlight the process of a spay surgery, or give some post-op tips for clients.

February is a short month and absolutely packed with education, engagement, and entertainment opportunities. If you just don't have the time for social media, VHA can lend a hand! For $60, you’ll receive 15 graphics, captions to copy and paste, templates to customize, and tutorials to assist you with topics like scheduling your content, adding your logo, and more. Included this month is a video about dental health, additional customizable dental health templates, and everything you need to get February scheduled and squared away!

and We use Microsoft OneDrive for large file transfers, and a link will be emailed to you within 24 hours. If you are experiencing any issues with purchasing or receiving your content, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Welcome to a new year, and congratulations on your renewed social media marketing efforts for your veterinary practice! This handy-dandy blog will help act as a guide to add to your marketing plans for January, and this month is PACKED with fun social media marketing holidays, ideas, and activities that you can easily tie into your veterinary business. Are you ready to get at filling your calendar this month? Let’s dive in headfirst.

Check out what is coming up in January:

Happy New Year on January 1st! Here are some excellent ideas for your first post of 2023:

• Elaborate on why a resolution to committing to year-round preventative measures is SO important! This would be a great time to talk about a heartworm warrior you treated in 2022 with the owners’ permission.
• Make a short video of some of your staff members declaring their New Year resolutions (bonus points for an adorable clinic cat resolving to take more naps!)
• Give a heartfelt thank you to your loyal clients for trusting you with the health of their pets in 2022, and a thank you in advance for 2023!

January 2^nd is home to National Pet Travel Safety Day and a great time to try your hand at creating a more infographic-style post. Infographics are a collection of imagery, data visualizations, and text that communicate information quickly and clearly. Give your followers the vital information they need about safe travels with pets in one convenient post.

Tweet tweet! Even if your clinic doesn’t see avian friends, National Bird Day on January 5^th is an opportunity to celebrate. Feature an adorable birdy patient and ask your bird people to share photos of their beaky   buddies! If you don’t see birds, you could feature your clinic cat watching birds, explain why cats often chatter at birds, or explain why it’s best for birdies to keep kitties indoors, on a leash, or in a secure enclosure!

Get snug as a bug in a rug on Cuddle Up Day, January 6^th! Feature a photo of your team snuggling some sweet patients or encourage followers to share their favorite snuggly photos of their pets!

Houseplants are all the rage, and I am more than guilty of bringing a new one home at least every few weeks. January 10^th is Houseplant Appreciation Day and a great time to talk about safe and unsafe houseplants for pet-friendly homes.

National Dress Up Your Pet Day on January 14^th is a fantastic time to engage with your following! You could feature a recent patient that came to see you all dressed up (don’t you LOVE it when pet parents do that?!) or make a call for clients to share photos of their pets in their favorite outfits to boost your engagement!

Do you get wiggly pups and curious cats to sit still with the help of everyone’s favorite gooey cracker topper, squeeze cheeze? While I’m not 100% sure it can even really be classified as cheese, feature some enthusiastic pets getting their squeezy-cheesy treat on January 20^th for Cheese Lover’s Day! You can also take the opportunity to remind clients that while a little cheesy treat every now and then is fine, cheese shouldn’t be a regular part of their pet’s diet.

Cats have questions, and they want answers! It’s National Answer Your Cat’s Questions Day on January 22^nd, so get your clients involved by asking them what they think their cat’s questions are.

Hooray for peanut butter! Share a photo of a pooch enjoying some sticky sweet peanut buttery goodness and highlight some info on why not all peanut jars of butter are created equal in honor of National Peanut Butter Day on January 24^th!

Have a terrible Opposite Day on January 25^th (see what I did there?!). I love the idea of asking clients to share something their pet loves or hates but stating the opposite!

On January 28^th, have a little fun at work for National Have Fun at Work Day! While your clients might think your job is all cuddling puppies and snuggling kittens, we know it’s more than that. Double dip on National Have Fun at Work Day by creating some fun games or activities for employees, and document it to share on social media! This would make an excellent Facebook or Instagram stories post!

It’s a sad fact that a lot of owners don’t walk their dogs as much as they need. We have all seen the case of the young Border Collie that gets a 20-minute walk every other day and the owner who has no idea why they ate the couch. Drive home the importance of regular and appropriate walks in honor of Walk Your Dog Month! This topic is perfect for a blog due to all of the information that dog owners need when it comes to walking. Step up the game even further by hosting a contest. Have owners submit a photo of them and their dog on their walk and ask them where their favorite walkie spot is. Pick a winner at random for a discount, small gift, or free service!

January is also Train Your Dog Month and a great time to give some tips and tricks for training! Work this topic in all month long by sharing patients showing off their skills, asking followers to share photos and videos of their pets performing their best tricks, and highlighting any preferred trainers or behaviorists you might work with!

Want to fill up your January social media calendar with all of these topics and more? Our premade package is just the ticket! For $60, you’ll receive 15 graphics, captions to copy and paste, templates to customize, and tutorials to assist you with topics like scheduling your content, adding your logo, and more!

We use Microsoft OneDrive for large file transfers, and a link will be emailed to you within 24 hours. If you are experiencing any issues with purchasing or receiving your content, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Welcome to December, and a big shout out for making it to the last month of the year! If your goals for 2022 include upping your social media game, get a headstart with all there is to celebrate in December - 'tis the season, after all.

December 1st is an excellent time not only to remind clients to give their pets their monthly preventatives but a great opportunity to talk about why you recommend year-round protection. Give them real-life examples of how they can still be exposed even in the winter, and help gain year-round preventative compliance for 2023!

No, you aren't seeing double - National Mutt Day is celebrated twice a year on July 31st and December 2nd! There are tons of ways to celebrate, but my favorite would be sourcing a photo of a client or staff pet that has an interesting mix and asking your clients to try to guess what breeds they are a mix of. You get bonus points if they have had a doggie DNA test you can share the results of!

National Cookie Day on December 4th could be a fun opportunity to share a pet-friendly baked treat recipe or encourage clients to share their favorite pet treat recipe with others (how fun would a pet cookie swap be?!)

December 5th is Celebrate Shelter Pets Day! Highlight adoptable pets available at your local shelter, or ask clients to share a photo of their shelter pet! With this observance so close to the holidays, if you feel so inclined, it could be a good time to talk about why pets don't make great gifts, or to use your platform to talk about the commitment you make when you adopt or purchase a pet. Remember, this post wouldn't necessarily be geared toward your loyal clients- they know all too well the commitment it takes - but rather a message they can get behind and share with others.

Here are some statistics I found that you can share:

• A shelter in Fargo, North Dakota, reports that in its area, more than 700 animals are turned over to shelters right after the holidays every year.
• An adoption group in tiny Edinburg, Texas, gets more than 400 animals. It says that the surrenders normally start with a phone call from someone saying, “I got this [animal] for Christmas…and I can’t take care of it.”
• A humane society in Reading, Pennsylvania, says that most of its post-Christmas drop-offs are puppies and kittens. They’re dumped soon after the holiday when training them requires too much time.
• By January 4 last year, one Georgia animal shelter was posting on Facebook begging for adopters because of the onslaught of returned dogs it was bombarded with.

Celebrating YOU on December 9th, the International Day of Veterinary Medicine! We use the term "human-animal bond" all the time, but do your clients know what that means? Pointing out that your passion for vet med extends so much further than loving animals is a great way to remind your clients that you care about them, too! Interview some staff and share what vet med means to them.

Who doesn't love an ugly holiday sweater? Who loves them even more when they are being worn by an adorable pet? It's Ugly Sweater Day on December 16th so make sure the staff brings in their ugliest, and you have one for the clinic cat too!

December 21st is the First Day of Winter and a good time for some seasonal safety reminders! Here are the ones not to forget:

• Shake off the winter gear for pets who don't tolerate the cold well.
• Keep your pets inside as much as possible when temps dip below freezing.
• Don't leave pets in cold cars.
• Review and know the signs of hypothermia and frostbite.
• Keep hand warmers away from curious pets.
• Keep pets away from rivers, lakes, and ponds unless you are certain they are frozen solid.
• Beware of antifreeze.
• Wipe paws to make sure they don't ingest any ice salt.
• Soothe noses and paws with a quality paw balm.
• Heat sources are cozy, but can be dangerous, so avoid unsupervised time around them.
• Bang on the hood of your car before starting it to give stray cats and other critters time to evacuate.

Winter Holidays are HERE!

Hanukkah starts on December 18th

Christmas is on December 25th

and Kwanzaa begins on December 26th!

Don't forget New Year's Eve on December 31st! Sharing your resolutions, thanking your clients for a wonderful year, and listing ideas for pet resolutions are all fantastic ideas.

December is Safe Toys & Gifts Month and while this topic usually focuses on children, it can easily be applied to our furry kids as well. Make sure your clients know that any special presents for pets should be size, age, and most importantly, species-appropriate.

December is also Cat Lovers' Month! What better time to curl up inside with a purring cat and a good book. Feature staff cats, the clinic cat if you have one, and be sure to feature lots of feline patients!

Did you know that our monthly social media package is available to purchase on a month-to-month basis with no subscription or VHA membership required? If you are just too busy this December, our package could be the relief you are looking for! Packed full of expertly crafted graphics, copy-and-paste captions, tutorials to help you make the most of the content, and even templates to customize yourself, December’s social media efforts could be a total breeze. Take your time back this month and give the package a try!

We use Microsoft OneDrive for large file transfers, and a link will be emailed to you within 24 hours. If you are experiencing any issues with purchasing or receiving your content, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.