Re-engagement Sequence for Dog Walkers Email Guide
Why Re-engagement Sequence Emails Fail for Dog Walkers (And How to Fix Them)
You open your scheduling software and see empty slots for next week. That's potential income, and lost wagging tails, gone.
Many dedicated dog walkers find that even the most loyal clients can drift away. Life gets busy, routines change, and sometimes, they simply forget the consistent, reliable service and the peace of mind you provided.
A strategic re-engagement sequence isn't about chasing business. It's about nurturing those valuable relationships, gently reminding past clients of the joyful walks and dependable care you offered, and making it effortless for them to return.
It's about rebuilding connection, not just making a sale. The templates below are designed to do exactly that.
They'll help you reach out authentically, remind clients of your unique value, and invite them and their furry companions back to your trusted care.
The Complete 4-Email Re-engagement Sequence for Dog Walkers
As a dog walker, your clients trust your recommendations. This 4-email sequence helps you introduce valuable tools without sounding like a salesperson.
The Miss You
Acknowledge the silence and show you care
Hi [First Name],
It's been a little while since we last saw [DOG'S NAME] on our walks, and we've been thinking about them. We hope you and your pup are doing wonderfully.
We truly enjoyed our time together, making sure [DOG'S NAME] got their daily dose of fresh air and adventure. We miss those happy tail wags and enthusiastic greetings.
If your routine has shifted, or you just need an extra hand with walks again, please know we're here. We're always happy to welcome back familiar faces (and paws).
No pressure at all, just wanted to check in.
Best, [YOUR NAME]
This email uses the principle of reciprocity by offering a caring check-in without asking for anything in return. It creates a warm, personal connection by mentioning the dog by name and recalling positive shared experiences, making the client feel valued rather than simply targeted for a sale.
The Value Reminder
Remind them why they subscribed
Hi [First Name],
Life gets busy, and sometimes the little things, like a consistent dog walking routine, can slip. We wanted to remind you of the benefits our service brought to your day and [DOG'S NAME]'s life.
Think back to those days when you knew [DOG'S NAME] was getting their much-needed exercise and potty breaks, even when your schedule was packed. That peace of mind, knowing your dog was happy and cared for, is what we strive to provide.
Our clients often tell us how much they appreciate the reliable service, the detailed updates, and the pure joy their dogs experience on our walks. It's more than just a walk, it's a solution that fits your life.
If you're finding yourself needing that reliable support again, we'd be delighted to welcome [DOG'S NAME] back into our walking schedule.
Best, [YOUR NAME]
This email uses the psychological concept of 'anchoring' by reminding the client of the positive past experiences and the value they received. It also touches on 'loss aversion' by subtly highlighting the benefits they might be missing without the service, prompting them to consider re-engaging.
The Survey
Ask what they actually want from you
Hi [First Name],
We're always looking for ways to improve our dog walking services and ensure we're meeting the evolving needs of our clients and their beloved pups. We'd be incredibly grateful if you could spare a moment to share your thoughts.
What's most important to you your dog's care and daily routine? Are there specific services you wish were available, or aspects of dog walking that you find particularly challenging?
Your feedback helps us tailor our solutions and continue providing the best possible care. It also helps us understand if there's anything new we could offer that would genuinely help you. [LINK TO SIMPLE SURVEY HERE] Thank you for your time and insights.
Best, [YOUR NAME]
This email uses the 'foot-in-the-door' technique by asking for a small commitment (filling out a survey) which increases the likelihood of future, larger commitments. It also employs the 'principle of reciprocity' by seeking their input, making them feel valued and heard, which can strengthen the relationship.
The Breakup
Give a final chance before removing them
Hi [First Name],
It looks like you haven't engaged with our emails in a while, and we understand that inboxes can get crowded. We want to make sure we're only sending you content that truly matters.
Because of this, we'll be removing your email address from our primary client communication list soon. We don't want to bother you if our services aren't currently a fit.
If you'd like to stay connected, continue receiving updates about our dog walking services, and hear about any special offers, please simply click the link below. Otherwise, no action is needed, and we wish you and [DOG'S NAME] all the best. [LINK TO CONFIRM SUBSCRIPTION HERE]
Best, [YOUR NAME]
This email effectively uses the 'scarcity principle' and 'psychological reactance'. By stating the impending removal, it creates a sense of urgency and the potential loss of access, often prompting individuals to act to retain something they might otherwise take for granted. It provides a clear, low-friction path to re-engagement.
4 Re-engagement Sequence Mistakes Dog Walkers Make
| Don't Do This | Do This Instead |
|---|---|
✕ Assuming past clients will remember your services and reach out when they need you. | Proactively send personalized check-ins or seasonal offers to stay top-of-mind. |
✕ Sending generic, sales-focused emails that don't acknowledge their past relationship. | Tailor your message to reflect previous interactions and show genuine care for their specific dog. |
✕ Not having an easy way for clients to book or inquire after receiving a re-engagement email. | Include clear calls to action with direct links to your scheduling software or contact form in every email. |
✕ Giving up after one or two re-engagement attempts. | Implement a multi-step sequence that provides different value propositions and opportunities to reconnect over time. |
Re-engagement Sequence Timing Guide for Dog Walkers
When you send matters as much as what you send.
The Miss You
Acknowledge the silence and show you care
The Value Reminder
Remind them why they subscribed
The Survey
Ask what they actually want from you
The Breakup
Give a final chance before removing them
Use after 30-90 days of no opens or clicks.
Customize Re-engagement Sequence for Your Dog Walker Specialty
Adapt these templates for your specific industry.
Beginners
- Start by segmenting your past clients into groups based on how long it's been since their last service.
- Focus on sending 'The Miss You' email first, making it genuinely personal and warm.
- Use a simple CRM or even a spreadsheet to track who you've contacted and their responses.
Intermediate Practitioners
- A/B test different subject lines for your re-engagement emails to see what resonates best with your audience.
- Consider offering a small, time-sensitive incentive (e.g., 'first walk back is 10% off') in your 'Value Reminder' email.
- Integrate your re-engagement sequence with your scheduling software to automatically send follow-ups after a period of inactivity.
Advanced Professionals
- Create highly personalized re-engagement campaigns based on specific services they previously used or their dog's breed/age.
- Utilize advanced email marketing tools to track open rates, click-through rates, and conversion rates for each step of your sequence.
- Develop a win-back offer that addresses common reasons for client churn, such as a flexible scheduling option or a new specialized service.
Industry Specialists
- Tailor your re-engagement messages to highlight your specialized knowledge for specific dog types (e.g., senior dogs, high-energy breeds), emphasizing tailored care or training aspects.
- Remind clients of unique services like medication administration, specialized training reinforcement, or long-distance adventures that cater to their dog's specific needs.
- Offer content related to specialized dog care tips or local events relevant to their dog's niche in your re-engagement emails to provide extra value.
Ready to Save Hours?
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