Waitlist Sequence for Kennels Email Guide
Why Waitlist Sequence Emails Fail for Kennels (And How to Fix Them)
You just turned away a potential client because your kennel was full, only to have a last-minute cancellation. Many kennel owners struggle to manage the unpredictable rhythm of bookings.
The phone rings constantly with inquiries, but without a structured system, those interested clients often drift away when you can't accommodate them immediately. This leaves valuable spots empty and revenue on the table.
Imagine a system where every 'no' becomes a 'not yet'. A well-crafted waitlist sequence transforms lost opportunities into future bookings, keeping potential clients engaged and excited about your services, even when you're fully booked.
These waitlist sequence templates are designed to nurture those leads, build trust, and ensure your kennel stays booked solid, turning every inquiry into a potential happy client.
The Complete 4-Email Waitlist Sequence for Kennels
As a kennel, your clients trust your recommendations. This 4-email sequence helps you introduce valuable tools without sounding like a salesperson.
The Welcome
Confirm their spot and set expectations
Hi [First Name],
It's great to have you. We know how important it is to find the perfect home-away-from-home for your furry family member.
You're now on our exclusive waitlist for [KENNEL NAME], and we're thrilled you're considering us. This means you'll be among the first to hear about upcoming availability, new services, and special offers before we announce them to the public.
We're always working to make our kennel the best experience for your pets, and we appreciate your patience as we prepare for new openings. Consider this your VIP pass to staying connected with us.
We'll be in touch soon with updates and a few peeks behind the scenes. Thank you for choosing [KENNEL NAME].
Best, [YOUR NAME]
This email immediately validates their action and makes the reader feel special. By framing the waitlist as an 'exclusive' group, it uses the psychological principle of scarcity and social proof, suggesting others are also waiting for this valuable service. It sets clear, positive expectations for future communications.
The Behind-the-Scenes
Share your progress and build anticipation
Hi [First Name],
We've been busy here at [KENNEL NAME], and we wanted to share a little of what goes into caring for your beloved pets. Our team recently completed advanced training in positive reinforcement techniques, ensuring every stay with us is not just safe, but also enriching and fun.
We believe happy pets make for happy clients. We're also putting the finishing touches on our expanded outdoor play areas, designed with extra shade and splash pads for those warm summer days.
We're always looking for ways to enhance their comfort and enjoyment. It's all part of our commitment to providing the best possible environment.
We can't wait for your pet to experience it firsthand. Stay tuned for more updates on our progress and how it benefits your pet's stay.
Best, [YOUR NAME]
This email builds trust and anticipation through transparency. By sharing specific internal improvements and efforts, it reinforces the kennel's commitment to quality and pet well-being. This creates a stronger emotional connection, moving the reader from simply 'waiting' to 'eagerly anticipating' the service.
The Sneak Peek
Give exclusive early access or preview
Hi [First Name],
As a valued member of our waitlist, we wanted to give you a first look at something exciting we're launching soon. We're introducing our new 'Pampered Paws' grooming package, designed to go beyond basic washes.
Think soothing baths with organic shampoos, pawdicures, and gentle de-shedding treatments, all tailored to your pet's specific needs. This service will be available to a limited number of pets each day to ensure personalized attention.
We believe every pet deserves to feel their best, inside and out. We'll be sharing details on how you can book this exclusive service very soon.
Keep an eye on your inbox for early booking opportunities.
Best, [YOUR NAME]
This email uses the principle of exclusivity and reciprocity. By offering a 'first look' at a valuable new service, it makes waitlist members feel privileged and appreciated. This act of giving builds goodwill and increases their desire to engage with the kennel when openings become available.
The VIP Access
Grant early or priority access before public launch
Hi [First Name],
The moment you've been waiting for is here! As a special thank you for your patience and being on our waitlist, we're giving you priority access to our upcoming availability for [SPECIFIC MONTH/SEASON, e.g., 'the summer holidays'].
We have a limited number of spots opening up, and you get first dibs before we announce them publicly. This means you can secure your pet's stay with us ahead of the general rush, ensuring they have a comfortable and happy experience while you're away.
To claim your priority booking, simply [CLICK HERE TO BOOK] or reply to this email to discuss your dates. Please note, these spots are offered on a first-come, first-served basis.
We can't wait to welcome your furry friend!
Best, [YOUR NAME]
This email creates strong urgency and scarcity by offering a limited-time, exclusive opportunity. It directly rewards the waitlist member for their patience, fulfilling the expectation set in earlier emails. The clear call to action and the 'first-come, first-served' mention drive immediate engagement, using loss aversion to encourage quick booking.
4 Waitlist Sequence Mistakes Kennels Make
| Don't Do This | Do This Instead |
|---|---|
✕ Ignoring inquiries when the kennel is full, assuming those clients will just wait or come back later. | Immediately offer to add them to a waitlist system like [PRODUCT NAME] so you can capture their interest and contact details for future openings. |
✕ Managing waitlists manually with paper notes, spreadsheets, or even just memory, leading to missed opportunities and frustrated clients. | Implement a dedicated waitlist management tool that automates communication and tracks client preferences, ensuring no lead is lost. |
✕ Failing to communicate with waitlist members until a spot opens up, leaving them in the dark for weeks or months. | Regularly send engaging updates, behind-the-scenes content, and sneak peeks (using a waitlist sequence) to keep them warm and invested. |
✕ Treating all waitlist clients as a generic group, without understanding their specific needs or preferences. | Segment your waitlist based on pet size, service interest (e.g., boarding, daycare, grooming), or preferred booking times to tailor your communication and offers. |
Waitlist Sequence Timing Guide for Kennels
When you send matters as much as what you send.
The Welcome
Confirm their spot and set expectations
The Behind-the-Scenes
Share your progress and build anticipation
The Sneak Peek
Give exclusive early access or preview
The VIP Access
Grant early or priority access before public launch
Spread these out over your waitlist period, with the final email sent on launch day.
Customize Waitlist Sequence for Your Kennel Specialty
Adapt these templates for your specific industry.
Beginners
- Start simple: Collect basic contact information (name, email, pet type) and preferred dates, even if it's just in a simple form.
- Set clear expectations: Let people know what to expect from being on the waitlist, like receiving occasional updates about your kennel.
- Focus on one or two communication points: Send a welcome email and one update about your services or facility each month to stay top-of-mind.
Intermediate Practitioners
- Automate your welcome and initial follow-up emails using [PRODUCT NAME] to ensure consistent communication without manual effort.
- Segment your waitlist: Categorize clients by pet size, service interest, or specific needs to send more relevant and targeted updates.
- Use your CRM to track waitlist engagement: Note who opens emails, clicks links, and responds, allowing you to prioritize outreach when spots open.
Advanced Professionals
- Integrate your waitlist with your booking system: Automatically notify waitlist members when cancellations occur or new spots become available, giving them first refusal.
- Offer tiered waitlist experiences: Create a 'VIP' tier for existing clients or those willing to pay a small deposit for priority access, building loyalty and commitment.
- Personalize communication based on past interactions: Reference previous inquiries or pet details in your waitlist emails to make them feel highly valued and understood.
Industry Specialists
- Tailor your waitlist content to their specific needs: For senior pet kennels, highlight specialized care, gentle activities, or medical support in your updates.
- Showcase relevant expertise: Share stories or tips related to the specialist niche (e.g., 'handling separation anxiety in [SPECIFIC BREED]') to build authority and trust.
- Create exclusive content for waitlist members: Offer a mini-guide or video specific to their pet's unique requirements, demonstrating your deep understanding and care.
Ready to Save Hours?
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