Intro:
Most canine rehab clinics pour time and money into finding new post-TPLO patients, yet overlook a valuable resource sitting right under their noses – past clients. Tapping into your existing client base is often faster and more cost-effective than chasing strangers. In fact, acquiring a new customer can cost 5 to 25 times more than keeping an existing one. Past clients already know your quality of care, making them far easier to re-engage. In this article, we’ll explore how reactivating former clients is an underused strategy to boost your TPLO rehab caseload. By maintaining relationships and offering timely value, you can turn yesterday’s patients into tomorrow’s bookings – while strengthening trust and loyalty.
Why Past Clients Are an Untapped Growth Engine
Clients who’ve been through your TPLO rehab program already trust your clinic. Many lapsed clients aren’t “lost” – they may have just gotten busy or forgotten to schedule follow-ups. Orthopedic issues often resurface (up to 60% of dogs who tear one ACL will injure the other knee within two years), meaning today’s clients may need you again sooner than expected.
Your past client list is a hidden marketing goldmine. One clinic reactivated 10% of lapsed clients with a single email campaign, generating over $15K in revenue in just a month.
Stay Top-of-Mind with Consistent Communication
To reactivate past clients, stay on their radar in gentle, helpful ways:
Email Newsletters
Send monthly tips, rehab stories, and clinic updates.
Social Media
Post case studies, rehab exercises, and wellness content.
Check-In Messages
Email or text past clients like “How’s Bella doing since her TPLO rehab?”
Educational Blog Posts
Link clients to updated content like “Preventing Re-injury After TPLO” or “When Can My Dog Swim After TPLO?”. Be friendly and informative—never pushy. The goal is to provide value and remain relevant.
Offer Incentives to Bring Them Back
Sometimes a small nudge is all it takes:
- “We Miss Your Dog” Specials: Offer a free mobility screen or 15% off a recheck.
- Anniversary Campaigns: Send a follow-up 6–12 months post-rehab (e.g. “It’s been a year—let’s check in on Bella’s mobility!”).
- New Service Invitations: Launching something new? Invite past clients to try it.
- Direct Mail: Send colorful postcards with an offer or update. Physical mail has a higher visibility rate than most emails.
Turn Renewed Clients into Loyal Advocates
Once a past client returns, make it count:
- Welcome them back warmly.
- Ask how their dog is doing and listen.
- Encourage testimonials, reviews, and referrals.
Clients you reactivate are more likely to refer others. If even 1 in 3 shared your clinic with a friend, that could double your caseload.
Ready to Reconnect with Past Clients?
Your past clients are more than history—they’re a growth engine hiding in plain sight. It’s easier and cheaper to re-engage them than to start fresh with new leads. By sending thoughtful check-ins, offering occasional incentives, and staying in touch through email and social media, you build a system that fills your treadmill and builds trust.
Want help reaching out to past clients? Learn how Webdogg builds automated reactivation campaigns tailored for TPLO rehab clinics.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What’s the best way to follow up with past dog rehab clients?
A: Start with a personal check-in email like, “How’s [Pet Name] doing since rehab?” Include a reminder of how your clinic helped, and offer a free follow-up or a new resource.
Q: How often should I contact former TPLO rehab clients?
A: A quarterly email is ideal. Mix in client stories, seasonal reminders (like winter joint care), and special offers. Just keep it helpful and relevant.
Q: Is it worth offering discounts to bring back past clients?
A: Yes—especially if your schedule has open spots. Even a small reactivation rate (5–10%) can lead to significant ROI.