by Nancy Hassel, American Pet Professionals

I am not a big sports team person, but the excitement about the NY Knicks is undeniable. (However, I do think basketball and hockey are fun to watch!) The FOMO that NYC has created with blue and orange on many buildings near MSG, subways painted in the colors, lamp posts, and more, makes me want to head there and check it out.  And now that they won game 3, there is even more excitement in the air. 

Whenever events like this come around, I wonder what you are doing in your pet business to stir up excitement at your location. How are you jumping in?

Are you selling items associated with your local or state sports team?

What events are you hosting or co-hosting to lure in pet parents who want to enjoy the excitement of a home team hoping to win after 53 years? (Or however long it’s been.)

Something as simple as an orange-and-blue backdrop or selling official Knicks merchandise in your store, grooming shop, or other pet business can make a difference. It’s so easy, in my opinion, to hone in on and capture a different audience, new customers, or clients who are wrapped up in the excitement of a sporting event.

I see many missed opportunities to join in on the fun and bring fans’ pets into the picture, whether at your location or at an event, if the timing aligns.

Even if you’re not a sports fan like me, I would pay attention to what teams are doing well and how you can leverage that attention for your pet business. Maybe you have an employee you can task with keeping track of the big league teams.

Once you have an idea of who may be doing well and possibly heading to the Finals, Super Bowl, Stanley Cup, World Series, or other championship events, find out who sells licensed team merchandise for pets and perhaps a few items for humans, and stock up ahead of time. This way, you can plan a fun themed event in advance and have items ready to sell, or simply promote that you have pet-themed team merchandise in stock.

In addition to the NBA Finals, the World Cup is happening and the US Open Golf tournament this month, so between basketball, football, hockey, baseball, soccer, and golf, you could have many ways to get in on the action and buzz happening. 

To jump in quickly, perhaps you have the space to host a watch party or a themed event centered around the team heading to whatever championship they are competing in.

Think about how many fans flock to ‘Bark in the Park’ events with their dogs to watch baseball games, both in the minor and major leagues.

Maybe you want to cater to reactive dogs who can’t attend those events but could enjoy a watch party with their dog-loving friends and family in your space. You could rent out your location for a private party and provide the venue, pet supplies, and other amenities.

There are so many simple ways to create excitement around a winning team and connect with pet parents who love those teams.

Community and hometown pride are a big deal, and what a fun way to celebrate while attracting new customers at the same time.

Send me an email and let me know what you do at your pet business, for whatever team or sport, to drum up business. Perhaps you’re even doing it as a way to give back to your local shelter.