Unravelling Google Business Categories: A Practical Handbook for Vet Clinics

Improving your presence in Google Maps is essential for any Vet.  One of the areas that people are challenged by in their listing is grasping the vital Google Business Profile categories. These categories act as guiding lights, leading pet owners to your clinic's virtual doorstep when they're scouring Google Maps or Local Pack for veterinary services. But what exactly do they entail?

When setting up your Google My Business Listing, selecting the right categories is crucial. This involves choosing one primary category and, if needed, up to nine more specific ones. It may seem straightforward, but this decision holds immense importance for determining where your clinic ranks in local search results.

The other challenge is, you cant make up your own categories you have to select from the ones that Google has identified.

Category Options for Vet Clinics: 

• Animal Hospital
• Emergency Veterinarian Service
• Veterinarian
• Veterinary pharmacy
• Cat trainer
• Cat breeder
• Cat boarding service
• Cattery
• Dog breeder
• Dog daycare center
• Dog trainer
• Dog walker
• Pet adoption service
• Pet boarding service
• Pet groomer
• Pet sitter
• Pet trainer
• Pet moving service

Here's why it's crucial:

Significant Impact with a Simple Choice:

Choosing the appropriate categories can yield significant results. With over 4102 Google Business profile categories as of February 17th, 2024, and continually evolving, this decision carries considerable weight.

How to Select the Best Categories:

So, how do you pick the right categories for your veterinary clinic? Here's a simplified checklist:

• Profitable Offerings: Opt for categories that align with your clinic's most lucrative offerings, such as 'Surgical Procedures' or 'Dental Care'.
• Search Frequency: Choose categories with high search volumes, ensuring your clinic appears prominently in searches for terms like 'Emergency Vet' or 'Pet Vaccinations'.
• Checking out competition: Take a peek at the categories other local vet clinics are utilising to gain insights and refine your own category selection strategy.

Remember, sometimes less is more. And make sure to adhere to Google's Guidelines to steer clear of any issues.

Your Easy-to-Use Guide:

If you're struggling to find the perfect category for your vet clinic, don't fret. We've compiled a straightforward A-Z list of Google My Business categories for 2024, tailored for your convenience.

Google My Business Categories

And if you're still uncertain, consider opting for broader categories.

In Summary:

With this guide, vet clinics across Australia can utilise Google Business Profile categories effectively. By selecting categories that reflect your clinic's services and what pet owners are seeking, you can enhance your online presence, attract more clients, and provide superior care to animals.

Other useful reads:   The top 9 tips that you can do now, to help get your vet practice listed on the top of search results