You’ve got the LLC, the logo, maybe even a shiny new website… but now what? If you have launched your relief vet business and all you’re hearing is crickets (or if you’re an established relief veterinarian noticing fewer requests rolling in), you’re not alone. So many amazing veterinarians struggle with the same question: “How do I actually get clinics to notice me?”

I’ve been there too. After a lot of trial and error, I found simple, effective ways to market my services- without feeling awkward or overwhelmed. In this post, I’m sharing what actually works to get your name out there and start building real, lasting relationships with clinics. Let’s get you booked and busy.

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Word of Mouth Just Doesn’t Cut It

If you’re relying solely on word of mouth to advertise your relief vet business, you’re leaving opportunities (and money) on the table. How many practice owners or hospital managers do you actually know? Probably a handful… not enough to keep your schedule full.

You need to be proactive in positioning yourself as the solution to their problems, with a cohesive advertising strategy and a seamless experience from start to finish.

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Here’s the Good News

It can feel overwhelming to compete with large relief services- after all, they’re nationwide companies and you’re just one person! But here’s the truth: in most cases, veterinary hospitals prefer working with YOU. an independent relief veterinarian, over a big agency.

Your consistency, reliability, and (most likely) more reasonable fee schedule make doing business with you easier and more rewarding. Plus, there’s something to be said for the “human touch” of a one-person business. I mean, if the service was better, more personal, and even more affordable… wouldn’t you rather shop at a local boutique than Walmart?

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Advertising is Easier Than Ever

In the past, advertising meant spending money and hoping that the right people saw your ad. But now, thanks to social media and modern tech, marketing can be cheap (or free!). Plus, anyone with basic writing and computer skills can create a compelling presence online.

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How to Advertise Your Relief Business: The 4 “S” System

I created the 4 “S” System to help you market your veterinary relief business with strategy and ease. By using all four, you can show up where your ideal clients already are… without spending hours a day on marketing.

The 4 “S” System:

• Snail Mail
• Social
• Sites
• Showcase

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Snail Mail

Most people are surprised when I say snail mail is one of the most effective ways I advertise my relief business. It works especially well for new startups and as a touchpoint for existing or potential clients.

Why it works: Clinic addresses are easy to find, physical mail usually ends up on the right person’s desk (instead of lost in a spam folder), and it adds a thoughtful, personal touch.

When you’re first starting out, research clinics in your area (based on how far you’re willing to travel) and build a list in Google Sheets or Excel. Send a piece of mail to each one. I created a simple two-page packet: a letter and an FAQ sheet. It got a great response. I also saved that same letter and FAQ as a “welcome packet” I email to new clients. A little effort up front continues to pay off.

I’ve also heard of relief vets using postcards or hand-delivering packets- both are great options! Just make sure to include a clear call to action, like “email me,” “call me,” or “visit my website,” to let them know how to get in touch with and book you!

Pro tip: Don’t send your résumé unless a clinic asks for it. They’ll reach out if they want it… and you’ll save some trees.

Use snail mail year-round as a touchpoint; think holiday cards, annual updates, or newsletters. The goal is to stay top of mind and reach the right people.

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Social

If you’re not using social media as a relief vet, you’re missing out! Social helps you build visibility (even locally) and can open doors to new opportunities that diversify your income over time.

Keep it simple: pick one main platform to focus on and post there consistently. Then, repurpose that content across one or two other platforms.

I use Instagram as my primary platform, with a Facebook page to share reels and blog links. LinkedIn is a bonus… it hasn’t generated many leads for me, but it helps maintain professional visibility.

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Sites

Find job boards and VMA websites where people actively search for relief vets—and post your info there. Think of this “S” as showing up where clinics are already looking.

Most local VMAs let you list your services for free or for a small fee (sometimes only for active members). Especially for older or more traditional clinic managers, this is still a go-to resource.

Example: My KVMA ad says—
Dr. Katie Hogan, relief veterinarian in the Northern Kentucky/Cincinnati area. Small animal, limited exotics, GP, urgent care, or ER. Email DrKatieHogan@KatieHoganDVM.com or text (555)-333-3333.

Keep it short, clear, and to the point!

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Showcase

“Build on land that you own.” I love that advice! When it comes to your online presence, that advice means having a website.

Social platforms and job boards are great, but you don’t own them. Your website is your home base. It’s where you showcase your skills, share content, and give clinics a way to learn more and contact you directly.

I recommend using WordPress.com to build a simple, professional site. It’s easy to use, free or affordable (about $100–$300/year for a domain and hosting), and flexible enough to grow with your business. You can post a blog or just keep static info about your services.

And please… don’t forget to include photos of yourself and a section about who you are, even outside of vet med! People want to work with people. YOU are your best marketing tool.

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Conclusion

If you follow the 4 “S” System, your relief business should have plenty of leads to keep your schedule full. My hope is that your business grows and thrives, and that you stay exactly as busy as you want to be (no more, no less).

Want to get started? Download my FREE resource, “6 Essential Steps for New Relief Veterinarians,” available HERE on my Stan store. It walks you through the basics of launching your relief business.

I also offer coaching for relief veterinarians! If you want help launching, troubleshooting, or just talking through your next move, schedule a free 30-minute coaching session with me here. Let’s build a business that works for you.