How to get found on Instagram

If you’re a dog walker, groomer, or vet, your Instagram profile is often the first stop for a potential local dog owner. But if your bio is vague or hard to find, you’re missing out on bookings.

Think of your Instagram profile—specifically your Name and Bio—as a digital storefront. It needs to tell users who you are, what you do, and where you do it in seconds.

Here is a simple, step-by-step guide to transforming your Instagram profile from forgettable to fully-booked.

1. Master Your Instagram Name (The Searchable Field)

This is the most crucial step for local searchability. Your "Name" field (the bold text that appears above your handle) is what Instagram uses to populate search results.

The Formula: Use Keywords, Not Just Your Brand Name

❌ Don't Do This	✅ Do This (Searchable & Clear)
Pawsome Adventures	Pawsome Adventures | Dog Walker Canterbury
The Grooming Spot	The Grooming Spot | Cat & Dog Groomer Kent
Dr. Smith	Dr. Smith | Emergency Vet Clinic

Why This Works:

• Search: When a dog owner in your area searches "Dog Walker in [location]" or "Vet in [town]" your profile instantly appears at the top.

• Clarity: Visitors immediately understand what service you offer and if you cover their area.

2. Optimise Your Instagram Bio (The Converting Text)

You have a maximum of 150 characters to convince a visitor to follow you, click your link, or send a DM so every character counts!

The 3-Line Bio Structure for Pet Professionals

Structure your bio into three compelling lines that follow the P.V.C. (Problem, Value, Call-to-Action) framework.

Line 1: Your Value Proposition

• Goal: Immediately tell them how you solve their problem.

• Tip: Use keywords that describe the result you deliver.

• Examples:

  • “Helping busy Kent professionals with reliable, 5-star dog walking.”

  • “We transform muddy paws into perfect pups with stress-free grooming.”

Line 2: Your Credentials & Scope (Proof)

• Goal: Build trust and establish expertise.

• Tip: Include your unique selling points (USPs) and service locations. Use relevant emojis for spacing!

• Examples:

  • 🐶 Fully Insured & DBS Checked | Certified Canine First Aid.

  • 📍 Covering & surrounding areas.

  • 🥇 Kent’s Top-Rated Force-Free Dog Trainer.

Line 3: The Clear Call-to-Action (CTA)

• Goal: Direct the user to the next step.

• Tip: Use clear action verbs and a pointer emoji (👇). Crucially, this must correspond to your single link in the bio.

• Examples:

  • Check our availability for Month 👇

  • Book your FREE consultation call here! 👇

  • Price List & Booking Link Below 👇

3. Don't Forget the Website Link (The Conversion Point)

Your CTA means nothing without a functioning link. Do not just link to your homepage!

The Power of a "Link-in-Bio" Tool

Use a tool like Linktree, Carrd, or your website's landing page creator to create a custom landing page that offers multiple options:

• Book a Service

• View Price List

• New Client Enquiry Form

• Sign Up for Your Email List

🔑 Your Quick Action Checklist

1. Change Your Name Field: Include your service and location (e.g., Dog Groomer Maidstone).

2. Write Your Value Line: How do you help? (e.g., Reliable walking for busy owners.)

3. Include Proof: List your credentials or service areas (e.g., Insured, Certified, Kent-Wide.)

4. Add a CTA: Tell them exactly what to click (e.g., Book Your Spot 👇).

5. Test Your Link: Ensure the link goes to a page where a new client can easily take the next step.