SkyTails Case Study: Improve Pet Welfare and Financial Security for Adopters

By:

Emma Riedlinger, Head of Market Strategy & Branding, SkyTails

Michael Heibronner, Head of Growth, Skytails 

SkyTails Case Study: Pet Welfare

A large animal shelter in North Carolina, is launching a pilot program with SkyTails, a fintech company specializing in pet financial wellness. This program aims to increase pet retention rates, improve animal welfare, and generate revenue for the shelter by integrating SkyTails' pet savings accounts into the adoption process.

The Challenge:

The Shelter faces the ongoing challenge of ensuring the long-term well-being of animals adopted from their facility. Unexpected veterinary costs can create financial burdens for pet owners, potentially leading to:

• Relinquishment:  Owners may return animals to the shelter due to an inability to afford necessary care.

• Delayed or Forgone Care:  Financial constraints may cause owners to postpone or neglect essential veterinary treatments, compromising the animal's health.

• Debt Accumulation:  Owners may resort to credit cards or loans to cover veterinary expenses, incurring high interest rates and long-term financial strain.

The Solution:

The Shelter Will partner with SkyTails to include information about opening a SkyTails pet savings account in every adoption package. This will:

• Encourage Proactive Financial Planning:  By introducing the concept of pet savings early in the adoption process, the shelter encourages pet owners to prepare for future veterinary expenses.

• Provide Financial Flexibility:  SkyTails accounts allow pet owners to accumulate funds gradually, reducing the financial burden of unexpected veterinary bills.

• Promote Responsible Pet Ownership:  The program reinforces the importance of responsible pet ownership, including financial preparedness for long-term care.

Benefits for Stakeholders:

• Pet Owners:  Gain peace of mind knowing they have financial resources available for their pet's healthcare needs.

• Animals:  Receive timely and necessary veterinary care, leading to improved health and well-being.

• Shelters:

  • Increased Pet Retention:  Reduced financial strain on adopters leads to lower relinquishment rates.

  • Enhanced Reputation:  Demonstrates the shelter's commitment to responsible pet ownership and animal welfare.

  • Revenue Generation:  The shelter receives a commission for every SkyTails account opened through their program.

Pilot Program Details:

• Duration:  12 months Pilot

• Metrics:  Track the number of SkyTails accounts opened, pet relinquishment rates, and owner satisfaction with the program.

• Marketing:  Promote the program through adoption counselors, shelter website, social media, and local media outreach.

Expected Outcomes:

• Increased awareness of the importance of financial planning for pet care

• Higher adoption rates due to the added value of the SkyTails program

• Improved pet retention rates and reduced relinquishment due to financial constraints.

• Enhanced financial security for pet owners.

• Sustainable revenue stream for [Shelter Name] to support its mission.

By partnering with SkyTails, client is taking a proactive approach to addressing the financial challenges associated with pet ownership. This pilot program has the potential to significantly improve animal welfare, support responsible pet ownership, and enhance the shelter's financial sustainability.

Emma Riedlinger

Creative Director

SkyTails