Getting Back to the Fundamentals: Why Core Marketing Matters for Every Veterinary Practice

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In this episode of the Veterinary Business Podcast, host Don Adeesha welcomes Naren Arulrajah, CEO of Ekwa Marketing and Founder of the Veterinary Business Institute, for a practical discussion on why core marketing fundamentals remain critical for every veterinary practice. The episode, “Getting Back to the Fundamentals: Why Core Marketing Matters for Every Veterinary Practice,” focuses on proven strategies that support sustainable, long-term growth rather than short-term marketing trends.

The conversation explores where veterinary practices should begin with marketing, emphasizing the importance of being visible in local Google searches. Topics include SEO, Google reviews, mobile-optimized websites, and simple conversion pathways that turn online searches into phone calls and appointments. Naren explains how fast-loading websites, clear contact options, and trust signals directly influence client decision-making.

Listeners also gain insight into how veterinary websites convert traffic into real leads. The episode highlights the role of relevant content, review placement, mobile performance, and consistency across online listings. With most searches starting on Google and happening on mobile devices, the discussion outlines why speed, credibility, and expertise signals are essential for standing out in competitive markets.

Finally, the episode breaks down the differences between SEO, paid advertising, and social media. While SEO provides long-term, cost-effective traffic, paid ads are positioned as a tactical tool for startups or high-margin services. Social media is reframed as a relationship-building channel focused on client retention rather than reach. This episode is ideal for veterinary practice owners, executives, and communicators seeking a clear, actionable framework to optimize their digital marketing and communications strategy.

Key Takeaways & Time Stamps

• 00:00 – 05:00 | Introduction and Guest Background
  Host Don Adeesha welcomes listeners to the Veterinary Business Podcast and introduces the episode “Getting Back to the Fundamentals: Why Core Marketing Matters for Every Veterinary Practice.” Naren Arulrajah, CEO of Ekwa Marketing and Founder of Veterinary Business Institute, shares his expertise in helping clinics with SEO, website optimization, reputation management, and digital advertising.
• 05:00 – 12:00 | Where to Start with Marketing Fundamentals
  Practices must prioritize showing up on Google searches via SEO or ads for local queries like “veterinarian near me.” Google reviews, fast-loading mobile-optimized websites, and easy contact options convert searchers into callers, while social media maintains client relationships post-conversion.
• 12:00 – 20:00 | Website Conversion and Google Visibility
  Websites convert by featuring relevant content, highlighted reviews, and simple booking; 92% of North Americans start on Google, with top 5 sites getting free traffic. AI overviews and mobile speed are key, as 75% search via phone, emphasizing NAP consistency and expertise signals.
• 20:00 – 24:13 | SEO vs Ads and Social Media Role
  SEO offers long-term free traffic (top 5 dominate), far cheaper than ads which cost 6-10x more and erode trust; use ads for startups or high-profit services. Social media suits 1% of influencers for global reach but for most, it’s low-effort client retention via 2-3 weekly posts.

Naren Arulrajah

Computer Scientist
CEO of Ekwa Marketing
Founder, Veterinary Business Podcast

Naren Arulrajah is a visionary entrepreneur with a deep commitment to helping veterinary professionals build thriving, sustainable practices. Grounded in a philosophy of service, Naren believes that true success is rooted in empowering others—especially those who care for the health and well-being of animals.

As the CEO and Founder of Ekwa Marketing, Naren leads a team of over 250 digital marketing experts focused on serving the unique needs of independent veterinary practice owners. Ekwa specializes in delivering proven, results-driven strategies tailored for veterinarians, including website optimization, local SEO, reputation management, and digital advertising. With a client retention rate of over 95%, Ekwa has become a trusted growth partner for veterinary clinics across North America.

Naren’s impact on the veterinary industry goes beyond marketing. As the founder of the Veterinary Business Institute and the Veterinary Business Podcast, he has created a hub of knowledge, connection, and inspiration for veterinarians and practice managers. Through these platforms, he brings together experts in veterinary medicine, business, and leadership to equip practitioners with the tools they need to succeed in practice ownership and personal development.

From transforming underperforming practices into high-performing, client-centric clinics to helping aspiring veterinary entrepreneurs turn their vision into reality, Naren’s insights and mentorship have been instrumental in shaping the future of veterinary business success.

A sought-after consultant, speaker, and podcast host, Naren was honored with the 2014 Leadership Initiative Award by AceTech Ontario, recognizing his dedication to innovation, leadership, and entrepreneurial excellence. His journey is fueled by the belief that success is built on collaboration, integrity, and the courage to keep learning and growing—especially in service to those who serve animals.

Connect with Naren:

• LinkedIn
• Website