7 Horse Careers in the Equine Business
Turn a Passion for Horses Into a Career Through the Horse Business
Nov 10, 2009
A lifelong passion for horses compels many people to pursue equine careers. Individuals seeking horse employment can pursue their own business endeavors, work for an equine business, or provide horse services.
Start a Boarding Facility
There are many ways to start a horse boarding business. From the large-scale equine facilities to the horse owner with a couple of spare stalls, this is a popular way to make money in the horse business. Large operations will require extensive planning, funding, and management.
Smaller operations will not require the capital of larger facilities but owners considering horse boarding as a business option should take care of legal matters before taking on the first boarder. Boarding agreements or contracts should stipulate rental fee, responsibilities of the owner, and liability of the stable to give all parties legal protection.
Become a Horse Breeder
People who enjoy studying bloodlines and genetics might consider breeding horses as a career. The horse breeding business is tough to make money in but quality genetics and a good outlet for prospects can help improve chances for success.
Individuals wishing to pursue a career in raising horses should consider getting an education in horse management. Equine management degrees are available at many universities and teach horse professionals to run their businesses efficiently.
Become a Horse Trainer
Those with a knack for training horses might consider turning this skill into a career. The key to having a successful horse training business is to have a steady supply of horses and clients. Some trainers prefer to buy prospects, train them, and resell them once they are skilled in a discipline. Other trainers ride predominately outside horses for other people. A good mix of both usually leads to a more stable cash flow.
A horse trainer needs business skills as well as riding ability. Horse management degrees can also be beneficial for trainers and many schools offer horse training programs.
Sell Horse Products
There are an abundance of horse products available to today's horse owners. Selling horse products is a common career choice for many horse people. One way to pursue this career is by opening a tack store or other horse business. This entrepreneurial route should be preceded by a business management degree or other business-related experience.
For those not wishing to take the risk associated with self-employment, there are many other ways to sell equine products. Many manufacturers provide dealership programs for individuals wishing to sell their products. Nutrition and pharmaceutical companies employ salespeople to sell feed, supplements, vaccines, and other horse-related items.
Provide Horse Services
People with specific talents can provide equine services and work in the horse industry without being in direct contact with horses. A good example is someone who sells horse insurance to breeders or individual horse owners.
Another popular horse service is journalism. Individuals with writing talent and experience can write horse articles, work for horse magazines, or write horse books.
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