Working with horses can be both relaxing and exciting. From horse training to riding instruction, there are dozens of opportunities, many of which are extremely lucrative. To start a horse business, however, one must love the equestrian industry as much as they love horses.
Legal Latitude
The legal liabilities involved with starting a horse business are numerous, especially if the work is associated directly with horses. For example, teaching riding lessons involves more legal liability than working as an equine insurance agent.
It is absolutely essential that a career working with horses contain all the necessary contracts and legal considerations required in the country of residence. Hiring an attorney to oversee these aspects of a horse business is an important step, but horse business owners should also familiarize themselves with the laws of the state, county and country in which they live.
Make sure you consider:
- Contracts for clients and vendors
- Equine liability notices for horse business property
- Liability insurance for the business and all employees
- Contracts for horse business staff members
Marketing Mania
A horse business is just as much about sales and marketing as any other career, which means advertising and building a solid reputation. Before starting a career involving horses, it is important to decide exactly what the business will stand for and how it will draw in new clients.
Advertising locally is one of the best ways to accomplish this. Put up fliers in the local feed store, hand out business cards at horse shows and spread the message through word of mouth. The more buzz a horse business owner creates, the more successful he will be.
Location Logistics
Location is also important in a horse business, particularly if it is located in a low-population area. Ideally, it is best to start a career with horses on the outskirts of a large city, which gives the business access to plenty of potential customers. These business, however, can also flourish in small towns and in suburbs.
Finding a location for a horse business involves not only clients, but also the aforementioned legalese. The area must be zoned for an agricultural business, and it must have access to all the things needed for the business. For example, plenty of open, flat land is required for barns, arenas, round pens and pastures.
Customer Service
One of the areas in which many horse-related business are lacking is customer service. It is universally assumed, it appears, that a horse business doesn't have to have a customer service department, nor does an equestrian professional need to accommodate his or her clients.
Nothing could be further than the truth. An excellent way in which a horse business owner can set himself apart from the crowd is by offering stellar customer service. Talk to clients, find out what they want, respond immediately to questions or concerns and find new ways to provide value.
A horse business might be the best career choice for many horse owners who want to make money doing what they love. However, do not assume that this career choice doesn't require work because it certainly does.
Laura Thompson - Laura Thompson is a horseback riding instructor and freelance writer living in Houston, Texas. She is proud to be the feature writer for ...
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