This article originally appeared in the Winter 2024 issue of EquiManagement. Sign up herefor a FREE subscription to EquiManagement’s quarterly digital or print magazine and any special issues.Sherri Gard, DVM, of Guardian Equine in Virginia, says the most exciting thing about starting her own equine practice was “being my own boss and setting my own standards.” | Courtesy Dr. Sherri Gard
If you have an entrepreneurial spirit, prefer to plot your own path, and desire to reap the profits of your hard work, starting your own equine practice will hold great appeal. Having made the decision, you are likely to be seized with an equal mix of excitement and fear. Owning a small business is not an easy task. There are many moving parts and, as the practice owner, you are responsible for keeping everything running smoothly.
Step 1: Determine ‘Who’ Your Equine Practice Will Be
The first step in opening your own practice is thinking about what market you will serve and what differentiates your practice from others in your area. What will set you apart—a certain set of niche skills, such as dentistry or integrative therapy or expertise in lameness diagnosis? Or will it be a cultural difference—will you cater to new horse owners by spending lots of time educating them and caring for their horses as family members? You cannot be all things to all horse owners, so you must choose which owners will be your target market.
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