Horse professionals are used to operating on thin margins without sacrificing care or customer service. However, there are times when cutting expenses may be necessary. For some, it can be a chore, but can also be an opportunity to get creative in finding ways of trimming costs while still providing the necessities. Here are four ideas for reducing expenses without cutting corners on the care horses need.
Negotiate rates
When bills come due, it’s routine to just pay them. For some, services such as insurance, discounts and negotiations may be possible. Valerie McCloskey CHA Director from Rome, New York called her insurance agent when her state issued pandemic restrictions prohibited visitors, slashing her lesson program.
“Most of the cost in our premiums is liability due to lessons,” she says. “I asked that if the current situation goes on for months and I’m not teaching on the farm if that could go down.”
Cell phone carriers and television providers are notorious for undercutting competitors rates to gain a new client. Shop around and compare prices. Saving on several bills can add up.
Making the most of on property resources
Horses need to eat and scrimping on hay or feed quality isn’t an option. However, stables with property may be able to rely on grazing to provide the horse’s nutritional needs. Turning horses out on well-maintained pastures not only reduces hay and grain, it also reduces bedding use and the labor required to clean stalls. Some horses might not need as many supplements if they are not working as well.
Delaying expenses
Routine vet and farrier visits are necessities for keeping healthy horses. However, delaying certain services may be an option. For example, if a horse isn’t competing and is sound, routine trimming may suffice. Similarly, it may be possible to postpone maintenance appointments like chiropractic care, acupuncture or dental work when a healthy horse is temporarily not working.
Buy in bulk
Purchasing large quantities costs more up front but can provide significant savings over the long term. Buying in bulk also means room for storage is necessary.
“I try to order hay in larger loads for a better price,” says Amy Obringer a CHA Regional Director and Certified Instructor from California. “I’m always looking for deals on supplements and medications and I share vet fees when I can.”