This industry includes breeding, training, and maintaining horses, operating tracks, show and recreational facilities as well as numerous ancillary activities. These include feed, tack, equipment, and real estate sales, legal services, art, photography and literature. Current estimates place 6.9 million horses in the United States involving 7.1 million Americans. The equine industry has a substantial impact on the U.S. economy as a whole. The international market provides additional opportunities as the global economy expands.
Many countries increase their consumption of animal products as their standard of living rises.
Export markets are becoming increasingly important, not only for livestock producers but for agribusiness as well. Students with multiple language skills and international travel expedience coupled with a university education are in increasing demand. The starting salaries for graduates vary considerably and students are advised to keep in mind both the long-term opportunities for growth, benefits packages, and degree of job satisfaction when seeking employment. Start early - even in high school. Those who prepare early put themselves in a position to command the highest demand in the marketplace.