Walking On Volume 7, Issue 1, January 2020 | Page 7

in the Horse Industry
u can help grow our industry.
4. Provide unique riding programs. Change it up to
make riding fun for all ages. Examples might in-
clude things like yoga on horseback, lessons fol-
lowed by pre-planned opportunities to socialize,
lessons where parents and kids ride together, games
on horseback, or lessons on the trail.
For everyone in the horse industry:
1. Be honest and ethical. Unfortunately, our industry
is plagued by way too many stories of people who
have had bad experiences in various areas of the
horse world - from unethical trainers to over-paying
for a dangerous or lame horse. These experiences
can run people straight out of the horse industry
and cause them to speak negatively about the indus-
try to others. Negativity spreads fast and far. Be a
positive light in our industry.
2. Be nice and manage your ego. Welcome newcom-
ers, let a stranger pet your horse, help beginners,
lend a hand at shows, share your knowledge. All
of these things can go a long way toward increas-
ing participation and participant retention in the
industry. Set a good example and be inclusive. We
were all new once, we were all beginners once, and
we’ve all need a hand. There’s a lot of satisfaction to
be found in helping others progress in an activity
that you love.
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