Equine Nutritionist

An Equine Nutritionist deals with horses, horse owners, feed manufacturers and dealers. Equine Nutritionists must be good at problem solving since their job deals with examining feeding and nutrition problems and designing nutritional programs around specific goals, restrictions, preferences, or management systems. The Equine Nutritionist must make and keep close contacts between the farmer and the feed and forage dealers. They make farm calls to solve problems or update owners on new advances in the field of equine nutrition. A good deal of travel is involved with this occupation. Equine Nutritionists must have a working knowledge of the nutritional requirements of particular types of horses. For example, horses used for pleasure, or racing, or working cattle, or used in dressage all have different nutritional needs and goals. Some Equine Nutritionists still calculate rations by hand, but most use computer programs to determine nutritional requirements, ration components and mixture rates.

To be an Equine Nutritionist you must enjoy working with people, you should be good with math, and knowledgeable about computers. A background in horses is very beneficial and college is recommended. A four-year degree in business can also be an advantage.

The income for Equine Nutritionists varies with region and level of experience. Starting income is $25,000-$28,000 and up. Some benefits are generally included. Equine Nutritionists working as researchers or product managers at major feed manufacturers generally have a specialized, higher degree (M.S. or Ph.D) in nutrition. Starting salaries are commensurate with education, but average $40,000 and up.