Career in horses, what should I do?

[icyfreya]

I was going to ask this in the career forum but there are only 7 viewing so I thought I'd ask here. I'm 16 and about to start my A levels, and I don't really know what I want to do when I'm older, but I'm pretty sure I'd like a career with horses. At the moment I'm most interested in Equine Physiotherapy...could anyone give me any info on this career, or another career in the equine industry? I'm doing A levels in Biology, Psychology, History and Art and am working on a yard doing my BHS stages at the weekend, where over the next two years I can get up to my PTT.

I sort of want a job which isn't too physically strenuous, I don't think I'd want to be a full time groom, and I'd like to earn enough to be able to live and keep a horse, and preferably not have to do years and years of expensive training.

 

[ThePony]

Goodness, a career with horses that isn't too strenuous and pays enough to keep a horse. In all honesty I'm not sure if one exists!!!
As an equine physio it would be reasnobly strenuous work, you need a human physio course first, then you can train as an equine physio. Though Harper Adams have just started a part time masters that leads to an equine physio qualification, without needing a human physio degree - but you do need a good amount of relavent experience.
There are precious few office type jobs with an equine slant, and those that are available are very sought after and I don't think they pay that great either (as there is such demand for the job, they don't really have to offer a terribly competative salary as people are falling over themselves for such a job).
There is always the option of running your own business, the saddle fitters around here don't seem to struggle! An apprenticeship would be required for that (check out master saddlers website for info on that) and of course quite a large initial outlay for the stock, but earnings can be good.
You could go into the breeding side, or bloodstock, both may in time offer decent earnings, though it is very likely you would have to go through being a groom and working your way up.
If having a nice 9-5 type job with enough time and money to enjoy having your own horse appeals then you might find a non-horsey job would suit you better. There is also alot to be said for keeping your hobby seperate from what you do as a job - the job can often take the enjoyment out of the hobby.
Good luck, it is so tricky deciding what to do! Don't stress yourself out about it too much, there is no harm at all in starting on one career and taking stock and changing if you find it doesn't suit you or your needs change.