There are loads of owners out there paying a huge amount of money in monthly agistment, vet, training, transportation (and sundry) fees. Wouldn't it be good therefore to be able to think that the owner was so delighted with the way you managed their horse/s that they couldn't wait to hand over another wallet full of money next year?

Here is a really simple one for you: It's those 'first impressions' when a horse walks off a truck that can make or break that feeling of "let's give them loads more business next year - gee they do a good job!". Yes it takes a bit of time, but something as simple as turning on a hose, picking up a dandy brush and tail comb and ensuring the farrier has provided a good hoof trim (or even going the extra mile and adding a coating of hoof oil and/or a clipper around the fetlocks) to send that horse home after their time with you looking a darn sight smarter than when they walked out of the paddock/box that can make all the difference.

In the world of broodmares there are a few things that the majority of owners appreciate almost as much as that 45 day PPT certificate and that's the sight of a glossy coat on their mare, a dapple or two and some covering across the ribs - particularly if they have been paying huge daily rates for the privilege.

You need to put yourself in the client's shoes for a moment - how would YOU feel if they sent YOUR mare home with a dull coat, and ribs so prominent you've got some serious concerns about the state of health of that developing foal inside her? Would you be in any rush to send the mare back next year considering the other options available to you?

(Sadly perhaps - for you anyway) competition is such that someone will always be waiting at your heels to lunge forward and snatch that client off you.