Bloodstock Agent
Bloodstock agents are equine professionals who are hired to buy and sell horses for breeding and racing. Bloodstock agents can specialize in racing stock, breeding stock or a combination of both. They also assist owners in the evaluation of horses based on pedigree and either provide appraisal or determine asking price.
What Responsibilities Will I Have?
- Appraise horses for insurance purposes or direct clients to providers of insurance
- Visit farms that breed horses to select foals for purchase
- Acquire shares in stallions on owner’s behalf
- Meet with potential buyers to discuss their needs and determine which horse(s) would best fit them
- Attend auctions and bid on behalf of clients
- Facilitate the process of purchasing horses including determining commission and establishing credit
- Recommend equine veterinarians, boarding facilities and trainers to patrons
- Facilitate the process of purchasing horses including determining commission and establishing credit
- Determine when breeding horses are foaling and notify owners
- Maintain proper and complete records of purchases and sales to provide reports to owners
- Remain abreast of changes in the horse market and industry trends
- Work closely with veterinarians, farriers and other equine health professionals to evaluate the fitness of individual horses
Recommended High School Courses:
- agricultural education
- biology
- anatomy
- animal science
- mathematics
Education/Training Required:
There is no specific required degree or training to become a bloodstock agent, but knowledge of or a degree in equine science is beneficial. There are also certification courses available to become more knowledgeable about equine science or the racehorse industry.
