Veterinarian Emily Bruschi and Farrier Justin Galli not only serve on the board for the Northeast Association of Equine Practitioners, but they also work together in the field. Bruschi is a partner in Watermark Equine in Ridgefield, Conn., while Galli operates Galli Forge, based in Millbrook, N.Y

Both practices primarily work with sport horses. Among several veterinarians he works with, Galli shares a large account with Watermark Equine. They’ll also work with another account less frequently. They typically will work with these horses in the Northeast, but also in Florida when these horses travel.

Both practitioners credit each other for helping maintain a great relationship, absent of friction. But a successful relationship doesn’t happen by accident. It requires conscious effort in communication, especially when the owner is involved.

Understand Wording Related to Client Personalities

Bruschi finds that veterinarians not only need to recognize how to handle the personalities of various farriers, but perhaps more importantly, the clients. She acknowledges that within the demanding sport horse world that she and Galli service, some clients can be intense. This intensity can carry over into how these clients engage the equine care team. Being aware of this, she is very selective with the words she uses when the client asks questions or makes observations about matters related to the farrier.