02/04/2026
Putting all your eggs in one basket, and the reason you should NOT.
Yesterday I took Valorie to her annual maintenance appointment at 509 Equine Veterinary Services and it reminded me of a question I was asked by one of my former vets a while back. I had used her for years and even after I moved out of the area, I continued to use her for my dogs and a few horse things despite having multiple vets in my new residence.
She asked "well can I ask why you have multiple vets?". It caught me off guard because her tone was almost accusatory, but it was really a simple answer. I don't want to put all my eggs in one basket, because it's better for my horse.
For example, this horse has seen no less than 3 veterinarians for her simple hock arthritic management. First was at the original clinic when imaging was done by a vet she had on staff who ended up leaving that practice. I really liked her, but she was not set up to offer services at the time, so that prompted me to seek treatment with Sharp Sports Medicine, who then handled her care at that point. 10 out of 10 recommend. Fast forward to 2026 and because of scheduling and availability in my area, I had 509 Equine do her routine maintenance for the year. I have used them before and as always, great experience.
This is also in addition to Ranch Hand Veterinary Services helping us with some more basic issues with another mare we have. He's right down the road and it's so nice to have one nearby who can just swing in when available.
I thought about how it's never a good idea to put all your eggs in one basket in the horse business. I have a handful of vets I can call based upon my needs and the needs of my animals and they are ALL great practitioners. They all have their strengths and I am sure GRATEFUL to have them. In Valorie's case, I had to utilize different options because of simple availability issues and because I HAD options, I was able to get her great care with no delays.
So my best advice to you, in your horse journey, is this. Don't put all your eggs in one basket. With vets, with hay suppliers, with farriers, it's ok to have your regular providers that you use but don't be afraid to branch out and get established with others you trust. When life happens (and it will) you are then prepared to care for your animal in the best way with no delays.
Picture of a drunken Valorie because it makes me chuckle😆
