Kristie Morris: A Passion for Horses and a Lifelong Journey

The Kristie Morris journey into the equine world wasn’t paved with convenience or family tradition – it was built on grit, determination, and an unwavering love for horses.

Growing up in a family without any equestrian ties, Kristie’s passion led her to start working at a local riding school at just 13 years old, exchanging her afternoons for riding lessons.

This early hustle set the tone for a lifelong dedication to horses, proving that ambition and hard work could open doors to extraordinary opportunities.

Now, as the Marketing and Project Manager for The Equine Practice Company, Kristie’s path has come full circle.

From her formative years managing stables and training show ponies to her pivotal role in shaping equine education programs, Kristie Morris has built a career that bridges hands-on equine care with a commitment to supporting veterinarians worldwide.

Her story is one of persistence, resourcefulness, and an enduring connection to the equine world – a journey that continues to inspire those she works with and serves.

Early Beginnings: Building a Foundation

Kristie Morris’s love for horses emerged against all odds, as her family had no equestrian background. Undeterred, she pursued her passion with relentless determination, starting her journey at a local riding school at the age of 13.

“I used to catch the bus after school and work in the stables in exchange for riding lessons,” Kristie recalls.

These formative years taught her the value of hard work and resourcefulness – traits that would become the bedrock of her equine career.

Her first horse, a buckskin stock horse named Danny, symbolized the culmination of her dedication.

“My dad always told me I couldn’t have a horse until I could afford one myself. I saved every cent, and when the opportunity came, I bought Danny for $333 – the exact amount I had managed to save,” she shares.

That purchase marked the beginning of Kristie Morris’s journey as a horse owner, blending her ambition with a heartfelt commitment to care for her equine companions.

Kristie’s early experiences extended beyond riding, as she immersed herself in the equestrian world by attending shows, working with friends who had show horses, and taking on any role that allowed her to be around horses.

These experiences gave her a deep understanding of equine behavior and care, as well as the practical skills that would shape her career.

Reflecting on those early years, Kristie notes, “The challenges I faced and overcame as a teenager gave me the resilience and resourcefulness to navigate my career. Those lessons are still with me today.”

This foundation of grit and determination set the stage for her later success, both in her hands-on work with horses and in her leadership role at The Equine Practice Company.

From Riding Schools to Clinical Nutrition

Kristie Morris professional journey is marked by a remarkable evolution, from her early days in the equestrian world to becoming a key figure at The Equine Practice Company.

After improving her foundational skills at riding schools and local shows, she embarked on a transformative chapter working with the Walker family at Marena Stud.

This experience not only deepened her practical knowledge of horse breeding, training, and management but also instilled in her a profound respect for the wisdom of seasoned equestrian professionals.

“At Marena Stud, I learned how much knowledge can be passed down from older generations,” Kristie reflects.

“Working closely with the Walkers gave me invaluable insights into the intricate dynamics of managing horses and building trust with them as animals.”

These formative years were instrumental in shaping Kristie’s understanding of equine behavior and care – a perspective she would later apply in her work in veterinary nutrition.

Kristie Morris time at Marena Stud also sparked an interest in clinical nutrition, leading her to collaborate with renowned equine nutritionist Dr. Jennifer Stewart.

This partnership proved pivotal, as it allowed Kristie to bridge her hands-on equestrian experience with a deeper scientific understanding of equine health.

“Clinical nutrition isn’t just about feeding horses – it’s about treating, managing, and even diagnosing a variety of conditions through diet,” she explains.

This work highlighted the critical role nutrition plays in post-surgical recovery, overall wellness, and long-term performance.

In pursuit of a broader understanding of agriculture and animal health, Kristie completed a Diploma in Agriculture, majoring in nutrition.

Balancing her studies with raising four children and working multiple jobs, she demonstrated the resilience and determination that have defined her career.

“It wasn’t easy, but I knew the effort would pay off. Every step of the way, I was building a foundation that would allow me to contribute meaningfully to the equine industry,” she shares.

Kristie’s professional journey exemplifies her commitment to continuous learning and her ability to adapt and excel in diverse roles within the equine world.

These experiences not only shaped her expertise but also fueled her passion for creating resources and programs that bridge the gap between horse owners and veterinary professionals.

Now, as Marketing and Project Manager at The Equine Practice Company, Kristie Morris leverages her rich background to support veterinarians and elevate the standard of equine care worldwide.

Connecting the Equine World

In her current role as Marketing and Project Manager at The Equine Practice Company, Kristie Morris has become an integral force in connecting equine veterinarians worldwide.

Drawing on her extensive experience in equestrian care, clinical nutrition, and agricultural science, she brings a unique perspective to the company’s mission of empowering equine practitioners through accessible, high-quality education.

Kristie’s journey to this role was a culmination of her professional evolution and personal drive. After years of working alongside industry leaders, she found her place at The Equine Practice Company through a chance conversation with Dr. Olivia James.

“I remember Olivia proposing an idea to me and asking for my feedback,” Kristie recalls. “What started as a casual chat quickly turned into an opportunity to join forces and create something truly meaningful for the equine veterinary community.”

In her day-to-day work, Kristie Morris focuses on building bridges – whether it’s connecting veterinarians with leading experts, creating educational resources, or fostering a supportive community within the industry.

Her efforts extend beyond marketing strategies; they reflect her commitment to advancing the equine veterinary profession as a whole.

One of the most rewarding aspects of Kristie’s role is the opportunity to collaborate with world-class veterinarians and lecturers who share her passion for the field.

“There’s a profound sense of gratitude when I see these incredible individuals coming together to share their knowledge and help others grow,” she says.

Her ability to nurture these relationships has been instrumental in expanding The Equine Practice Company’s reach and influence.

Kristie Morris’s impact is evident not only in the company’s educational programs but also in its culture.

She works tirelessly to ensure that every program, masterclass, and resource reflects the company’s core values of excellence, inclusivity, and innovation.

By helping veterinarians gain confidence through education, she contributes to a stronger, more resilient equine veterinary community.

Looking to the future, Kristie Morris envisions The Equine Practice Company becoming an even more vital resource for equine practitioners worldwide.

“It’s not just about providing education – it’s about creating a platform that supports veterinarians at every stage of their careers,” she emphasizes.

Through her dedication and leadership, Kristie continues to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of equine veterinary medicine.

Life on the Farm

Away from her professional commitments, Kristie Morris finds joy and purpose on her farm nestled along the Mid Coast of New South Wales.

This idyllic setting, where she raises Belted Galloway cattle and Suffolk sheep, reflects her deep connection to agriculture and her lifelong love of animals.

For Kristie Morris, the farm is more than just a home. It’s a sanctuary where her passion for sustainable farming and her appreciation for nature converge.

Her decision to start breeding these distinctive and hardy livestock breeds wasn’t accidental.

“Farming has always been a part of who I am,” Kristie shares. “The opportunity to care for these animals and contribute to their well-being connects me to the land in a way that’s incredibly fulfilling.”

Her meticulous approach to breeding and her commitment to ethical farming practices mirror the same dedication she brings to her work at The Equine Practice Company.

Life on the farm is a family affair, with Kristie Morris balancing her professional endeavors with the demands of rural life and raising her children.

Her days are a blend of managing livestock, overseeing projects for The Equine Practice Company, and spending quality time with her family. It’s a balance that requires resilience and adaptability – qualities she has cultivated throughout her career.

Kristie also treasures the moments of simplicity that farm life offers.

Whether it’s the satisfaction of a well-tended paddock, the joy of watching her children interact with the animals, or the serenity of a sunset over the rolling hills, these experiences ground her and provide a sense of perspective amidst a busy professional life.

Her dual role as a professional leader and a farmer epitomizes her ability to connect different worlds.

Just as she bridges the gap between equine practitioners and the resources they need, she also exemplifies how dedication and passion can create harmony between work, family, and personal pursuits.

Through her life on the farm, Kristie Morris embodies the values she advocates – commitment, care, and a desire to make a meaningful impact.

These qualities not only define her personal life but also enrich her contributions to The Equine Practice Company and the broader equine veterinary community.

Reflections and Advice From Kristie Morris

Kristie Morris’s journey has been marked by perseverance, adaptability, and a willingness to embrace challenges.

Reflecting on her career, she shares, “I’m most proud of my courage to believe in myself, to keep going, and to work hard, knowing it will propel me into greater things.”

This belief has been a constant throughout her life, helping her navigate both personal and professional obstacles with grace and determination.

For those aspiring to work in equine veterinary care or management, Kristie offers invaluable advice: “Don’t let doubt get in the way. Start somewhere. Whether it’s a receptionist role in a clinic or assisting at a stable. Opportunities come when you take the first step.”

Kristie Morris emphasizes the importance of building connections within the industry, observing that her career has been shaped by the relationships she has fostered along the way.

Kristie’s perspective on career growth is equally practical and inspiring. “You never know what doors will open. It’s not about having all the answers upfront; it’s about being willing to learn and adapt.”

Her insights serve as a reminder that success is as much about attitude as it is about expertise.

Rapid-Fire Fun

Amidst her professional achievements, Kristie has a lighthearted side that reveals her personality and passion for life:

If you could own any horse, past or present, who would it be and why?
“I’ve often thought how I wish I could have gotten my first horse, Danny, back. With what I know now, I could have given him a much better home.”

What’s your favorite horse breed and why?
“Australian Stock Horses. They’re smart, well-put-together, and hugely versatile.”

One equestrian skill you wish you could master instantly?
“I’d love to have the confidence in the saddle I had in my younger days.”

These glimpses into Kristie’s personal preferences showcase her enduring love for horses and her deep connection to the equestrian world.

Kristie’s Vision for the Future

Looking ahead, Kristie Morris envisions a bright and impactful future for The Equine Practice Company.

“The rate at which we’ve grown in the past few years is astonishing, but I believe the next five years will be exponential,” she says.

Her focus is on adding value to the equine veterinary industry and ensuring the company’s offerings support both practitioners and the broader community.

A key aspect of this vision involves making education more accessible.

“Not everyone can afford to travel to conferences or spend thousands of dollars on continuing education. By offering online programs and scholarships, we’re breaking down barriers and ensuring that veterinarians worldwide have access to the knowledge they need.”

Kristie Morris is also passionate about connecting people and fostering collaboration.

“We’re not just an education company; we’re a bridge between equine practitioners, experts, and resources. By sharing knowledge and supporting one another, we can uplift the entire industry.”

Her ultimate goal is to amplify the company’s impact, both locally and globally.

“I see us reaching into universities, creating more scholarships, and supporting veterinarians in underserved areas. It’s not just about selling programs – it’s about giving back to the industry that has given us so much.”

The Kristie Morris vision is rooted in her unwavering dedication to improving the equine veterinary field. With her leadership, The Equine Practice Company is poised to continue transforming lives and practices around the world.