Horse Job – Stable Hand

A position usually found in small establishments with fewer horses and employees, the duties of a stable hand can encompass those of groom, handler, stall cleaner & schooling rider. An entry level position good for those who want to begin a career in the equine industry.

Teamwork Attitude

This is a position which benefits from a working knowledge of horses, general maintenance skills and solid communication skills. Smaller stables often rely heavily on each employee and everyone shares responsibility for the animals.

A firm belief in teamwork, physical strength and the ability to stay calm under pressure are all key ingredients to a successful stable hand.

Job Description

Usually answers to either the barn manager or the trainer and is responsible for overall maintenance and daily running of the facility, feeding, cleaning & administering of medication.

Responsibilities

• Adhering to feeding, cleaning & supplement schedules
• Holding horses for vet & farrier
• Daily exercise of animals
• Administering of prescribed medication & general first aid
• Facility maintenance and fixes
• Keeping stable area tidy, sweeping, raking & watering
• Grooming & bathing of animals
• Monitoring horses for health and soundness
• Help with breeding and foaling
• Help with problem animals

Requirements

Some employers will require a high school diploma for employment, but no formal education or training exists for this position. Potential employers will be looking for someone with horse experience who is handy enough for routine maintenance.

The Right Job For You?

If this isn’t your dream job, there is a long list of different careers that involve horses. Each one requiring a different skill set, schooling requirement and amount of contact with the animals.

Image from gluemoon