Do you love working with horses? Are you considering a career that involves caring for or riding horses? If yes, then the good news is that there are many career options that are open to you, including being an equine vet, a farrier and managing a horse-riding school. The world of equestrian jobs covers a wide range of disciplines and working environments that takes into account different skills and life experiences. Of course, what ties them all together is a love of horses. Below, we explore seven of the most popular equestrian jobs for you to consider.
A yard groom
The yard groom is at the very heart of any stable, yard or riding school. This is because the hard groom offers hands-on care to the horses. In many cases, the yard groom develops deep bonds with the horses. These jobs are always in high demand while being incredibly varied. Responsibilities include feeding the horses, mucking out, grooming, administering first aid and turning out. In most cases, some equestrian experience is needed, but you can learn on the job.
Riding instructor
You may think that a riding instructor only gives riding lessons, and although this is true, they also carry out a number of other tasks. They teach safe riding practices and the sportsmanship that goes alongside riding horses. Their passion should influence and encourage others. They teach beginners all the basics of riding, including riding in the correct position and the use of riding aids. When teaching advanced riders, then they will concentrate on perfecting their riding style. The riding instructor has many responsibilities that include group lessons, safe mounting and dismounting, and assessing riders' abilities for certification. To become a riding instructor, you'll need to have a qualification from the Association of British Riding Schools or have passed the practical teaching test from the British Horse Society.
Equestrian veterinarian
The equine vet only cares for horses, mules, ponies or donkeys. Their job is vital in helping all of these animals to remain as healthy as possible, to be disease-free and to not suffer during periods of sickness or injury. Their role is a valuable and much-needed one. The equine vet can diagnose any illness that may occur, administer a range of treatments that involves the use of ointment, injections or oral medication, plus they can carry out a range of surgical and diagnostic procedures. They are also a vital part of the team in carrying out regular health checks. To work as an equine vet you will need to be a trained and qualified vet and have experience of working with horses.
Farrier
Being a farrier is an important job. Sometimes they are referred to as a blacksmith, but a farrier works only with horses, donkeys or mules. Their role is to measure and fit horseshoes and trim hooves. Every horse will need the services of a farrier to ensure hooves are healthy. Other roles of the farrier include reshaping hooves, hot and cold shoeing, and making horseshoes. Farriers need to have a love of horses and a patient nature to do their job. Enrolling at farrier college is the most common route into this profession, that is also coupled with an apprenticeship.
Exercise rider
The career of an exercise rider is an exciting and varied one. An exercise rider is sometimes known as a galloper or work rider and their job is to ride horses and to keep them well exercised in preparation for races and competitions. Their role differs to that of a jockey as they do not take part in any races, as they are solely there for the horse and their exercise needs. The exercise rider will closely follow the trainer's instructions and planned exercise regime. So, this will involve working with the horse for a set number of hours each day, and completing a set distance of riding practice. They will then tell the trainer of all the progress that has been made, plus any problems that may have arisen. If you want to work as an exercise trainer then you usually need to have a love of working with horses and have several years of riding experience behind you. These are all good qualities to enable you to start out in this career.
Horse trainer
The horse trainer works closely with the young horse, helping them to slowly and happily accept being ridden. This is often a time-consuming job that requires much dedication and patience. On the other end of the spectrum, they can work with older horses who are being ridden for competition purposes. While working with young horses the horse trainer has many responsibilities that will include working with the horse and putting tack on them without a rider, so that they get used to it. The young horse will also need to be taught how to stop and start riding, plus turning in different directions. Entry into this career usually involves experience in riding plus an equestrian studies qualification.
Yard manager
A yard manager is also known as a barn or stable manager. Although this role is not hands-on, as is the role of a yard groom, they are responsible for the day to day management of the yard, barn or stable, including the management of all staff and the welfare of the horses. Duties can include taking bookings for riding lessons, managing calendars, ordering feed and bedding, overseeing and planning visits by the equine vet, staff rotas and dealing with invoices. Horse management courses or a degree in equine sciences are a good route into this chosen career.
Here at Agricultural Recruitment Specialists, we have an extensive and exciting online directory of all types of agricultural-based jobs. Our directory includes a wide range of equine jobs in a variety of different sectors and at all entry levels. So, if you love being with horses and want to pursue this as your career, then please do browse our online directory of equestrian jobs today.
If you're looking for work in the agricultural sector, Agricultural Recruitment Specialists can help you find the right niche in the UK, Europe and beyond. We can assist in finding which doors are open for you with your specific background and even advice on what you could do to improve your prospects.
Agricultural Recruitment Specialists are worldwide recruitment experts in agricultural, food, farming and rural recruitment and have a variety of executive and management positions available within agriculture, horticulture and the food and rural sectors throughout the UK and the rest of the world. To find out more about our agricultural job vacancies and discuss your future career, contact our team of agricultural recruitment professionals. You can visit our website here: www.agriRS.co.uk or call our team on: 01905 345 155 or email us at: info@agriRS.co.uk
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