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Working as a stable hand2007-11-25 17:00:53

Do u have to have any kind of experience to work as a stable hand at a riding school?

Answers:

Sometimes they will take a eager beginner. You didn't say if your a adult looking to do this as your primary job. Nor if you a horse crazy teen who's looking to learn and may be earn a little money.

Some barns have whats called a "WORKING STUDENT" position.As a working student you usually don't get cash (sometimes but a very small amount) You learn everything from mucking( cleaning) stalls ,turning out horses, feeding, grooming, tacking and health care and trailering, show grooming . You will also get more advanced riding lessons. You may also be taken to horse shows or show horses for your barn. You might learn some basic horse training or help with childrens lessons.Some times with being a WORKING STUDENT you can even live at the barn if your over 18 ( they usally have trailer or old house for the working students to live in) If you own a horse his board may be included. It's hard work but at a really good show barn you will learn so much in this manner.Note if it's a well known top barn/trainer it may be very competitive to get a working student position.

Now , if your a teen and just love horses and want to learn perhaps pick a stable and take a few lessons. If you like the place ask if they might be able to hire you to work there .A stable that knows you a little from taking lessons might be more likely to say yes . You might be offered to work in exchange for lessons or ride time. This is a good deal is you want lessons.Lessons can be very expensive.If you want cash they may not say yes cause lots of teen girls are willing to work for just lessons. If you make a deal make sure you get the lessons you earn and make sure its a fair deal. Stable owners are notorious for " forgetting" to give you all of your earned ride time/ lessons.