ARTICLE
Becoming A Horse Groom
By Paul Hegarty
I have been a groom to my own horse, a groom in a dressage yard for no less than 7 horses, a groom for 3 Event Competition horses and a groom for a private farm of 13 horses. I have been a working pupil where you carry out the duties of a groom in return for lessons and a reduced wage. I have also held the title of head groom and Stud Manager.
Throughout my experience I believe that working with horses in no way makes you rich. It does however provide many opportunities for learning and even travel. As a groom I have had the opportunity to work in Africa, England and Europe with horses. In each country the basic role of a groom and the duties remain consistent.
Accommodation is provided with most grooming jobs. In this situation the groom is on call 24 hours a day. You may well find yourself up tending to a sick horse at 2 am in the morning and still having to be up to feed the horses at six. A full time groom normally works a six day week with a scheduled one day off. If this sounds like too much of a commitment for you, there are at times jobs to be found offering part-time work.
When applying for a potential grooming position be honest about your experience, especially if this is your first opportunity to be a groom. Many yards will take the time to train you and give you a good knowledge base of how to do things and what to do. A good way to abruptly end your groom work is to apply for a job you are not skilled to do. Applying for a position as a groom in a competition yard has duties which may not need to be performed in a typical riding school yard. For example turning horses out for competition such as mane and tail plaiting (braiding).
Another reason for honesty is that you are simply being kinder to yourself. If you have never worked with horses before you should take the time to condition your body. Becoming a groom of seven horses in a single days work can result in strained and pulled muscles, yours! You can very well apply for the position, but arrange for a training and trial period where you are given a few weeks to work up to the full duties expected of you.
Working with horses as a groom does not suit everybody. Research the field, talk to grooms in a yard and develop a realistic expectation of what the job is and what it offers. To be a groom and work with horses can be a fantastic opportunity and interesting adventure. When you find a yard you enjoy working at you you'll have days where you are in "horse heaven".
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Paul Hegarty is the owner of learningfromdvds.com. Price compare Fitness DVDs, read reviews, download free E-books. Read this month’s e-book on "How To Spot A fraudulent Email". Grab your free copy today.
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