Getting your fix

[coblets]

Hi all, I moved a little while ago and since then I’ve been struggling to get my horsey fix. My budget is very tight so can’t afford lessons or a share. And I only have one free day a week to spend with horses which rules out all part-time jobs I’ve seen. I was thinking about volunteering somewhere, just have had bad experiences volunteering at riding schools before and they seem to be the only ones looking for volunteers locally. No rescues near here either unfortunately. I’m considering writing to some local liveries asking if they want a volunteer once a week. Do liveries still take in non-teenaged volunteers? Any other ideas?

 

[J&S]

Have you got a local RDA group? (Riding for the disabled). The national website will have a list of all centres.

 

[asmp]

Have you got a local RDA group? (Riding for the disabled). The national website will have a list of all centres.

Was going to suggest the same ?

 

[coblets]

Will have a look, thanks. Just worried RDA volunteering is more about leading and side walking than actually being with horses.

 

[Sprig]

Why don't you advertise yourself as available on local horsey groups? There are bound to be people who would welcome a sharer who is competent but not able to make a financial contribution. I don't charge my sharer because in my view she is actually doing me a favour by riding on days I can't. So long as you are up front it shouldn't be a problem.

 

[Red-1]

Why don't you advertise yourself as available on local horsey groups? There are bound to be people who would welcome a sharer who is competent but not able to make a financial contribution. I don't charge my sharer because in my view she is actually doing me a favour by riding on days I can't. So long as you are up front it shouldn't be a problem.

I would second this. It sounds like you would be OK if you were amenable to do a variety of things, for instance I needed someone to accompany me XC schooling yesterday, it was just a fun outing. If you are flexible like that, it should be easy enough. If you did odd days doing stuff with me, I would then be able to offer a ride on my cob, but TBH I wouldn't do that until I knew someone.

That said, if I were horseless, I would really enjoy RDA (done a bit in the past) as it is helping people to find the joy in riding. There is also often some chance to ride when they know you, if you are regular and reliable.

 

[sbloom]

RDA groups vary a lot too, I saddle fit for Kesteven Rideability in Lincs and they have their own yard and really get into equine care, ridden and groundwork etc.

 

[Red-1]

Oh, I also know of a charity that does rescues and trains them before adopting them out. A set up like this may be interested in a one day a week volunteer?

 

[asmp]

Will have a look, thanks. Just worried RDA volunteering is more about leading and side walking than actually being with horses.

Some RDA groups are really pleased to have people with horsey knowledge as a lot of the volunteers don’t have it. Our group likes having people who can groom, tack up, etc.

 

[Gloi]

If you are short of funds why not work rather than volunteer? Lots of yards round here are short of staff especially at weekends and a morning a week yard work might give you your fix and could even lead to some riding.

 

[coblets]

Oh, I also know of a charity that does rescues and trains them before adopting them out. A set up like this may be interested in a one day a week volunteer?

That would be my absolute dream if only I could find somewhere like that.

If you are short of funds why not work rather than volunteer? Lots of yards round here are short of staff especially at weekends and a morning a week yard work might give you your fix and could even lead to some riding.

The few yards I've written said they only wanted part-timers that could do 2-4 days a week. I can see why but it doesn't seem the best solution given the lack of grooms at the minute.

 

[pistolpete]

Where are you roughly? Someone may need help on here?

 

[teapot]

RDA definitely

 

[Elf On A Shelf]

Most racing yards wouldn't turn down the help even for just 1 day a week from someone that knows what they are doing with horses. And you would be paid.

 

[asmp]

Why don't you advertise yourself as available on local horsey groups? There are bound to be people who would welcome a sharer who is competent but not able to make a financial contribution. I don't charge my sharer because in my view she is actually doing me a favour by riding on days I can't. So long as you are up front it shouldn't be a problem.

This. I used to let people ride my horse during the week as it got him exercised and I did the same for a lady when I didn’t have a horse. Even now, a young girl rides my oldie now and then, which I don’t expect payment for as it keeps him ticking over. I know horses are v expensive to keep but I have one because I want to and I can afford it. I think it works both ways - horse gets exercised and person gets a ride.

 

[J&S]

I think it works both ways - horse gets exercised and person gets a ride.

Yes, if I did not have a lovely local lady to come and ride my companion pony I would be pleased to have a local young person as logn as they were reliable. No money necessarry but a little help in exchange.

 

[oldie48]

When I had two horses in work, I was very pleased to have someone come to hack out with me provided they were up to riding the horse. Also happy for them to have a lesson or take them to a competition. I enjoyed their company, it meant I had help keeping the horses exercised and I made some good friends along the way. I never wanted any financial contribution and if they offered to help with any chores, that was appreciated but never expected. I was also very happy to pay a good rider to "test drive" a horse in a situation that I thought might be tricky eg I had one that could be difficult in a warm up. It's worth putting the word around that you are available. Good luck.