Taking the leap into the equine world of work... Advice please!

[HorseyGirl99]

Hi Everyone I'm new to this so please be gentle!! I've been thinking recently about entering the equine world of work as a trainee groom (interested mostly in showjumping) but I wondered if anyone had any advice? Pros and cons? I know the money won't be too great to start, and I have heard some horror stories, but it keeps niggling away at me and I feel like I need to decide if I want to do it pretty soon! My main full time jobs have always been office based, working with horses part time on the side and riding/sharing horses where possible. I have basic knowledge in a lot of areas and have passed BHS L1 Horse Owners. Any comments/stories would be much appreciated! I'm 23 years old by the way thanks for you help!

 

[Equinus]

You tend to only hear about the horror stories, but one thing most horse jobs have in common is that it is dammned hard work, and if you are doing competition grooming the hours can make a social life other than one based around other grooms very difficult. But they can be very rewarding, and I have definitely had more good than bad jobs in 20 years, in the days before there was no protection for grooms.

Advice? Forget ever taking a day sick, you work through it, and get yourself good all weather gear and comfy boots! I only gave it up as my body did. Loved it in the main, and if you are any good and reliable, you will always be in work and needn't stay with bad employers.

Go for it if it's what you want.Only trying it will give you your answer.

 

[Tnavas]

Get a contract!
Make sure it is clear about your hours and the pay you will receive. Ensure it includes information regarding days off and public holidays.
Obviously these can't be set in stone by the very nature of the job.

Make sure you always take your day off, don't do as I used to, enjoy my job so much I worked 7 days a week for months, then when I took my day off they grumbled!