How to Work at a Dude Ranch
For an invigorating, challenging and rewarding summer, try working at a dude ranch. Be prepared to work long, hard hours and be a jack-of-all-trades. No job is beneath your dignity, but dignified, ethical behavior is a must.
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Instructions
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Understand that the work is seasonal and the wages are typically low. However, most ranches include room and board in addition to wages, and you won't have time or need to go anywhere, so you can save all your wages and tips.
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Apply for the job that fits your skills and interests, but be ready to pitch in and help anywhere on the ranch. One day you may have to help the cook, the next day the farrier.
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Get basic first aid and cardio-pulmonary resuscitation (CPR) certifications. Have these on your resume when you apply for work at a dude ranch.
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Expect to dress the part. Dude ranches are normally western, so boots, jeans, long-sleeved shirts and cowboy hats are in order. No shorts or sandals allowed.
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Be an early riser. Your day on a typical dude ranch will begin at dawn and extend well past dark at times. There are break times during the day, though, and each day is different.
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Keep a good attitude. "Yes, sir," and "no, thank you ma'am," should be a part of your polite conversation. Maintain a sense of humor and be ready with a good, clean joke for guests and fellow ranch hands.
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Stay flexible. Working with animals and the public requires great patience. Losing your temper with guests or horses can cause you to lose your job. Dude ranches depend on repeat business, and some guests become like members of the family, so keep your cool.
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Maintain your physical fitness. You'll be expected to lift objects weighing 75 pounds and over by yourself, and you'll need stamina to keep up with all the physical requirements of ranch work.
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Tips & Warnings
Research dude ranches on the Internet and select some that seem to fit your desires and abilities.
Those who have asthma or are allergic to animals and plants shouldn't consider working on a dude ranch.
Plan on leaving your cell phone and computer behind. Many of these ranches are remote with no services, and you won't have time for these interruptions, anyway.
