How to Get a Job in a Dressage Barn

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If you're interested in the magical riding style of dressage and its horse and rider connection, there's no better way to study the art of dressage than by working as a groom in that discipline. Be prepared for some very picky dressage trainers and horse owners! These people spend more money on their horses than some people do on their children, so you have to be pretty detail-oriented. But, the knowledge you gain might be worth the extra effort.

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Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Step1

Decide if you want to work for a big dressage barn or for one private trainer or private owner.

Step2

For a big dressage barn, just go to your local equestrian center, or local large horse facility. There will be big trainers and multiple dressage owners there. Scout the barns and talk to the trainers, letting them know you're looking for work. Post flyers. You might also watch a few trainers work and then talk to them afterwards, if they look like your style of person.

Step3

Post flyers in your local feed and tack stores, and in Horsetrader magazine. It helps if you have some dressage experience. You might want to offer your services in exchange for lessons instead of pay at first.

Step4

Learn all you can about dressage. Subscribe to magazines. Check online. Find local trainers and owners who own their own small stables. (There are usually listings of small farms in free newspapers at the feed store.) Contact these trainers and owners. Most people are always looking for someone who is enthusiastic and reliable. The pay may not be great, but you'll gain lots of experience.

Step5

Put a posting on Craigslist as a dressage groom.

Step6

Go to dressage clinics when they come through your town. This is when a celebrity trainer comes into town and all the local dressage owners will go and take the clinic. You will get to know who is studying dressage and who might be looking for a new groom.