A horse trainer’s job entails a variety of responsibilities. Some trainers are also expected to manage a barn in addition to their training responsibilities, while others are only responsible for the animals in their care. Overall, a horse trainer’s responsibilities include training, exercising, and ensuring that all assigned horses are in good health.
Horse trainers are in charge of almost every aspect of a horse’s life. For many years, many trainers work with the same group of horses. A trainer must also be willing to work as part of a team, as they will frequently have to collaborate with barn managers, foremen, and assistant trainers. As a result, good communication skills are an important part of this job.
A horse trainer must be able to create exercise routines, create schedules, perform undersaddle and ground work, and correct natural behavioral problems, among other things. Because of the nature of this profession, horse trainers must have prior experience working with horses.
Professional riding experience, previous training, or an educational background in veterinarian medicine are all examples of experience that may qualify a person for the position of horse trainer. Working as an apprentice or a stable hand is also a common way for a trainer to gain on-the-job experience.
While formal education is not required to become a trainer, those interested in working with horses should consider taking special courses. Horse farms frequently offer courses devoted solely to horse training. These courses are frequently used to assist aspiring trainers in obtaining a well-paid training position.
Those with training experience can apply directly to farms in need of trainers to find job openings. Horse trainer jobs are occasionally advertised at job centers, but they are uncommon. Trainers who specialize in certain breeds of horses may have an advantage in securing a rare training position. Those with extensive breed-specific experience are frequently hired by breeders looking for specialized trainers.
Anyone who wants to work with animals should have a variety of qualities, including patience, understanding, trustworthiness, and the ability to clearly and rationally analyze difficult situations. Those who are drawn to this field frequently have a strong desire to work with animals. Trainers may be asked to perform administrative duties in addition to practical tasks. As a result, prior computer, filing, and merchandise ordering experience may be beneficial.