Stablehands

Stablehands, also called stable staff or grooms in some regions, are workers employed at equestrian facilities to care for horses and maintain stables. Their duties include feeding and watering horses according to individual diets, mucking stalls and cleaning bedding, turning horses out to pastures or paddocks, and bringing them in for grooming and exercise. They perform basic tack cleaning and preparation, check and oil tack, and assist riders by tacking up or untacking after lessons or training. They monitor horses for health issues, administer routine medications as directed, apply first aid within their training, and liaise with veterinarians and farriers as needed. They help with stall maintenance, equipment repair, and facility cleanliness to ensure safe, efficient operation. They often handle horse transfer, leading, and, when appropriate, assisted grooming.

Work settings vary: riding schools, show barns, racetracks, and event or equestrian facilities. Shifts frequently start early and may include weekends and holidays. The role is physically demanding and carries risk of injury from horses, equipment, and environmental hazards; safety training, including horse handling, helmet use, and procedures for acute incidents, is standard.

Entry routes range from on-the-job training to formal programs in stable management or equine science. Some stablehands advance to roles such as grooms, yard managers, or stable managers as they gain experience and demonstrate reliability, knowledge, and leadership.