What To Know Before Taking a Job as a Working Student
July 14, 2023| | in category Uncategorized No comments yet

Working student positions can be wonderful opportunities for young riders to get a taste of the equestrian industry. This type of job can often differ in expectations, duties, and benefits so it is necessary to understand all of the details before agreeing to the position. Continue reading for a few crucial points to understand and discuss before taking on a position as a working student.

Type of Barn

It is important to think about the type of barn you would like to work for when you start the working student job search. Farms of all levels and disciplines often offer working student opportunities. While some people may want to work for a top hunter barn that travels to shows every week, others may prefer working at a facility with a busy lesson program or pony camp. If you are unsure about what type of farm you would like to work for it may be best to talk to several to get a feel for what seems most beneficial for you.

Responsibilities and Training Opportunities

Similar to any job, it is necessary to be clear on what your job duties will be before accepting a position. Since some working student jobs require prior experience and others do not, be sure you can handle all of the tasks your employer expects you to complete.

Although working student positions often include training, you need to be honest about your level of experience. If you are talking to a trainer about a working student position and the tasks seem beyond your abilities, make sure you are upfront about what you are capable of doing. Do not agree to do jobs that you are not able to successfully complete. Employers are often open to teaching working students, but it is important to have the discussion ahead of time.

Riding Opportunities

Some working student jobs offer riding opportunities while others do not. Be sure you are clear about whether or not riding will be part of the job, especially if this is important to you.

Payment

Working student jobs are not always paid positions, and it is important to know that upfront. This is often dependent on the employer, level of experience, type of position, and length of time. Another important topic to discuss is housing if it is something you would need. The employer may provide housing if it is a longer-term situation such as a job during an entire winter circuit. Some barns may offer a small stipend and more riding opportunities as payment. This is an important factor to know ahead of time so you can plan accordingly.

Travel

If you take a job at a show barn it is necessary to ask about their travel schedule and if you will be expected to go. This is especially important to ask about if you are still in school or have other responsibilities. Make sure you will have housing and travel expenses covered if you are expected to attend horse shows.

Working student positions can give young riders a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to run a barn. Make sure the farm is the right fit for you so that you can get as much out of the experience as possible.

Have questions about utilizing BarnManager or want to give it a try for yourself? Request a live demo here!

BarnManager is designed to be a part of your team, with the compatibility and credentials necessary to improve communication, simplify the management of horses, and get you out of the office, off the phone calls, and into the barn with the horses you care about! Click here to get a free demo and find out more!

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Heat Stress: Know the Signs and How To Help
July 6, 2023| | in category Uncategorized No comments yet

By Glenye Oakford

BarnManager is the Official Barn Management Software of US Equestrian.

Summer’s sultry weather can be more than uncomfortable for your horse or pony; it can be dangerous. It’s important to know the symptoms of heat stress and how to respond to them.

Horses that don’t sweat enough or who are engaged in a lot of physical exertion — like three-day eventers, polo ponies, or horses in sports that involve a fair amount of galloping — are most obviously at risk of overheating in hot, humid conditions, says Dr. Laura Werner, a surgeon at Hagyard Equine Medical Institute in Lexington, KY. Werner specializes in equine emergency services and also has worked as a Fédération Equestre Internationale Veterinary Delegate at three-day eventing competitions in the United States.

But your horse or pony doesn’t have to be an Olympic-level competitor to be at risk in summer conditions, Werner notes.

“Horses can get overheated if both heat and humidity are high, and with the physical exertion that we ask them to do, that can happen pretty easily, just as it does with people,” said Werner. “Certainly, if the heat is in the high 80s and the humidity is about the same, it’s pretty easy for horses to get overheated quickly.”

Things To Consider

One thing to consider is whether the animal is accustomed to the particular climate.

“Some horses are more acclimated to warmer temperatures or higher humidity than others,” explained Werner. “Horses that are imported from Europe, for example, might not be used to heat and high humidity straight away. Just like with a person, it might take them a little bit to acclimate.”

Continue reading on US Equestrian.

Did you know? Users can keep track of horses’ vital signs with BarnManager’s list feature.

Have questions about utilizing BarnManager or want to give it a try for yourself? Request a live demo here!

BarnManager is designed to be a part of your team, with the compatibility and credentials necessary to improve communication, simplify the management of horses, and get you out of the office, off the phone calls, and into the barn with the horses you care about! Click here to get a free demo and find out more!

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BarnManager Q&A With: Katherine Esterline
June 23, 2023| | in category Uncategorized No comments yet

BarnManager Q&A With: Katherine Esterline

Katherine Esterline, groom for Anna Marek of Marek Dressage based out of Ocala, FL

What are three things that are always in your ring bag and why?

I always have sugar cubes. Anna’s trainer Anne Gribbons likes to give a lot of rewards during her lessons. I make sure to keep a good supply in my bag for training times and warm-up at competitions. The second item is a wet rag. Lots of sugar leads to a lot of foam and a mess! I use a wet rag to wipe the horse clean of foam and sand before they go in the show ring. It’s also very handy when the reins get slippery and covered in sweat. The third thing I keep in my bag is an instant ice pack. In Wellington, FL, it can get very hot during competitions. The ice pack helps me stay cool while standing by the warm-up arena, and it keeps my rider’s water bottle cold. 

What’s something you learned early in your career that has stuck with you?

I learned early on that a good curry comb is your best friend.

Photo courtesy of Katherine Esterline

Who inspires you the most in the industry and why?

My mom helped me find a passion for horses at a young age. She trained and managed a boarding farm in Michigan. She was the one who gave me my first lessons. She now manages the care of Anna’s training horses at Crownview Dressage. She works extremely hard. I never see her take a day off. 

What is your best tip for staying organized during a busy show day?

I make a plan using the notes app on my phone the night before with the times my rider will mount and show. Anna tends to show two to three times a day plus additional schooling sessions. Having everything written down is essential. Setting timers for lunch and other special tasks is also very helpful.

What is one horse show you have never been to but would love to attend?

I really want to go to Aachen. I’d love to go even just as a spectator … one day! 

Mares, geldings, or stallions? Why?

I love geldings, but earning the friendship of a mare is truly the best. 

If you were a horse, what would you be and why?

The new foals on the farm look like they’re having the most fun playing around in the field. I’d love to be them!

Have questions about utilizing BarnManager or want to give it a try for yourself? Request a live demo here!

BarnManager is designed to be a part of your team, with the compatibility and credentials necessary to improve communication, simplify the management of horses, and get you out of the office, off the phone calls, and into the barn with the horses you care about! Click here to get a free demo and find out more!

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BarnManager Q&A With: Kerri Short
May 18, 2023| | in category BarnManager Q&A, Uncategorized No comments yet

BarnManager Q&A With: Kerri Short

Kerri Short, manager and groom for Anna Marek of Marek Dressage based out of Ocala, FL, and Dunnellon, FL

What are three things that are always in your ring bag and why?

The first thing I always make sure I have in my ring bag is a towel for wiping off boots, horse slobber, or anything else. I also keep silver spray just in case there are any last-minute nicks or scrapes. The third thing is sugar cubes for the good ponies! There are a lot of other things that are always in my ring bag but those are my top three.

What’s something you learned early in your career that has stuck with you?

Early in my career I learned that happy, healthy, shiny horses are due to good feed, grooming, and management.

Who inspires you the most in the industry and why?

Photo courtesy of Kerri Short

I would say there is no one person in particular who inspires me. Anyone who has made the horse industry, grooming in particular, their livelihood is inspirational. It can be a tough life, so I admire a lot of professionals and grooms that continue to always do a nice job and care for their horses. The love the equine industry “lifers” have for the horses is pretty awesome.

What is your best tip for staying organized during a busy show day?

A white board! It is so important to write down all the times, schedules, and other important information about what needs to happen during the day. A white board is perfect for this because you can write down a lot of notes and easily make any changes.

What is one horse show you have never been to but would love to attend?

When I was an event groom, I always wanted to go to Badminton and Burghley Horse Trials. In the dressage world, any of the team shows, like the Olympics, Pan American Games, or World Championships, are high on my list.

Mares, geldings, or stallions? Why?

I think a good horse is a good horse!

If you were a horse, what would you be and why?

I would probably a short Cob horse. I would definitely hate flies and want all the fly gear!

Have questions about utilizing BarnManager or want to give it a try for yourself? Request a live demo here!

BarnManager is designed to be a part of your team, with the compatibility and credentials necessary to improve communication, simplify the management of horses, and get you out of the office, off the phone calls, and into the barn with the horses you care about! Click here to get a free demo and find out more!

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Ways To Maintain Your Horse’s Fitness Outside of the Arena
May 12, 2023| | in category Uncategorized No comments yet

Although riding your horse in the arena is a great way to maintain fitness and practice for the show ring it can become redundant. Some horses become ring sour from constantly doing the same work in one location day in and day out. Continue reading for BarnManager’s favorite activities for keeping horses fit outside of the arena.

Hill Work

If you live in an area with hills, taking your horse up and down the inclines is a great way to not only maintain but also improve your horse’s fitness. Depending on the how steep the hills are, you can walk, trot, or even canter your horse in both directions. Hill work can be tough for horses, like it is for humans, so make sure to start slowly. Remember to pay attention to the ground itself, which could be slippery after rain, especially on grass. Adding hill work to your routine a couple times a week will give your horse a mental break from the arena while also exercising different muscles to stay fit.

Trail Riding

Trail riding is a wonderful change of scenery for horses and riders that need a break from the ring. It is also a fun activity to do with your friends. Trail rides can include navigating inclines, stepping over logs, and walking across streams, all of which are great experiences for your horse. Even if you stay at a walk riding out on trails can help maintain your horse’s fitness and improve their stamina, while also giving them the mental exercise of exploring new environments.

Field Work

If your farm has a field that gets checked for holes and rocks making it safe to ride in, exercising your horse out in the open space can be a great way to vary their work routine. Even if you do exercises that are similar to those you would do in the arena, they are more challenging because you are in a new setting and on a different type of footing. After you and your horse gain confidence, galloping in an open field is a truly memorable experience.

Treadmill

Although not all farms have a treadmill, they are a great way to keep your horse fit without riding. They are also a useful tool when turnout is not an option due to inclement weather conditions. Treadmills allow you to control both the speed and incline for your horse, so they are an easy way to add light hill work into their routine. Some barns even have water treadmills, which provide the added benefit of low-impact and high-resistance training.

Walker

Similar to a treadmill, walkers are a good way to maintain your horse’s fitness in between riding sessions. Although they do not have an incline option, you can adjust the speed in order to fine tune your horse’s workout. Like a treadmill, using a walker is another safe way to get your horse out of its stall when turnout is not an option.

Like all athletes, sport horses need to be fit and ready to compete, both physically and mentally. Although it is still important to ride and practice in an arena, consider mixing up your horse’s exercise routine with different ways to keep them in top condition.

Have questions about utilizing BarnManager or want to give it a try for yourself? Request a live demo here!

BarnManager is designed to be a part of your team, with the compatibility and credentials necessary to improve communication, simplify the management of horses, and get you out of the office, off the phone calls, and into the barn with the horses you care about! Click here to get a free demo and find out more!

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What To Know Before Taking a Job as a Barn Manager or Groom
May 4, 2023| | in category Uncategorized No comments yet

Job hunting in the equestrian industry can be hard. Positions with the same title can have vastly different expectations, responsibilities, and benefits. Before accepting a position as a groom or barn manager make sure you understand the details about what you will be asked to do. Keep reading for BarnManager’s key questions to ask during a job interview. 

Job Responsibilities

The biggest question to ask when considering a job or during the interview is finding out what your responsibilities will be. For example, get clear on whether the role is specifically grooming, barn managing, or doing a combination of several things. Find out ahead of time if office work will be involved, such as ordering hay, making hotel reservations, or submitting entries so you understand more about what your days and weeks on the job will involve. The more questions you ask about the employer’s expectations for the role and what it takes to be successful in it, the more you will know whether or not it is a good fit for you.

Size and Business Model

Another factor to think about when considering a job is the number of employees and horses at the facility on average. Also ask how many people do certain jobs, including the role you are interested in performing. This information will help you understand how much teamwork or sharing of responsibilities is expected and how busy everyone is throughout a typical day. Find out about the barn’s business model as well. Sales operations run very differently than boarding faciltiies, and competition-focused or discipline-specific stables have different expectations than pleasure, trail, or big lesson barns.

Riding Opportunities

Photo by Jump Media

While some people want riding opportunities as part of their employment, others do not. Either way, it is a good idea to ask if it will be required or if it is an option. Some farms offer occasional flatting opportunities to staff members while others expect staff to ride several horses a day. Get clear on this important topic during the interview so everyone involved is on the same page ahead of time.

Show or Travel Schedule

If you are applying for a position at a show barn, make sure you know the annual competition schedule. Even if the job calls for you to stay home, understanding how often the barn’s horses, customer, and staff are on the road is crucial. Additionally, whether the position is based at home or goes to shows, it’s also useful to have an idea about how many staff members and horses stay or go during the various show seasons and for how long. For example, you may not want to accept a position where you would be left at home in charge of caring for half of the the barn’s horses if most of the other employees are away at the shows.

Days Off

This question is extremely important to ask for any job in the equestrian industry. Days off are not always guaranteed every week, especially at show barns, so having an understanding of what is expected ahead of time is essential to being happy with the position if you decide to accept an offer.

Staff Turnover

Although this one can be tricky to ask directly, do your best to learn about the workplace culture at the barn. Ask about longtime staff members and try to get an idea about how long other employees have been working there, including those who have held the position they are looking to fill. A job or an organization with high turnover could mean that workloads are unreasonable or employees are not treated well.

Job hunting is challenging so make sure to gather as much information as you can about a role you are interested in to help make an educated decision about whether or not it is a good fit for you.

Have questions about utilizing BarnManager or want to give it a try for yourself? Request a live demo here!

BarnManager is designed to be a part of your team, with the compatibility and credentials necessary to improve communication, simplify the management of horses, and get you out of the office, off the phone calls, and into the barn with the horses you care about! Click here to get a free demo and find out more!

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BarnManager Horse Health Series: Understanding Equine Ulcers
April 20, 2023| | in category Uncategorized No comments yet

Equine ulcers are a common concern for horse owners. In order to effectively treat and prevent equine ulcers, it is important for owners, managers, riders, and grooms to understand the types, symptoms, and causes. Keep reading to find out more about equine ulcers courtesy of Palm Beach Equine Clinic in Wellington, FL.

What are equine ulcers?

Equine ulcers are sores that form on the stomach lining of a horse. They can be broken down into three categories: gastric ulcer disease of the squamous mucosa, gastric ulceration of the glandular mucosa, and colon ulcers of the right dorsal colon.

Equine gastric ulcer disease of the squamous mucosa refers to ulcers found on the stomach’s inner lining and are mainly caused by exposure to stomach acid. This type of ulcer is often seen in performance horses due to exercise and abdominal pressure.

Gastric ulceration of the glandular mucosa is often found on the stomach lining around the pyloric region closer to the intestines. Ulcers found here are typically caused by stress.

Similarly, the last type of equine ulcer, which is found in the colon, is also mainly due to stress.

What are the symptoms?

Symptoms of equine ulcers often do not present the same way in every horse. The signs can also range from mild to severe. A few major symptoms to look for are poor appetite, attitude changes, decreased performance, poor body condition, and weight loss.

How do veterinarians diagnose equine ulcers?

Photo courtesy of Palm Beach Equine Clinic

There are a variety of diagnostic tools that veterinarians use for equine ulcers. One option is a Succeed test which is a fecal test that helps indicate the presence of ulcers. Another option is to perform a gastroscopy to see the stomach where both forms of gastric ulcers are found. Ultrasound is the primary diagnostic tool to look for thickening of the right dorsal colon wall indicating ulceration in the colon. Basic bloodwork to determine total albumin, a protein made by the liver, also helps indicate more severe cases of colon ulcers.

How are equine ulcers treated?

Since each type of equine ulcer has a different underlying cause, the treatment is different. Omeprazole paste is a common treatment option for equine ulcers. Veterinarians may use this in conjunction with other medications depending on the type of ulcer. For horses that have ulcers of the squamous mucosa it is common to add a dose of sucralfate before meals to the horse’s treatment plan. If the horse has ulcers in the glandular and pyloric region of the stomach, misoprostol and prostaglandin analog is used. For ulcers of the right dorsal colon, sucralfate is used as a coating agent while misoprostol is used as a treatment.

How can they be prevented?

In addition to medication, lifestyle changes can also help horses recover from equine ulcers and prevent them from reoccurring. Providing a more stress-free environment or allowing the horse to have downtime after competition can help. Also, turnout and giving your horse grazing time are extremely important for horses that are prone to ulcers.

Ulcers are a common problem in performance horses due to stress and constant exercise. Understanding the basics of ulcers will make it easier for you to quickly identify them and help prevent them for a happier, healthier horse. For a more in-depth explanation of equine ulcers, click HERE to read the full article from Palm Beach Equine Clinic.

Have questions about utilizing BarnManager or want to give it a try for yourself? Request a live demo here!

BarnManager is designed to be a part of your team, with the compatibility and credentials necessary to improve communication, simplify the management of horses, and get you out of the office, off the phone calls, and into the barn with the horses you care about! Click here to get a free demo and find out more!

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BarnManager Q&A With: Chloe Garrett
April 13, 2023| | in category BarnManager Q&A No comments yet

BarnManager Q&A With: Chloe Garrett

Chloe Garrett, manager for Sarah Scheiring of Bellwyn Farm, based in Wellington, FL

What are three things that are always in your ring bag and why?

The first thing I always have in my ring bag is vet wrap because you never know when your horse will lose a shoe or get a nick on course. I also have boot polish for touch-ups between rounds and, of course, cookies.

Photo by Kind Media

What’s something you learned early in your career that has stuck with you?

Early on in my career I got the opportunity to work with a lot of young horses, and to this day they are still my favorite part of the industry. I learned a lot of patience from them, and even though it’s a bit of a trivial answer, I really notice this is lacking in the sport. Even when working with seasoned horses, it is important to take a step back and really say to yourself, “They are just animals, and they don’t have to do what you’re asking of them.” Taking time to build a strong relationship with every horse that walks through the door is something that I put a lot of value in, and sometimes all it takes is a little bit of patience.

Who inspires you the most in the industry and why?

One of my biggest idols for as long as I can remember has been Lee McKeever. I look up to him for a lot of reasons. I admire his invaluable knowledge of the horses and the sport, his work ethic, and his ability to always be on the same page as McLain Ward. Above all, I think what stands out to me is their team. You don’t see a lot of professionals maintaining long-term relationships in the way that they have, and I think it reflects greatly on how much value McLain holds in Lee as his second-in-command.

What is your best tip for staying organized during a busy show day?

I think there are a lot of ways to stay organized during a busy show schedule. Starting the night before, creating a really solid plan, and sticking with it are all important, but as everyone in the industry knows, just because you made a plan doesn’t mean it will run accordingly. I rely heavily on my staff to be one step ahead because timing is everything.

Another huge part of a busy show schedule is communication with the in-gates. A staple of a great horse show is its staff, and I try to maintain good relationships with everyone I see on a daily basis. AJ Holmes who works at the in-gate at the International Arena during the Winter Equestrian Festival is a great example of an individual who keeps the busy days running smoothly. When timing is everything, you rely on the rings to be on schedule so you know exactly when you should have your horses ready to show. For example, AJ’s communication with the competitors, staff, and other rings is the difference between being organized and ready to go versus being lost in a chaotic moment. It really takes a village.

What is one horse show you have never been to but would love to attend?

Photo by Kind Media

I have never been to Aachen, Germany, and I would definitely say it is a bucket list show for me. The atmosphere, the ring, the jumps, all of it. It’s really a class venue, and I would love to experience it one day.

Mares, geldings, or stallions and why?

Over the years the horses that have impacted me most have been mares. I have a love for all of the horses I work with but I think that although mares may be harder to get on your team, once you win them over they fight for you the most. At the end of the day, I think the horses that are the most successful and rewarding in and outside of the ring are the ones with the most heart.

If you were a horse, what would you be and why?

If I were a horse I think I would be an Amateur-Owner Hunter. I love what I do in the real world but there’s something that sounds nice and satisfying about working hard for cookies on the weekend and making an owner really happy.

Have questions about utilizing BarnManager or want to give it a try for yourself? Request a live demo here!

BarnManager is designed to be a part of your team, with the compatibility and credentials necessary to improve communication, simplify the management of horses, and get you out of the office, off the phone calls, and into the barn with the horses you care about! Click here to get a free demo and find out more!

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Keeping Your Stable Safe & Secure During Competitions
April 7, 2023| | in category Uncategorized No comments yet

by US Equestrian Communications Department

With show season moving into full swing in many parts of the country, it’s important as a barn owner, stable manager, or exhibitor that you remain vigilant and prioritize safety and security in your stabling area, particularly at a competition. Unintended contamination, trespassing, and stealing are all behaviors or outcomes that can occur if your stables aren’t protected and secure. We’re providing a few tips and recommendations on how to ensure your stable and the horses in your care stay safe at a competition.

Tips & Recommendations

  • You are responsible for your stable and the horses in your care at a competition. Ensure that your staff and clients understand best security protocols and practices and are educated in keeping the stabling area safe and secure. Be conscious of how you are monitoring your stabling area, both during the day and after hours.
    • Safety and security measures should or can include stall and tack room cameras, locks on medicine cabinets, securing tack and equipment, and closing trunks when unattended–all simple ways of protecting your property and your horses.
    • Lock stable doors when they’re not in use to prevent trespassing or unwanted access/entry by others.

Continue reading on US Equestrian.

Have questions about utilizing BarnManager or want to give it a try for yourself? Request a live demo here!

BarnManager is designed to be a part of your team, with the compatibility and credentials necessary to improve communication, simplify the management of horses, and get you out of the office, off the phone calls, and into the barn with the horses you care about! Click here to get a free demo and find out more!

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