If you love horses but riding them isn't for you for whatever reason, you might wonder if you can work in the equine industry. Absolutely yes you can! There are plenty of jobs that keep you connected to horses, allowing you to work alongside them, care for them, or support equine businesses without getting in the saddle.
Groom
As a groom, you’ll play an essential role in caring for horses by keeping them clean, comfortable, and healthy. Responsibilities include grooming, picking hooves, plaiting, feeding, and ensuring their general well-being.
Grooms work on the ground to keep horses looking and feeling their best. There’s no need to hop on—it’s all about hands-on care and building trust with the horses.
You’ll spend quality time with horses every day, learning their personalities and quirks. Grooms often form special bonds with the horses they care for, which is deeply rewarding.
Stable Hand
A stable hand (or yard assistant) ensures that the yard runs smoothly. Tasks include mucking out stables, preparing feeds, moving horses in and out of paddocks, and keeping the yard clean and organised.
Stable hands focus on horse care and maintaining the yard, not riding. It’s an ideal role for those who love being around horses but prefer to keep their feet on the ground.
You’ll interact with horses daily, helping to keep them comfortable and happy. It’s also a fantastic way to learn about horse behaviour and health.
Equine Veterinary Assistant
Working alongside equine vets, veterinary assistants provide support during treatments, assist with handling horses, and help care for equipment. The role is hands-on and vital in maintaining equine health.
Vet assistants focus on medical care and support, not riding. Your job is to help the vet treat horses, which requires calm handling skills and a love for animals.
You’ll work with horses, assisting with treatments, health checks, and emergency care. This role is incredibly rewarding for those who want to make a difference in equine health.
Equine Administrative Assistant
Equine businesses, such as riding schools, racing yards, and veterinary clinics, rely on administrative assistants to handle bookings, paperwork, schedules, and customer service.
This role is office-based, where organisational and communication skills are key. While you won’t be in the saddle, you’ll play an important part in keeping the equine business running smoothly.
Many administrative assistants work on-site at stables, yards, or clinics. You’ll probably be around horses and horse enthusiasts and have plenty of opportunities to watch the animals you love in action.
Horse Transport Driver
Horse transport drivers ensure that horses travel safely to shows, races, clinics, or new homes. This involves driving large horseboxes, loading and unloading horses, and ensuring their comfort during the journey.
This job is about driving skills and horse handling, not horse riding. Safety and patience are key, but riding experience isn’t necessary.
You’ll care for horses while they travel, ensuring they’re calm and secure. Plus, you’ll visit events and equine facilities, connecting with other horse lovers and professionals.
The equine industry offers countless opportunities to work with horses, even if riding isn't something you want to do. Whether caring for horses or supporting equine businesses behind the scenes, these jobs allow you to stay close to the animals you love. Each role is vital to the well-being and success of the equine world, proving that you don’t need to be a rider to make a difference.