Call +44 (0)203 006 5730 or email info@carolinecarterrecruitment.com

Understanding a Horse’s Vital Signs

Understanding a horse’s vital signs

I am often surprised by how many Grooms (and Employers for that matter) don’t actually know what a horses “normal” temperature, pulse and respiration rates are. In fact, I used to know an employer who would ask every experienced Groom at a job interview, and if they didn’t know she would show them the door (and a book!). It seems a bit harsh, but they all learned pretty quickly!

According to one of our friendly super grooms “If you want to control viruses then you need to be able to spot subclinical infection. I’ve turned up at yards where there was not even a thermometer.”  A useful comment, but of course viruses is just one aspect – there is injury, colic, tying up, laminitis and a whole host of other conditions Grooms find themselves looking out for.

Also, don’t forget to always be health and safety conscious, properly attired and appropriately insured for these checks at all times folks! It goes without saying that we need to take good care of ourselves as well as our horses at all times!

 

 

T.P.R  – Temperature, Pulse, Respiration

Understanding a horse’s vital signs is a fundamental necessity for every horse owner and groom who wants to take the best care of the horses in their charge. These three vital signs form the cornerstone of a physical examination, but they can greatly help you, the owner and the vet when you think a horse might not be well. It will help assess just how sick or injured the horse could be. For example, although the normal heart rate for most horses is 32-36 beats per minute, some horse’s normal heart rate can be lower (e.g. in the region of 24 beats per minute) or maybe slightly higher (e.g. in the region of 40 beats per minute). This can be a starting point for comparison when the horse is sick.

 

TOP TIP: Always perform a TPR check for the first time when your horse is healthy, then you will have that individual horse’s “normal” vital signs. Write them down and keep the information in a central and known place, so you/others can quickly access.

 

If you ever perform a TPR check on your horse and think there might be a problem, speak to the owner of the horse IMMEDIATELY, every time!

 

Horses Heart Rate, Horses Temperature, Horses Pulse RateWhat you will need

You will need a few bits and bobs in your yard/grooming “toolkit” to perform a basic physical examination – a thermometer, a stethoscope (ideal, but not essential), and a watch:

1. Thermometer

The thermometer ideally should be digital. As a horses temperature is traditionally taken rectally, the glass types of thermometer are not recommended because of the risk of breakage and possibly dire consequences. The digital thermometers (widely available these days) are much faster and can be read in about 1 minute, compared to 3-5 mins with a traditional thermometer. It is also probably less of a shock and kinder, as well as safer to use the digital ones rather than the rigid glass types, especially if the horse isn’t co-operative. Rectal temperature can be easily taken on most horses. Approach the horse from the side – do not stand directly behind the horse in case the horse should kick out! Raise or move his tail and gently insert the thermometer into his anus.

Top Tips for selecting and using your thermometer:

  • When selecting a thermometer, make sure it has a hole at the end so a long piece of brightly coloured string can be knotted through it, to help find the thermometer if disappears during use (yes, that CAN happen!)
  • So you don’t get pooped on, consider attaching an “anchor stick” of some sort at the end of the string horizontally, so that it can be clamped to the horse’s tail and left in place until the temperature can be read. Always check that this is ok with the vet and/or owner first.

 

2. Stethoscope

This will help you clearly hear and determine the rate of the heart beating and the sound of the horse breathing/respiratory rate. Most yards will have a stethoscope to hand or you can get them online or via your vet. The heart rate (pulse) and respiratory rate can be taken without a stethoscope, but having a stethoscope makes the job easier. Alternatively, the pulse can be taken from the lingual artery, which is on the bottom side of the jaw where it crosses over the bone.

 

3. Watch/Clock

You will need a clock or watch to help you make an accurate measure of the horse’s heart rate. A wristwatch with a second hand or digital watch with a second measure is ideal. Alternatively, a clock with a second hand on the wall or a ledge nearby, which you can watch whilst measuring the horse’s heart rate/pulse/respiration.  It’s a good idea to give your mobile phone a miss on this occasion; it can be fiddly, dropped and damaged, and the safety of your phone may distract you from the job at hand.

 

T – Temperature

Facts and figures for using your thermometer:

  • The normal temperature range for a horse is 100.0 – 102.0°F (37.5 – 38.5°C).
  • If the horse’s rectal temperature is above normal, it’s called a fever, not a temperature. All horses have a temperature–either above normal (fever), below normal (hypothermia), or normal.
  • Neonatal foals (foals less than one month of age) have a normal temperature of 100.0 – 102.0°F (37.7 – 38.8ºC). Remember, new-born foals can easily suffer from hypothermia (low body temperature), so if the foal’s temperature is below 98.0°F (36.6ºC), call someone immediately and rub the foal with towels or blankets to stimulate blood flow and/or dry his coat.

 

P – Pulse

Facts and figures for measuring a horse’s heart rate and pulse:

  • A horse’s normal resting heart rate for an adult horse is about 32-36 beats per minute.
  • A horses normal resting pulse rate is 36-48 beats per minute.
  • A horses normal resting respiration rate is 8-12 per minute.
  • The heart rate for foals varies depending on age. New-born foals have a heart rate of between 80-100 beats per minute. Foals which are a few weeks to a few months of age will have heart rates of 60-80 beats per minute.

 

Top Tip: The pulse can be taken for 15 seconds, then multiplied by four to achieve the heart rate in beats per minute. If a stethoscope is available, listen to the heart on the left side of the horse’s chest, just behind the elbow. Each “lub-dub” of the heart is considered one beat.

 

R – Respiration

The characteristics of his respiration should also be noted:

  • Is the horse taking shallow or deep breaths?
  • Are there abnormal squeaky or crackling sounds associated with the breathing?

The respiratory rate can be taken by watching the horse’s chest move in and out (each inhale or exhale is one breath), or feeling the air come out of his nostrils. The stethoscope can be used to listen to the breaths as the air travels across the trachea when the horse inhales and exhales. This should sound clear. You can also hear by just listening intently most times providing you are in a quiet environment and you have stopped the horse chomping on his hay.

Facts and figures for measuring a horses respiratory rate:

  • The normal respiratory rate for adult horses is eight to 12 breaths per minute.
  • Newborn foals have respiratory rates that are quite high (60-80 breaths per minute).
  • Neonatal foals have resting respiratory rates from 20-40 breaths per minute.

Please remember that if your horse or foal becomes excited for any reason during the examination, it can elevate his heart and respiratory rates temporarily.

 

horse's vital signs

 

P.A.M – Posture, Appetite and Mucous Membranes

The beginning of a really good physical examination begins with looking at and around the horse. A physical examination should never take the place of a vet’s examination, but if you become familiar with these techniques you can help recognize a problem, pass on relevant info quickly and this basic information can save time and contribute to one day potentially saving a horse’s life. These are skills honed to instinct over the years, so to start with, may be useful to have a bit of a conscious checklist. Most of the time it just entails learning what to look out for, learning what is normal for a particular horse.

 

P – Posture

Posture, attitude, and the environment around the horse. Look out for anything out of character or unusual:

  • Patterns of lying down to rest.
  • How many piles of manure were passed?
  • Is there any sign of pain (a horse watching his flank), resting a foreleg, evidence of rolling, rocking, soreness in his feet etc.
  • How does he respond to normal exercise? Does the horse seem unusually tired, reluctant to do what he normally does, gait seems a bit off etc? It may be he needs a day off, but it may also be a sore back, leg issues, virus etc.

 

A – Appetite

Appetite and drinking quantities and habits.

  • Did the horse eat the usual amount of hay last night?
  • Is the horse’s response to receiving hard feed usual? Has he eaten it all?
  • Has the horse drunk more/less water than is usual for him?

In all circumstances, a good horseperson will know the “norm” with all horses and will take any change as a signal to look deeper.

 

Diagnosing a sick horseM – Mucous Membranes (colour/gum colour)

Healthy horses have nice pink gums that are moist to the touch. Press your finger firmly on the gum line, then take it away quickly. The time it takes for the area to turn from white back to pink is the “capillary refill time” and should be around two seconds. Gums that vary from this dark red, bright red blue, or even white with a prolonged capillary refill time usually indicates a problem requiring immediate attention.

 

Top Tip: Most vets are an excellent source of learning. Don’t be frightened to ask them general questions, ask them to watch you while you perform a basic physical examination. Unless they are frantically rushing to another horse/call they normally would be delighted to advise.

 

 

You might be glad to remember TPR and PAM one of these days!  These are just some of the checks that can be made to see how the horses in your care are feeling on a particular day, and to be ahead of the game on any issues. We are always looking for anything out of the ordinary in general terms and in measured terms, therefore to know what is out of the ordinary, you need to make it your business to thoroughly know the ordinary. I am sure we haven’t covered everything here but hopefully, for some, it will be a useful start point to go on and learn more about a horses vitals signs, and for others a useful refresher. By being knowledgeable of your horse’s normal vital signs and able to take his vital signs in an emergency, you greatly increase your horse’s chance of surviving a serious illness or accident. As a groom, you are often the horse’s first line of defence and that is a great responsibility. If in any doubt on what you are doing, seeing or hearing always, ALWAYS ask someone – it can make all the difference. It can take years to get to a high level of competency on these matters and everyone has to start somewhere. We are all continually learning, so don’t be shy – your horses need you! 

The content provided in this article is for informational purposes only. It is the responsibility of the individual to ensure that the information they are working to is correct and appropriate for their specific circumstances.

 

© Caroline Carter Recruitment Ltd and The Grooms List, 2021. Unauthorised use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this site’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to Caroline Carter Recruitment Ltd and www.thegroomslist.co.uk with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.

We’re on social media!

Follow us on social media and stay up to date with the latest from The Grooms List. We are quite happy to chat via social media too!

The Grooms List by Caroline Carter Recruitment is on FacebookThe Grooms List by Caroline Carter Recruitment is on Twitter The Grooms List by Caroline Carter Recruitment is on Instagram

 

 

Top Jobs!

We require a Lead Coach for our BHS CLTH Programme – opportunity to join our ever growing team within a business est 49 years. Qualifications Minimum BHS Stage 3 care (or equivalent) and BHS Stage 2 teach or BHS Coaching 4 All qualification recommended to be an APC. Up to date Safeguarding – First Aid and DBS And or Equivalent QTS (qualified Teacher Status) SEN experience Are you looking to take the next step in your career without classroom teaching responsibilities all day everyday (there maybe some subjects to add in as this programme grows eg Maths & English). Full Time Position for CLTH to be actively involved as part of our team. Competitive salary according to BHS & Teaching qualifications/experience. CLTH is a BHS Alternative Provision Education Programme of regular sessions, taking place here at PEC. Your main role is to facilitate and support the development of six key life skills in young people through Equine. Assisted learning. You will guide participants in Developing Communication, confidence, teamwork, building relationships, perseverance and responsibility using the programmes structured awards and activities. Youll also work to ensure the Safety and well being of all participants and the horses involved. CLTH has been running here for 3 years.
*£35K pa and no accommodation costs whatsoever *2 bed lodge house with enclosed lawned garden *Partner considered   *Well-behaved dog considered *Some weekends off by prior arrangement This TB Stud is home to around 20 horses (mares and foals at foot, yearlings, NH racehorses out of training, pre-training, young stock.) The mares are foaled away and return with their foals at foot at approximately 4 weeks of age, so no foaling done on site therefore no routine sitting up! This is a very practical role best suited to someone who is used to and enjoys this environment. You will need to be fully capable and experienced working on your own, but also able to work alongside the family, who are very hands-on. There will also be PT help. This is a role which involves a fair amount of physical work, and you need to be fit and strong for many of the daily tasks. You will handle young, large horses who react instinctively in every situation, so experience and confidence are key. Rider not essential Generally speaking, the role will include but is not limited to: basic horse handling feeding and haying cleaning and maintaining stables, paddocks and equipment may include maintenance of the yard and property operating machinery and equipment equine first aid assisting Vets and Farriers Pls call Caroline on 07747 686118/or 0203 006 5730 or email caroline@carolinecarterrecruiment.com  
Job Description Full time and partime Home grooming position available. Caring for 8-10 competition dressage horses and all the grooming duties that come with that. Including Hacking and lunging / exercising horses dep on experience. Potential for Show grooming. Ideal candidate would be able to take on head person management role overseeing day to day running of the stables and horses (inc managing hay, shavings and feed deliveries. Booking in Vaccinations, farrier ect…) Working closely with rider and team to bring out best in horses and competitive success Minimum Requirements Experience working with fit competition horses.   Accommodation details 1 Bed Flat   Benefits Nest Pension Scheme Accommodation Potential for horse Dogs Welcome Training available Support in advancing career (i.e. Apprenticeship schemes, HGV Licence)
Job Description We are looking for someone with experience to lead a small team on a dressage livery yard. Full time including Sundays. Usual yard duties and general care working with about 12 stabled horses ranging from 3yo to GP stallion. This could also suit a working couple as we have some maintenance requirements also. Minimum Requirements Capable with sports horses, ability to work quickly and to high standard, confident and cheerful. Car and tractor driver. Riding not essential but there could be some for the right person.   Accommodation details Large, bright and lovely 2 bedroom flat on site with bills including internet. No pets.   Benefits Pension, 28 days holiday and discounted horse livery/training possible.  
GROOM REQUIRED (Full time working throughout the year although we will also consider a Job share and part time hours for this role) Five day working week which will include a weekend day. A School Equestrian Centre is seeking a Full-time Groom (or Part-time job share). The Equestrian Centre is a vibrant yard, mainly dealing with children and is part of a School community. We are looking for a competent, friendly and reliable Groom who is energetic and motivated to join the team working in our busy livery yard and riding school. The candidate should have some previous experience. It is an ideal opportunity for a newly qualified coach to gain experience teaching beginners and novice riders as part of a school environment. A teaching qualification is desirable but not essential. We offer a supportive community environment and also a wide range of benefits including an attractive remuneration package. Candidates are requested to submit a brief letter of application, together with the online application and supported by a full CV (via the ‘Apply now’ button) as soon as possible and no later than 9:00 am Friday 20th June 2025. Applications are considered as they are received and therefore the vacancy may close sooner than advertised. We recognise the positive value of diversity, promotes equality and challenges discrimination. We welcome and encourage job applications from people of all backgrounds. All applicants must have the right to work in the UK. The School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.  The post holder will be subject to a DBS check.
Equine Technician Salary: Up to £24,243 per annum (pro-rata if part-time) PLUS Potential for a £2,000 Recruitment Attraction Payment (pro-rata if part-time) for experienced appointees Full Time (37hrs per week) Onsite Accommodation Available / Reduced Rental Charge  Exciting opportunities have arisen to join ourTeam. Working under the guidance of the Equine Centre Manager we are looking for full-time and part-time technicians to join the co team at our College and BHS approved livery yard. The primary role is to supervise students and facilitate their learning experience in a real working environment. This will include supervision and support of practical skills and development to maintain high standards in the care, husbandry, and training of our horses. The post holder will lead by example ensuring a positive, educational student experience that learner focused and rewarding. Outside of these sessions you will be working alongside the Equine team to provide high quality care to the college horses ensuring that the horses at the Equine Centre are kept in accordance with BHS standards. The post holder will also be responsible for aspects of administration, organisation, and the carrying out of day-to-day operation and activities associated with a dynamic Equine Centre including delivery of a varied events and competition calendar. Schooling of the College horses is included in this role with an opportunity to compete in on site competitions for suitable candidates. Working hours will include a weekend day and some evening cover. Accommodation in a shared house available Closing Date:  8 June 2025 We reserve the right to close this vacancy early should sufficient applications be received. College Benefits Eligibility to join the Local Government Pension Scheme (a defined benefit pension scheme) Death Benefit grant of 3 x salary if in the pension scheme Free on-site parking Occupational Sick Pay Scheme Occupational Maternity Pay Scheme Holiday entitlement of 22 days (rising to 25 days after 5 years’ service) plus Public and Bank Holidays along with college closure days at Xmas. (pro-rated for part-time staff) Access to an employee assistance scheme Facility to purchase our produce including: plants, fruit & vegetables, fish and game. Access to discounted hair treatments at the Andover campus Ability to access a range of CPD events and support with undertaking professional qualifications and training towards BHS assessments Various food outlets and eateries offering good value food and drink at competitive prices There is a nursery on the on site operated by a commercial provider   Safeguarding Statement The College is committed to safeguarding and promotes the welfare of all learners and expects all staff to share this commitment. All successful applicants will be required to undertake a Disclosure and Barring (DBS) check and to provide proof of their eligibility to work in the UK.  
Millfield School is seeking a highly skilled Equestrian Coach to join our team at the prestigious Millfield Equestrian Centre on a maternity cover one-year fixed term contract from September 2025. In this role, you will have the exciting opportunity to deliver exceptional technical coaching and competition programmes for our talented Equestrian riders. We are searching for an individual who possesses not only exceptional coaching abilities, but also the drive to help foster the growth of our department. You will be responsible for implementing a comprehensive technical coaching programme for riders of all levels, while also bringing fresh ideas and innovative concepts to enhance training and development. To be successful in this role, you must possess a minimum of 5 years practical coaching experience working with youth development riders across various equestrian disciplines. BHS accreditation Stage 4 coaching or UKCC level 2 qualification is a minimum required qualification level, and experience overseeing rider and horse development plans is highly desirable. Ideal candidates will also hold an HGV driver’s license and have a comprehensive understanding of the equestrian world, including the competitive landscape. This is a fixed term position from 1st September 2025 until 31st August 2026, offering a 42-hour work week from Monday to Saturday for 52 weeks per year. In return for your dedication and expertise, you will receive a competitive salary of up to £35,454 per annum (dependent on qualifications and experience), along with 10 weeks of holiday. Additionally, you will have access to the school facilities, enjoy freshly prepared lunches for just £10 per month, and benefit from discounts/cashback at various high street shops and restaurants through the school’s Employee Assistance Programme. **Please note that applications will be considered on receipt, and as a result the vacancy may close early should an appointment be made. As such we would recommend submitting your application as soon as possible**    
Job Description We’re looking to add an additional show groom to our team. The position is to join a nice team of 3-4 others, live in, and the ability to travel to national and international shows. All daily yard duties with a focus on being a traveling show groom. 6 days a week with a fixed day off, PTO included. Minimum Requirements Some previous experience preferred, HGV license a major plus but not necessity.   Accommodation details Very modern and well equipped house on the yard. Each room has their own en suite and plenty of space. All utilities included in salary.   Benefits A fun, relaxed and professional team. Respectful of scheduled hours when at home. Starting salary can be discussed in relation to prior experience.  
Job Description We are looking for a motivated individual to join our friendly team on a small privately owned stud.  Good knowledge and experience working with thoroughbreds would be an advantage, ranging from yearlings to older mares. Horse care and stable management is the main priority. No foaling or foal watching. Duties include all stable and horse care, mucking out and grooming. 1 Bedroom house available on a beautiful estate. Full time live in 6 days a week to include every other weekend, this can be discussed at interview. Weekday hours 8am to 4pm weekend hours 8am to 11am – 3pm to 4pm. 28 days holiday and optional pension scheme.   Minimum Requirements Knowledge of stud work or working with young thoroughbreds useful.   Accommodation details 1 Bed house available.  
*Top remuneration available, (negotiable on experience and lorry license qualification) *Accommodation available on site or employer would fund off site accommodation in local village if required * Dog welcomed but no room for own horse. *International level facilities Fantastic opportunity for a motivated Show Groom to join a motivated team who have a great track record competing at home and abroad. A good Competition Groom/Travelling Groom is an indispensable part of a competing team, without whom most top riders would not be able to achieve what they achieve, in this is a role where you would be truly valued. Excellent turnout skills, horse and rider management abilities and experience at SJ competitions is essential. An HGV is ideal but not essential. Show – Groom experience is the priority. Whilst away, sometimes for 6 weeks at a time, you would have sole charge of a handful of quality Show Jumpers (no stallions) but at home, you would be part of a dedicated team with staff available for much of the mucking out Rider not essential. For more details and/or to apply, Pls call Caroline on 07747 686118/or 0203 006 5730 or email caroline@carolinecarterrecruiment.com
Job Description We are looking for a Temporary Groom to join our small, efficient team looking after 12 horses. Our horses are mainly driving horses, some are ridden, and one is retired. We take part in driving competitions over the spring and summer months. We would ideally like someone who can also ride some of the horses. Driving experience not necessary – we will teach you to drive! Both myself and my husband drive, and we already have a full time Groom, plus a Groom coming in 4 days a week. This role is a 5 day week, starting at 9am and finishing at 5 pm, with a break for lunch. Additional hours are available if you would like to do more. Minimum Requirements Ability to work with others and care for horses.   Accommodation details N/A, this is a live-out job.   Benefits Great working conditions, workplace pension, 28 days holiday, excellent riding facilities, caring employers.  
Job Description We are a professional, yet relaxed and friendly yard looking for a full-time, live-in, Head Groom to look after our own 13 horses and ponies. We offer 5 star facilities, a 5 day week, 28 days holiday & optional pension scheme. Duties include all general yard duties and 5 star day to day care of our 8 horses & 5 rescue ponies. The applicant must be experienced, dedicated, friendly, trustworthy, enthusiastic & confident in handling large competition horses. We have a wide range of horses from our own little rescue ponies up to large warmbloods & any thing in between. All of the horses are well behaved & extremely lovely. We are a small friendly team who always put the horses needs first. The applicant must be able to take charge, turn out to a high standard and be willing to muck in and out and more importantly love the horses as much as we do. We are extremely proud of the friendly atmosphere at our yard and are looking for someone with the same genuine love for horses and cheery personality to match ours.   Minimum Requirements Experience preferred.   Accommodation details Accommodation available, partner welcome.   Benefits Pension scheme 28 Days Annual Leave  
We are now looking for an experienced competent rider to join our team. With up and coming youngsters ready to begin their careers. This Warmblood Stud is the home of Stallions and Broodmares. We have the pleasure of owning and producing beautiful and versatile warmblood horses.  Our bloodlines include some of the top in the  Country ;- Concorde, Kannan, Voltaire, Zirocco Blue, Cardento, Kashmir V. We are based in West Wales near Tregaron in a stunning rural location with purpose built equine facilities with an Equine Therapy and Spa onsite. We also have our own racewood eventer simulator which staff have regular training. Set in the midst of the idyllic Cambrian Mountains we are graced with beautiful outriding and our horses benefit with hacking out as part of their daily routines. These quality Warmbloods are or have competed in show jumping competition in this country and abroad. This full time, live in or out role in a newly built accommodation bedroom with own bathroom under floor heating and shared stunning living dining kitchen onsite. Or a self contained bedsit own access We need a competent rider to join the team. Most importantly to work with our wonderful team,  getting the best from our horses. This will include general yard duties working as part of the team producing young stock and competing our stallions.   The role is 5 days per week including alternate weekends and flexibility if we go out to shows at the week days and weekends. We are a mixed yard competition horses (stallions), youngstock, broodmares and general riding horses. We have some very well bred, exciting youngsters for the future. We are a very busy yard this could be a hugely rewarding role for the right person. A super friendly team. Accommodation details – Live in is available for one person also local livery close by which is an option for own horse. must already live in the UK we have no facilities to sponsor a worker.  
Job Description Full time job/Live in Join us in Powys on the Shropshire border. We are a friendly small team at a private home. We require someone to look after & take pride in the grounds & gardens in the Summer. Who’s also confident to help the girls with stable work in our family 7 Horse Hunting Yard in the Winter. Opportunity to ride out. Maintenance & General help in the houses & grounds. Dog walking – must love dogs! Occasional driving. Accommodation is a cottage on site Well behaved dog welcome Minimum Requirements Lawn Mowing & Gardening experience Worked on horse yards before   Accommodation details A private 2 Bed 2 Bath Cottage on site (only suitable for one person as the 2nd bedroom needs refurbishment) Private courtyard & good size storage shed Well behaved dog is welcome  
Job Description An international sport- and dealing-stable in Dielsdorf, Switzerland, is looking for a friendly, experienced and reliable person taking care 3 private sporthorses and able to start as soon as possible. Duties include grooming, tacking, therapies (massage rugs, ice, etc.), bandaging, bathing, trimming, clipping, plaiting, show preparation, show grooming, braiding, first aid, lunging, laundry, organizing of tack room, feeding and cleaning stalls.   Accommodation details Very nice accommodation with own kitchen and bathroom.   Benefits Competitive salary, social insurances, accident insurance, working contract and working permit for Switzerland    
Job Description We are looking for a motivated individual to join our team on a full time basis as a head groom/yard manager. The job will include usual groom duties and management of up to 10 fit dressage horses of varying ages. The role would suit a driven, positive and ambitious individual that wants to work in the dressage industry. Lovely accommodation available on site but can be live out if very local. Right candidate able to bring own horse. Job includes running the yard and all usual groom duties (preparation for shows including plaiting) as well as overseeing horses schedules and management. The right candidate must have experience working on a professional competition yard and uphold the highest standards. It would be a real bonus if applicant has HGV licence and experience driving lorries. We’re really looking for someone who wants to become a key member of the team and loves what they do. We currently have a lovely, small team of staff, so you must be able to work well with others. Most importantly, the top priority is finding someone that loves the horses like they are their own and is invested in their journeys. Would suit someone who only wants to groom or equally someone that wants small amount of riding eg young rider wanting to gain experience and receive training. Minimum Requirements Ideally experience working on yard competing at FEI International level (dressage if possible) Confident with fresh, fit horses UK driving license   Accommodation details Accommodation available on site. Private bedroom with ensuite (shower and bath) in modern communal flat shared with 2 other event grooms. Lovely shared kitchen and washing facilities. Dogs and partner allowed at extra cost.  
Job Description We are looking for another member for the Team. This is an opportunity to join a forward thinking dynamic team that provide top class riding holidays for people from all over the world. Attitude and happy personality essential. Must be able to ride to a high standard, must be able to be responsible for guests out on hacks. Must be willing to help with stable cleaning 2 days a week. Must clean horses and tack and if required help with novice guests. Please only apply if you have a European passport The position is until the end of October The applicant will have a full Spanish contract and pay tax on the above amounts.   Minimum Requirements MUST HAVE A EUROPEAN PASSPORT Must be able to drive. Must ride to a high standard – laterals Must be a kind rider. Must be responsible and quiet in the stables   Accommodation details Private accommodation with bathroom   Benefits Tips, food car available for local journeys  
Job Description Perform daily stable yard and field duties, including feeding, handling, and grooming horses. Muck out and clean stables to a high standard. Report any horse ailments, infections, or injuries to the Head Groom immediately. Administer necessary treatments to horses as directed. Exercise allocated horses daily through lunging, hacking, schooling, or track cantering. Safely lead fit horses, including stallions. Check and maintain the safety and serviceability of all equipment, reporting any repairs needed. Ensure riding arenas are clean and tidy at the end of each day. Transport horses as required. Assist in client activity preparation tasks and riding activities, following correct procedures. To buddy with new starters as part of their induction. Any tasks or responsibilities as requested by management within the scope of the position.   Knowledge and Skills: Experience working as a Groom (Essential) Experience in horse care (Essential) Ability to ride to BHS Stage 2 standard (Desirable) Clean driving licence (Essential) Experience working with children (Desirable) Equine qualification (Desirable).   Accommodation details Live in accommodation available or live out
Job Description Perform daily stable yard and field duties, including feeding, handling, and grooming horses. Muck out and clean stables to a high standard. Report any horse ailments, infections, or injuries to the Head Groom immediately. Administer necessary treatments to horses as directed. Exercise allocated horses daily through lunging, hacking, schooling, or track cantering. Safely lead fit horses, including stallions. Check and maintain the safety and serviceability of all equipment, reporting any repairs needed. Ensure riding arenas are clean and tidy at the end of each day. Transport horses as required. Assist in client activity preparation tasks and riding activities, following correct procedures. To buddy with new starters as part of their induction. Any tasks or responsibilities as requested by management within the scope of the position.   Knowledge and Skills: Experience working as a Groom (Essential) Experience in horse care (Essential) Ability to ride to BHS Stage 2 standard (Desirable) Clean driving licence (Essential) Experience working with children (Desirable) Equine qualification (Desirable).  
We’re looking for a knowledgeable and motivated Yard Manager to take the lead on our day-to-day yard operations and support our horses, riders, and team. This is a hands-on, leadership role for someone who loves being in the thick of it, is confident managing others, and has a true passion for horse welfare and stable management. As Yard Manager, your duties will include: Taking full responsibility for the day-to-day running of the yard Ensuring all horses are healthy, well looked after, and prepared for daily lessons Overseeing the grooming, feeding, turnout, and medical care routines Managing feed and bedding supplies, as well as record-keeping for horse health and farrier/vet schedules Leading, mentoring and organising junior staff, volunteers and apprentices Upholding high standards of cleanliness, safety and yard presentation Communicating with riding instructors to ensure smooth operation of lessons and horse allocation We’re after someone who is: Experienced in yard and horse management (minimum 2–3 years in a similar role) Knowledgeable and confident in handling a variety of horses A calm and kind leader with great people skills Reliable, self-motivated, and organised Committed to the highest standards of equine care Comfortable working in a busy yard environment and able to adapt to the day’s challenges Ideally BHS qualified (or equivalent experience) We believe in supporting our team and rewarding hard work. As part of your role at MA Equestrian, you’ll receive: Staff riding opportunities – keep up your riding with our wonderful horses Ongoing training and professional development A warm and welcoming team environment Possibility to stable your own horse Beautiful countryside setting Real opportunities to shape the role and grow within the business Full-time position with a flexible rota, including weekends and some evenings

© Caroline Carter Recruitment Ltd and The Grooms List, 2025. Unauthorised use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this site’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to Caroline Carter Recruitment Ltd and www.thegroomslist.co.uk with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.

Equine Careers | Equine Grooms | Equine Jobs | Equestrian Jobseekers

How many times have our articles been read?

  • 2,956,423

Information

Caroline Carter Recruitment Ltd
PO Box 89
SHEFFORD
SG17 9AY

info@carolinecarterrecruitment.com
0203 006 5730

Registered company number 10657796good site
Caroline Carter Recruitment Ltd is registered with the UK Information Commissioner as a data controller with registered number ZA250621

ENDORSED BY

Admin Quick Search

Search Employers

Search Jobs

Search Candidates