Who is a stable hand or groom and what do they do? The stable hand or groom’s job is to take care of the horses in a stables (or riding school).
What are the activities of the job? Feeds them suitable fodder, takes them out for exercise, washes and brushes them, puts horseshoes on them, shears them, delouses them and may also treat their minor wounds or diseases. S/he assists the mares in foaling and takes care of the colts. S/he may also be in charge of the stirrups, saddles and harnesses and may help in the arrangement and preparation for horse races. Cleans out stables and supplies fresh bedding as needed.
Where is it done and under what conditions? In a working environment that can be dirty and smelly at times. S/he may suffer from the possible insect bites from fleas and ticks.
What tools/equipment do they use? A variety of materials such as hay, straw, and prepared feedstuffs. Also combs, brushes and cloths, polishing and cleaning materials, shovels and brooms.
What do you need to succeed? You need no special education; however, you must have some experience of caring for animals. Career progression is possible within larger farms or large racing stables or breeding establishments where you can achieve the category of head groom, foreman, stud manager, etc. Some stable hands who work in riding stables may progress to become instructors or to own their own establishment. You can also move towards a specialisation in veterinary work, which would mean taking higher level specialised education.