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Originally Posted by Saddlebag Two gals years ago when to Europe to work with a reputable horse trainer. They figured they'd be working with beginners and feeding and riding under this guy. Barn slaves is what it turned out to be and they had to stick it out if they wanted their return ticket. Neither one saw a lesson. That probably taught them the biggest lesson of their lives. |
I can not stress enough that people need to research these jobs and get real references(not just email address) and talk to other barn owners and staff in the area.
I got sucked into a position at what I was told was a high scale dressage barn. I was promised $100 a week, free accommodations, food and 3 lessons a week as well as horses to ride daily.
I got there and only ever had 2 lessons in the 4 months I was trapped there, never got to ride other horses, only got 24 hours off every two weeks and never offered a ride into town, worked 6am - 10pm and was not allowed to talk to any boarders as staff are never to be seen or heard. I also would get screamed at if I touched any food outside of meal times that wasn't served to me.
The only reason I hadn't high tailed it out of there right away was I had traveled across the country to get there, was foolish and went with no back up money and kept hoping it would get better. The reason she got away with it is it was titled a "working student" position. I was lucky enough to have a friend bail me out of there and help get me a job at another barn where staff were actually respected by the owners.
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