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Equine placement top tips

Get ready for your EMS equine placement with our top tips.

A female veterinary student standing beside a grey horse

Protect your feet

Boots or wellies with integrated protective toecaps are a must. Horses are heavy, and it only takes one misplaced foot to turn your day into a trip to the nearest A&E.

Dress suitably

Stable work is physically demanding and messy, so it's important to wear appropriate, comfortable clothing. Layers are best as you can easily remove or add them depending on your heat levels. You don't need to rush out and buy specialised gear such as jodhpurs and riding boots – tracksuit bottoms or leggings will be acceptable in most circumstances.

Stay busy, stay useful

If you find yourself twiddling your thumbs, grab a broom. Always make yourself useful to the team by asking if there's anything that needs doing.

Show enthusiasm

Even if horses and ponies are not your preferred species, the people you are working with will be passionate about them. Be respectful and open-minded, as you never know where a placement might lead. Skills learned on your equine EMS can also be applied to other species and settings. 

Brace yourself for unsociable hours

Stables operate early. Mucking out, feeding, medication and turning out or bringing in can all happen before a typical workday starts. As you'll quickly discover, working with animals is unpredictable as they rarely stick to a schedule.

Know your equine equipment

Don't know your crupper from your curry comb? Take some time to learn the basics. For example, it’s useful to know how to put a halter on a horse and tie a bowline. Understanding the difference between ropes, reins and other common equestrian equipment will demonstrate your readiness for the placement.

Review common illnesses and diseases

Learn to recognise the symptoms of common equine diseases, such as colic. Not only will you get more out of your experience if you're up to date with common conditions, but you could be the first person to notice a rolling, restless horse - and potentially save the day. 

Ask questions

Being surrounded by people who have an extensive knowledge of horses is the perfect time to ask questions. There's no such thing as a silly question - just missed learning opportunities. 

Be punctual

Good timekeeping is essential. The days will be structured according to the needs of the animals and staff on the placement. Being late is disrespectful to those who've given up their time to offer you this experience. It also disrupts the running of the day, taking time away from the tasks that need to be completed.

Try not to worry

This type of experience may be very new to you. Be assured that you have a valuable role to play and the team will welcome the extra pair of hands. By the end of your placement you’ll have gained numerous valuable experiences, expanded your professional network and created some wonderful memories!

 

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