Internships

American Paint Horse Association

The American Paint Horse Association (APHA), the world’s second-largest equine breed association, is looking for interns to assist the association in a variety of aspects leading up to, during and following the APHA World Show held in Fort Worth, Texas. These internships provide a unique opportunity to work in the heart of Texas horse country with offices located in Fort Worth Stockyards and events taking place at the historic Will Rogers Memorial Center. With multiple focus areas available, APHA internships are tailored to each intern’s areas of interest and career goals as much as possible while providing the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in multiple sectors of a world-class equine association. The accounting intern will work closely with the Accounting Department in financial matters related to the Association and management of the APHA World Show held at the Will Rogers Memorial Center in Fort Worth, Texas.

Responsibilities:
Interns will have a focused department but will gain well-rounded experience in all parts of the association.

Accounting Focus:

• Assist in Financial Data Entry:

• Input financial transactions into accounting software.

• Verify accuracy of financial data and correct discrepancies.

• Accounts Payable:

• Process vendor invoices and ensure timely payments.

• Verify and reconcile vendor statements.

• Accounts Receivable:

• Assist in generating customer invoices.

• Follow-up on outstanding customer payments.

• Financial Analysis:

• Help analyze financial statements and reports.

• Summarize financial data for management review.

• Tax Compliance:

• Assist in gathering information for tax filings.

• Ensure compliance with tax regulations.

• Financial Reporting:

• Contribute to the preparation of financial reports for internal and external stakeholders.

• Assist in generating financial statements.

• Data Analysis:

• Utilize spreadsheet software for data analysis and reporting.

• Help identify trends and patterns in financial data.

• Ad Hoc Projects:

• Participate in special projects as assigned by the accounting team.

• Contribute to process improvement initiatives.

• Research and Compliance:

• Stay informed about changes in accounting regulations.

• Research accounting topics as needed.

Cross-Departmental Exposure:
Learning about and completing projects for various APHA departments such as MemberCare (customer service), PH Barn Door (retail store), mail center, and more.

Requirements:

• College juniors, seniors or recent graduates majoring in agriculture, journalism, marketing, accounting or a related field preferred

• Interest in the equine industry and eagerness to learn about breed associations; interest in Paint Horses is a plus

• Self-motivated, creative thinker with a sense of responsibility

• Ability to work under pressure, meet deadlines and contribute to a team environment

American Paint Horse Association

The American Paint Horse Association (APHA), the world’s second-largest equine breed association, is looking for interns to assist the association in a variety of aspects leading up to, during and following the APHA World Show held in Fort Worth, Texas. These internships provide a unique opportunity to work in the heart of Texas horse country with offices located in the Fort Worth Stockyards and events taking place at the historic Will Rogers Memorial Center. With multiple focus areas available, APHA internships are tailored to each intern’s areas of interest and career goals as much as possible while providing the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in multiple sectors of a world-class equine association. The videography and marketing intern will work closely with the Marketing Department to assist in the planning, production and distribution of marketing projects and videos. This intern will also work with the performance department to edit videos for various projects. The ideal candidate will be passionate about multimedia, the equine industry and have an eagerness to learn.

Responsibilities:
Interns will have a focused department but will gain well-rounded experience in all parts of the association.

Marketing/Videography Focus:

• Assist the marketing department with video projects, including content gathering and editing

• Collaborate with the performance department to edit videos for various projects

• Assist with gathering daily social media content during the APHA World Show

• Create reels and TikToks to follow current trends

• Gather behind-the-scenes content of show and exhibitor activities

• Collaborate with marketing team to execute all media projects

• Assist the marketing team to capture, edit, and produce videos and photos

• Assist the graphics department as needed

• Various duties as assigned

Cross-Departmental Exposure:
Learning about and completing projects for various APHA departments such as MemberCare (customer service), PH Barn Door (retail store), mail center and more.

Requirements:

• College juniors, seniors or recent graduates majoring in agriculture, journalism, marketing or a related field preferred

• Knowledge of Adobe Creative Suite, specifically Premier Pro, Lightroom and Photoshop, preferred

• Interest in the equine industry and eagerness to learn about breed associations; interest in Paint Horses is a plus

• Self-motivated, creative thinker with a sense of responsibility

• Ability to work under pressure, meet deadlines and contribute to a team environment

American Paint Horse Association

The American Paint Horse Association (APHA), the world’s second-largest equine breed association, is looking for interns to assist the association in a variety of aspects leading up to, during and following the APHA World Show held in Fort Worth, Texas. These internships provide a unique opportunity to work in the heart of Texas horse country with offices located in the Fort Worth Stockyards and events taking place at the historic Will Rogers Memorial Center. With multiple focus areas available, APHA internships are tailored to each intern’s areas of interest and career goals as much as possible while providing the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in multiple sectors of a world-class equine association. The performance intern will work closely with the Performance Department, which handles the following programs: Youth, Amateur, showing and judging. The Performance Department also oversees the management of the APHA World Show held at the Will Rogers Memorial Center in Fort Worth, Texas.

Responsibilities:
Interns will have a focused department but will gain well-rounded experience in all parts of the association.

Performance Focus:

• Collaborate with team members on the development and execution of promotional activities for Youth Program, Amateur Program, Shows, and Judging.

• Assist in the creation and maintenance of databases related to award recipients and program participants.

• Conduct research and analysis to identify trends and areas for improvement in program effectiveness.

• Provide administrative support in organizing and coordinating logistics for World Show preparation.

• Assist in the coordination of workshops and training sessions for participants in various programs.

• Contribute to the creation of marketing materials and content to promote events and programs.

• Work closely with the communication team to ensure timely and effective dissemination of information related to events and programs.

• Assist in the preparation and compilation of post-show reports, including detailed statistics and analysis of results.

• Act as a liaison between different departments to streamline communication and ensure smooth execution of events.

Cross-Departmental Exposure:
Learning about and completing projects for various APHA departments such as MemberCare (customer service), PH Barn Door (retail store), mail center and more.

Requirements:

• College juniors, seniors or recent graduates majoring in agriculture, journalism, marketing or a related field preferred

• Knowledge of Adobe Creative Suite, specifically Lightroom and Photoshop, preferred

• Interest in the equine industry and eagerness to learn about breed associations; interest in Paint Horses is a plus

• Self-motivated, creative thinker with a sense of responsibility

• Ability to work under pressure, meet deadlines and contribute to a team environment

American Quarter Horse Association

AQHA’s Youth Department Internship offers a unique opportunity to gain experience in program and event management within the equine industry.  The successful candidate will be challenged to assist in planning, developing, administering and executing many facets of programs serving AQHA’s youth membership of nearly 17,000.

Responsibilities may include, but are not limited to:

• Supporting the department director and manager, and other staff members as needed

• Assisting with the planning and execution of AQHA’s youth leadership conference, youth championship show activities, and a variety of contests and programs

• Assisting the AQHYA board of directors through communication, programs, leadership tools, activities and events

• Contributing to the resources and engagement tools for youth leaders including AQHA youth advisers and youth leaders throughout the horse industry

• Providing administrative support including but not limited to answering phones, processing program entries, responding to emails, and other office functions

• Assisting with a variety of functions related to event planning and activation

• Supporting youth initiatives through research, outreach and planning

• Communicating with members and stakeholders, including by email, phone and in person

• Collaboration with staff on tactics to engage youth, promote youth membership or programs

• Writing or editing communications related to youth programs including for print or digital

• Processing, tracking and generating results from youth membership and program participation

• Coordinating engagement efforts, events or meetings

• Managing, editing, or creating content for social media account(s) and website

• Some travel to events may be required

Preferred Qualities and Skills:

• Exceptional communications skills, including written and verbal

• Must demonstrate exceptional character and youth leadership qualities

• Youth leadership experience, especially within a structured program, is preferred

• Experience working as a volunteer, or with volunteers

• Must take instruction well, be detail-oriented and able to work independently

• Office and/or customer care experience

• Working knowledge of Microsoft Office suite is strongly preferred (Word, Excel, Outlook, etc.)

• Horse experience is a plus, but hands-on or show experience is not required

American Quarter Horse Association

If you are a hard-working, enthusiastic college student looking for an exciting internship in the horse industry and judging, we have an internship opportunity at our AQHA Headquarters in Amarillo, Texas. The Show Officials internships are ideal for students pursuing careers in the equine industry with a special interest in show and ranch judging, which can include communications, marketing, business, shows, and much more. Applicants must have reliable transportation and must be willing to travel to events and incur necessary expenses to travel to Amarillo. 

Preferences:

• Knowledge of the equine show and ranch horse show industry, with advanced knowledge of judging.

• Competent with various computer technology applications.

• The ability to intern at AQHA headquarters at least one summer during your college career, though an opportunity for a recurring summer, fall, or spring internship is a possibility.

• Passion for the AQHA mission:To record and preserve the pedigree of the American Quarter Horse while maintaining the integrity of the breed and welfare of its horses.

• To provide beneficial services for its members which enhance and encourage American Quarter Horse ownership and participation.

• To develop diverse educational programs, material and curriculum that will position AQHA as the leading resource organization in the equine industry.

• To generate growth of AQHA membership via the marketing, promotion, advertising and publicity of the American Quarter Horse.

• To ensure the American Quarter Horse is treated humanely, with dignity, respect and compassion at all times.
  

American Quarter Horse Association

AQHA’s International Department Internship offers a unique opportunity to gain experience in program and event management within the equine industry both in the United States and abroad.  The successful candidate will be challenged to assist in planning, developing, administering, and executing many facets of the international program. Candidates must be able to travel.

Responsibilities may include, but are not limited to:

• Help maintain and update databases/records related to international members and international programs, ensuring accurate records and effective communication.

• Assist with sending out achievements’ notifications for international AQHA members.

• Support department staff with international project planning and execution.

• Accompany team members to international department meetings.

• Aid in Global Expansion: Helping with strategies for entering new markets, considering cultural, economic, and regulatory differences.

• Create strategies to expand the AQHA international social media presence.

• Managing and responding to emails, forwarding messages, or drafting responses.

• Office Maintenance: Helping in office upkeep and maintaining a clean workspace.

• Providing general support to staff as needed, which may include but are not limited to: photocopying, scanning, or answering phones.

• Travel to events is required.

Preferred Qualities and Skills:

• Exceptional communications skills, including written and verbal.

• Must demonstrate exceptional character and leadership qualities.

• International travel or studies is preferred.

• Understanding of cultural differences.

• Must take instruction well, be detail-oriented and able to work independently.

• Office and/or customer care experience.

• Working knowledge of Microsoft Office suite is strongly preferred (Word, Excel, Outlook, etc.).

• Horse experience is a plus, but hands-on or show experience is not required

American Youth Horse Council

The American Youth Horse Council is seeking to fill three internship positions in each of the spring, summer, and fall semesters. Internships provide tasks and engagements of national importance and result in elevated resume-building and national networking. We offer a fully remote, flexible schedule and hours with a minimum of three hours per week. The interns will report directly to the AYHC Executive Director and work in collaboration with various AYHC committees. Applicants should have good written and verbal communication skills, a passion for technical and creative writing, excellent attention to detail, and a strong work ethic.

Education/Training:

• Minimum High School diploma or equivalent

• Pursuing a degree in a relevant subject, such as Agriculture Marketing, Agriculture Communications, Equine Science, Animal Science, or Agriculture Education with preference given to Agriculture Marketing or Communications students

Knowledge/Skills:

• Proficient with Microsoft Office software

• Experience in Canva is preferred

• Knowledge and experience with social media platforms, video editing, and graphic design is preferred

• Results-oriented with a high level of attention to detail and ability to multi-task. Increase your visibility by using the word alfalfa within your cover letter or email subject line

• Knowledge and experience within the equine industry is preferred

• Self-starter who can work independently with minimal supervision, but also work effectively within a team

• Coachable and eager to learn and improve based on constructive feedback

There are 3 internship options including:

• Career video project

• Membership recruitment and retention

• Promotions, outreach, and development

Boyle Ranch

As an intern, you will have the opportunity to work in the training, breeding, and general management divisions of the farm. Everyday duties will include feeding, checking horses, saddling and warming up horses, grooming, and maintaining a clean professional working environment. Depending on the show schedule and time of year, interns will be involved with show and sales prep, foal handling, routine medical care such as worming, vaccinations, farrier, and dentist scheduling. Interns will be able to foal out a mare and participate in the care of the mare and foal after parturition. Additionally, interns will see office and client management, record keeping, and marketing practices as well as become familiar with required registration and travel documents and procedures for breeding and showing. Interns will be able to further develop their own riding and training skills while riding available horses at the ranch. Interns will see cutting-edge sports medicine therapies used on performance horses. This Program is fast-paced and filled with educational opportunities only gained by working in the industry. Individuals must be quick learners, energetic, optimistic, reliable, and professional. This is a full-time commitment. 

Circle Oak Equine Sports Medicine & Rehabilitation

The intern experience at Circle Oak is a fun and rewarding combination of observation of sophisticated medical techniques and hands-on involvement in the daily care of rehabilitation and conditioning patients.  Interns attend staff meetings, demonstrations, and are encouraged to observe veterinary procedures whenever possible.  Externs coming for more limited stays are able to focus on their dissertation or research subjects.  All students work under the supervision of Nicole Numainville, RVT and Kari Farley, RVT.  We require, for safety reasons, that all interns have excellent horse-handling skills and in virtually all cases require an in-person interview to assess skill level. 

Colorado State University Equine Breeding Farm Internship

The Equine Reproduction Laboratory offers a unique internship program that provides advanced training in equine breeding farm procedures and management for individuals with a sincere desire to pursue a career in the equine breeding industry.

Training

• Interns are trained in equine reproduction fundamentals:

Stallions

• Stallion handling

• Stallion management

• Semen collection

• Preparation of cooled-transported semen

• Semen evaluation

• Semen freezing principles

• Frozen semen handling and inventory management

Mare 

• Hormone therapy

• Reproductive management of mares

• Artificial insemination

• Care of the pregnant mare and foaling

• Assist with embryo transfer

• Care of the newborn foal

• Assist with oocyte pickup procedures

• Herd health management

Colorado Therapeutic Riding Center Inc.

CTRC offers a variety of internships based on the intern’s background and what he/she desires to learn from the internship. CTRC tailors internships so that the intern can meet his/her educational needs. CTRC interns have the opportunity to learn about many areas of the program and can choose to focus their internship in one area or be involved in multiple areas (equine, program, volunteer management…) gaining experience in volunteer coordination, general horse care, horse training, horse selection, disabilities, disability awareness, therapeutic riding lesson planning, and/or side walking and horse leading with our wonderful therapeutic riding instructors and/or therapists (PT, OT).  Most interns choose to be involved in multiple areas to experience how a therapeutic riding center operates as well as the daily functions of a non-profit.

Why become an Intern at CTRC?

• We offer you the guidance and practical experience you will need to complete your internship.

• With the diversity of services at CTRC, you can gain exposure to a wide range of equine assisted services as well as non-profit aspects such as program management, fundraising and more.

• Yo will be assigned an Internship supervisor that will guide you through out the internship, provide feedback and complete midterm and final evaluations if necessary.

• We want to see you succeed and will do all that we can to assist you in learning and gaining experiences throughout the duration of your internship.

• CTRC offers specific training in relation to internship. Additionally, interns will receive Emergency Training, New Volunteer Training, Horse Handling Training and Equipment Training.

Days End Farm Horse Rescue

Internships at DEFHR give emerging professionals valuable insight into the day-to-day management, operations, and requirements of a large horse rescue. Interns can utilize skills learned at DEFHR in their next careers in equine management, training, animal welfare advocacy, equine rehabilitation, nonprofit marketing, facility management, and countless additional areas within the industry. 

Our internship positions are available as both residential and nonresidential positions and cover the following areas of DEFHR:

• Equine Care & Rehabilitation Internship

• Equine Training Internship

• Education Internship

Four Sixes Ranch

The Four Sixes Ranch offers a paid internship for undergraduate college students looking to advance their knowledge and skill in the equine industry, with the potential for full-time employment if available. Whether you are interested in applying to vet school, or simply learning more of the basics of general care, reproduction, foaling, doctoring, vaccinations, and sale prep of horses; this is an internship you should consider. You will get a tremendous amount of hands-on experience and on-the-job training.

The Four Sixes Ranch has a state-of-the-art facility with advanced technology, a surgery suite, and diagnostic tools to offer outside clientele and to be used on the nearly 1000+ head of horses currently on the ranch. We stand approximately 24 stallions for on-site and cooled/shipped semen for artificial insemination, and breed around 1800+ mares annually. We are also a Select Breeders Services (SBS) affiliate lab for stallion freezing, and breed many mares throughout the season with frozen semen. Embryo transfer (fresh and vitirified transfers) are yet another service we routinely perform.

A positive attitude and good work ethic are required and in turn, we will provide a professional working and learning environment. It will be a physically demanding internship with long hours, lots of miles and hard work. But as many past interns have reported: “We have never worked so hard, but also never learned so much and had so much fun.” Average days are from 6 am to 7 pm; 6 days a week. Foaling rotations require overnight shifts. Additional requirements are the ability to lift at least 50 lbs (hay, feed sacks, foals, etc) and basic horsemanship skills in order to handle the wide variety of horses we see here at the ranch/breeding barn. Several positions are available for two different internship options. 

Fox Run Equine Center

Fox Run Equine Center is offering a one-year paid internship in equine medicine and surgery. The position is available from June 2024 to June 2025.  Fox Run Equine Center is a multi-practitioner referral-based hospital located about 25 minutes east of Pittsburgh Pennsylvania. We are a progressive practice that emphasizes quality medicine and surgery.

The primary responsibility of the intern is to assist the staff veterinarians in the clinical examination, diagnosis, and treatment of the horses presented to the hospital. The intern will evaluate hospital cases every morning, help with treatments, perform anesthesia, assist in surgery, and carry out post-operative care of the surgical patients.  He/she will also share in the emergency coverage with the associate veterinarians and attend to scheduled farm calls.  The intern will also help teach veterinary student externs rotating through the clinic.

We are looking for a motivated, competent individual to join our team.  Our patients are provided the best and most technologically advanced care possible.  Interns, therefore, must be able to work both as a team and independently.  Our internship provides the ambitious post-graduate experience that will prepare you for a residency position or successful private practice. We encourage interested parties to spend a week or two at the practice as a student extern if you would like to get a better feel of the practice.

Hagyard Equine Medical Institute

Discovering your best undergraduate opportunity! In an effort to build lifelong relationships and cover operational needs during the breeding season, Hagyard Equine Medical Institute has three undergraduate opportunities designed to provide a learning environment in which undergraduate students can expand their general knowledge of equine veterinary medicine. Hagyard offers 3 internships for undergraduate students.

Medicine Veterinary Assistant Internship:

Each year the McGee Medicine Center sees over 2,500 medicine and critical care cases of which more than 300 are critically ill newborn foals. The medicine veterinary assistant will learn from senior technicians that have honed their skills for many years, while assisting 5 internal medicine specialists at this center. Cases frequently admitted during the spring period include: post-foaling complications such as hemorrhaging mares and uterine tears, high risk pregnancies, and various neonatal disorders. The internship is a full-time seasonal position starting approximately in January and finishing in June

Ambulatory Veterinary Assistant Internship:

Hagyard Field Care doctors are a group of experienced ambulatory equine practitioners who provide highly personalized client service to area horse farms. The ambulatory veterinary assistant will provide assistance and support to the doctor in the delivery of primary care and diagnostic services. The primary caseload revolves around breeding and foaling thoroughbred mares. The ambulatory veterinary assistant will observe reproductive and general medicine work, done in the field. The internship is a full-time seasonal position starting approximately in January and finishing in June

High Hopes Therapeutic Riding Center

Typically, intern candidates are enrolled in a degree program at a college or university and the internship is designed to fulfill coursework requirements. Because of the professionalism and diversity of our staff and services, we are able to meet the needs of students with a wide range of interests. Some recent examples of areas of study include: Animal Science, Child Development, Non-profit and Social Work, Occupational & Physical Therapy Field Work, Recreational Therapy Field Work. Internship opportunities are also available in these and similar areas for those looking for on-the-job training not necessarily associated with a degree program.

Equine Care & Farm Management Internship:

Opportunities to learn hands-on skills relating to equine management including daily care, health care and first aid, feeding practices and handling. Also learn farm management techniques including manure handling and effective pasture utilization. Interns may have the opportunity to learn firsthand about the processes High Hopes’ follows to select members of our herd of therapy horses.

Therapeutic Riding Internship:

Interns will gain a valuable perspective on the role of the therapeutic riding instructor through observation and mentorship. Learn how to write individual and group goals, evaluate participant progress, and create lesson plans. Understand the why’s behind risk management procedures, PATH Intl. standards, and precautions and contraindications.

HorseWorks Wyoming

Join HW-WEC sessions for the Full Horsemanship Experience, as an Intern/Extern, or an Observer as we train our ranch-raised colts and ride the range!  The late-spring, summer, and fall small-group, intensive, weekly sessions emphasize hands-on techniques with a variety of horses from weanlings to two-to-five year olds of various personalities and in various stages of training.  The Full Horsemanship Experience includes half-day and all-day rides as well as immersion in horsemanship training appropriate to your experience level, both on the ground and horseback, such as round pen work, ground driving, packing, and ponying colts on trail rides.

First, you're immersed in hands-on work with a variety of horses at HorseWorks, then for two days you and your choice of HorseWorks' horses learn from Sagebrush Sara in her one-of-a-kind "confidence-building for horse and rider" clinic ,and, on top of this, schedule to shadow our local veterinarian.  It's a three-in-one, two-week extravaganza that will change your life and look GREAT on your resume!

Keeneland

Keeneland is accepting applications for the Keeneland Communications Department 2024-2025 Internship position, that will provide broad experience in communications, public relations, media relations, writing and proofreading. Preferred candidates possess an interest in pursuing a career in the Thoroughbred industry. Strong writing and communication skills; knowledge of reporting and newswriting, often on deadline; and proofreading skills must be demonstrated. The Communications intern will work with Keeneland’s social media, marketing, broadcast, sales and racing teams, and through your responsibilities will gain a greater understanding of Keeneland and the Thoroughbred industry. 

Kentucky Equine Management

The Kentucky Equine Management Internship (KEMI) program is dedicated to improving the opportunities for college students wishing to pursue a career in the field of equine management. KEMI offers a comprehensive educational experience for students enrolled for academic credit through a sponsoring college or university, or for recent graduates of such institutions.

The Kentucky Equine Management Internship starts with a traditional orientation short course that gives all interns an up-to-date understanding of the Thoroughbred industry in Lexington, Kentucky.  After the first week, interns are employed by participating farms as full-time employees where they become familiar with the day-to-day operations of commercial Thoroughbred farms.  The 24-week Fall session focuses primarily on sales and marketing and provides students with an overview of the intensive management practices used on commercial Thoroughbred breeding operations.  On a day-to-day basis, most interns will be involved in the care and preparation of weanlings, broodmares and particularly yearlings for sale at various public auctions.  On farms that start yearlings under saddle for racing, limited riding opportunities may be available.

Kentucky Equine Research

Kentucky Equine Research, Inc. is an equine nutrition, research, and consultation company serving both the horse producer and the feed industry. Its goal is to advance the industry’s knowledge of equine nutrition and exercise physiology and apply this knowledge to produce healthier, more athletic horses. The cornerstone of Kentucky Equine Research is its 150-acre facility in central Kentucky where equine nutrition and exercise physiology experiments are conducted. This research center maintains Thoroughbred research horses and includes a high-speed treadmill, a six-horse free walker, and equipment necessary for detailed investigation of nutrient metabolism at rest and during exercise. A second research facility in Ocala, Florida, features a training track for Thoroughbred racehorses, so much of the research performed there involves horses in active training. All research conducted at the research farms and published by Kentucky Equine Research is designed to have direct application to the horse feed industry and relevant to current topics of interest in the scientific community.

Are you looking to…

• Build on classroom knowledge of equine nutrition and exercise physiology through hands-on experience?

• Gain a more thorough understanding of designing and conducting research trials?

• Network with equine nutritionists and other professionals in a research setting?

Look no further! It’s all possible with an internship at Kentucky Equine Research

• The Kentucky Equine Research internship program offers the practical experience necessary to understand and implement research protocols.

• Imparts the skills necessary to assist in the everyday management of a large and busy research facility, often interfacing scientific design with practical solutions.

• Provides instruction on how to conduct nutrition and exercise physiology experiments, including data and sample collection.

• Exposes interns to basic laboratory equipment integral to research trials.

Kentucky Equine Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation Center

Here at KESMARC Kentucky, we fully understand the “exclusiveness” of our facility, being one of the few Equine Rehabilitation Centers of its kind worldwide.  Our goal is to give future horsemen and horsewomen a sound understanding of Equine Rehabilitation and the commitment necessary to succeed in the equine field. Interns will learn proper bandaging, surgery aftercare, handling of horses of different breeds, disciplines, and personalities and will learn about customizing care for horses with a variety of problems as well as for conditioning horses.

Our programs are available to anyone 18 years and older.  Those who benefit most from interning with us are those interested in gaining a “real-world” view of the equine industry in general, equine rehabilitation, equine nursing, and veterinary medicine in particular.  We look for self-motivated, hard-working individuals who are “horse-savvy” and willing to think outside of the box.

Our internship program is unique in that barring any unforeseen circumstances, our interns are not required to do daily mucking of stalls, do overnight foal watch nightly, or feed daily. Our goal is to allow interns to learn from some of the best in the business and be able to see some of the newest and most effective treatments and technologies for a variety of problems.

We have had graduates of our program go on to be vets in Australia, Europe, the Middle East, and South America; become chiropractors and acupuncturists as well as have their own practices and work at some of the best farms, tracks, and veterinary practices around the world.

Kentucky Horse Park

At the Kentucky Horse Park, students enrolled in the Internship Program are combining their knowledge of the equine industry with practical experience, leadership, and responsibility while building personal and professional relationships through networking. Students enrolled in the KHP Internship Program are exposed to:

• Over 40 different breeds of horses

• 6 barns featuring various disciplines 

• Over 800,000 visitors 

• 150 special events

• Countless opportunities to meet professionals in the industry.

The program serves as a way for Kentucky students to obtain practical on-the-job experience and academic credit as part of their education. Co-op/Interns are employees in the unclassified service (without merit status). In order for a student to participate in the Co-op/Intern Program, the Personnel Cabinet requires that the student receive academic credit for their participation. The Kentucky Horse Park does not provide housing or stipends.

Lazy E Ranch

The Lazy E Ranch, is a full-service breeding and sales consignment facility. The ranch breeds more than 2,000 mares per year, and on average, foals out 400 mares per season. This state-of-the-art, fast-paced environment is the ideal learning opportunity for those interested in the equine field. Internships are a stepping stone into the equine industry, providing both experience and networking opportunities. The Lazy E Ranch has a year-round student internship program in place to help interns learn the fundamentals of a successful equine business and benefit from training and hands-on learning opportunities. Internship options include:

Foaling Attendant: 

• Observe and assist foaling mares

• Medical treatments as prescribed

• Cleaning artificial insemination and embryo transfer equipment

• Cleaning and restocking the stock and laboratory area

• Power washing stock area

• General observation of all horses in the barns

Breeding Attendant:

• Handling of mares and mares with foals during reproductive exams

• Assist with foaling mares

• Assist resident veterinarian and staff with medical treatments

• Assist farriers with trimming and shoeing

• Tease and schedule mares

General Horsemanship: 

• Daily observation of horses residing at the ranch

• Halter breaking weanlings

• Daily grooming of assigned horses

• Assist resident veterinarian and staff with medical treatments

• Assist farriers with trimming and shoeing

Sales Prep Technician: 

• Sales prep technicians work May through August. Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Daily observation of sale horses

• Daily grooming of assigned horses

• Supervised breaking of yearlings to the walker, round pen, and wash rack

• Halter-break weanlings and yearlings

• Assist resident veterinarian and staff with medical treatments

• Assist farriers with trimming and shoeing

Lost Creek Ranch

The Equine Internship Program at Lost Creek Ranch is for students looking to learn more about the horse industry from barn management, training, office/ support staff to community educational programming.  There is emphasis on understanding equine language and advanced horsemanship for all disciplines. Reliable, hard working, honest students are urged to apply. All duties will include general barn help, feeding, cleaning stalls, grooming, helping to warm up and cool down horses. All interns receive riding lessons. Opportunity to advance horsemanship training and riding skills with green and finished horses, enhance employment qualifications, earn excellent reference for a job well done.

Marker's Mark Secretariat Center

The Secretariat Center offers year-round internship opportunities for motivated individuals looking to expand their knowledge and skills in Thoroughbred Aftercare alongside our experienced professionals.

The Secretariat Center is a Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance accredited organization dedicated to the gold standard of re-schooling and rehoming. All internships are unpaid educational opportunities for students to delve deeper into the aftercare needs of horses as they move into second careers. We are happy to work with universities to complete class requirements and provide letters of recommendation for graduates as they consider future career paths.

Our Equine Non-Profit Fundamentals Internship is a structured program with weekly lessons, goals, and objectives for students in the areas of horse care and training, not-for-profit 501 (C)3 business fundamentals, research, media/design, and the complete adoption and rehoming process. Interns will spend one-on-one time with all staff members (and horses) to obtain a complete picture of the Secretariat Center's daily activities, methodology, and purpose. Equine Non-Profit Fundamentals Internship ranges from an average of 8-12 weeks pending the availability and needed requirements of the student. We are happy to work with student's schedules to provide a well-rounded educational process and to adapt projects to cater to the interests of our interns. It is our goal that students will complete the program with the knowledge and skills to succeed in a multitude of positions in the equine industry, as well as the ability to educate others on the success and importance of aftercare.

McGinnis Meadows Cattle & Guest Ranch

The Intern Program at MMGR is unique in that it is the ONLY program available which specifically teaches the Buck Brannaman/Ray Hunt style of horsemanship in a ranch setting, with real world experience. Interns will have the ability to see the progression of a horse in its learning from colt starting, up to the snaffle bit, hackamore, the two rein to straight up in the bridle. Interns will learn how we re-start horses that are troubled or spoiled and how we work through individual issues. Interns will ride different horses each day, as each horse provides a different feel for its rider. With 75 head of horses, there will be much to learn! In addition, we highly encourage interns to bring their own started horse with them at no additional cost for board! This allows you to advance your own horse while advancing your skills at the same time. A double-opportunity!

Our program starts from the ground up as we find that it is necessary to prepare each horse to maximize our effectiveness in spending time with him. Interns can expect to learn to become handy with a rope, flag and a tarp in their groundwork. They will become adept at maximizing their effectiveness in participating with a horse on a lead rope, from the fence and in the round pen.

While horseback, the possibilities are dependent on the individual. A strong work ethic and perseverance without frustration is key. You can expect to learn how to ride horses through all transitions, pick up correct leads, leg yield, haunches in, turnarounds, flying lead changes and much, much more. Our ultimate goal is to accomplish our time on the horse using 90% mental effort and 10% physical effort.

Our learning is not limited to “dry” exercises, however. We believe that horse and rider cannot be complete in their horsemanship foundation if neither is able to successfully get around cattle and be handy with a rope. Interns will learn the subtleties of reading cattle, cutting, sorting and driving cattle with class, and roping cattle for the purpose of branding and doctoring. Interns will also learn to doctor cattle while on the ground (i.e. setting ropes, giving injections.) During our non-winter months, interns will also get the opportunity to ride outside in the mountains around the ranch and at our grazing allotments. In this environment, you will learn how to support a horse outside—to learn how to address herd bound issues (and stop them before they begin) as well as how to support a horse in varied terrain with or without other riders around.

Montana Equine Medical & Surgical Center

Montana Equine is proud to host local undergraduate students and those enrolled in training to become certified veterinary technicians.  We offer a wide array of training opportunities, ranging from local Equine Sciences students who visit the hospital once weekly for a semester, to veterinary technicians who come for 12-week blocks of more intensive training.  Students play a large role in helping to design their internship experience – most successful students arrive with a set of specific goals for their internship.

New Vocations Racehorse Adoption Program

New Vocations is the largest racehorse adoption program in the country. The program truly understands the importance of education and is happy to work with local colleges in offering internship opportunities to qualified students. Internships give students a chance to work directly with a New Vocations facility and gain experience working within all areas of the program. This internship at our Lexington, KY, facility provides students a chance to work directly with the care and training of the horses in the program.  This position works with the facility manager/trainer and assists in any work involved in caring for as well as the retraining of the horses. This includes stall cleaning, turnout, grooming, tacking, longeing, some riding, basic first aid, and any daily facility tasks. There may be other assorted duties to help prepare for events.

Qualifications:

• Exceptionally strong riding ability,* if students are seeking to ride; we do also welcome students interested in learning about and participating in horse care and management while observing training

• Experience in general horse care

• Attention to detail and ability to take initiative are necessary

Peaceful Pastures

Peaceful Pastures is in a 300-acre scenic valley an hour east of the Nashville airport. We maintain and manage more than 2,000 acres and more than 400 cow/calf pairs. The farm is also a direct market meat business producing and selling beef, lamb, pork, chicken, and turkey.  The scope, size, and diversity of our operation allows us the opportunity to offer internships in several areas, yet being a small, family-run business provides for one-on-one learning, coaching, and evaluation. 

Large Animal - This internship is designed to provide training and knowledge in the majority production species including cattle, sheep, swine and poultry. Students who have completed our internship and applied to vet school have an exceptional acceptance rate.

Our approach is unconventional, and your experience will be vastly different from job shadowing a veterinarian.  It is not easy work.  It is hands-on, intense, and you will leave us knowing how a small, family-owned farm/business is managed. Because of our regenerative agriculture approach, workdays are varied with all involving time outdoors. In addition, interns attend farmers markets each Saturday.

Regenerative Ag - Interns will work with all our animals from start to finish. Moving, feeding, watering, processing, packaging. Additionally, interns will help with the many other parts of our direct-marketing business: customer service, packing orders, making deliveries, taking animals to process, picking up meat from the processor, transporting meat to and from our cold storage, fixing infrastructure, etc.  There will also be substantial work relating to soil health.

It is not easy work.  It is hands-on, intense, and you will leave here knowing how a small, family-owned farm/business is managed and operated. Because of our regenerative agriculture approach, this internship requires you to be invested in the outcome of improving the land. In addition, interns attend farmers markets each Saturday.

Peterson Smith Equine Hospital

The Peterson Smith Undergraduate Internship Program is open to students who are enrolled in general agricultural or equine science programs that want to expand their exposure to the world of equine veterinary medicine. The student interns will have potential exposure to all aspects of our practice.

We believe that our Undergrad Internship Program fulfills the practical experience requirements necessary for each student’s area of study, as well as any personal goals that a student may have for the internship. We offer placements in the hospital and ambulatory departments, as well as the Advanced Fertility Center. The majority of positions are available in the spring, but limited spaces are available in the summer and fall, as well.

The internship will concentrate on surgery, internal medicine, diagnostic imaging, theriogenology, emergency medical/surgical care, sports medicine, general medicine, and herd health. Students will receive training in basic handling and restraint, will develop a set of general veterinary technician skills including, but not limited to: preparing patients for procedures, surgical scrubs, x-ray plate orientation, foal restraint, drawing up medication, administering medications, and monitoring patient's care. 

Pinto Horse Association of America

The objective of this internship is to provide students a behind the scenes look at marketing a large equine show. Assist with all aspects of marketing, video, photography, communication and publication development associated with the Pinto World Championship horse show. Duties include: taking photos, designing, writing, publishing and distributing any form of communication aspect involved in the production of the show, i.e. maintaining open rapport with exhibitors, coordinating interviews for written stories, photography and maintaining social media outlets. 

Pinto Horse Association of America

The objective of this internship is to provide students a behind the scenes look at producing a large equine show. Assist with all aspects of planning and executing events associated with the Pinto World Championship horse show. Duties include, but not limited to organizing and distributing all awards on a daily basis, setting up and maintaining all judge room & show office food areas, assisting with PWC Market Place Tradeshow, and some arena duties as needed. The first five (5) days will be set up days in preparation for the horse show.

Rancho Corazon

Rancho Corazon is pleased to offer one of the industry’s premier internship programs. Internships are provided on a year-round basis and range from a minimum of three months to a full year. Depending upon the season, their interests, and their background, our interns have the opportunity to experience a wide swath of the equine industry. During the spring, we are heavily involved with breeding, and interns have the chance to observe and assist with foaling out mares, collecting stallions, semen evaluation and artificially inseminating mares. Spring interns also assist with riding and our young horse program.

Summer and fall interns might ride and/or help to prepare our mares and foals for the upcoming AHHA approvals. We also offer intern programs for students interested in learning about the competition side of the industry, providing extensive experience in training, show jumping, top sport horse management and show barn management/business administration. The farm is located in the center of Rio Grande Valley, the heart of New Mexico. Only an hour away from several major cities and national parks, our interns often use their days off to explore the rich history of the American southwest.

Rood & Riddle Equine Hospital

Rood & Riddle Equine Hospital is pleased to offer a seasonal (January-July) technician internship to undergraduate students. This internship is designed to provide a learning environment in which undergraduate students can expand their general knowledge of equine veterinary medicine and fulfills the practical experience requirements necessary for students. Positions are available in the ambulatory and hospital-based nursing staff departments at Rood & Riddle Equine Hospital in Lexington, KY. Applicants must have experience with horse handling and proper restraint techniques.

Nursing Internship - Nursing staff interns must be available for at least 36 to 48 hours per week with a flexible schedule as Rood & Riddle Equine Hospital is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Shifts are from 5:30am to 6pm and 5:30pm to 6am. Each nursing intern will be assigned 3.5 to four shifts per week with the potential for a fifth shift based on the clinic’s needs. Interns will work with hospitalized patients under the supervision of experienced nurses and will be exposed to a variety of medical and surgical cases. Duties vary from barn to barn and involve working with horses of all ages, breeds and uses. Responsibilities include but are not limited to sitting with neonatal foals, preparing and administering medications, monitoring vital signs, administering fluids and medications and performing basic laboratory tests. Interns may assist and/or observe in other areas of the hospital (radiology, podiatry, ambulatory, surgery, reproduction and diagnostic imaging) as needed.

Ambulatory Internship - Ambulatory interns will be primarily assigned to one veterinarian for the length of the internship. Hours differ between veterinarians; interns will have a set start time for each day, but the end time can vary based on the time of year and the veterinarian’s schedule. Interns will travel with the veterinarian to farms throughout central Kentucky and assist with a variety of procedures including breeding management, radiography, foal medicine, lameness examinations and emergency calls. They are also responsible for cleaning and stocking the vehicle, paperwork and submitting laboratory work. Interns may assist and/or observe in other areas of the hospital (radiology, podiatry, nursing staff, surgery, reproduction and diagnostic imaging) as needed.

Safe Haven Equine Warriors

Safe Haven Equine Warriors welcomes a limited number of interns each year. Interns are generally, but not limited to, students at the college or high school level (Intern/mentor programs) pursuing careers in veterinary medicine, the horse industry, equine rescue and advocacy.

• An internship is work in exchange for education. This is not a paid position nor do we currently provide housing.

• Interns will have a schedule of objectives to accomplish on a timeline based on the overall educational goal. Some independent study may be required.

• Hours will vary depending on school/work hours, but will include at least 1 weekend day.

• An intern should expect to commit at least 20 hrs a week for 3 - 6 months.

• To apply for an internship, a student must have a recommendation letter from a teacher, professor or school counselor, or parent.

Select Breeders Services

Select Breeders Service, Inc. (SBS) is seeking an energetic and motivated undergraduate to intern with our team of professionals at our Maryland based equine reproductive technology company.

The individual will assist our laboratory technicians with stallion collections, cooled and frozen semen processing, media production, laboratory maintenance, running blood work and frozen semen distribution. Although the intern will be primarily based at our Select Breeders Services stallion division, there will be some opportunity to assist veterinary staff at our mare facilities with mare reproduction and management. The ideal candidate is organized, self-directed, detail oriented, flexible and a person who works well with others in a small "team" atmosphere.

Silver Spur Ranches

The Silver Spur offers a paid internship for students wanting hands on experience at many of our ranches. We accept applications from all majors, and locations.For those who have little to no exposure to the ranching way of life, this internship allows you to explore the industry with hands on experience.  Students that have who have experience, the internship allows you to learn how the ninth largest cow/calf operation works.

This is a paid 10 week minimum internship. Compensation is $1000/month plus housing. Housing is fully furnished, although interns will be responsible for all linen (towels, sheets, pillows, etc.) and food. Most locations will have interns sharing a house. Teleconference interviews will be scheduled in January/February with the hiring committee. Applicants that excel during the first interview will be asked to travel to Encampment, Wyoming in March or April for a second interview. We try to schedule the second interview during your spring break.  To be considered for a position, travel to Wyoming is mandatory. If you do not intend to travel to Wyoming, please do not apply.

Please be advised that if you travel to Wyoming, it does not guarantee your placement there.  You may be placed in any of our locations. We do not offer travel stipends for your travel to interview.

Internships with Silver Spur Ranches are very competitive. Preference will be given to individuals interested in pursuing careers or secondary degrees in agriculturally related fields.

Washington International Horse Show

Apply for the opportunity to intern with the Washington International Horse Show and learn what goes into producing the country’s leading metropolitan indoor equestrian event. WIHS interns gain valuable professional experience and learn about all aspects of our business, including event logistics, operations, sponsorship, hospitality, marketing and communications, while earning credit towards a college degree. WIHS accepts applications for part-time, unpaid, remote internships throughout the calendar year. Applications are considered according to the following schedule. Application deadline for:

• Summer Semester Internships: April 18 (May-August)

• Fall Semester Internships August 1 (September-December)

• Spring Semester Internships December 1 (January-May)

The right candidates are outgoing, motivated and detail-oriented with strong writing, project management and organizational skills, an interest in learning about our business, and a willingness to handle administrative and clerical duties. Ideal candidates must work well under pressure and possess excellent communications and customer service skills, the ability to multi-task, proficiency with standard office and graphic design software and a strong work ethic. A solid understanding of the hunter/jumper world is also important. We have 3 different internship options:

• Development & Hospitality Internship

• Marketing & Communications Internship

• Events & Operations Internship

Wild Horse Foundation

Internship responsibilities include assisting with daily horse care and ranch operations, assisting with weekend horseback camping rides; and participation in wild horse identification.  Additional projects are available and will be tailored according to student interests and the needs of the Foundation.

Eligibility: 

College students who have finished at least their sophomore year of undergraduate study in any Baccalaureate program and who have an interest in pursuing a career involving horses, veterinary medicine, animal behavior, wildlife management, or ethology are encouraged to apply. While it is preferable that a student is enrolled in the study of animal science, animal behavior, ethology, or pre-veterinary medicine, this is not required. Applications will be evaluated according to academic record, prior experiences with horses and other animals, level of interest and motivation, and career aspirations.

Wild Horse Sanctuary

Interns and volunteers are the lifeblood of the Wild Horse Sanctuary and play an integral role in helping us live our mission and accomplish our goals. At least 50% of an intern’s time is spent working with horses in some capacity. The remaining time is spent assisting with guest relations, ranch maintenance, and operations, as well as special projects made available based on the student’s interest and the needs of the Sanctuary. Interns work independently and as part of a team to complete tasks. Internships at the Wild Horse Sanctuary are unpaid. Room and some board is provided. 

Key Responsibilities: ·

• Ensure all horses and burros on the property are fed daily and have a clean supply of water

• Ensure other livestock on the property are fed and watered daily

• Under the supervision of a qualified lead, tend to minor injuries and wounds of domestic horses and other livestock on the property

• Under the supervision of a qualified lead, clean and repair saddle horse tack

• Catch, groom, and saddle horses in preparation for weekend trail rides

• Greet and assist guests attending weekend trail rides

• Serve as trail backup or camp host on weekend trail rides – assignments are based on experience and skill set and duties are rotated as appropriate 

• Serve as visitor center host on Wednesdays and Saturdays when the Sanctuary is open to the public

• Guide guests on foot tours of the property to view wild horses and burros

• Assist with overall effort to keep grounds tidy and safe o Includes minor fence repairs, painting, weed control, and recycling

• Represent the Wild Horse Sanctuary by exhibiting at community events – duty assigned based on intern skill set and interest level

• Assist with miscellaneous projects as they arise 

During their internships, many students choose to maximize opportunities to learn or improve skills in the following areas

• Horse handling and riding o Halter training yearlings (opportunities are available under the guidance of a qualified lead and the interest level and aptitude of the individual intern)

• Wild horse behavior and herd dynamics

• Wild horse issues and threats to their existence on public lands o Understanding eco-systems and identifying native plants and animals of Northern California o Non-profit management

William H. Miner Agricultural Research Institute

The emphasis of this program is the management of a commercial equine facility and improved horse handling and training skills. Students will learn ground training techniques including halter breaking, lungeing, longlining, and ground driving. The versatility of the Morgan and varied ages and abilities of horses at Miner Institute allow for students to experience many different disciplines to varying degrees: saddleseat, huntseat, dressage, western pleasure and driving. Students become proficient at stallion handling, semen collection, and processing as well as broodmare management. Students will have an opportunity to participate in other Miner Farm operations including milking, pasture management, and a variety of fieldwork activities. All students will be asked to work long hours on occasion, but no more so than would normally be expected on a busy farm. Students work approximately every other weekend.

Sessions on relevant topics such as nutrition, reproduction, training, health and field crops will be held throughout the summer as well as occasional field trips. Instructors include Miner Institute faculty members Katie Ballard, Heather Dann, Wanda Emerich, Rick Grant, Karen Lassell, and graduate students. The small group size makes it possible to tailor the program to better meet the needs of each student. Students interested in careers in stable or breeding management, agricultural extension, and veterinary medicine have found this program to be particularly useful.

Each student will choose a project horse to evaluate, train, and work towards marketing for sale. Responsibilities for this project will include working closely with Miner faculty to progress the horse's skills and may include preparing photographs and a video of the horse as well as accurately describing the horse and its strengths for advertising. Miner Institute's research program includes aspects in the equine area such as stallion semen preservation, nutrition, and horse behavior. If equine research is underway, students will be involved in many aspects of data collection and evaluation working closely with the principal investigators.

William H. Miner Agricultural Research Institute also offers internships in Farm Management, Agriculture Research, and Water Quality.