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Volunteer Horse Jobs in Columbus, OH (NOW HIRING)

Volunteer Horse information

See Columbus, OH salary details

$8

$18

$32

How much do volunteer horse jobs pay per hour?

As of May 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for volunteer horse in Columbus, OH is $18.48, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.94 and $19.52 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Volunteer Horse job?

A Volunteer Horse job typically refers to a role where volunteers assist with the care, training, and well-being of horses at equestrian centers, rescue organizations, or therapy programs. Responsibilities may include feeding, grooming, cleaning stalls, exercising horses, and helping with events or therapy sessions. No prior experience is often required, though training may be provided. This role is ideal for individuals who love working with animals and want to contribute to their welfare.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Volunteer Horse Handler, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Volunteer Horse Handler, you need a basic understanding of horse behavior, safety protocols, and ideally some prior experience with horses. Familiarity with barn management tools, grooming equipment, and possibly first aid certifications are commonly required. Patience, strong communication skills, and reliability are standout soft skills for building trust with both horses and team members. These skills ensure the safety of all participants, the welfare of the horses, and smooth operation of equine programs.

What are some typical responsibilities for someone volunteering with horses at an equestrian center or rescue?

Volunteering with horses often involves a mix of hands-on animal care and facility maintenance. Common duties include feeding, grooming, mucking out stalls, filling water buckets, and occasionally assisting with basic training or exercising under supervision. Volunteers may also help with cleaning tack, organizing supplies, and supporting staff during group events or lessons. Teamwork and communication are important, as volunteers frequently coordinate with staff and other volunteers to ensure the animals' well-being and the smooth operation of the facility.

What are volunteer horses?

Volunteer horses are horses that are used in programs or organizations, often non-profit, where they help support various activities such as therapeutic riding, equine-assisted therapy, education, or community events. These horses are typically donated or loaned by their owners and are cared for by volunteers or staff within the organization. Volunteer horses play a crucial role in helping people with disabilities, providing companionship, and teaching horsemanship skills. Their gentle nature and proper training make them ideal for working with individuals of all ages and abilities.

What is the difference between Volunteer Horse vs Equine Assistant?

AspectVolunteer HorseEquine Assistant
Required CredentialsNone or basic horse handling experienceBasic horse care knowledge, sometimes certifications
Work EnvironmentAnimal shelters, rescue centers, farmsEquine facilities, stables, riding schools
Employer & Industry UsageNonprofits, volunteer programsEquine farms, riding schools, therapeutic centers
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding volunteer roles in horse careLearning about professional or semi-professional horse care roles

Volunteer Horse roles typically involve unpaid work focused on basic horse care and support at nonprofit or rescue organizations. Equine Assistant positions may require some certifications and involve more structured responsibilities in professional settings. Both roles share similar environments but differ mainly in credential requirements and job expectations.

More about Volunteer Horse jobs
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What cities near Columbus, OH are hiring for Volunteer Horse jobs? Cities near Columbus, OH with the most Volunteer Horse job openings:
Infographic showing various Volunteer Horse job openings in Columbus, OH as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 63% Physical, and 37% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,447 per year, or $18.5 per hour.

Therapeutic Riding Lessons Volunteer

Stockhands Horses for Healing

Delaware, OH

Full-time

Posted 23 days ago


Job description

Stockhands Horses for Healing was founded in 2014 based on the belief that horses have the power to heal. We are a 501(c)(3) non-profit that provides equine-assisted therapeutic services to children and adults living with mental, physical, and emotional challenges arising from a wide range of diagnoses, including PTSD, ADHD, and Autism Spectrum Disorder.

We rely on our volunteers to assist with our adaptive riding lessons, maintain our large facility, and care for our herd of 30+ horses. If you do not have to have any experience working with horses or people with disabilities - we will teach you everything you need to know.

All volunteers must attend a new volunteer training session where we will tour our facilities, introduce you to some of our horses, and teach you how to assist students during lessons.