A unique volunteer learning experience for those interested in the practical application of science-based equine management, behavior modification, and positive reinforcement training.
WHERE: Silver Moon Iberian Farm — Breeding, training and education facility in Ocala, Florida.
HORSES: About 15 Iberian (Andalusian & Lusitano) horses, including breeding stallions, mares and geldings in training, broodmares, young-stock and babies.
WHEN: Year-round availability.
YOU: Our “Work & Learn Volunteer” program is geared towards folks living in or visiting Central Florida, and who want to spend a few days or weeks hanging out with horses, helping with handling and basic barn stuff, and watching/assisting with our standard routines. Applicants should have basic horse handling skills (leading, grooming, etc.), feel comfortable working with unfamiliar horses, physically able to work outside all day. If you already understand R+ training, you’ll easily fit with our flow. If you haven’t yet experienced the power of positive reinforcement, you’ll get to see it in action during the day-to-day operation of our one-of-a-kind breeding and training farm.
DAILY: The best days for volunteering are currently Sunday, Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday. (Updated 2023). Our day usually runs 8:30 am – 5:00 pm. We start by bringing the horses in from turnout, feeding, health checks, small training projects, etc. After this we focus on more specific training goals based on current priorities. These can range from teaching a baby to wear a halter for the first time, to introducing a 3 year old to saddle equipment, to first rides, trailer loading, novelty object exploration, and lots more. Afternoons finish up with basic barn chores. As we have time throughout the day we’ll point out our specific applications of learning theory, behavioral science and equine ethology so you can have a sense of how the science applies in real-life.
FINANCIAL: There are no fees or tuition costs; this is an unpaid, volunteer, temporary learning opportunity.
HOUSING: If you live locally, you’ll have that covered. If you are planning to visit the area, there are numerous hotels within 10 – 15 minutes of our farm, as well as AirBnB / VRBO properties.
INTERESTED? Send a brief email (1,000 words or less) to EquiLightenment@gmail.com, subject line “Work & Learn Volunteer.” Include the following:
- General information about yourself
- Your past experience with horses
- Your educational background (include behavior courses or conferences)
- Why you want to do this, any specifics you’d like to learn
- How many weeks/months you’d like to come, and when
