In exchange for work doing barn chores, Blue Star will provide you a one-on-one program with a Blue Star horse.  You will get to know that horse via your role in that horse’s care plan.  Your experience and relationship with a horse will range from grooming to helping with that particular horse’s health or training program.  Each of the horses at Blue Star has a custom care plan.  Under the supervision of Blue Star supervisors, you will have an opportunity to learn:

• Grooming - All Blue Star horses should be groomed regularly. Once attending the grooming workshop, herd members are encouraged to groom horses at the recommended times.
• Longue-lining - A longe line is a tool used in horse training to work a horse on the ground without a rider. Basically, alonge line is just a really long lead rope, which allows a trainer to stand at a distance while asking the horse to do things. Working on a longe allows the horse to focus on developing particularly desired skills without the interference of a rider, and it can establish a greater connection between horse and trainer. Many Blue Star horses need exercise and longe lining can often be most effective.
• Nutrition - Learn about Blue Star’s stellar, sugar-free feeding program. Work with our nutritionist and discover what it takes to keep a whole herd happy and healthy.
• Massage - Work with Blue Star staff to implement horse care massage programs developed by Jo Bunny (massage therapist) and Dr. Beth Bowman (chiropractor).
• Harnessing -  Work with one of Blue Star’s skilled teamsters. Begin by learning about harnessing, ground driving, long-lining, and hitching. You will have the opportunity to drive singles, teams, and possibly big hitches. There are many Blue Star horses that need exercise, and we want you to help.
• Saddling - Work with Blue Star’s riding instructor and assist with preparations for riding lessons. Under the direction of our riding instructor or barn manager you may be exercise horses under saddle.

Detailed guidelines for the Exchange-for-Work Program will continue to be developed.

If you are interested in this progrsm and having one-on-one time with a horse you must start by working in our Member Work Program.