Donkey & Small Livestock Groom

A fantastic opportunity has arisen for a reliable, caring and experienced Groom to join a private family estate in Somerset. The successful candidate will take primary responsibility for the daily care and welfare of six miniature donkeys and four Valais Blacknose sheep, ensuring the highest standards of husbandry are maintained.

This is a hands -on role suited to someone who takes genuine pride in animal welfare and enjoys working independently in a private setting. Attention to detail, excellent observation skills and a proactive approach are essential. 

• Provide daily care for six miniature donkeys and four Valais Blacknose sheep.
  
• Groom the donkeys regularly to maintain their health, comfort and overall wellbeing.
  
• Carry out daily health and welfare checks, monitoring for signs of illness, injury, lameness, parasites or behavioural changes.
  
• Ensure rugs are correctly fitted and adjusted according to weather conditions and seasonal requirements.
  
• Report any health or welfare concerns promptly to the Estate Manager or Household PA.
  
• Assist with feeding routines and monitor feed and forage consumption where required.
  

• Muck out stables and maintain clean, dry and comfortable bedding.
  
• Poo -pick paddocks and turnout areas daily to maintain hygiene and pasture quality.
  
• Clean, disinfect and refill water buckets and troughs, ensuring fresh water is always available.
  
• Maintain a clean, safe and organised yard, stable and storage areas.
  
• Monitor hay, bedding and other supplies, liaising with the Estate Manager to coordinate deliveries.
  
• Arrange for rugs to be professionally cleaned and reproofed as required.
  

• Assist with routine veterinary, farrier and other animal health appointments.
  
• Safely handle and restrain animals during examinations and treatments where required.
  
• Maintain records of appointments, treatments and any notable health observations.
  

• Maintain exceptional standards of animal welfare at all times.
  
• Ensure equipment, stables and surrounding areas are clean, safe and well maintained.
  
• Work closely with the Estate Manager and Household PA, communicating any concerns or recommendations.
  
• Undertake any other reasonable duties associated with the care of the animals and yard.
  

Requirements

• Previous experience caring for horses, donkeys or livestock (essential).
  
• A sound understanding of equine and/or small livestock husbandry and welfare.
  
• Confidence handling animals in a calm, patient and professional manner.
  
• The ability to work independently and manage their own workload.
  
• Excellent attention to detail and a proactive approach to animal care.
  
• Good communication skills and the discretion expected when working within a private household.
  
• A full UK driving licence is desirable.
  
• Appropriate public liability insurance.
  

• Reliable, trustworthy and professional.
  
• Calm, patient and compassionate with animals.
  
• Organised, observant and self -motivated.
  
• Comfortable working outdoors in all weather conditions.
  
• ​Takes pride in maintaining high standards of care and presentation.
  

Benefits

• £20.00–£25.00 per hour, dependent on experience.
  
• Hours: Approximately 4 hours per day, initially on Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Occasional weekend cover may be required when the family are away. This is not a regular requirement and will be planned well in advance wherever possible.
  
• There is potential for additional hours as the role develops and depending on the needs of the estate.
  
• Candidates must hold appropriate insurance (or be willing to obtain this prior to commencement).