By PIPER KLEMM, PHD
In the equestrian world, riders often take center stage, but behind every successful competitor is a skilled and dedicated groom (or team of skilled and dedicated grooms working together!). HorseGrooms, founded by Dinette Neuteboom and Amy McGann, is working to change the narrative by elevating the grooming profession through education, connection, and community building.
Worldwide Experience
Growing up in The Netherlands, Neuteboom found horses through a classmate at school and was hooked. Although she came from a non-horse family with her mother a teacher and her father a musician, she was able to get riding lessons and follow the Dutch national system through the instructor education and achieve her international trainers’ license.
“That’s how a lot of people have horses in Holland–they work 60% of a traditional full-time job with a couple young horses on the side that you are trying to produce. I went to school to be a teacher and taught at an equine college and had jumpers between three and seven years old outside of that I would sell as I could. Sometimes it went well and sometimes it didn’t. Like most people in the Netherlands, I did everything myself outside of my day job–cleaned the stalls, drove the truck, braided the horses, rode the horses, groomed the horses, handled all logistics, and then also had to be the nutritionist, gardener, pick-up trash- everything at the barn. You just do everything yourself,” explained Neuteboom.
Feeling wanderlust to explore the world, she made a plan in her mid-30s to figure out how she could explore and experience more. She saved money for a couple years then quit her job, sold her horses, sold her truck and started her worldwide tour in Wellington, Florida.
“I really wanted to see the Winter Equestrian Festival. I had heard so much about it and I just wanted to experience it. And then I thought I would be done with horses to travel. I did volunteer work in Peru for 5 months and learned Spanish and traveled through South America before I ended up in Argentina. There is a big Zangersheide barn in Argentina with a couple thousand horses and I wanted to see it. I went there, helped the vet for a week, and then the owner asked me if I could ride. I stayed for a year riding 10 horses a day- just riding my butt off!” Neuteboom shared.
From there, Neuteboom continued on her journey going to work in New Zealand before ending up back working at the Winter Equestrian Festival. After a year working in China, she mostly relocated to the United States as a barn manager and grooming rider and has been here for almost a decade.
McGann connected with Neuteboom instantly on varied backgrounds and an adventurous spirit. Also from a non-horse family, she was obsessed since birth and grew up riding English on the East Coast.
“I had a 20some crisis and left my career and life that I’d built on the East Coast and came out west to start ranching on a cattle ranch and then a horse ranch. I met Dinette when we were backcountry guides in Wyoming taking folks out for the day,” said McGann.
Riding and caring for her horses everyday in Montana, McGann brings to HorseGrooms traditional brand strategy and brand design for start-ups combined with her passion and connection for horses and the people who make their lives possible.
The Birth of HorseGrooms
“The main thing was horse welfare,” explains Neuteboom when asked about the inspiration behind HorseGrooms. “I wanted to do something in my capability when we started talking about social license and how we move our sport going forward. I love to create content, mainly written, and I love to connect people and share knowledge.”
After meeting McGann, who brings extensive creative talent to the organization, the two joined forces to create a platform that would elevate the grooming profession while simultaneously improving horse welfare.
Building Education and Connection
According to McGann, everything HorseGrooms produces is meant to either educate or connect people. Their content strategy includes live Q&As, meetups focused on groom nutrition and skills development, and features spotlighting successful grooms.
“When we’re sharing winning grooms or putting spotlights on the website, those are meant to bring people together no matter what discipline people are specializing in or where they are in the world,” McGann explains. “It all comes back to education and connection. That’s our tagline too, and part of our mission really condensed is ‘for horsemanship and community.’”
The education component supports the welfare of horses and promotes best care practices, while the community aspect empowers grooms and advocates for their wellbeing.
Recognizing the Value of Grooming
Both founders emphasize that good grooms possess a multitude of skills that often go underestimated. As Neuteboom describes, “A good groom is a vet, a nutritionist, a logistic manager; you can drive, you can ride horses, you can see when horses don’t feel well… there’s so much they do that gets underestimated by a lot of people.”
This comprehensive skill set is why the relationship between groom and rider is so important. “The groom sees everything from the moment they step in the stall in the morning,” Neuteboom explains. “They know if the horse ate their hay, if the water is dirty, how they look, if they’re bright… The groom is with those horses 12 hours a day, so they know them inside out and most of the time better than the riders.”
Creating Professional Pathways
Looking to the future, Neuteboom envisions a credential system for grooms. This would establish different tiers in the grooming industry, from basic stall cleaning and turnout to more advanced skills like wound care and show preparation.
“You’d have to connect payment and working conditions to those things,” she notes. “So if a good employer wants to hire a three or four-star groom, they better give them what they deserve in terms of respect, work conditions, money, and benefits.”
Such a system would not only help employers identify qualified grooms but would also empower grooms by providing clear pathways for career advancement.
Building a Digital Community
The impact of HorseGrooms is already evident in the feedback they receive. McGann shares that one participant described getting “a digital sense of warmth of community” from the platform. Another groom who doesn’t attend many shows told Neuteboom, “I’ve never felt so connected to the grooming world because I never meet anyone since I’m always home.”
This sense of belonging is particularly meaningful in a profession that has historically lacked recognition. “HorseGrooms is all of us,” says McGann. “It’s living out the groom life and values in the real world…and it’s just all for the love of the horse, love of the sport, and the desire to be a part of something meaningful.”
Changing the Culture
Beyond building community, HorseGrooms is working to shift cultural perceptions about grooming as a profession. While many barns employ full-time grooms who handle all aspects of horse care, Neuteboom believes there’s value in encouraging riders, especially young ones, to be more hands-on.
“I think it would be great if trainers encourage kids to do barnwork and be involved,” she suggests. “Everybody needs to know how to tack up a horse and to learn certain signs that horses show us and what they mean. Every trainer, owner, rider, and parent is responsible for keeping horsemanship alive and HorseGrooms is here to help!” By fostering greater involvement and understanding of the grooming process, HorseGrooms hopes to increase respect for the profession while keeping traditional horsemanship alive.
“Everything we’re putting out is meant to either educate or connect people. Finding and connecting grooms with mentors is a huge part of this. The popular HorseGrooms meet-ups we’ve held are built around education and skills and also have a connection component. We share winning grooms and stories of people and spotlights to help more people meet grooms and barn managers and feel that familiarity and community at the shows,” said Amy.
Neuteboom notices grooms at Wellington International who met at HorseGrooms events smiling and waving and saying hi to each other on their many treks to and from the rings.
The Road Ahead
As HorseGrooms continues to grow, Neuteboom hopes it will become sustainable enough to be her full-time job. “I would love this to be my full-time job in the future and just share a lot of knowledge between people and make it sustainable and do even more. We have so many ideas. But I want to stay active as a groom or home rider or barn manager myself as well for as long as I can. Just to stay involved, to know what’s going on, what the challenges are, to talk to vets, farriers, and other experts.”
McGann emphasizes that their vision has always been to build “this undeniable worldwide community where grooms are supporting and cheering each other on, and they’re also contributing to the future of this career. There is a digital warmth to this community that grooms all over the world are starting to feel.”
By bringing grooms together, providing educational resources, and advocating for better working conditions, HorseGrooms is working to ensure that those who care for our equine athletes receive the recognition, respect, and working conditions they deserve.
Great horse care starts with great grooms, and HorseGrooms Insiders is giving grooms the tools, knowledge, and community they need to thrive. Discover more by clicking here.
Ways to Support HorseGrooms
Simply put, without generous sponsors and donors, HorseGrooms would not be affordable for the vast majority of the equine grooming community. HorseGrooms’ mix of free support and advanced resources directly impacts the careers, connections, and communal knowledge base of grooms worldwide, and so they also impact the horses in their charge and the teams they are a part of. By sponsoring or donating to HorseGrooms, you further the shared mission to keep horsemanship alive and advance the craft of grooming.
Supporting HorseGrooms is an investment in the heart of the equestrian community, elevating the grooming profession, fostering better horsemanship, enhancing horse welfare, and potentially improving performance outcomes. For businesses, HorseGrooms has a media kit available with advertising and other opportunities. Request one by emailing to headgroom@ horsegrooms.com. There are also several meaningful ways individuals can contribute:
1. Join the Stable Support System
By partnering with HorseGrooms through the “Stable Support” program, your contribution directly empowers grooms with essential resources and support systems crucial for their well-being and efficiency. This collaboration not only benefits the grooms but also fosters an environment where the entire team can thrive. In return for your sponsorship, HorseGrooms puts your stable on the website and your groom or team in the spotlights. This is a great way for trainers, owners, and riders to show their support publicly and by doing that, encourage others to do the same.
2. One-Time or Recurring Donations
Every contribution, regardless of size, supports the development of resources, education, and opportunities for grooms.
3. Gift Your Groom an Insider’s Membership
Providing your grooms with an Insiders Membership grants them access to exclusive content, Q&A sessions with top grooms and industry experts, and a supportive community. This investment in their professional growth benefits your team and enhances horse care standards.
4. Recognize and Appreciate Groom’s Efforts
Regular acknowledgment of grooms’ hard work boosts morale and reinforces their importance within the team. Simple gestures of appreciation can lead to a more motivated and dedicated workforce. Think of bringing lunch or coffee, giving an extra day or a couple extra hours off, or doing night check for your groom.
By embracing these initiatives, riders, trainers, and owners not only uplift their grooms but also contribute to a more knowledgeable and cohesive team, leading to improved horse welfare and potentially better performance results.
HorseGrooms Testimonials
“I think the HorseGrooms platform is an excellent forum to discuss the care that we provide our horses. I have had the very good fortune to work with many excellent grooms, and I have great respect for their dedication and hard work. I believe that a skilled and attentive groom is crucial to the long term health and soundness of their horses. There is no doubt in my mind that the experienced grooms with whom I work help me to provide the best possible outcomes to the horses we care for together.
I’m pleased to contribute to HorseGrooms because I enjoy the dialogue about how we can best care for our horses, and I think that I can learn from the information it provides.” —KIT MILLER DVM, VETERINARY CONTRIBUTOR TO HORSEGROOMS
“Grooms are vital to the success of our industry and the well-being of our horses. Partnering with HorseGrooms and Dinette Neuteboom is allowing US Equestrian to help support grooms with content, best practices, and insights from top grooms in the industry. Ultimately, the goal is to bring this vital community closer together and share their immense knowledge and expertise.” —VICKI LOWELL, CHIEF MARKETING AND CONTENT OFFICER FOR US EQUESTRIAN
“Grooms are the backbone of equestrian sport anywhere in the world. HorseGrooms plays a vital role in keeping grooms engaged in their community, informed about important topics beyond sport, and safe while at work. As a former groom, I am thrilled that an organization like this exists to help legitimize the profession and promote high ethics and standards in horse care. Dinette’s vision for HorseGroom’s and dedication to the mission is second to none!” —LENORE BROWN, DIRECTOR OF SPONSORSHIPS AT WELLINGTON INTERNATIONAL AND FORMER GROOM
“We often say the horse comes first. If that is true, then we have an obligation to support the caregivers who make that possible. HorseGrooms exists to provide a network of resources for our community.” —MICHELE HOLLIS, MD, PHYSICAL HEALTH CONTRIBUTOR TO HORSEGROOMS
“HorseGrooms has built a wonderful community for those that it serves. The educational MeetUps and videos provide unique opportunities not only for education, but also to meet fellow grooms, to be able to learn from each other, and develop our skills further while also creating a vast network of friends and acquaintances committed to being the best possible professionals in our field. It is especially important in that it is cross-disciplined so that we have the chance to know and learn from grooms active in other equine sports. It’s been a great place to not only continue my education but also learn from everybody’s personal experiences.” —JENNI GIANNINI, FEI GROOM/BARNMANAGER AT NORMAN & NICK DELLO JOIO’S WEMBLEY FARM
“I was thrilled to discover the HorseGrooms community. It is a long overdue organization to help support and offer education in so many areas for grooms – the mega important part of our team caring for our equines. Thank you, Dinette, for all you are doing.” —LENDON GRAY, USEF LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD RECIPIENT, OLYMPIAN, FOUNDER OF DRESSAGE4KIDS
“HorseGrooms has been a game changer for grooms in the industry. It is a safe place we can go for support from our peers, help with mental health and burnout as well as updates on FEI protocols and opportunities for further educating ourselves with other professionals within equine sport.” —EMMA FORD, OLYMPIC GROOM AND CO-AUTHOR OF THE BOOK WORLD CLASS GROOMING
“For decades the only way to gain experience and learn as a professional groom was through trial and error. The introduction of the HorseGrooms community and platform has brought the grooming industry into the modern world by making resources and mentorship readily available to anyone wanting to improve their horsemanship. Those who are able to attend a HorseGrooms MeetUp in person have the opportunity to discuss and exchange knowledge in real time in a safe environment while those in more remote locations are still able to access much of the same information through the online platform in a way that’s never been done before. We all do this work because we love horses and Dinette and company have found a unique way to ensure everyone gets to learn and move forward in the industry together!” —SHAY STENCHEVER, FEI GROOM FOR NICKY GALLIGAN AND US REPRESENTATIVE OF THE INTERNATIONAL GROOMS ASSOCIATION
“HorseGrooms is an invaluable platform, offering keen insight from qualified horsemen. It shares education and resources essential for the advancement of outstanding horse care and optimal barn operations.” —RICHARD PADILLA, GOTHAM NORTH ROAD MANAGER AND NEW YORK EMPIRE LGCT TEAM MANAGER
“HorseGrooms has filled a void in the industry that has long been needed. Grooms have needed a voice and a way to meet, collaborate, learn, and share in each others’ successes, and HorseGrooms has created an awesome community for them. They continue to find new ways to provide learning opportunities and use professionals in the industry as well as the veteran grooms themselves to foster an environment where everyone is welcome and can benefit from each other. I so admire what they have built!” —JENNIFER WOOD, JUMP MEDIA AND EQUESTRIAN BUSINESSWOMEN
“Everyone in Horse Sports truly understands that we could not have our business or the opportunities we have without our unwavering and dedicated grooms. I was very fortunate to have assistants that cared for our horses at a very top level and always grew to know them as individuals. My team contributed to not only the success of each horse but their longevity and well being. When you look at a horse in the grooming stall and they have a calm happy face you know, you have the right people taking care of them. I am grateful for my years with grooms who supported me and my horses so well. The organization HorseGrooms is a valuable tool of awareness, education and networking that is long overdue and appreciated by all involved. We all need to continue to support their efforts.” —COLLEEN MCQUAY, NRHA HALL OF FAME INDUCTEE, CO-INITIATOR OF THE INTERNATIONAL HUNTER DERBY AND GREEN HUNTER INCENTIVE PROGRAM, AND HUNTER/JUMPER TRAINER
“HorseGrooms is an outstanding resource and support not only for top grooms, but also for all of us in the industry! I am very proud to have contributed in a small way to their success. Huge congratulations, Dinette and Team!” —DR. DARBY BONOMI, PERFORMANCE PSYCHOLOGIST AND CONTRIBUTOR TO HORSEGROOMS
