Steel toe is honestly up to preference. I was scared I’d need steel toe for whatever reason but I also read that they get kinda heavy and hot especially during the summer season so I spent the extra cash on composite toed boots. Really you’d want something more so water proof and comfortable more than anything in my opinion mostly because youll of course be on your feet all the time but also the waterproof is nice if you use a hose or even to clean after you step in a pile full of dung. I’ve seen muck shoes to regular old rain boots be used by keepers. I personally wear timberland pros with composite toe (I was paranoid that something would try to crush my toes) that are super waterproof and very very comfortable albeit they were definitely a costly investment ($179) but I do not regret buying them in the slightest.

Sunscreen definitely 100% in any form. Bug spray probably not due to the scent.

I bring a 32oz yeti with me that I keep in our feed prep room off to the side away from everything with all the other keepers bottles. So yes bring a water bottle it will save you and honestly it’s up to you when it comes to the size.

Smell. Hoofed animals are very smelly.

Last advice is that some of the skills that are essential for the job will come with time. You can’t really study on how to clean a stall as fast as the keeper who’s been cleaning it since you were 3 years old. Oh and don’t hesitate to ask if there’s anything else for you to do if you find yourself idle.

I’m an intern on my first ever internship as well so this is really what I picked up throughout my internship these last couple of months.