If you aren’t terribly familiar with the term ‘wrangler,’ please do not stress. In fact, there is a strong probability you do, in fact, know what this term encompasses, and instead have simply heard it being called by another name that is synonymous with its meaning, which is ranching.
I think I recall hearing or reading something at some point suggesting the name wrangler stems from “wrangeln,” a Low German word which means to wrestle, and Wikipedia confirmed my suspicions.
Cowboy is another word that relates to wrangler, so I hope you’re getting the meaning.
A wrangler is an individual who works closely with animals and is responsible for handling them, for example, livestock and other large animals.
Whatever you wish to call it, wrangling is not an easy job, and it certainly takes a specific sort of person to encompass the position, much like any occupation related to agriculture. If it appeals to you, some things you should familiarize yourself with include being able to ride a horse, both in a saddle and bareback; how to handle and treat large animals with respect and assertion, enabling them to respect you in the process of respecting them; and not shying from hard, physical labour.
When the idea of a cowboy comes to mind, there are certain characteristics affiliated with the title – rugged, hard, constantly moving, etc. I’m not a wrangler myself, but I would imagine these traits are absolutely relevant to the position, just like they relate to most jobs within the agricultural realm.
I can’t help but chuckle at how movies often encourage people to think these sorts of jobs are easy, because they’re anything but. Working as a wrangler requires working each and every day, at any given hour, in harsh, gruelling conditions without designated breaks. Most people would not take to the job, hence why it demands a very particular individual to be able to do it successfully.
Keep reading if the notion of wrangling appeals to you.
“The Romantic Allure of the Wrangler Life
“There’s an undeniable charm in living the Wrangler life, one which revolves around sunrises and sunsets, nature’s rhythms, and is deeply rooted in American Western heritage. Wranglers have become icons of freedom and rugged spirit that reflect this heritage. For many this way of life offers a welcome respite from city living, offering autonomy while working outdoors amidst majestic landscapes and wildlife, satisfying an innate longing for adventure while at once returning them back to simpler days gone by.
“Modern-Day Reality: More than Just a Day in the Saddle
“While romanticism still reigns supreme for today’s wranglers, they face modern-day challenges that their predecessors couldn’t even fathom. Technological innovations have revolutionized agriculture and ranch management. From GPS tracking cattle to drone surveillance, modern wranglers must be adept at using cutting edge tech as much as traditional techniques of wrangling. Furthermore, climate change and land development threaten natural grazing territories, therefore wranglers increasingly have to navigate environmental policies as well as sustainable practices. Adaptability is required when merging tradition with innovation in order to succeed in this profession.
“The Path to Becoming a Wrangler
“Are You ready for the challenges and thrills of ranch life? Aligning your education and experience with ranching life is important. Many wranglers start early by growing up on ranches where family members teach them the ropes. Otherwise internships, volunteer works, or programs at agricultural colleges may provide invaluable experience. In either case it’s important that you possess strong work ethics, endurance and an affinity for livestock as this lifestyle choice should not just be treated as another job but rather considered as lifestyle choice.
“From Roping Dummies to Horse Sandals
“Becoming an accomplished wrangler involves developing multiple skills important for daily ranch life. Roping dummies provide novice wranglers with their first taste of lassoing, enabling them to practice before transitioning onto real livestock. Wrangling offers numerous skills such as this foundational one. Understanding how to properly care for and handle horses is also of vital importance, including developing basic farriery skills to maintain and protect its hooves. Horse sandals (hoof boots) provide protection for a horse’s feet while moving between terrains, providing important foot care protection to horses in this modern world. Fitting these tools properly ensures horses remain comfortable and injury-free, enabling them to perform at their optimal. Like all forms of wrangling techniques, this art blends traditional practices with contemporary innovations reflecting the ever-evolving profession.
“Conclusion
“Becoming a modern wrangler may not be for everyone and requires an unique combination of resilience, passion and adaptability. But for those drawn to its appeal of freedom and frontier life that accept the challenges that lie ahead, becoming one can still be an exciting career path that gives an engaging journey into both past and future.”
Photo by Priscilla Du Preez 🇨🇦 on Unsplash
ontheedgeofeverything 