There is one month left to join the global community of horse-crazy teens that are pursuing their passion for horses online!
Over 1,000 youth around the world have logged on to take advantage of the free "Horse Behaviour and Safety" course offered until January 31 on TheHorsePortal.ca.
Equine Guelph, the horse centre at the University of Guelph in Canada, is well known for its career pathways in the equine industry through online learning. The virtual classroom has been extended to the grassroots of the horse world with this short self-paced course that is rapidly growing in popularity among teenagers (ages 13-17). Thanks to the generous safety partners, young horse enthusiasts from all over the globe are learning how to ‘speak horse.’
There is approximately two week’s worth of material and fun activities for kids to access whenever they like, 24/7. At the end of the course, a certificate of completion is awarded.
Course topics include:
1. The Horse in the Wild – A Herd and Flight Animal
2. The Modern Day Horse
3. How Horses See and Hear
4. Herd Behaviour – How Horses Interact with Each Other
5. Horse Handling/Approaching a Horse
6. Rider/Helmet Safety
7. Trailer Loading Safety Basics
8. Safety around the Barn and Paddocks
9. Fire Safety
10. Returning from an Injury
Students will be able to watch a multitude of videos from industry professionals, including guest expert Dr. Rebecca Husted-Gimenez from the United States. As a world-renowned instructor on technical large animal emergency rescue, Gimenez has a wealth of knowledge and experience when it comes to horse behaviour and safe handling.
“It is wonderful to see the growing enthusiasm for this program geared towards the equestrians of the future,” said Gayle Ecker, Equine Guelph director. "It is a perfect way for youth to fuel their passion and learn more about their favourite animal in a safe, online community of like-minded individuals."
Equine Guelph thanks its generous sponsors for making this international youth initiative possible: ESSO, Kubota Canada, Ontario Equestrian, SSG Gloves, System Fencing and Workplace Safety & Prevention Services.
(With files from Equine Guelph)