Ready to level up your horse knowledge in the new year? Equine Guelph, the horse owner’s centre at the University of Guelph, is offering free access to its On-Demand Horse Behaviour and Safety course for youth from Jan. 1 to March 31, 2026.

Young horse enthusiasts aged 13 to 17 will have the opportunity gain the skills that make them safer, smarter and more confident around horses in this course.

Why take this course? Because horses don’t come with an instruction manual — but this is the next best thing! Learn how horses think, see and react so you can predict their behaviour. Discover why understanding herd dynamics and body language is key to safety. Explore real-life scenarios like fire safety in barns and helmet safety for riders. This self-paced online program takes about 10 to 15 hours and is packed with interactive activities, video, and fun facts that will change the way you see horses forever.

What makes this course different? It’s not just about safety — it’s about building a bond. When you understand how horses perceive the world, you can create trust and harmony in every interaction. Whether you dream of riding, training or simply spending time at the barn, this course gives you the foundation to do it safely and confidently.

Upon completion, students earn a Certificate from Equine Guelph to build their horse resume.

Spots are open now and registration can be completed at thehorseportal.ca.

Equine Guelph would like to thank its generous safety supporters. This free youth initiative has been made possible by ESSO, Kubota Canada, Ontario Equestrian and System Equine.

(With files from Equine Guelph)