I currently board my horse at a barn so I don’t take care of my horse by myself, but I would really feel more comfortable if I knew everything I had to do if I did ever have to take over complete care of my horse. So, I decided to set a goal for this summer that I would earn some sort of certificate/degree online in horse care or equestrian studies. Does anyone know of some reputable online classes available?
Better use of your time would be to go to your barn and spend as much time there as possible, watching and doing. You can also read anything you can get your hands on.
Yes. Get yourself a basic reference book, maybe the pony club manuals. And then ask if you can help at your barn for a few weeks.
Basic horse care is fairly simple. You just have to do it every day, rain or shine. Hay, water, maybe grain, clean stall, turnout, groom. Every barn will have a slightly different system. You need to practice enough that you are quick and efficient carrying buckets, pushing wheelbarrows, picking poop.
”‹”‹”‹”‹”‹”‹Physical strength and responsibility are the big things.
I did self board on my first horse I got at 14, ordered hay called vet and farrier, got advice from my friends, no intelligent adult help available. I did just fine.
I second the Pony Club books. Study them well. They are tried and true and you won’t have to be concerned about the many charlatans and weirdos out there who would like to sell you very expensive materials …
At this time, hanging around the barn may not be feasible, so pretend you are back in school and study those books. Write down any questions you may have for future reference, and when you are able to hang out and perhaps help at the barn, you’ll have a foundation.
Pony Club has made many a great horse person. The information is just as good for adults as it is for young people.
With that knowledge, you will be able to judge for yourself what other materials are helpful.
Horses are individuals and there is no substitute for actually taking care of them, feeding, grooming, etc… When it is possible, find a good groom or mentor who will watch you and help you with the actual horse handling part of the equation.
It is very important to read, but you’ll need hands on experience with horses as well before you’ll be able to take care of them on your own.
Good luck. It’s fun.:yes:
The University of Guelph, home of Ontario Veterinary College, offers an entire series of online courses. You can take them a la carte, or complete a certificate or diploma if you want: https://www.equinestudiesonline.ca/
1 Like
