Horse Care Courses At Post University

WATERBURY — Post University’s Equine Husbandry Course series, will include three Saturday seminars entitled Basic Horse Care, Concepts in Equine Massage, and Introduction to Hoof Care this coming summer. Each course will run for 16 hours during the course of two consecutive Saturdays.

Basic Horse Care will serve as an introduction to the main concerns shared by new horse owners: Why does my horse do that? When should I feed, and how much? Does my horse need a blanket? A stall? How can I lead and handle my horse safely? What is colic and why is everyone so worried about it? There are dozens and dozens of concerns that owners share or have questions about, and Post University’s Equine Program Director Carole Baker will touch on most of these at least once during this course. Basic Horse Care will be held May 15 and 22.

Concepts in Equine Massage will prepare the student to do a simple but effective equine sports massage. The material will include how and why massage therapy works, covering rudimentary equine anatomy, physiology, and kinesiology. Students will learn how to do basic massage therapy strokes from effleurage to trigger points and stretch work, with plenty of hands-on experience. Concepts in Equine Massage will be held on June 19 and 26.

Introduction to Hoof Care introduces the form, function, care, and maintenance of the equine hoof. Abby Bloxsom, Farrier and Co-Director of the Equine program at Post University, will discuss the basic anatomy of the hoof and lower leg, and survey common trimming theories and techniques to produce an understanding of the role of sound, functional hooves in gaits and performance. She will cover the general effects of shoes, appliances, health, and nutrition on hoof form and function, and explain the tools and tasks of the professional farrier’s trade. Introduction to Hoof Care will be held on July 17 and 24, 2010.

The Summer Saturday Seminar series is organized by the Post University Equine Department to pro-vide topical and up-to-date information on subjects related to the ownership, care, and training of horses. Cost of each seminar will be $350, and registration can be arranged by contacting the Post University Equine Office at 203-596-4631 or -4645, or -4653 or by email at CBaker@post.edu or ABloxsom@post.edu.