Courses in Equine Science

Animal Science 037: Horse and Man

• 2 Credits

Relationship of horse and man; development of breeds; use; adaptability; and economic importance of the horse in today's society.

Emphasis centers on contributions made by the horse to society during various periods of history. The development of breeds will be studied, focusing on the modification of the horse by selection and breeding to meet specific needs. The philosophy of prominent horsemen of yesterday and today regarding the relationship of horse and man will be stressed.

Animal Science 327: Horse Production and Management

• 3 Credits
• Prerequisite: AN SC 001

Principles of selection, breeding, feeding, management and marketing of horses; emphasis on light horse breeds.

A major objective of this course is the development of an understanding of the production and management techniques necessary for the successful operation of the horse enterprise. The course is designed to develop an appreciation of the horse as an athlete and an understanding of the relationship of form to function. Management practices concerned with feeding, breeding, and health programs receive considerable attention. Age determination, unsoundness, way of going, nutrient needs, parasite control, buildings, equipment, and record keeping are among the many specific areas covered. Laboratory periods are devoted to such things as selection procedures, hoof care, handling and training, identification of feedstuffs, etc. The course is designed to be of interest and benefit to students with very little horse experience and also to those that have had rather extensive experience.

Animal Science 317: Horse Handling and Training

• 3 Credits
• Prerequisites: AN SC 327 and approved level of horsemanship

Responses of horses to various stimuli during the training period. Laboratory exercises involve extensive practice with young horses.

The objectives of this course are:

1. to gain an understanding and appreciation of horse behavior and learning during the training process, and to understand further the relationship of form to function
2. to enhance the ability to control and to teach the horse specific types of activity
   
3. to acquire competence and confidence, and develop desirable habits and attitudes in handling horses.

To achieve these goals, discussions, demonstrations, and extensive practice sessions are held. Students work in pairs and have the opportunity to work with all of the horses available for that semester. Grades are determined by participation, written journals, diaries, exams, and an assessment of the progress made by the horses and the students in the class. A relatively high level of riding skills is required for acceptance in this course.

Animal Science 407: Advanced Horse Production and Management

• 3 Credits
• Prerequisites: AN SC 327 and 400

Detailed study of anatomy and physiology of the horse as related to nutrition, reproduction, athletic ability, unsoundness and control of diseases and parasites.

The objectives of this course are:

1. to develop an understanding of the horse industry on a national and state-wide basis from an economic, scientific and business perspective
   
2. to assess the current state of the industry
   
3. to develop an understanding of feeding, breeding, marketing, health management, and facility design, and the ability to utilize these principles in contemporary management situations
   
4. to develop an understanding of production methods and management systems that will aid in developing efficient, economical and profitable horse enterprises
   
5. to increase the awareness of contemporary issues in the equine industry. The course objectives are met through lectures, laboratories, and special projects.

Animal Science 447: Applied Equine Behavior

• 3 Credits
• Prerequisite: AN SC 001, AN SC 327 , and fifth-semester standing; or fifth-semester standing and six credits in biology; or permisssion of the instructor

Theory and application of behavior principles as they apply to horses in free-running and domestic situations.

The objectives for this course are as follows:

1. develop a working repertoire of behavior terminology and principles particularly as they apply to the horse
2. apply critical thinking skills toward understanding and predicting behavior in horses under intensive management as it is modified from instinctive behavior seen in free-running horses
3. critically analyze and compare various training theories
4. develop a new expertise in careful observation and analysis of behavior
5. practice communication skills and increase information literacy, particularly in the study of behavior.
   

Students will be evaluated using written exams, written reports, oral presentations, and performance of an independent project in equine behavior. This course presupposes previous coursework in equine science or biology and complements other courses such as horse production and management, animal behavior/sociobiology, physiology, and genetics. Applied Equine Behavior is a supporting course for the Animal Science Major. Students will be able to make use of the university horse herd and available data recording and analysis instruments and software.

Animal Science/Agricultural Education 437: Equine Facilitated Therapy

The primary goal of this course is to acquaint the participant with equine facilitated therapy (therapeutic riding and driving) and to introduce them to individuals who benefit/participate in such programs through lecture, audio-visual media, discussions, program visitation, independent research and via a practicum at the therapeutic riding program. This course is designed to introduce the participant to various disabling characteristics/conditions which may benefit from exposure/participation in equine facilitated therapy (EFT) and other animal related therapy programs. Most students have little of no contact with disabled individuals. This course not only provides students with a basic orientation to those with disabilities but also allows students to work one on one with individuals with disabilities through equine facilitated therapy and portrays the beneficial relationship between the rider and his/her mount, highlighting not only the physical benefits, but the emotional and educational benefits associated with this type of therapy.

Animal Science 417: Introduction to Horse Judging

• 2 Credits

Principles of judging and selection of halter and performance classes including western pleasure, western riding, trail, hunter under saddle and reining, with an emphasis on stock horses. Students learn the fundamentals of horse judging and the basics of presenting oral reasons through viewing both live and taped classes.

Animal Science 426: Advanced Horse Judging and Selection

• 2 Credits
• Prerequisite: AN SC 322

A continuation of Animal Science 417, students expand upon their skills at judging and presenting oral reasons. Students are eligible to compete for a position on the traveling Horse Judging Team.