204-251 Horse Health and Genetics

204-152 Horse Form and Function and 204-155 Horse Nutrition and Feed Production

Upon completion students should be able to:

• apply Mendelian genetic principles to the control of inherited faults and the selection of coat colour;

• apply quantitative genetic techniques to breeding programs;

• list and give the causes, describe the nature and progression and suggest treatment of common diseases;

• describe common diagnostic procedures;

• outline appropriate preventative measures for common diseases; and

• outline the obligations and responsibilities of the horse manager within the laws and regulations.

The content includes:

• applying Mendelian genetic principles to genetic faults and selection of coat colour;

• gene interactions;

• application of quantitative genetic principles to performance selection;

• progeny testing;

• breeding plans;

• signs of ill-health and the clinical examination of their nature and variation;

• cause and nature of diseases;

• laboratory tests and procedures;

• diagnostic tests, their uses and limitations;

• treatments and surgical procedures; principles of first aid;

• laws and regulations relating to horse health;

• role of the various forms of health services;

• exotic diseases; and

• disease prevention programs.

One three-hour written examination worth 50% of final marks, two assignments equivalent to 2500 words and worth 25% of final marks each.