208-323 Equine Management Systems

The objective of this subject is to provide students with an understanding of the systems in which horses are produced, raised and trained and provide a prerequisite for the application of scientific and technical knowledge to management.

Content includes horse industry, its structures and activities; management procedures, training routines for thoroughbred racing, harness racing, equestrian sports; horse industry specific equipment, facilities and enterprises; critical factors influencing production and performance in studs and stables including selection strategies, nutritional and pasture-based management issues, and preventative health strategies, therapies and biosecurity at national, regional and enterprise levels.

At completion of this subject students should:

• be familiar with common horse management procedures on studs, training stables and equestrian centres;

• be familiar with the structure and control within the horse industry;

• be able to recognise the factors affecting efficiency in studs and stables;

• understand the application of selection procedures for breeding and performance horses;

• understand the genetic selection strategies used by breeding enterprises and breed organisations; and

• understand the application of health procedures for prevention, diagnosis, and therapy.

One 3-hour written essay or short-answer style examination (40% of final marks) and three practical assignments equivalent to 2500 words (each worth 20% of final marks).

• J Gordon, The Economic Contribution to the Horse Industry. RIRDC.