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Claudia Sonder, DVM
This unique course was developed by veterinarians at the world-renowned University of California, Davis School of Veterinary Medicine. The course will address horsemanship from a welfare perspective, within the context of “The Five Freedoms” of animal welfare. We’ll explore equine physiology, behavior and basic needs including housing, nutrition, hygiene and disease management. You’ll learn how to perform basic tasks to assess the overall condition of the horse and identify problem areas. We’ll also examine the specialized needs of the equine athlete and the major responsibilities we as owners, handlers or competitors must assume in order to ensure the health and welfare of our equine companions. Finally, we’ll look several special topics in equine welfare including disaster planning and the international welfare efforts now in place to protect working horses and other equids in key industries such as racing, international competition, tourism and even mining. By the conclusion of the course, you will be well equipped to develop a comprehensive welfare plan for any horses in your care.
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/8ntx2g/equine
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What's inside
Syllabus
The Normal Horse: Basic Physiology
In this module, you will be able to identify the parameters of normal health in a horse. You will be able to measure a horse’s vital signs, including temperature, pulse, and capillary refill time, or CRT. You will be able recognize ranges of what are considered normal vital signs for the species, breed and individual horse. You will be able to monitor these normals over time to detect changes and alert a veterinarian to a problem.
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Syllabus
The Normal Horse: Basic Physiology
In this module, you will be able to identify the parameters of normal health in a horse. You will be able to measure a horse’s vital signs, including temperature, pulse, and capillary refill time, or CRT. You will be able recognize ranges of what are considered normal vital signs for the species, breed and individual horse. You will be able to monitor these normals over time to detect changes and alert a veterinarian to a problem.
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Traffic lights
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause and
possible dealbreakers
Examines animal welfare within the context of “The Five Freedoms.”
Taught by DVM veterinarians from University of California, Davis School of Veterinary Medicine
Develops skills and knowledge in equine physiology, behavior, and basic needs
Explores equine welfare issues including disaster planning and international welfare efforts
Includes specialized content for the equine athlete
Requires a basic background in horse care and handling
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Reviews summary
Comprehensive equine welfare and management
According to students, this course provides a solid foundation in equine welfare and management, structured around The Five Freedoms. Learners praise the comprehensive coverage of topics like physiology, nutrition, behavior, and disease prevention, noting the content is rooted in expertise from UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine. Many find the information highly practical, enabling them to perform basic health assessments and develop welfare plans. While primarily theoretical due to its online format, the course is considered valuable for both horse owners and those considering a professional equine path. Some reviewers mentioned the depth of material requires dedicated study, but overall feedback indicates a rewarding and informative learning experience.
Content is dense, demands focus.
"There is a significant amount of information, so you need to commit time to absorb it all."
"While well-explained, the scientific detail requires concentration."
"It's not a light, casual course; prepare for a solid academic effort."
"The quizzes and assignments ensure you understand the material deeply."
"Pacing yourself is important given the volume of content."
Beneficial for owners and professionals.
"As a horse owner, I found it incredibly useful for improving my daily care routine."
"Someone considering a career in the equine industry would find this a great starting point."
"It bridges the gap between basic owner knowledge and more professional understanding."
"Appeals to both hobbyists and those needing a more structured, evidence-based approach."
"The content is relevant whether you own one horse or work with many."
Emphasizes ethical equine care.
"Approaching horsemanship through The Five Freedoms framework was very impactful."
"It constantly reinforced the importance of welfare in every aspect of care."
"The ethical considerations discussed were as important as the practical skills."
"Understanding the 'why' behind welfare practices was a key takeaway for me."
"The focus on animal welfare makes this course stand out."
Wide range of essential equine topics.
"I learned so much about physiology, nutrition, housing, and common health issues. It was very thorough."
"The modules on behavior and human interaction were particularly insightful."
"Covers everything from basic health checks to disaster planning and international welfare."
"I was impressed by the breadth of topics covered, going beyond just basics."
"Each module delved into important aspects of care, leaving few gaps."
Provides actionable skills for horse care.
"I can now confidently assess my horse's vital signs and hydration level."
"This course gave me practical tools to create better nutrition and housing plans."
"Understanding behavior cues has greatly improved my interaction with my horse."
"The ability to identify early signs of illness or injury is incredibly valuable."
"I feel much better equipped to manage my horse's daily care and preventative health."
Expert-led content from UC Davis.
"Knowing this was developed by veterinarians at UC Davis gave me confidence in the material's accuracy."
"The information is presented clearly and is based on solid veterinary knowledge."
"I appreciate the scientific rigor and expertise behind the curriculum."
"It's evident the course draws on high-level veterinary understanding."
"The content felt authoritative and trustworthy, as expected from a top vet school."
Activities
Be better prepared
before
your course. Deepen your understanding
during
and
after
it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered
in Equine Welfare and Management with these
activities:
Review Basic Equine Health and Welfare
Show steps
Refresh essential knowledge about equine anatomy and physiology to ensure a strong foundation for the course.
Browse courses on
Equine Physiology
Show steps
-
Review the anatomy and physiology of the horse, including respiratory, circulatory, digestive, and musculoskeletal systems.
-
Identify the different signs of health and illness in horses.
-
Practice assessing vital signs such as temperature, pulse, and respiration.
Horse Anatomy and Physiology Study Guide
Show steps
Helps review and reinforce fundamental concepts
Show steps
-
Create an outline or table that summarizes the key topics covered in the course module on horse anatomy and physiology.
-
Go through your notes, textbook, and any other relevant materials to find and add important details to your outline or table.
-
Review your study guide regularly to reinforce your understanding of the material.
Develop a Horse Health Monitoring Plan
Show steps
Ensure ongoing health and well-being of horses by creating a personalized monitoring plan.
Show steps
-
Identify the key health parameters to monitor, including weight, body condition, and behavior.
-
Determine the frequency and methods for monitoring these parameters.
-
Develop a system for recording and tracking the data.
-
Practice using the plan to monitor a horse's health and identify potential issues.
Two other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all five activities
Create a Horse Health Care Plan
Show steps
Helps you apply your knowledge to real-world scenarios
Show steps
-
Gather information about your horse's health history.
-
Research and identify potential health concerns for your horse based on breed, age, and environment.
-
Develop a plan to address each health concern, including prevention, early detection, and treatment strategies.
-
Implement your plan and monitor your horse's health regularly.
Design an Equine Emergency Preparedness Plan
Show steps
Enhance equine safety and well-being by developing a comprehensive emergency plan.
Browse courses on
Emergency Preparedness
Show steps
-
Identify potential risks and hazards that could affect horses.
-
Develop protocols for evacuation, rescue, and medical care.
-
Create a communication plan to alert and coordinate responders.
-
Practice implementing the plan through simulations or drills.
-
Review and update the plan regularly.
Review Basic Equine Health and Welfare
Show steps
Refresh essential knowledge about equine anatomy and physiology to ensure a strong foundation for the course.
Browse courses on
Equine Physiology
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Review the anatomy and physiology of the horse, including respiratory, circulatory, digestive, and musculoskeletal systems.
- Identify the different signs of health and illness in horses.
- Practice assessing vital signs such as temperature, pulse, and respiration.
Horse Anatomy and Physiology Study Guide
Show steps
Helps review and reinforce fundamental concepts
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Create an outline or table that summarizes the key topics covered in the course module on horse anatomy and physiology.
- Go through your notes, textbook, and any other relevant materials to find and add important details to your outline or table.
- Review your study guide regularly to reinforce your understanding of the material.
Develop a Horse Health Monitoring Plan
Show steps
Ensure ongoing health and well-being of horses by creating a personalized monitoring plan.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify the key health parameters to monitor, including weight, body condition, and behavior.
- Determine the frequency and methods for monitoring these parameters.
- Develop a system for recording and tracking the data.
- Practice using the plan to monitor a horse's health and identify potential issues.
Two other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all five activities
Create a Horse Health Care Plan
Show steps
Helps you apply your knowledge to real-world scenarios
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Gather information about your horse's health history.
- Research and identify potential health concerns for your horse based on breed, age, and environment.
- Develop a plan to address each health concern, including prevention, early detection, and treatment strategies.
- Implement your plan and monitor your horse's health regularly.
Design an Equine Emergency Preparedness Plan
Show steps
Enhance equine safety and well-being by developing a comprehensive emergency plan.
Browse courses on
Emergency Preparedness
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify potential risks and hazards that could affect horses.
- Develop protocols for evacuation, rescue, and medical care.
- Create a communication plan to alert and coordinate responders.
- Practice implementing the plan through simulations or drills.
- Review and update the plan regularly.
Career center
Learners who complete Equine Welfare and Management will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Veterinary Assistant
Veterinary Assistant
Veterinary assistants perform many tasks in the veterinary clinic under the supervision of a veterinarian. They restrain animals for examinations, assist with surgery, administer medications, and monitor animals. This course will help veterinary assistants learn more about equine physiology, behavior, and basic needs, which will help them to provide better care for their equine patients.
Veterinary Technician
Veterinary Technician
Veterinary technicians are responsible for providing care to animals under the supervision of a veterinarian. They perform a variety of tasks, including taking vital signs, administering medications, and assisting with surgery. This course will help veterinary technicians learn more about equine physiology, behavior, and basic needs, which will help them to provide better care for their equine patients.
Animal Caretaker
Animal Caretaker
Animal caretakers provide care to animals in a variety of settings, including animal shelters, zoos, and private homes. They feed, groom, and exercise animals, and they monitor their health and well-being. This course will help animal caretakers learn more about equine physiology, behavior, and basic needs, which will help them to provide better care for their equine charges.
Animal Trainer
Animal Trainer
Animal trainers work with animals to teach them specific behaviors. They use positive reinforcement and other techniques to train animals for a variety of purposes, including companionship, competition, and service. This course will help animal trainers learn more about equine physiology, behavior, and basic needs, which will help them to train horses more effectively and humanely.
Equine Nutritionist
Equine Nutritionist
Equine nutritionists develop and implement nutrition plans for horses. They consider the horse's age, breed, activity level, and health status when creating a nutrition plan. This course will help equine nutritionists learn more about equine physiology and nutrition, which will help them to create better nutrition plans for their equine clients.
Farrier
Farrier
Farriers trim and shoe horses' hooves. They also treat hoof problems and provide advice on hoof care. This course will help farriers learn more about equine physiology and hoof anatomy, which will help them to provide better care for their equine clients.
Horse Breeder
Horse Breeder
Horse breeders breed and raise horses for a variety of purposes, including racing, competition, and pleasure riding. This course will help horse breeders learn more about equine physiology, behavior, and genetics, which will help them to breed and raise healthier and more successful horses.
Horseback Riding Instructor
Horseback Riding Instructor
Horseback riding instructors teach people how to ride horses. They also provide instruction on horse care and management. This course will help horseback riding instructors learn more about equine physiology, behavior, and basic needs, which will help them to teach their students more effectively and safely.
Equine Massage Therapist
Equine Massage Therapist
Equine massage therapists use massage techniques to relieve pain and tension in horses. They also promote relaxation and well-being. This course will help equine massage therapists learn more about equine physiology and anatomy, which will help them to provide better massages for their equine clients.
Equine Chiropractor
Equine Chiropractor
Equine chiropractors use chiropractic techniques to adjust the spine and other joints in horses. They relieve pain and improve mobility. This course may help equine chiropractors learn more about equine physiology and anatomy, which may help them to provide better care for their equine clients.
Animal Shelter Manager
Animal Shelter Manager
Animal shelter managers oversee the operation of animal shelters. They are responsible for the care and well-being of the animals in the shelter, as well as the staff and volunteers. This course may help animal shelter managers learn more about equine care and management, which may help them to better care for the horses in their shelter. Animal shelter managers may also learn about equine behavior and welfare in the module entitled, "Normal and Abnormal Equine Behavior.",
Zookeeper
Zookeeper
Zookeepers care for animals in a zoo setting. They feed, groom, and exercise animals, and they monitor their health and well-being. This course may help zookeepers learn more about equine care and management, which may help them to better care for the horses in their zoo. Zookeepers may also learn about equine behavior and welfare in the module entitled, "Normal and Abnormal Equine Behavior.",
Wildlife Rehabilitator
Wildlife Rehabilitator
Wildlife rehabilitators care for sick, injured, or orphaned wild animals. They provide medical care, food, and shelter, and they release the animals back into the wild when they are healthy enough. This course may help wildlife rehabilitators learn more about equine care and management, which may help them to better care for the horses in their care. Wildlife rehabilitators may also learn about equine behavior and welfare in the module entitled, "Normal and Abnormal Equine Behavior.",
Park Ranger
Park Ranger
Park rangers protect and manage natural resources in parks and other protected areas. They also provide information and assistance to visitors. This course may help park rangers learn more about equine care and management, which may help them to better care for the horses in their park. Park rangers may also learn about equine behavior and welfare in the module entitled, "Normal and Abnormal Equine Behavior.",
Conservation Officer
Conservation Officer
Conservation officers enforce fish and wildlife laws and regulations. They also protect natural resources and educate the public about conservation issues. This course may help conservation officers learn more about equine care and management, which may help them to better care for the horses they encounter in their work. Conservation officers may also learn about equine behavior and welfare in the module entitled, "Normal and Abnormal Equine Behavior."
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/8ntx2g/equine
Reading list
We've selected 12 books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
Equine Welfare and Management.
Provides a comprehensive overview of equine medicine and surgery, covering topics such as diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of diseases and injuries. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about how to care for sick or injured horses.
Provides a comprehensive overview of equine welfare, covering topics such as nutrition, housing, transportation, and training. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about how to care for horses.
A comprehensive textbook covering the diagnosis and treatment of internal diseases in horses, providing in-depth medical information to aid in equine healthcare. Suitable for veterinary professionals and advanced horse owners.
Save
Offers practical advice on understanding and managing equine behavior, providing insights into how horses think and interact with their environment. A valuable resource for equine professionals and horse owners alike.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of equine podiatry, covering topics such as anatomy, physiology, and common foot problems. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about how to care for horses' feet.
Save
Provides detailed information about the nutritional requirements of horses, focusing on the importance of proper nutrition to equine welfare. Essential reading for anyone involved in horse care and management.
An in-depth exploration of the ethical and philosophical considerations surrounding equine welfare, providing a deeper understanding of the complexities involved in ensuring the well-being of horses.
Provides a practical guide to equine health care, covering topics such as first aid, common diseases, and emergency care. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about how to care for horses.
Provides a comprehensive overview of equine lameness, covering topics such as diagnosis, treatment, and prevention. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about how to care for lame horses.
Provides a comprehensive overview of equine ophthalmology, covering topics such as diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of eye diseases. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about how to care for horses with eye problems.
Save
An essential quick reference guide for equine emergencies, providing step-by-step instructions for managing common emergencies in horses. A valuable tool for horse owners, trainers, and veterinary professionals.
Save
Provides an overview of equine behavior, covering topics such as communication, social interactions, and learning. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about how horses think and behave.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/8ntx2g/equine
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Rating
4.9
Effort
Approx. 18 hours
Level
Introductory
Via
Coursera
Institution
University of California, Davis
Instructor
Claudia Sonder, DVM
Language
English
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