Level 3 Equine Management BTEC

This subject is broken down into 90 topics in 9 modules:

  1. Understanding the Principles of Horse Management 10 topics
  2. Equine Health and Disease 10 topics
  3. Horse Behaviour and Welfare 10 topics
  4. Equine Business Management 10 topics
  5. Riding and Exercise 10 topics
  6. Anatomy and Physiology 10 topics
  7. Practical Horse Handling and Yard Skills 10 topics
  8. Equine Nutrition 10 topics
  9. Equine Breeding and Stud Management 10 topics
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  • 9
    modules
  • 90
    topics
  • 35,129
    words of revision content
  • 4+
    hours of audio lessons

This page was last modified on 28 September 2024.

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Equine Management

Understanding the Principles of Horse Management

The history and development of the horse industry

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The history and development of the horse industry

Early Horse Domestication

  • Horses were initially domesticated around 4000-3500 BC in Kazakhstan by the Botai culture.
  • Primary uses included: meat, milk, and hides, with their use for transportation being established later.
  • Evidence of horse domestication, such as bit wear on horse teeth, can be seen from around 3500 BC.

Middle Ages to 19th Century

  • During the Middle Ages, horses were utilised mainly for warfare, agriculture, and transportation.
  • Selective breeding practices began to emerge to produce specialised types of horses for different purposes.
  • Introduction of horse-drawn machinery in the 18th century significantly advanced agriculture.
  • In the 19th century, horse-drawn stagecoaches and canal boats were the primary methods of long-distance transportation.

20th Century to Modern Day

  • The internal combustion engine initiated a decline in the use of horses for practical work.
  • Transportation and farming became largely mechanised during the 20th century.
  • Concurrently, the roles of horses shifted increasingly towards equestrian sports, pleasure riding, and therapy.
  • The modern horse industry revolves around services such as: breeding, trading, training and riding instruction.
  • Disciplines within competitive horseback riding, such as dressage, show jumping, and eventing became well-established.

Horse Industry in the UK

  • The UK's horse industry is diverse, including breeding, racing, competitive riding, and leisure activities.
  • Racehorses and sport horses are significant sectors, contributing massively to the UK economy.
  • The British Horse Society, established in 1947, plays a pivotal role in welfare, safety, training, and the promotion of riding as a recreation.
  • The standard for worldwide horse racing regulations, the General Stud Book, was established in the UK.
  • The UK also hosts some of the prestigious international horse events, such as The Royal Ascot, Cheltenham Festival, and the Badminton Horse Trials.

Remember, understanding the history and development of the horse industry provides valuable context when studying horse management. This knowledge leads to a deeper understanding of horse breeds, uses, and current practices.

Course material for Equine Management, module Understanding the Principles of Horse Management, topic The history and development of the horse industry

Equine Management

Riding and Exercise

Development and application of schooling aids

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Development and application of schooling aids

Development of Schooling Aids

  • Understanding the Purpose: Schooling aids are designed to support the horse's training and reinforce its response to rider cues.

  • Selecting the Right Aids: Different schooling aids are used for various purposes, from enhancing the horse's rhythm and balance to improving its gait and posture. The choice of aids should be in line with the training objectives.

  • Utilising Aids Correctly: Schooling aids can be very beneficial when used correctly. However, misuse can lead to confusion and stress for the horse, diminishing the overall effectiveness of training.

  • Progressive Approach: Gradually introduce schooling aids into training sessions. Start with simple aids and progress to more complex ones as the horse's understanding and comfort level increases.

Application of Schooling Aids

  • Appropriate Timing: Initiate the schooling aids at the correct moment during training to reinforce the desired behaviour. Incorrect timing can confuse the horse and potentially contribute to behavioural issues.

  • Consistent Use: Consistency is essential in the use of schooling aids. The same cue should always result in the same aid being utilised to avoid confusing the horse.

  • Hand, Seat and Leg Aids: The rider's hands, seat, and legs are the primary aids and are used in combination with the schooling aids. The emphasis should always be on refining these aids to enhance the horse's response.

Post-training Reflection

  • Evaluation: Review the effectiveness of the training session, involving schooling aids. Identify which aids prove successful in achieving the training goals and those that may require adjustment.

  • Continuous Learning: Keep abreast of new advancements and techniques in the use of schooling aids. This encouragement of continuous learning will help to optimise training sessions and the horse's development.

Ensuring Ethical Use of Aids

  • Horse Welfare: The horse's welfare should always be at the centre of all training. Schooling aids should never be used to force the horse into unnatural positions or behaviours, or to compensate for poor riding technique.

  • Maintaining Trust: Building a trusting relationship between horse and rider is essential. This trust may be compromised if the horse associates the schooling aids with discomfort or fear.

Maintenance of Schooling Aids

  • Regular Check: Regularly check the condition of the schooling aids to ensure they are still safe to use, fitting correctly and not causing discomfort.

  • Repair and Replacement: Stay vigilant about mending or replacing schooling aids that are worn out, broken, or don't serve their intended purpose effectively.

Course material for Equine Management, module Riding and Exercise, topic Development and application of schooling aids

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