Description

The Equine Welfare course explores controversial and sensitive issues surrounding the use of horses. It will enable all those with an interest in horses to gain an awareness of the specific human uses of horses and the welfare problems and abuses that can sometimes occur as a result. Students will study reliable scientific research and evidence-based information to support an informed debate. The course will draw on the expertise of leaders in equine health and welfare science introducing concepts and definitions of animal welfare. Students will discuss how to recognize negative emotional states, how welfare can be objectively assessed in the horse, and specific practices which may compromise horse welfare.

Equine Welfare is intended to stimulate thought and discussion in the equine industry. At the end of the course you will be able to articulate your personal philosophy and position on maintaining the spirit and wellness of the horse.

This course is entirely online and no travel to the University of Guelph is required.

This course is a core (required) course in the Equine Welfare Certificate This is a new certificate offered by Campbell Centre for the Study of Animal Welfare and Equine Guelph.

The Equine Welfare Certificate core courses include:

• Equine Welfare
• Advanced Equine Behaviour
• Advanced Equine Health through Nutrition or Equine Nutrition
• Global Perspectives in Animal and Equine Welfare

• Health & Disease Prevention
• The Equine Industry
• Equine Nutrition or Advanced Equine Health through Nutrition
• Advanced Equine Anatomy

Designed For

Students who have a desire to improve their own understanding and raise awareness of horse welfare including housing, management practices and procedures that can affect horse welfare. Students backgrounds will include: Animal protection workers, rescue facility operators, by-law enforcement and police officers, equine associations, animal welfare organizations and government regulatory agencies.

Objectives

• Learn the history and schools of thought on animal welfare
• Describe the various scientific approaches to defining and assessing equine welfare
• Learn how equine welfare is measured from animal-based and environmental-based perspectives
• Be able to make objective and evidence based judgements on horse welfare

Assessment Method

Course Topics

• Equine Welfare and ethics
• Human-equine interaction
• Health, disease, nutrition, behaviour and the quality of life
• Alternative therapies and animal welfare
• Human uses and abuses - welfare issues in different industries

Course Prerequisites

This course is part of the Equine Welfare Certificate. Students are required to have completed Management of the Equine Environment, and Equine Behaviour. University or College level courses successfully completed at another institution will be considered.

Completion of Grade 12 or equivalent OR at least 18 years of age.

Required Materials Provided:

• Course Reader and Materials