Jan 21, 2010

Media contact: Patty Wellborn
Office: 604-795-2819
patty.wellborn@ufv.ca

New courses at UFV take the guesswork out of horse ownership

It’s January and many people make and then try to keep New Year’s resolutions. For those who have resolved to learn something new, or explore a new hobby, the University of the Fraser Valley is introducing several new options including two focussed on horse ownership.
UFV’s Trades and Technology program coordinator for continuing studies Karen Massier says that the industry has come to UFV asking for help with the constant demand from new horse owners.

“This is all industry-led,” says Massier. “We have the people from the B.C. Horse Council, and the Ministry of Agriculture come to us and ask us for courses because the general public is asking them where they can learn such skills.”

UFV's Introduction to Horse Ownership course will help owners enjoy the time they spend with their horses.

UFV has always offered a wide variety of Continuing Studies options — everything from first aid, motorcycle riding, airbrake training, computer programs, mechanical options, and even animation. Massier says adding a few more courses is part of UFV’s commitment to the communities it serves.

Lisa Laycock from the BC Horse Council says that people are really looking for very basic horse care advice and information. UFV’s new First-time Horse Owner Introduction course and its follow-up Introduction to Horse Ownership now provide that guidance.

“I am really pleased that UFV is presenting courses aimed at new horse owners,” Laycock says. “The courses will provide vital information to those new to the often-confusing world of horse ownership and care.”

UFV’s new equine courses will be taught by Yarrow’s Maureen Walters. Walters is a self-admitted horsey-type who has a long and successful career in several areas of the horse riding and competition world. She not only competes in dressage, but also judges dressage and jumping, is a Level One course conductor/examiner of instructors and Level One and Two coaches for Equine Canada. Laycock says Walters is the perfect choice when it comes to learning about horses.

“Maureen is a highly knowledgeable and well respected instructor who is very actively involved with Horse Council BC and our educational and coaching programs,” she says. “We hope to see continued growth and provide support and guidance to UFV in the expansion of the equine courses.”

UFV’s First-time Horse Owner Introduction course takes place over three sessions beginning Tuesday, February 23. It is designed for people thinking about buying a horse and it covers such basics as where to look for a suitable animal, safe horse-handling, risks and expenses involved with horse ownership, and local groups and organizations that can help.

“This course is ideal for parents who have children who want to ride or even own a horse,” explains Massier. “It gives parents a really good idea of the commitment they need to make and exactly what they might be getting into.”

The Introduction to Horse Ownership course is a more in-depth 13-session program that starts March 9. Students will learn about nutrition, stall and stable maintenance, tack and other equipment, foot care and grooming techniques, and the importance of regular exercise for your horse. Like many UFV programs, it is hands-on; there are 30 classroom hours scheduled and nine hours of practical experience.

Both sessions will be taught at UFV’s Trades and Technology Centre at 5579 Tyson Road, Chilliwack on Tuesday and Thursday evenings. People can register in person, by phone, fax, and by mail. To find out more about the Equine Studies options call 1-888-504-7441, local 5471 or to register, call 1-888-823-8734.

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