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How do I know if this program is for me?
Read over the website carefully. This program is based on a "whole horse" approach. It is important that you understand this philosophy and are willing to embrace it, or you will not succeed in this program. If you are looking for a one dimensional program that teaches only one aspect of horse care or management, this program is not for you. If you are unsure, you may take one or more online classes before you enroll. They will give you a good idea of what the program will entail.
Why isn't this offered at one place at one time?
Just as any Associate Degree type program is essentially a two year program, this requires a serious amount of time and study to cover the materials, learn to apply them and then practice and master the skills in the field. This format allows students from anywhere to go through the program without having to live in one particular area. It also allows students to proceed at their own pace and comfort level, while continuing to work or fulfilling other commitments.
It is also not realistic for students who do not have prior experience to go through the courses and practicums in a limited time frame. There is no "one size fits all" in this discipline. Mastery of these skills is gained through repetition, exposure to different situations and issues in the field, and building a working knowledge base through experience. Exposure to different biomes and the issues they present is also a key factor in the training program.
How does this compare to other programs?
There are many differences in philosophies, curriculum, depth and comprehensive nature, structure, scheduling and standards etc. in the various programs in the field of Equine Sciences and Natural Horse and Hoof Care. It is your responsibility to research any that interest you and weigh all the factors. It is not our place to judge or evaluate others, and we can only speak with authority on the merits and details of our own program.
Why do I need to go through the first year of study and learn about teeth, nutrition, chiropractic and all the other subjects if all I want to do is learn to trim?
You can certainly find programs or individuals that will teach you to trim and only to trim. However, the majority of hoof issues have their origin somewhere other than the hoof. If you are trimming a horse that is lame due to dietary issues that cause laminitis, there is nothing you can do to his feet that will provide healing and long term soundness unless the diet is also addressed. If you are unaware of diet and its implications, you will continue to try and find the answer in the foot and will fail. Eventually, the owner will probably go to another hoof care professional because you are not helping their horse.
This is true of any discipline. For example, if you want to learn Equine Massage, and don’t have a good understanding of the whole horse, you will face the same problems. The best massage will not help a horse whose back issues are caused by improper movement due to painful laminitic feet. The back is not the issue, and will not get better until the feet are addressed. Once the feet are fixed, then the massage therapist can do his/her work to help the back muscles.
If you have the knowledge and experience of being able to recognize the potential sources of equine issues outside your discipline, and can suggest the proper resources to help address them, you become invaluable to your clients, and make your own job that much easier and more successful as you are not continually fighting symptoms in the feet that originate elsewhere. You also enjoy the satisfaction of really helping horses that may otherwise have to live with pain and discomfort.
What credentials will I have?
We want to make clear that this program does NOT certify anyone in any of the individual disciplines covered in the first year of study. After successfully completing the first year you will have a broad understanding and working knowledge of how all key parts of the horse and his environment affect each other and work together, and how they relate to your job as a hoof care professional.
After successful completion of your intern year you will be certified as an ESA Certified Hoof Care Practitioner (CHCP) For certification in other disciplines, you will need to go to a school that specializes in that subject, i.e. dentistry, massage etc.
Why do I need to go to different instructors?
Every individual, whether it be an instructor, advisor, student etc. has something different to offer. Going to different people and biomes will give you a broad range of insights, perspectives and experience to draw from. Learning everything from a single source can lead to a narrow, and sometimes skewed perspective.
Why do you require a class in Critical Thinking?
This may be the most important class we offer. Given the enormous number of variables in any scenario, the differing and sometimes opposing views on care and management, the fact that every horse is different and that all factors are inter-related, you will need to be able to evaluate and distill the information available in a clear, rational and critical way in order to properly address the situation.
Many of us are unaware of flaws in our thinking processes as they are habits we have developed throughout our lives. This course will teach you to re-evaluate and improve or maybe begin your critical thinking skills. These will assist you, not only in this program, but in every aspect of your life.
Why do you present and discuss differing and sometimes opposing views and practices?
The Academy believes that healthy and positive discourse about these differences is important, and that exposure to the various approaches and schools of thought is crucial. The more information you have, the better able you will be to sharpen and utilize your critical thinking skills to evaluate and distill what is a sound, logical approach to a given situation. Often learning what doesn't work and why leads to insight as to what will work. It also gives you a solid foundation for discussion when you are confronted with opposing views in the field.
What if I just want to take some classes?
You can take any online course without enrolling in the program. Go to the Audit page and select and the courses you would like to take. You will not be tested or receive credit for an Audit. If you enroll at a later date, you may ACE (Academy Course Exemption) the class by taking the exam. A passing grade will earn you credit for the course. Do not submit an application if you are only taking online courses. Applications are only required for those who wish to complete the entire course and receive certification.
What if I have experience in some of the subject matter?
You may ACE (Academy Course Exemption) any class by taking the exam. A passing grade will earn you credit for the course without taking the class. This if for enrolled students only. Auditors are not permitted to take exams.
Do I need experience with horses?
We recommend at least two years of some sort of experience with horses, be it taking lessons, owning a horse, working at a barn etc. It is not required, but the program will be much more difficult for you if you have no background at all. You may want to gain some exposure before enrolling in the program. Applicants with experience may have a better chance for acceptance if space is limited.
How long does it take to complete the program?
As outlined in the curriculum, you can go at your own pace. If you are experienced, you may challenge any online course by taking the exam. You must fulfill all prerequisites for any course, practicum or workshop, but are otherwise free to go as fast or slowly as you like. Remember if you are not experienced, part of the learning process is practicing what you have learned in the field. You will need to become proficient in all the required skills in order to progress. For some this will take more time than for others.
What happens if I fail a class?
You may retake any final exam. (There are no retakes on quizzes) There is a fee for a retake. You may or may not get the same exam.
What if I don't have access to a computer, or don't know how to use one?
This course requires computer and internet access and a basic working knowledge of their use - no exceptions. If you don't have a computer, most libraries have them or many retail outlets have them available for use. There are also many resources available to help you learn the basics - books, friends, classes etc.
What physical shape do I need to be in?
This is a physically demanding program. The purpose of this program is to train individuals to become professionals in the industry. You will need to be able to perform all the skills in a reasonable amount of time.
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