Working with horses

Equine Podiatry - Becoming an Equine Podiatrist

What is  Equine Podiatry?

Equine podiatry is the study and management of the equine foot based on its anatomy and function. ^Wiki

The job title "Equine Podiatrist" is used by people with a wide range of backgrounds. Some are veterinarians who have chosen to specialize in the equine hoof, while some are remedial farriers. There is also a new group of specialists known as "Applied Equine Podiatrists", with neither a veterinary nor farriery background, who work with horse owners to improve the health of the equine hoof without the use of shoeing and by taking a more holistic approach. ^Wiki

The equine podiatrist profession can extend to include other equines  , such as donkeys and mules.

An equine podiatrist is a highly trained specialists in shoeless hoof care. A fully qualified Equine Podiatrist will have studied the anatomy and science of the equine foot and will understands how it works and how to influence its development by use of  trim and environment.

You can find an article describing what an EP does and what to expect from a typical visit here.

How to become an Equine Podiatrist

The Equine Podiatry Association is a professional body professional body for Equine Podiatrists practicing in the UK it  offers EP training,  a Diploma in Equine Podiatry, provided by a separate company, Equine Podiatry Training Ltd.

The Diploma in Equine Podiatry is a two year, part time course which consists of 13 modules.  Most modules require attendance on a short course, followed by guided self study and homework. The training covers:

Basic Business Skills

Introduction to Equine Podiatry

Anatomy and Physiology 1

Nutrition and Environment

Stage 1 Exam

Basic Trimming 1

Horse Behaviour and Handling

Trimming 2

Stage 2 Exam

Laminitis

Pathology

Farriery

Anatomy & Physiology 2

First Aid

Case Studies

Shadowing

Final exam

There are only 10 places a year and students should be 18 or over with some experience of working with / handling horses and due to the academic level of the coursework, students are expected to be educated to A Level standard or equivalent.

Full details can be found at Equine Podiatry Training Ltd

Cost of becoming an Equine Podiatrist

At the time of writing The Diploma in Equine Podiatry coats £4,800 + Mentoring fees of £1000, and Shadowing fees of £200. In addition students will have to pay travel to and from courses plus accommodation and meals.Books, tools, equipment and suitable (safety) clothing will also be required.

 Image: Belinda Hankins Miller via Wikipedia

Working with horses - how to get qualified - What is Distance Learning?

"Distance education or distance learning is a mode of delivering education and teaching, often on an individual basis, to students who are not physically present in a traditional setting such as a classroom. Distance learning provides "access to learning when the source of information and the learners are separated by time and distance, or both." Wikipedia

Distance learning is the name given to a structured learning plan where the student studies course material away from a college or university, usually at home. This form of study is also known as 'Home Study Courses', 'Correspondence Courses' and 'Open Learning.'