Hoof Care And Equine Massage Seminars Offered At Post

WATERBURY — Post University’s Equine Department is offering Concepts in Equine Massage, and Introduction to Hoof Care during weekend seminars in June and July. Each course will run for 16 hours over two consecutive Saturdays. 

These seminars follow the same outline as courses offered within the Equine Business Management curriculum, but are being offered for the first time in a summer seminar format for the general public.

Concepts In Equine Massage will prepare the student to do a simple but effective equine sports massage. The material will include how and why massage therapy works, covering rudimentary equine anatomy, physiology, and kinesiology. Students will learn how to do basic massage strokes from effleurage to trigger points and stretch work, with plenty of hands-on experience, taught by equine massage professional and Post University Adjunct Faculty Nanci Worthington. Concepts in Equine Massage will be held on June 19 and 26.

Introduction To Hoof Care introduces the form, function, care, and maintenance of the equine hoof. Abby Bloxsom, farrier and Director of the Equine Program at Post University, will discuss the basic anatomy of the hoof and lower leg, and survey common trimming theories, and techniques to produce an understanding of the role of sound, functional hooves in gaits and performance. She will cover the effects of shoes, appliances, health, and nutrition on hoof form and function, and explain the tools and tasks of the professional farrier’s trade. Introduction To Hoof Care will be held July 17 and 24.

The Summer Saturday Seminar series is organized by the Post University Equine Department to provide topical and up-to-date information on subjects related to the ownership, care, and training of horses.

Cost of each seminar is $350 (financial assistance is available), and registration information is available from the Post University Equine Office at 203-596-4645 or by email at ABloxsom@post.edu.