Application
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to handle equines safely and trim hooves using appropriate techniques and tools.
The unit applies to individuals who trim equine hooves for shoes and/or natural hooves. They take responsibility for their own work and apply knowledge and practical skills to trim equine hooves as part of the hoof care plan.
Workplace health and safety and animal welfare legislation relevant to interacting with horses applies to workers in this industry. Requirements vary between industry sectors and state/territory jurisdictions. Users are advised to check with the relevant authority for specific requirements.
No licensing or certification requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.
Elements and Performance Criteria
Elements | Performance Criteria |
Elements describe the essential outcomes. | Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element. |
1. Prepare to trim equine hooves | 1.1 Carry out a basic risk assessment of equine behaviour and environmental hazards and take steps to control risks 1.2 Prepare and set up tools and equipment according to workplace requirements 1.3 Identify, fit and use personal protective equipment according to health and safety in the workplace procedures 1.4 Select a safe handling and control method suitable for the individual equine 1.5 Observe and assess equine physique, stance and gait prior to trimming |
2. Assess hoof condition | 2.1 Adopt a safe working position for self and equine balance and comfort 2.2 Lift, hold and clean equine feet to assess hoof condition 2.3 Remove shoes safely using appropriate tools and methods if equine is shod 2.4 Assess gait, balance of hoof and the wear patterns of the shoes and/or hooves to inform future hoof care plan 2.5 Examine the hoof thoroughly checking for damage, abnormalities, pathologies and foreign objects 2.6 Consider workload levels, environment and diet that impact on equine welfare as part of the hoof care plan |
3. Trim equine hooves safely | 3.1 Select appropriate trimming technique for individual equine 3.2 Use appropriate tools and technique to trim fore and hind hooves 3.3 Trim hooves within limits of safe trimming margins, according to hoof care plan and industry standards 3.4 Apply hoof treatment medication or products, according to the hoof care plan or veterinarian instructions 3.5 Recognise conditions that require referral to a registered veterinarian |
4. Carry out post-hoof trimming activities | 4.1 Review finished work against hoof care plan 4.2 Review gait and discuss any changes to initial assessment with equine owner or carer 4.3 Ensure working area is tidy and free of hazards and tools are cleaned and stored safely according to workplace standards 4.4 Finalise business transactions and discuss need for any future visits with client |
Foundation Skills
This section describes those language, literacy, numeracy and employment skills that are essential for performance in this unit of competency but are not explicit in the performance criteria.
Skill | Description |
Oral communication | Use questioning and active listening techniques to participate in conversations with equine owners or carers providing clear and firm advice relating to equine hoof care plan, health and welfare |
Navigate the world of work | Follow industry procedures and codes of practice, including safety and animal welfare requirements, relating to own role and work area Demonstrate duty of care to self and others when interacting with equines |
Get the work done | Plan, organise and sequence tasks, and assemble tools to carry out trimming taking safety and risk factors into consideration Assess equine hoof condition and deal with contingencies relating to trimming equine hooves |
Sectors
Farriery (FAR)