Application
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to monitor the health of and care for pregnant mares, including managing abortions.
The unit applies to individuals who work under broad direction and take responsibility for their own work. They complete routine activities and work in a range of known contexts within horse breeding environments.
No occupational licensing or certification requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.
Work 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.
NOTE: The terms 'occupational health and safety' (OHS) and 'work health and safety' (WHS) generally have the same meaning in the workplace. In jurisdictions where the national model WHS legislation has not been implemented, RTOs must contextualise the unit of competency by referring to current OHS legislative requirements.
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. Monitor and care for pregnant mares | 1.1 Identify hazards and control risks in pregnant mare environment 1.2 Observe and note indicators of mare health, and report daily monitoring 1.3 Modify the nutritional requirements of mares during each trimester of pregnancy 1.4 Provide supplementary feeding and describe the conditions under which it might be required 1.5 Provide a safe and secure environment for pregnant mares 1.6 Vaccinate and worm mares using safe horse handling techniques |
2. Assist with cases of abortion | 2.1 Assist with preventative measures to lower the risk of abortion, including Caslick procedures, quarantine and housing 2.2 Follow stud procedures for cases of abortion and post-abortion care |
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 |
Writing | Enter accurate data and observations for individual pregnant mares in workplace records |
Numeracy | Use basic arithmetic to calculate gestation times and expected birthing dates |
Navigate the world of work | Comply with workplace procedures, including work health and safety, safe horse handling practices, and animal welfare requirements, in own role and work area |
Get the work done | Plan and sequence multiple tasks, monitoring activity and prioritising tasks to achieve outcomes |
Sectors
Horse Breeding (HBR)