Application
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to determine nutritional requirements for racing horses.
The unit applies to individuals who have experience and specialised knowledge and skills in the practical care and management of standardbred or thoroughbred racehorses, and have responsibility for a work activity or area.
All work must be carried out to comply with workplace procedures, in accordance with applicable state/territory animal welfare and workplace health and safety legislative requirements.
Licensing, legislative, regulatory or certification requirements apply to this unit. Users are advised to check with the relevant Principal Racing Authority (PRA) for current 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. Prepare rations for racing horses | 1.1 Apply nutritional principles to the formulation of individual rations 1.2 Confirm rations are appropriate to horse condition, workload and stage of training 1.3 Formulate basic rations for individual horses according to nutritional requirements |
2. Assess range of feed, additives and supplements for horses | 2.1 Select feed on the basis of quality, type and nutritional energy and economic value for a particular animal 2.2 Assess supplements and feed additives on the basis of active ingredients and nutritional needs for specific horses 2.3 Check selected supplements and feed additives for industry regulation, rules of racing and animal welfare compliance |
3. Monitor stable feeding practices | 3.1 Monitor changes in horse condition and/or behaviour related to feed and supplements 3.2 Adjust feed requirements to maintain optimal health and desired outcomes according to feeding plan 3.3 Maintain and monitor stable feed records and prepare feed order according to workplace policies and procedures |
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 |
Reading | Interpret nutritional information about feed, supplements and additives from a range of sources Locate and interpret key information in feed orders and supplies |
Numeracy | Interpret weights and measurements accurately on scales and measuring equipment Calculate weight, volume and ratios relating to feed, additives and supplements for a range of horses Calculate quantities of feed required for stock order |
Navigate the world of work | Follow workplace procedures, including safety and animal welfare requirements, and meet expectations relating to own role and area of responsibility |
Get the work done | Plan and coordinate feed activities and resources to optimise health and nutrition of horses in work area and care Make decisions and resolve problems related to horse nutritional needs and rations |
Sectors
Performance services horse (PSH)