Application
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to make arrangements for natural mating based on reproductive histories and observations of reproductive behaviour in horses.
The unit applies to individuals who use specialised knowledge and skills, have responsibility for a work activity, area or team, and provide and communicate solutions for a range of predictable and sometimes unpredictable problems in the horse breeding sector.
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. Make arrangements for natural mating | 1.1 Check breeding records for stallion and mare reproductive histories 1.2 Select breeding stallions and mares for natural mating based on breeding history and other workplace records 1.3 Bring animals into optimal breeding condition by providing and adjusting nutrition and exercise 1.4 Assess breeding health of stallions and mares and take action to maximise fertility and breeding performance 1.5 Prepare facilities and equipment for natural mating |
2. Monitor reproductive behaviour in stallions and mares | 2.1 Observe stallion behaviour for signs of reproductive activity and make arrangements for collecting semen according to workplace procedures 2.2 Collect and analyse semen to assess fertility, and store to maintain viability 2.3 Observe mare behaviour for signs of reproductive activity and determine timing for natural mating 2.4 Manipulate oestrus to meet breeding program and other requirements |
3. Complete records | 3.1 Maintain workplace records according to workplace requirements 3.2 Ensure rules of breed registries and equine disciplines are adhered to |
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 | Select and collate relevant information from individual horse records to determine breeding options |
Numeracy | Calculate dates and timing of reproductive activity to determine booking and administrative arrangements |
Navigate the world of work | Follow regulatory and workplace procedures, including work health and safety, safe horse handling and animal welfare requirements, associated with own role and natural mating program |
Get the work done | Plan and sequence tasks, including monitoring activity and prioritising tasks to coordinate natural mating program Make decisions about routine activities, taking responsibility for actions taken |
Sectors
Horse Breeding (HBR)