This unit applies to assessing conformation, temperament and soundness of horses and is an important skill in making sure an animal is fit fir purpose and in determining sale value. The work in this standard is likely to be carried out as part of a team or independently.

ELEMENT

PERFORMANCE CRITERIA

1. Objectively assess a horse's conformation

1.1. Conformation of horse is reported on using standard conformation terminology.

1.2. Desirable conformation of a horse is reported on using standard conformation terminology.

1.3. Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) hazards are continually identified while handling horses, risks assessed and suitable controls implemented.

2. Assess unsoundness and blemishes in the horse

2.1. Unsoundness and blemishes of the fore limbs are identified and reported.

2.2. Unsoundness of the hind limbs are identified and reported.

2.3. Unsoundness and blemishes of the hooves are identified and reported.

2.4. General unsoundness and blemishes are identified and reported.

3. Report on the way of going of horses

3.1. Essential elements of the way of going of the horse are identified and reported on.

3.2. Natural gaits of the horse are identified and reported on.

3.3. Defects in the way of the going of the horse are identified and reported on.

4. Report on the undesirable vices and habits of horses

4.1. Vices dangerous to people are identified and reported on.

4.2. Vices dangerous to horses are identified and reported on.

Required skills

identify hazards and work safely with horses

identify horse conformation, soundness and temperament

defer to veterinary advice if necessary

use literacy skills to read, interpret and follow organisational policies and procedures, follow sequenced written instructions, record accurately and legible information collected and select and apply procedures for a range of tasks

use oral communication skills/language competence to fulfil the job role as specified by the organisation, including questioning techniques, active listening, clarifying information and consulting with supervisors as required

use numeracy skills to estimate, calculate and record routine workplace measures

use interpersonal skills to work with and relate to people from a range of cultural, social and religious backgrounds and with a range of physical and mental abilities.

Required knowledge

relevant occupational health and safety legislation, regulations and codes of practice

recognise and report on desirable and undesirable conformation using accepted conformation terminology

recognise and report on common vices in horses

safe horse handling techniques

recognise and report on desirable and undesirable natural gaits.

The evidence guide provides advice on assessment and must be read in conjunction with the performance criteria, required skills and knowledge, range statement and the Assessment Guidelines for the Training Package.

Overview of assessment

Critical aspects for assessment and evidence required to demonstrate competency in this unit

The evidence required to demonstrate competency in this unit must be relevant to workplace operations and satisfy holistically all of the requirements of the performance criteria and required skills and knowledge and include achievement of the following:

handle horses safely

identify horse conformation

assess soundness and temperament of horses

maintain accurate data documentation.

Context of and specific resources for assessment

Competency requires the application of work practices under work conditions. Selection and use of resources for some worksites may differ due to the regional or enterprise circumstances.

The range statement relates to the unit of competency as a whole.

Horses assessed may include:

any breed being ridden for the purpose of stock work.

Unit sector

Horse breeding

This unit contains employability skills.