If you own or care for horses, you already know how quickly things can change in the barn or out in the pasture. I became an instructor with Equi-First USA so more horse owners and handlers can feel prepared when the unexpected happens. Over the course of three hours online, I’ll help you build the confidence and know-how you need to keep your horse safe until the vet arrives, and even prevent emergencies before they start.
This class is completely live and runs through Google Meets, so you can join from anywhere. When you register, you’ll receive a printed manual by mail, and we’ll reference it throughout our session. You’ll also have the option to register for the hands-on portion of the class later, so you can put everything you learn into practice with real horses.
What You’ll Learn in the Theory Session
During our three hours together, I cover the basics and some not-so-basic areas of equine health and first aid. From years working with horses, I know that quick, simple actions can make a huge difference for horses facing injuries, sudden symptoms, or accidents. In class, we’ll check out:
- Preparing Your Horse for Treatment: Practical ways to get your horse accustomed to staying calm when you’re administering first aid.
- Vital Signs: How to check heart rate, respiration, gums, and temperature accurately; what the normal numbers should look like, and what to watch out for.
- Lacerations, Punctures, and Burns: Steps for responding to different kinds of wounds and burns, plus knowing when to bring your vet in ASAP.
- Colic and Choke: Common equine emergencies, warning signs to spot early, and safe actions you can take while waiting for help.
- Shock and Casting: What shock looks like in horses and how you can step in right away. Useful ways to help a cast horse get up safely.
- More Scenarios: We’ll tackle topics from eye injuries to nosebleeds, hoof problems, and what to keep stocked in your barn first aid kit.
After this intro class, you’ll feel much more comfortable checking your horse’s vitals, spotting issues early, and handling emergencies. Some previous students have told me they actually look forward to practicing bandaging and reviewing vital signs, because after class it all feels much less intimidating and a lot more doable.
The Printed Manual: Your Go-To Guide
Once registered, you’ll be mailed a manual that covers everything I teach—plus a bit more for extra reference. Lots of students keep this manual handy in the barn so when stress is high, they can flip right to what they need and help their horse calmly and quickly.
Who This Course Is For
This session is designed for anyone who spends time around horses—owners, riders, barn staff, or folks who just want to be ready. There’s no need for a veterinary background, and you never get put on the spot. If you want to give a boost to your care skills and become more confident with horse health, this class is made for you.
- First-time horse owners looking for peace of mind (and hoping to avoid panicked calls to the barn manager).
- Experienced riders who want to brush up and pick up new emergency skills.
- Barn and stable staff interested in knowing exactly what to do while waiting for a vet.
- Parents of young riders aiming to feel ready when trailering or heading to horse shows.
This is a truly practical all-in-one foundation for anyone who wants to stress less and help more with their horses’ health. You’ll leave with a super detailed sense of when to step in, when to get the professionals on the line, and how to keep yourself safe, too.
How the Online Course Works
Live Instruction on Google Meets
We’ll meet using Google Meets for a real-time, interactive class. You’ll be able to see and hear my demonstrations, and you’re encouraged to ask questions throughout. Don’t worry about missing answers because I keep class sizes small to allow for plenty of Q&A.
- The session lasts about three hours, with quick breaks so you can catch up on notes or grab a snack.
- No part of the class is pre-recorded; you get the live, real classroom experience.
- A computer or tablet with a good internet connection is all you need to join in.
Theory Now, Hands-On Later
The online portion focuses first on theory and understanding, so you gain all the knowledge in a step-by-step format. If you want, you’re invited to attend a hands-on class in the future at a local barn (with additional fee to cover supplies), where you’ll get plenty of time to put your new skills to the test with a real horse. This two-part approach lets you cover the theory now and then cement your skills with guided practice later on.
Why This Kind of Training Is Really Important
In my years working with horses and their people, I’ve witnessed countless situations where quick first aid completely changed what happened next for a horse facing trouble. Even just knowing how to stop bleeding or spot early signs of colic can mean a faster, less painful recovery for your horse (and a big reduction in your own stress). It’s always rewarding when students let me know they helped a friend or managed a scary situation because of what they learned in class.
Common Emergencies Become Less Scary
- You’ll spot when something’s off before it turns into a bigger problem.
- You’ll be ready to bandage, check pulses, and keep clear records for your vet.
- During emergencies, you’ll respond calmly and with a plan, instead of panicking.
The boost in barn confidence is real and carries over into all your daily routines as well. More prepared owners and handlers mean happier, healthier horses. Horses definitely pick up on that cool, calm energy, which makes even tough days a bit easier.
Course Cost, Registration, and What You Get
This live, online theory class is only $84.50. Spots are limited and pre-registration is required, so I can mail out your manual on time and make sure you’re ready for class day. When you sign up, here’s what you’ll get:
- A printed manual (sent straight to your home) covering all topics from class, plus extras.
- Three hours of interactive instruction with me on Google Meets.
- Live instruction, opportunities to ask personal questions, and loads of practical examples you can start using as soon as class is done.
Ready to give your horse health expertise a boost? Pre-register with the link below and tell me where to send your manual. If you have questions about the course or want to know what’s included, just ask—I’m happy to break it down and make sure it’s just what you need.
Sign Up for Online Equine Health and First Aid Theory
I can’t wait to meet you in class and share the practical, potentially life-saving knowledge I wish every horse person knew from day one!