BHS Horse Owner’s Certificate - Level 1

As an Ethical Horse Insurance Company we are always happy to hear that someone has set out to work for a Horse Owner’s Certificate from the British Horse Society, the UK's largest equestrian charity. There are four levels of certificates. Below you will find an overview of what is covered in the Level 1 certificate exam.

First you will need to know about horses in general, including, uses, types and colours and markings. You will need to know about safety when dealing with horses. This includes safety whilst in the yard, field, stable and riding. It will cover checking tack and handling the horse. You will need to know about personal protective equipment. You need to be familiar with substances in common use that require specific care and storage.

Basic stable management will be covered including bedding and advantages and disadvantages of keeping a horse stabled. Grooming and tack cleaning and maintenance will also be things that you need to know. You will have to have a basic understanding of horse health. You will need to know about signs of health, vaccinations and worming. Preventive medicine, TPR and foot care will also be included.

It covers care of tack and you also need to be able to identify the various pieces of tack. You need to know how to clean and reassemble tack. You need to know when it is necessary to call a vet. You have to be able to take a horse’s temperature, respiration rate and pulse. You will also need to know about preventive treatments including worming and vaccinations.

You should be knowledgeable about feeding a horse. You should know the different types of feed, and general rules about feeding a horse as well as basic knowledge of a horse’s digestive system. You should know about the process of buying a horse and what points to look for. You will also need to be familiar with the vetting procedure.

The elementary rules for preparing a horse for riding will be covered. Other items covered will be riding on the roads, riding dress and what you do after you return from riding. This is a general overview of what you will have to be knowledgeable about to get a Level 1 Horse Owner’s Certificate.

Do you have any advice or information for our readers who are thinking of taking these exams or any other training courses? Animal Frineds Equine Insurance would love to hear what you have to say. Please post your comments below if you would like to share your opinions with other members of Animal Friends Horse Community.