On April 3, 2010, the Kentucky Horse Council (KHC) is conducting a full-day hands-on training for horse interested adults and new horse owners. The first of a two-part series, Horse Handling Basics combines classroom instruction with hands-on activities to teach safe handling skills to those who are new to horses, or just interested in learning more about horses.

The session begins with information about horse behavior and safety. Participants progress throughout the day with each topic building upon the knowledge and skills learned earlier. By the completion of the workshop all attendees will have learned basic anatomy, equine behavior, and safety. All will have the opportunity to approach and handle horses and learn to halter, lead, and groom.

"Horse Handling Basics provides a foundation for additional activities involving horses, which may eventually include riding and/or ownership. The skills taught in this training are used by horse owners every day," commented KHC Board President Madelyn Millard. "Our goal is to encourage new and potential horse owners to recognize available resources and work with professionals, especially when acquiring a first horse."

Instruction is provided by Essie Rogers, KHC Director of Education, a certified riding instructor through the Certified Horsemanship Association. In 2009, Rogers was instrumental in creating the award-winning new horse owner DVD, HorseSmarts: Essential Advice for Today's Horse Owner.

Cost for the training is $35 and includes lunch. Horse Handling Basics will be offered at the Kentucky Equine Humane Center in Nicholasville, KY, on Saturday, April 3, 2010, from 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Pre-registration is required.

For more information about the Kentucky Horse Council or to register for the workshop, visit www.kentuckyhorse.org/new_owner or email [email protected] or call (859) 367-0509.