what students are saying
For ages 14 and above.
Caring for livestock in small acreage systems can be an incredibly rewarding experience, but also a new one for those who find themselves owning livestock for the first time.
This short course will guide participants in how to cater for the needs of the different livestock species in small acreage systems. Some of the points that will be included during the session will be handling methods, common husbandry practices, housing and nutrition, as well as preventative health considerations.
Led by experts in the field, this morning will be filled with hands on experience as well as opportunities to ask questions and discuss the needs of our livestock animals.
With a focus on sheep, goats, cattle, alpacas, pigs, the key learning outcomes will be:
- Outline appropriate nutrition and water requirements for different livestock species
- Housing requirements for different livestock species
- Primary health requirements and husbandry practices for the different livestock species
- Strategies for low stress handling methods and handling livestock safely
- Strategies to promote natural behaviours in paddock environments
- Traceability of stock requirements within Victoria
Activities will include:
- Conducting a paddock walk viewing housing and fencing options, space allocations as well as supplementary feeding methods
- Goat handling – how to inspect a hoof
- Handling animals using field of vision and point of balance
- Conducting a health check – conduct a body condition score of sheep, as well as conduct a visual health inspection
Details
You will learn
- Learn appropriate nutrition and water requirements for different species
- Learn about the primary health requirements and husbandry practices for the different species
- Learn how to handle livestock safely – simple handling practices and the traceability requirements for livestock in Victoria
You will get
- certificate of attendance
Appropriate for
Those interested in running a hobby farm or livestock and current hobby farmers looking to increase their knowledge and skill base.
Preparation
What to bring
- Bring a notebook and pen
What to wear
Closed in shoes for admittance into the barn. Weather appropriate clothing for outdoors
Thank you Steph for your review. We are so pleased to hear that you enjoyed the session, and you are all ready to put some of that new knowledge and skills into practice!
All the best with your farmlet adventures!
Warmly,
RSPCA Education Team
Thank you Stuart for your review. It was a pleasure to have you join us for this session and wish you all the very best with your farmlet adventures moving forward!
Warmly,
RSPCA Education Team
Cancellations & Refunds
If the organiser cancels the class:
You are entitled to a full refund.
If you can't attend the class:
- A refund can be requested 7 days before class starts. Free of charge.
- A transfer can be requested 7 days before the class starts. Free of charge.
- A credit note can be requested 7 days before the class starts. Free of charge.
No changes will be allowed after these times.
Terms & Conditions
Face to Face courses
- Program activities are conducted by RSPCA Victoria Education Officers and staff. RSPCA Victoria reserves the right to alter activities or cease programs should staff and participant safety be compromised.
- For safety reasons, participants must wear appropriate clothing and closed-in shoes.
- RSPCA Victoria reserves the right to cancel the class should minimum numbers not be met. A full refund will apply in these circumstances.
Online On Demand Courses
The above does not apply. Please contact education@rspcavic.org.au for assistance.
DISCLAIMER
Participants may be involved in a range of hands-on activities during training. While the RSPCA takes all reasonable precautions to ensure the safety of participants, all participants engage with these activities at their own risk. By enrolling in these programs you acknowledge that you understand this disclaimer and release RSPCA (Victoria) and its employees, agents, volunteers and contractors from any liability whatsoever, to the extent permitted by law.
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