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FAQ Q: Are there physical requirements to enter the program? A: You must be 18 years of age but there is no upper age limit. You need not be in excellent physical condition but should be able to bend, lift 25 pounds, walk some distance, etc. If you are unable to walk up a few flights of stairs, for example, you might find the process taxing. Q: How much does the program cost? A: $45 for the certificate program. Q: How many classes will I take to get the certificate? A: There are eight classes which are offered Saturdays from 2-4 pm. You must take all eight classes to receive a certificate stating that you are qualified and competent to handle a horse from the ground. Q: What would I wear to the classes? A: You will need to have hard-toed shoes or boots and may want to buy paddock boots (specifically designed for working around horses) but this isn't required. You will be required to wear a riding helmet whenever you are handling a horse but a helmet will be provided for you unless you decide to get one of your own. Comfortable, stretchy clothes work best, such as stretch jeans, leggings, t-shirts, sweatshirts, etc. Q: Am I required to adopt a horse when I finish the program? A: No, although we hope you will. You will meet many horse owners who might be interested in having you help take care of their horses as an interim step. This is sometimes referred to as a "feed lease". Q: What if I want to adopt a horse but none of the horses in the program is right for me? A: We will assist you in every way we can to locate an appropriate horse. Q: I don't have room at home for a horse. Can I still participate? A: Yes! We strongly encourage graduates to board their horses and not to try keeping them at home, even if they have room. Discussions on this subject are included in the classroom setting. Q: I've heard it's expensive to keep a horse. How much disposable income should I plan for? A: Assuming an average cost of $215 per month to board, regular farrier visits, ordinary vet visits, and some miscellaneous expenses, about $300 a month should suffice. In the event of major medical needs, this number can go up. Owning a horse is not for those on a tight budget but you certainly need not be wealthy. Note: All program participants must sign two waivers, one for Angel Acres and one for CompanionHorse.org. These waivers are required because working around large animals can result in injuries. Your safety and the safety of the horses is of utmost importance to us and will be a focus of all training activities. |
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