Opportunities for Experiential Learning in Equine Studies

Fourteen equine studies students and faculty from Centenary College attended The Horse 2007, a two-day seminar held at Rutgers University that presented material regarding nutrition, behavior, veterinary medicine/surgery, economics, lameness, and new diagnostic modalities to novice horse owners and experienced professionals.

These students, along with over 300 attendees, heard lectures from veterinarians, scientists, extension agents, and the New Jersey Secretary of Agriculture regarding the latest innovations in the horse industry and medicine.  In addition, the staff at Rutgers University provided a live high-speed treadmill demonstration with one of their research horses.

Thirty-four students and staff of Centenary College were guests at Meadowlands Racetrack in East Rutherford, NJ.  The trip provided a glimpse of the equine harness racing industry.

Dr. Barbara Green, the State Veterinarian with the New Jersey Racing Commission, provided a behind the scenes tour of the back paddock, detention barn, and testing facility associated with the race track.  The students greater insight into the regulatory aspect of the horse racing industry in New Jersey.

While a night of racing was anticipated, a power outage cancelled races prematurely including one race dedicated in the name of Centenary College. In the end, all attendants enjoyed the educational experience of Standardbred racing.