VVC's Equine Science courses provide an overview of the equine industry encompassing the role of the equine species throughout history, breed selection and development, nutrition, diseases, preventative health, reproductive management, basic horsemanship, and management practices. Emphasis is placed on the practices, breeds and career opportunities that are appropriate to the California horse industry.
In general Animal Science, students will be instructed in modern nutritional techniques in large animal production and management. Anatomy of large animal digestive systems will be discussed along with feed composition and meeting large animal diet requirements for maximum performance and growth. Students will formulate rations for a variety of livestock. Students will also receive hands-on exposure to the management of large farm animals (livestock), and the experience needed to implement the theory learned in this department's Animal and Equine Science classes. Special emphasis is placed on handling, preventative veterinary care, feeding, facility design, selection, evaluation, judging and preparation for sale. Provides a detailed analysis of various visual and physical methods of appraising beef, sheep, swine, and horses for functional and economic value.