Tips for the HB/HA
The HB is
designed to be a very straightforward, book knowledge test. Most the
sections have page numbers given on the standard! That said, the most
difficult sections of the test are generally the ones that require application
of knowledge—for example, analyzing the conformation of a strange horse,
applying conditioning principals to the design of a conditioning schedule,
and teaching.
The HA is
much more about the application of knowledge. Book learning is necessary
but not sufficient—you must also “own” the knowledge by having thought
through and applied it in your own stable.
It is expected that candidates are up-to-date with their knowledge.
The PC manual was last updated almost 10 years ago, and many things, especially
in the veterinary section, have changed significantly since them. Good
resources for up to date information:
-Equus
magazine, written for a popular audience but with lots of good, current
info.
-The
Horse Magazine and website, www.thehorse.com.
Slightly more technical, but a great way to keep up to date veterinary
findings.
-Your
vet and farrier, as well as any local equine hospitals, are usually
thrilled to have interested PCers who want to learn about things on a more
advanced level. UC Davis, for example, has a complete equine skeleton on
display, as well as freeze-dried legs, etc.
A few
areas where things have changed hugely in the past few years that will
require careful study:
1.
Parasite
control. Fecal egg counting is becoming more and more accepted as the
standard. There are also new parasites becoming prevalent (tapeworms) and
new drugs to combat them (Praziquantal, found in Zimectrin Gold and Quest
Gold)
2.
Lamenesses
and treatment. MRIs and CT have revolutionized diagnosis of what used to be
lumped under “navicular syndrome”. There are many new options for arthritic
injuries (joint injections—both steroid and HA, Adequan/Legend, oral
supplements like cosequin, new osteoporosis drugs like Tildren) and soft tissue
injuries (stem cells, IRAP, shock wave).
3.
Diseases.
New ones have become prevalent (West Nile) or become defined (metabolic
syndrome, insulin resistance, ulcers), new information about causes, etc is
coming to light (azoturia, laminitis).
4.
Managing
competition horses. Studies done in conjunction with Olympic Games in hot
climates have completely changed the management of horses after strenuous
exercise.
Best
of Luck for a great testing season!
