Seminar to focus on horse ownership

The theme of a horse management seminar to be hosted by the Rutgers Equine Science Center and the Rutgers Cooperative Extension on Feb. 4 will be “Responsible Horse Ownership in a Tough Economic Climate.”

The seminar will take place from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Rutgers University Cook College campus center in New Brunswick, according to an Equine Science Center press release.

“These past few years have been extremely tough on everyone’s wallet, but horse and equine business owners have been hit especially hard since horses are often considered a luxury,” said Dr. Carey Williams, extension equine specialist and associate director of extension for the Equine Science Center.

“Our goal in presenting this workshop is to provide tools and tips to keep our horses happy and healthy, and our equine businesses successful and profitable, without breaking the bank,” Williams said.

Williams has assembled presenters who are recognized as experts in their field to offer perspectives and personal insight.

Topics and speakers will include “Business Planning for Equestrians” by Dr. Robin Brumfield of Rutgers University, “Marketing and Promotion of Horses and Services” by Dr. William Day of State University of New York- Morrisville, “Reducing Feed Costs by Improving Pastures” by Dr. Carey Williams of Rutgers University, “The Cost of Keeping a Horse” by Dr. Carissa Wickens of the University of Delaware, and “Economical Veterinary Care” by Dr. Michael Fugaro of Centenary College and Mountain Pointe Veterinary.

An open panel with the presenters will complete the day’s conference and give attendees an opportunity to ask any questions they have regarding their horses and businesses.

In addition to the educational presentations, the seminar will feature informational displays, networking opportunities with industry companies and area organizations, and ample time for one-on-one discussions with the day’s presenters.

A complete program, registration information and a seminar brochure are posted on the Equine Science Center website at esc.rutgers.edu.

For more information, contact Laura Gladney at 848-932-3229, or [email protected] or call Dr. Carey Williams at 848-932-5529, or [email protected].

The Equine Science Center is a unit of the New Jersey Agricultural Experiment Station at Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey. For more information about the Equine Science Center, call 848-932-9419 or visit esc.rutgers.edu.