Okanagan School of Natural Hoof Care
Frequently asked questions about our courses
Does the online course expire or is there a deadline to complete it?
None of our online courses expire, and you will have access forever. They are also entirely self paced you can you can work through the content on your own schedule, however, It is required that the online pre-requisite material be completed prior to attending a hands on course.
If I purchase the online course and later decide to do the hands on course, can the value of the online course be deducted from the hands on course?
Yes. There is a promo code at the end of the online course to deduct it's cost from the hands on course cost as it is included as a prerequisite.
Do your courses come with a certificate/certification?
Our online courses do offer a certification of completion. Our hands on courses offer a certificate of completion to students that demonstrate a basic knowledge and understanding of the course content upon completion of the course.
Do I need previous trimming experience to do a hands on course?
No. Our courses are tailored to suit a variety of skill levels, from beginner to advanced. Beginners will work on fundamental concepts, while more advanced students can work on expanding their skills with more complex cases or techniques. Please note that horse experience is a must for any hands on trimming courses. If you are new to horses, please make sure you are comfortable leading, handling, cleaning out hooves and overall comfortable around horses before attending a course.
Is the hands on course enough education for me to start a trimming business?
Yes and no. While our hands on courses do offer the education to start you on your trimming journey, if you are new to trimming you will require practice and time to hone your skillset and get proficient in adapting the trim to each specific horse and scenario. However, if you have been trimming already and take the course to refine your skills and gain more knowledge then you may be ready to branch out into business afterwards. We would highly recommend our Apprenticeship Program for anyone interested in starting a business. If apprenticeship is not an option, engaging in our Virtual Facebook Classroom to document case studies and make sure you are on the right track.
Is the hands on course refundable if I change my mind or cannot attend?
No, your course fees are non-refundable, but are transferable to future course dates or in extenuating circumstances to another individual. Because our courses sell out early, and filling spaces at the last minute can be difficult due to travel arrangements, in person course/clinic/workshop fees are non-refundable but are transferable to future course dates if notice to do so is given 30 days before the course start date. In the event of a course price increase, previously paid fees will be applied to the new course price that the student registers for.
Online courses offer a satisfaction guarantee, if you are not satisfied with the content please contact us for a refund.
Do I need to bring tools for the hands on courses?
No, all of the tools you need will be supplied for the course, but if you have your own tools you are welcome to bring them. If you are interested, we have all of the required tools available for purchase in our store or while here. Note: If you are flying in to attend and not checking luggage under the plane, we can ship your tool kit home to you for an additional fee as it cannot be carried on and must be checked.
Can I make payments for the hands on course instead of paying all up front to secure my spot?
Yes. Payment plans are offered on an individual basis. Please contact us to arrange a payment plan. Note that the prerequisite material will not be released until the first payment has been made, and that the full course balance must be paid in full before the course start date. Payments are transferable to future course dates if space is available and if notice to do so is given 30 days before the course start date. In the event of a course price increase for the new course dates, previously paid fees will be applied to the new course price that the student registers for. If payments are not completed before the start date and notice to move to a new course date is not received 30 days prior to the course start date, all previously completed payments are non-refundable and your spot will be forfeited.
Do you offer onsite camping or accommodations?
We no longer offer onsite camping or accommodations.
Where is the best place to stay during my course?
The closest hotels are the 4 Points Sheraton near the Kelowna Airport or the Hampton Inn Kelowna Airport, for something a little more economical in price but a little bit farther away the Super 8, or the Lake Country Inn in nearby Lake Country have been a good fit for past students. There is also an Airbnb just a 5 minute drive up the road from us that past students have enjoyed, you can view it here. Our street address is 5981 Old Vernon Rd, Kelowna BC V1X 7V2. If you need assistance finding accommodations please contact us.
Do I have to bring my own horse to a course? Can I bring my own horse?
You are not required to bring your own horse, we have multiple school horses to work on and many horses trailered in for the students to work on during the course.
Overnight paddocks are available. Students are responsible for bringing their own hay and cleaning paddocks daily. Hay can be purchased at a rate of $20 per bale. Overnight stall board is also available.
Paddock/stall space must be reserved prior to your arrival as limited spaces are available. Please contact us after your course registration to book a paddock or stall.
Our facility includes a 60ft round pen and large outdoor arena that you are welcome to use during your stay. Horses must be of good temperament and health. As we have a lot of horses coming and going from our barn on a regular basis it is highly recommended to make sure your horse is up to date with their vaccinations prior to attending.
Still have questions? contact us.
