The first course is booked out however, drop October into your diary.<\/p>\n
A short course for hobby farmers is being run by RSPCA Victoria and is proving popular.<\/p>\n
RSPCA Victoria Education and Training Manager Belinda Marchbank said the course is a new offering, first-ever for RSPCA, explaining that while caring for livestock can be an incredibly rewarding experience, there\u2019s plenty to learn for those who find themselves doing it for the first time.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe \u2018We bought a farmlet\u2019 short course will focus on sheep, goats, cattle, alpacas and pigs, with participants provided opportunity for practical hands-on learning thanks to RSPCA\u2019s education animals and experts in the field,\u201d Ms Marchbank said.<\/p>\n
\u201cAs with caring for our companion animals like cats and dogs, animal welfare and health should be top of mind for any budding hobby farmer.\u201d<\/p>\n
Anyone who currently owns a farmlet or is interested in hobby farming is encouraged to sign up to improve their knowledge. With many people opting for a tree change post-pandemic, this fun and engaging course comes at the perfect time.<\/p>\n
\u201cThis short course will guide participants in how to cater for the different needs of livestock species, including handling methods, common husbandry practices, housing and nutrition, as well as preventative health considerations.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe new course, to be held from 9am-12pm on Saturday 15th October at RSPCA Burwood East, will provide an introduction to owning and caring for livestock in small acreage systems to optimise animal health and wellbeing. The course will also cover how to conduct management and husbandry practices in a safe manner for both animals and people, promoting responsible livestock ownership and stewardship,\u201d<\/p>\n
Ms Marchbank said.<\/p>\n
Some practical activities in the course include:<\/strong><\/p>\n