The New Hampshire 4-H Horse Project in conjunction with the University of New Hampshire's Extension Program is an amazing project that focuses on learning about and working with horses.
Learning life and horse skills in 4-H project
4-H Horse members have the opportunity to learn about riding, driving, showing in hand, gymkhana, management, nutrition, equine science, safety and careers in the horse project.
The 4-H Horse Project can provide youth with the opportunity to learn riding, driving, showing in hand, gymkhana, management, science, nutrition, safety and careers in the horse project.
Members gain skills in basic horse care and may attain in-depth knowledge required in some horse events or disciplines.
Participants don’t have to have their own horse to participate in the New Hampshire 4-H Horse Project. They can lease an animal and/or participate in a variety of the activities and events that the New Hampshire 4-H Horse Project has to offer.
Horse Project fact sheet:
4-H Horse members have the opportunity to learn about riding, driving, showing in hand, gymkhana, management, nutrition, equine science, safety and careers in the horse project.
Members gain skills in basic horse care and may attain in-depth knowledge required in some horse events or disciplines. Horse ownership is not required; there is the lease option and there are knowledge events that do not require horse ownership.
County and state events allow the member to do demonstrations, public speaking, action exhibits, quiz bowls, judging, hippology, fair programs and more.
At 4-H horse shows, classes for horses usually include: Fitting & Showmanship, Equitation and a variety of performance classes that may be mounted, driving, or in hand.
Required Participant Age: 8-18 as of January 1 of the current year (12 to 18 for State, 14 to 18 for Regional and National Events)
Required Animal Age: All types of equines are suitable for this project. Horse must be over two years of age to be shown in under saddle classes. No stallions over one year of age or mares with foals are allowed at shows.
Animal Vaccinations: Rabies is required for equines participating at any 4-H event. Horses stabled outside of NH must have a negative Coggins test (AGID) to enter the state. Follow veterinarian recommendations for other vaccinations.
Commonly prescribed are: Tetanus, Eastern-Western Encephalitis with Tetanus (EWT), West Nile Virus. Optional vaccinations depending upon what you do and where you travel with your horse may include: Influenza and Rhino, Potomac Horse Fever, Strangles.
Animal Identification: No permanent ID required. Photo, freeze brand, tattoo or microchip can be used.
Click on the links below for more information.
Click on the How to Get Started in a 4-H Horse Project for more basic information. See if others in your county are participating in the Horse Project Area