Equine, Pets & Wildlife   

Horses are a common site in Ocala throughout the year. Learn about the types of horses, how they have served people throughout the generations, and common equine activities that happen locally.

Join the UF/IFAS Extension Marion County Ag & Natural Resource Agent to learn about wildlife, pest management, natural resources, and agriculture in Marion County.  

A thoroughbred’s life is different from other horse breeds in that it’s controlled and monitored starting at birth and leading up to the race track.  This course covers the naming and registering of a foal, the breaking and early training, the rest period, extended intense training, the starting gate training, and then the race debut.

Welcome to our beginner canine behavior and training course where you’ll learn the fundamentals of why dogs do what they do and how understanding canine behavior helps identify the root causes of common challenges. Using positive, reward-based training methods that truly work, you’ll gain the tools and confidence to guide your dog toward better manners and lifelong success. This hands-on class is designed to be fun for both you and your dog. Please bring your dog to each session on a 6-foot leash with a basic collar or harness, along with plenty of small training treats.
Please note: For dogs 16 weeks and up. This class is not designed for aggression-related issues. Aggressive dogs are not permitted to attend. Please make sure your pet's vaccines are up-to-date prior to attending.

Join us to learn about local agriculture in Marion County. We will discuss the impact local farmers have on our food availability, as well as alternative enterprises such as beekeeping, sod production, and tree farming in the area.

Join the UF/IFAS Extension Marion County Ag & Natural Resource Agent to learn about wildlife, natural resources, and agriculture in Marion County. 

North Central Florida offers great opportunities for both experienced and novice birders.  Whether you are interested in beginning a birding hobby, new to our area or simply want to brush up your birding skills with like-minded neighbors, this may be for you.  We'll explore our common and a few uncommon species as well as where and when to search.

Curious about how the Thoroughbred industry actually works? This session breaks down the full strategic process behind breeding, developing, and selling a Thoroughbred-from stallion selection and foaling evaluation to sale placement and final bid. We will explore how professionals analyze pedigrees, assess conformation and development, determine purchasing seasons, optimize breeder award eligibility, and appraise value at every stage of growth. Attendees will gain a clear understanding of how decisions are made regarding weanling, mixed, yearling, two-year-old in training, digital, and horses of racing age markets and what timelines must be initiated once a sale target is selected.

Whether you are simply interested in the industry, considering ownership, or exploring how to become involved professionally, this course provides an organized roadmap to understanding how breeding strategy, development planning, and market timing work together to drive value in the Thoroughbred marketplace.

Candace Shelton, representing the Ocala/Marion County Visitors and Convention Bureau, highlights how premier venues like the World Equestrian Center, Florida Horse Park, and Southeastern Livestock Pavilion solidify the region’s identity as the "Horse Capital of the World®." She illustrates how the synergy between historic Thoroughbred roots and modern equine tourism drives massive economic growth and international visitation. By leveraging these diverse assets, the county sustains a year-round competitive landscape that bolsters the regional economy and supports local job creation.

Join us for an enlightening lecture exploring the fascinating digestive anatomy of the horse, designed to give participants a clear understanding of how horses process their food. Learn how different types of horses require different feeding strategies, and discover how body condition scoring helps guide feeding decisions. This engaging session brings the Horse Capital of the World® experience to life, offering insights into equine health, nutrition, and care through discussion and expert explanation.

Do you have holes in your landscape? Join us to learn about common burrowing animals and rodents in Central Florida.  We will talk about their habits, lifecycle, potential pest issues, and control or removal options. We will also discuss resources available to help with proper identification.

Join the UF/IFAS Extension Marion County Ag & Natural Resource Agent to learn about wildlife, natural resources, and agriculture in Marion County. 

There are few species whose destinies have been more intertwined with humans as the horse. This class shall discuss the role of the horse in the development of ancient civilizations, highlighting the essential role they have played in our cultural and social development.

From their early domestication on the steppes of Eurasia to the cheering crowds at the races in the Circus Maximus and Hippodrome, we shall explore the fascinating and at times surprising impact the horse had on the ancient development of western civilization.

This course focuses on addressing common and more complex dog training and behavior challenges while continuing to build on the foundations introduced in PET118. Using positive, reward-based techniques, we will refine your dog’s manners and introduce new commands designed to improve focus, responsiveness, and everyday behavior.

Training topics include Recall (Come), Wait, Down, Off, Sit, Leave It, Place, attention work, and discussion of individual behavior concerns as appropriate. This class is ideal for dogs ready to move beyond the basics and strengthen their training in a structured, supportive environment.

Please note: For dogs 16 weeks and up. This class is not designed for aggression-related issues. Aggressive dogs are not permitted to attend.
Prerequisites: Completion of Course #: PET118. Please make sure your pet's vaccines are up-to-date prior to attending.

Discover how equine-assisted programs are changing lives in the Horse Capital of the World® when Director Betty Gray presents an inspiring introduction to Stirrups ’n Strides Therapeutic Riding Center. Learn how therapeutic horseback riding, carriage driving, and equine-assisted services support individuals of all ages by improving physical strength, emotional wellness, confidence, and social skills. Betty will share the center’s mission, community impact, and opportunities to get involved through volunteering, advocacy, and support. Whether you love horses, value community service, or want to better understand the healing power of equine therapy, this engaging presentation offers a meaningful look at an organization making a lasting difference.

Learn how to take your birding to the next level using eBird. This presentation covers tips for improving your observations, submitting better checklists, and contributing valuable data to the birding community and science. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned birder, discover how to become a more effective eBirder.

Emergencies on equine properties demand a calm, organized, and immediate response. This session provides step-by-step protocols for high-risk situations such as colic, catastrophic injury, barn accidents, trailer incidents, and facility fires. We’ll cover stabilization priorities, communication chains, liability considerations, and coordination with veterinarians and emergency services.

Even for those who don’t own horses, understanding these procedures is vital, whether you work around horses, visit equine facilities, or simply want to be prepared to help safely. Participants will leave with a clear, actionable framework that reduces chaos and improves outcomes.

Have you ever wondered how horse operations range from small personal hobbies to large professional businesses? Join Dr. Saundra TenBroeck, recently retired from the UF/IFAS State Extension Horse Specialist, for an easy-to-understand introduction to how the horse industry works. Through real-life examples, she will explain the differences between owning horses for enjoyment and managing horses as part of a working enterprise, while highlighting the many roles horses play in agriculture, recreation, and the economy. This engaging presentation is perfect for anyone curious about the world of horses.

Experience the excitement of Ocala’s equestrian scene with a guided visit to the Florida Horse Park. Participants will enjoy a short behind-the-scenes tour of the facility, followed by the opportunity to watch a live horse show in action. The tour will be hosted by Jason Reynolds, an experienced equine industry professional and Executive Director of the park, who will share insights about the venue’s events, operations, and role in showcasing world-class equestrian competition. Perfect for anyone curious about the heart of Florida’s horse country.

Note: Participants will be providing their own transportation to the horse park. Upon registering, the address and meet-up location will be provided.

Discover the excellence of Tamarian Farms, a premier 55-acre equestrian facility located in the Horse Capital of the World®. On this guided tour, participants will explore the farm's climate-controlled boarding and training facilities, including its spacious covered arena and specialized sport-horse care programs. Guests will also enjoy a live jumping show and a dressage demonstration, offering an up-close look at the precision, athleticism, and training behind these disciplines. Learn how Tamarian Farms supports year-round conditioning, customized nutrition, and rider development while serving as a vibrant hub for clinics, competitions, and equestrian education in the Ocala area.

Note: Participants will be providing their own transportation to the farm.

Saddle up and get ready for a behind-the-scenes look at ranch life. Join Mark, Manager of Circle Square Ranch, for an engaging and down-to-earth program all about cows and cattle ranching. Through an interactive slide presentation, Mark will take you on a journey through the past, present, and future of cattle ranching right here in Southwest Marion County. Discover how ranching has shaped our local community, how modern technology is transforming the industry today, and what exciting innovations lie ahead.

Whether you’re a lifelong local, a curious learner, or just love cows, this program promises fascinating stories, eye-opening insights, and a whole new appreciation for life on the ranch. Don’t miss this chance to experience ranching from the inside out. 

Nearly 74% of the best 2-year-old racehorses in training pass through Ocala Breeders' Sales and are sold buyers from 44 countries and 49 states. The October sale focuses on the horses as yearlings on their journey to becoming racehorses.

Note: Students will meet at Ocala Breeder Sales and will receive location information on their print receipt. Wear comfortable shoes and dress for the weather, as we will be inside and outside on a guided tour to see horses and barns. Food Hall onsite for those that want to come early for breakfast or stay after for lunch on their own.

Have you ever wondered what animals may exist around you? During this class, we will introduce you to common mammals of Central Florida and discuss their management and the environmental conditions that may attract or support them.

Join the UF/IFAS Extension Marion County Ag & Natural Resource Agent to learn about wildlife, natural resources, and agriculture in Marion County. 

Humans have long had a deep connection with horses and this has contributed to them having a preeminent place in the stories we tell. This course shall explore horses as depicted in the ancient and medieval myths and folktales of Europe, highlighting both the semi-historical and the fantastical accounts to explore how people have thought of and talked about horses through the ages. From heroic horses to spectral steeds, we shall explore a range of fascinating tales and characters which have contributed to the rich lore of these creatures in the western tradition.

Explore the natural behaviors of horses in this senior-friendly lecture designed to deepen your understanding of these remarkable animals. Learn how horses communicate, think, and respond to their environment, and gain insights into training, handling, and interacting safely and effectively. This class brings experience to life, offering practical knowledge to appreciate and support the welfare of horses in everyday care and interaction.

Smooth-gaited horses have been bred and refined in Latin America for over 450 years. First brought to the Americas by Spanish Conquistadors, these horses have become known as some of the world’s smoothest riding horses. Come learn about three breeds of gaited horses: Peruvian Horses, Paso Fino Horses and Mangalarga Horses.

Step inside the world of elite Thoroughbred racing with an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of Vegso Racing Stables in Ocala, Florida. This immersive experience follows the full life cycle of a Thoroughbred,from birth to racing career and beyond.

Begin in the broodmare division with mares and foals, then visit the weanling area, the training barn, and observe horses in training on the racetrack. The tour concludes with a visit to see retired horses enjoying life after racing. Founded by Chicken Soup for the Soul publisher Peter Vegso, Vegso Racing Stables is renowned for breeding and campaigning top-quality Thoroughbreds in Virginia and Florida, including three-time Virginia Derby winners, 2017 champion 2-year-old filly Caledonia Road, and graded stakes winners such as Go Between and Lord Miles.

Select horses will be available to feed approved snacks, and all participants will receive a goodie bag. Students will drive on-own to the farm for the tour.

This one-hour presentation provides a practical, plain-language overview of the legislative and regulatory systems that affect the equine industry. The session focuses on clarity, real-world examples, and how government decisions translate into day-to-day impacts at the barn and business of horses.

Participants will gain an understanding of how local, state, and federal laws are created, who enforces them, and why they matter to the equine community. Topics include zoning and land use, agricultural exemptions, animal welfare regulations, environmental and water-use rules, transportation and sales considerations, and the role of industry organizations in advocacy and lobbying. Special attention is given to Florida-specific agencies and legislative processes, as well as national regulations that influence breeding, racing, sport horses, and farm operations.

The presentation also explains how individuals can stay informed, engage effectively with policymakers, and protect the long-term viability of the equine industry in Marion County and beyond. No prior legal or political background is required.

This fun and rewarding course is designed for dog owners who want to prepare for and earn the AKC Canine Good Citizen (CGC) title. Students and their dogs will practice obedience skills, socialization, and safety behaviors that help create a well-mannered, confident companion in real-world situations.

Throughout this 6-week course, dogs will learn and refine the skills required to successfully complete the AKC’s 10-part CGC test, using positive, reward-based training methods. The AKC CGC test is administered on the final class session. Most dogs pass on their first attempt, and students may retake the test as many times as needed. Please note that the AKC requires a $35 testing fee, payable separately on the date of testing.

Whether your goal is certification or simply strengthening your dog’s manners and confidence, this course offers a positive, supportive, and enjoyable learning experience for both you and your dog.
Please note: For dogs 16 weeks and up. This class is not designed for aggression-related issues. Aggressive dogs are not permitted to attend. Please make sure your pet's vaccines are up-to-date prior to attending.

The horse industry plays a significant role in agriculture, recreation, and local economies, often in ways many people never see. Join Dr. Saundra TenBroeck, recently retired UF/IFAS State Extension Horse Specialist, for an engaging overview of how the horse industry contributes to jobs, tourism, land stewardship, and community life. Discover the many ways horses support economic growth and cultural traditions while shaping the agricultural landscape across Florida and beyond.

It’s not just pythons. Florida is home to both native and non-native creatures that can pose risks to people, pets, and property. This class explores some of the state’s most dangerous species, from invasive pythons to local wildlife, and the challenges they create. Learn what the Florida Department of Environmental Protection is doing to address these issues, along with your legal rights when it comes to protecting your property.

This presentation explains the foundations of equine rehabilitation and structural recovery. We will examine the balancing act of creating an individualized rehabilitation plan for a recovering equine companion. How to determine the what, when, how, and why sequencing that determines success or failure. Attendees will gain a clearer understanding of conditioning progression, common rehabilitation errors, how, what, and when to communicate with a veterinarian, and long-term rehabilitation planning, using science-based principles translated into practical management applications. Even those without horses will gain practical insights into structured recovery, planning, and evidence-based problem-solving applicable beyond the barn.

With more horses than any other county in the U.S., Marion County, Fla is truly Horse Capital of the World®. Come learn the history, the economics and the special reasons Ocala has grown to include so many disciplines breeds and venues and how Florida Thoroughbreds were the catalysts and still comprise more than 50% of the economic impact today!

You don't need to own a farm to appreciate how top equine facilities keep horses healthy and operations running smoothly. This session explores the systems and strategies that help facilities anticipate problems rather than constantly reacting to them. Topics include workflow, communication, risk prevention, and decision-making practices that impact horse welfare and financial efficiency. Participants will gain practical insights to recognize, evaluate, and apply these principles in any horse-related setting.

Explore the Withlacoochee and Rainbow Rivers near Dunnellon for a unique glimpse of "Old Florida" and its more modern landscapes. This two-part course begins with a classroom session focused on identifying the birds commonly found in this region of Florida. By the end, you'll be confident in recognizing many of them, from wading birds to raptors and many songbirds.
The second session features a guided three-hour boat ride with an experienced riverboat captain. We'll travel about one mile along the Rainbow River and explore as much of the Withlacoochee as time allows. Expect up-close views of magnificent birds and excellent photo opportunities. Make sure to bring your camera or binoculars!
After the trip, those interested can join for an optional lunch at a nearby riverside café to share observations and compile a bird list from the morning's adventure.
Second class date field trip directions (8:30am):
Meeting at 20750 River Dr, Dunnellon, FL 34431
- Drive east down 484 to Dunnellon
- Drive 12 miles, then turn left at the light on 41
- Park in the Municipal lot in front of City Hall
- The boat sails from the Public Boat Ramp

 

Water is everywhere in Florida. Join us to learn about the largest aquatic species found in both freshwater and coastal ecosystems. We will discuss ways to participate in wildlife watching activities and ways to get involved with conservation.

Join the UF/IFAS Extension Marion County Ag & Natural Resource Agent to learn about wildlife, natural resources, and agriculture in Marion County.