Training

Every horse is an individual, and as such, I create an individualized educational plan for training. Clear obtainable objectives are devised and goals are set to bring us to success. At the start of the training program, this plan will be devised and the schedule set forth.  Each week, the training schedule is updated so owners are able to see when their horse will be worked.

Horses are my passion. They bring me joy and allow me to put my strengths and education into one venue.  When we meet, you will know that your horse will be cared for and respected just as you would. My goal is to allow your horse to have enjoyment in the educational process while still obtaining our objectives. Your horse will be pushed to achieve, but never pushed so hard that they resist our goals.  I have been a firm believer in the conditioned response method of training animals and children for several years.  To me, it is the age old premise of Pavlov's Dog (you should remember him from Junior High science)...ring the bell and the dog salivates.  I plan to kiss and have the horse follow ...click and have the horse accelerate ...touch and have the horse respond.  I don't solicit my requests or teach my cues thru pain or defeat.  We do it thru repetition, patience, concentration, commutation and understanding.  This does not mean that I never use a firm hand.  Every horse I work with is under the impression that I am the 'alpha mare' that must always be under control.  To gain this position I don't have to beat the horse.   

In life, the educational process is never over.  New things are constantly being discovered and I always keep an open mind to new methods.  I am always reading, watching videos, attending clinics/ symposiums/ shows and schools to keep up on what is found to work best with a horse's education.  While I may not agree with everything I find, there is always something to be learned from everything! 

Examples of  Training Options With Costs

Basic Training - This training is designed for when your need is to prepare and start a horse under saddle, or review the essential basics with a riding horse. In this avenue we give your horse the basic foundations it needs to continue on in whatever area you desire.  How much can be accomplished with each horse depends on the horse.  In three month's time we should have a horse that shows attention and respect to people; stands while accepting tack and being mounted; offers advanced leading skills; maintains skills under saddle that include (by no means limited to only) advanced diagonals, lead changes, control over hips and shoulder to bit or leg pressure, side-passing, effective speed up and slow down control, trail experience, trailering, clipping, bathing, head control, desensitization, etc. Basic training is only offered with at least a three month commitment.  Monthly cost is $750 (board included).

Trailering With Ease - From beginners to hardened habits, this session is meant to make your horse more accustomed to getting into any size trailer. By the end of the lesson we have a horse that is willing to step into any trailer on cue, back out on cue, and calmly handle the feel and sounds of the trailer. And when we are done your horse will be physically intact and mentally able to get back into the trailer.  Program cost is $150. If you can't get your horse to us, we will come to you!