I take in 2 horses at a time and usually do 24 horses a year. I have tune up horses and weekend
clinics too. I spend a min of an hr and usually 2 with each horse. I work them 6 days a week. Usually the day they get of
is the day it is raining (hard). I trailer my training horses out on group rides when they are ready and one is scheduled
that I plan on attending. These group ride range from 3-8 hrs. So I work your horse the whole day. If they go on a group ride
the next day they have off. I have a round pen, outdoor arena and many trails.
Tentative training schedule:
First week is ground work in the round pen. Working towards being saddled without fear, being
respectful, and learning cues. They will be long lined for a day or two, then rode a day or two. I use John Lyons methods
with most of my round pen work. Some can do this in 3 days, and some more than a week. A week is average. I use a side
pull for long line work and a snaffle bit when I start riding.
Then we go to the arena for a day or two to make sure I have control to go out on trail.
We work on flexions, horizontal and vertical. I use Clinton Anderson, Chris Cox methods mostly here. It creates a very soft
and responsive horse that is always under control.
Then, out on trail we go. Usually after a week and a half. Rarely takes as long as 2 weeks to
get here. Whilst trail riding we work on leg yielding, ect. As well as navigating obstacles. Changing speeds calmly and with
collection, ect. When I feel a horse needs to really focus on working on something we will spend a day in the arena now and
again. My riding style works along that of Parelli. As your horse is showing good giving to the bit we can progress
up to a shank bit and we will decide what your horse likes and does not, so that we know what you will be riding him in when
he goes home.
In 30 days your horse will learn to: load, bathe, clip, be shod/trimmed, stand tied in cross
ties and at other obstacles like trailers and hitching posts. Yield to you and your legs, lead properly, and be a safe and
sane mount.
In 60 days we will fine tune your horse to neck rein, side pass, and really get those gaits fine
tuned.
If your horse is in for 30 days, the last week I like the owners to come and ride their horses
as much as possible. This makes sure you are able to handle your horse and that you both understand the training. Lessons
are free, on your horse, for as long as your horse is in training. Owners are always encouraged to come and watch any aspect
of training. I have sound/sane horses, if the owner wishes to join us on trail rides, I can find an appropriate mount.
If your horse is with me for 60 days, the last week is when I want you to come and ride your
horse as much as possible. And of course you are welcome to ride and evaluate his progress any time after I feel he is safe
for you to ride. I really like it when the owners are active participants. I get feedback on their likes and dislikes, and
what they would like their horse to be able to to. I get to know the owners riding habits and skills and can help improve
on those. I also find out what I need to do to help them and their horse to make a good partnership.
