Training

      My training philosophy is based on creating a bond of trust between humans and horses. Without this two-way trust, your horse cannot perform to his or her maximum potential. When a horse comes into training with me, I encourage the owner to come for at least two training sessions per month and do some or all of the work themselves under my instruction. In this way the horse and human can start to form a bond.

     I have many years of experience training horses in different disciplines, including reining, dressage, jumping, and pleasure riding. But, no matter what discipline a horse is destined for, all training begins with trust and partnership. I choose to compete in dressage and eventing, two sports where the partnership between horse and rider is the most important aspect. I love helping people to find that communication with their horse; that point where they are in tune with the horse and can listen to what the horse is saying, and can communicate in a way that the horse will understand.

     Whether a horse comes in for basic groundwork and starting under saddle, more advanced training in any given discipline, or for help with behavioral problems, an understanding of equine behavior and communication is essential in creating an environment where the horse can excel. A horse in nature is athletic and free in its movement, and in my training I strive to bring out this natural expression. If the horse is having fun while staying focused on my aids, I feel I have done my job as a trainer.

     Many of the tools I use in my training come from natural horsemanship methods - the rope halter, tarps, bridges, poles, cones, and also side reins, barrels, and various desensitizing materials such as whips or crops, burlap sacks, blankets, etc. I want to create an equine partner that is respectful of its handler's space, attentive to its handler's aids, and accepting of a variety of objects. My training horses are exposed to many different things to 'play' with, and no matter what discipline the horse is destined for, they will all have a chance to work over poles, with the tarp, around the barrels, and with other objects in the arena. This creates a horse that is calm and attentive in many situations, and gives both the horse and handler a 'tool box' to work with when new situations arise.

     Whether your horse is starting at the very beginning, advancing up the levels or working on a specific problem, such as trailer-loading, I can work with you and your horse to create a situation where learning is easy and fun for both of you. I can help teach your horse basic and advanced aids under saddle, so that you have a more trained and willing mount.