Saddle Preparation Program
Monthly Training Fee: $850 + Board
Training & Pasture Board: $850 + $300 pasture board per month
Training & Stall Board: $850 + $400 stall board per month
Training & Pasture Board: $850 + $300 pasture board per month
Training & Stall Board: $850 + $400 stall board per month
(30 day minimum)
Additional months can be added to a horse’s training program at the owner’s request. While I do not pressure or require extended stays, I do provide honest feedback based on each horse’s progress at the end of their scheduled training period and leave it up to the owner's discretion. If I believe a horse would benefit from more time, I will share that recommendation, but the decision to continue is entirely up to the owner. I fully understand and respect the impact of time, financial considerations, and personal circumstances.
Additional months can be added to a horse’s training program at the owner’s request. While I do not pressure or require extended stays, I do provide honest feedback based on each horse’s progress at the end of their scheduled training period and leave it up to the owner's discretion. If I believe a horse would benefit from more time, I will share that recommendation, but the decision to continue is entirely up to the owner. I fully understand and respect the impact of time, financial considerations, and personal circumstances.
PLEASE READ: More in-depth information on sending your horse in to training with me is here: Public Training Information
Basic requirements: Current Negative Coggins, UTD Vaccinations, UTD Worming, with PROOF sent in prior to horses' arrival. This is nonnegotiable.
Any questions? Just ask!
Basic requirements: Current Negative Coggins, UTD Vaccinations, UTD Worming, with PROOF sent in prior to horses' arrival. This is nonnegotiable.
Any questions? Just ask!
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This program is designed for young horses as early as 2 years old and for older horses that have not yet been started under saddle. The purpose of this program is to prepare horses for a smooth start under saddle by building a solid foundation in handling, groundwork, and general horsemanship before any riding begins. Great for those who would like a solid start on their youngster prior to saddle training and having them gain additional experience.
Horses in this program will be trained in:
By the end of the program, horses will be calm, responsive, and well-prepared for their first under-saddle experience, making the transition smoother and safer for both horse and rider. |
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My Training Philosophy & Program Overview
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The foundation of my training program is built around preparing horses for long-term use as dependable trail, endurance, and camp horses. My goal is to develop horses that are confident, willing, soft, forward-moving, and actively seek connection with their handler or rider. I emphasize a practical, well-rounded foundation that supports long miles, varying terrain, and real-world exposure.
While progress is always shaped by each horse’s unique history and personality, I have a consistent track record of producing horses that are rideable, reliable, and enjoyable for a wide range of riders by the end of their training. Horses I’ve trained have successfully gone on to become endurance mounts, 4-H partners, youth, family, and beginner-friendly trail horses, as well as horses used for dressage, mounted orienteering, and all-around versatility. |
Important Things to Know
- Individualized Approach:
I train horses based on their age, mental state, physical ability, and overall readiness. I do not push them beyond what they can handle. - Gentle, Respect-Based Methods:
I do not use fear, force, or “cowboy-style” rough methods. My approach is rooted in natural horsemanship, positive reinforcement, and liberty-based training. If this philosophy doesn’t align with your expectations, my program may not be the right fit for your horse. While my training methods are rooted in positive reinforcement and gentle handling, I believe in creating clear boundaries and consistent expectations. Horses learn best when they are treated with respect, but also when they understand what is and isn’t acceptable. I’m not here to “pamper” them, I’m here to help them become confident, respectful, and willing partners. That means I reward desired behavior, but I also use firm, fair corrections when needed to ensure safety and understanding. Positive reinforcement in my program is not about endlessly handing out treats; it’s primarily used as communication but also about building trust, clarity, and accountability in a way that the horse can understand and thrive in. - Progress at the Horse’s Pace:
If your horse needs extra time in any area of training, I will give it to them rather than rushing the process. I focus on long-term success over quick results. - Behavior Management:
I address unwanted behaviors in a firm but fair and positive way. I correct, when necessary, but I never use pain or aggression. I work through issues with patience and mental clarity, aiming to help the horse understand rather than react out of fear. - Safety Boundaries:
I do not accept horses into my program that rear consistently or have a history of flipping over. If this behavior presents itself during training and cannot be safely addressed, the horse will be sent home. Please do not send in horses with these issues unless discussed honestly and in advance. - Physical Risk to the Horse:
If your horse exhibits behavior that puts themselves at serious risk, such as extreme self-endangerment or disregard for physical limits, they will be sent home for their safety. - Pain & Discomfort:
If I observe signs of pain, emotional distress, or physical discomfort, I will inform you immediately. Give you the option to have a veterinarian exam before continuing training to rule out any concerns or leave it up to you if you wish for the training to continue. If I believe continued training could worsen the issue, I will pause or end training until a full veterinary evaluation is completed and said horse will not be accepted back into my program without a vet exam. I will not work a horse that is in pain. - Safety First – For Horse and Trainer:
My safety and your horse’s safety are always top priorities. While getting hurt is part of the job, I will not put myself in unnecessary danger due to dishonest representations or unsafe horses. If your horse causes serious injury, it directly affects my ability to work and earn a living. I do not "cowboy through" issues or push horses through force just to meet a deadline. If you are seeking fast results through harsh methods, I am NOT the trainer for you. - No Show Training:
I do not offer specialized show training. My focus is on building reliable, well-rounded horses for endurance, trail, family, and all-around use. That said, many of my horses have gone on to succeed in various show disciplines thanks to the solid foundation laid in my program. - Early Departure & Refund Policy
- If a horse is sent home before completing its scheduled training period, regardless of the reason, the owner will be reimbursed for any unused training days and/or unused board from the date the horse leaves. However, any fees already accumulated for training, board, or care up to that point are non-refundable.