My philosophy is training horses is simple I believe firmly that any successful relationship relies on strong communication skills, and nowhere is this ability to communicate so visible as in good horsemanship. If you are not able to clearly communicate what you need from your horse, then how can he succeed at a given task? Conversely, if you do not listen to what your horse is trying to tell you, whether he is scared, uncomfortable or just confused, then it is quite likely you or he may end up hurt.

Your horse must be clearly rewarded for doing the right thing – the reward is simple – release of the cue. On the other hand, if the horse does not perform the task, and the rider/handler gives up, then what has he taught the horse? That he is arbitrary in his cues? There can’t be any trust between the two, if the horse thinks that his handler is not consistent. It is also important to remember that there can be a right time and a wrong time to work on certain things – if your horse wants to go and seems “hyped up”, then that is not the time to expect the horse to stand for 20 minutes.  Always try to set your horse up to succeed, and with patience and consistency, he usually will.

I do not subscribe wholeheartedly to the training philosophies of any one trainer to the exclusion of others – I believe there are many possible ways to achieve your goal in becoming a better rider and trainer, so long as YOU are willing to accept the responsiblity that every time you handle a horse, you are its trainer. My philosophy stems largely from basic dressage priciples – suppleness and balance for horse and rider. This is the foundation of further advancement in any given discipline, and is the key to the health, happiness and soundness of your mount.



I occasionally take horses in for training at my facility, based on openings. Rates start at $550/mo, and owners are encouraged (required) to observe.  I will also travel to you for an additional charge. Lessons are available at my barn or yours, $25/hour, plus travel if applicable. Please don’t hesitate to contact me with your questions.