Horse Training FAQ

Q: Do you use the Traditional or the Natural method when training?

A:
Neither.
The Traditional method (Buck 'em & Whack 'em) does work - but uses unnecessary roughness. The Natural method (Kiss 'em & Bring 'em Flowers) may work but is not always reliable. As such I use neither method. Each horse is individual. No single method works with every horse. It takes the power of the trainer's reasoning and judgement to accomplish the best results with any individual horse (i.e. Horse Sense). Folks who are simply following a "method" don't always have the success we would want. The method controls them.

For example, method trainers might follow these steps;
Step 1: Catch the horse.
Step 2: Pet the horse.
Step 3: Feed the horse a treat.
Step 4: Put a blanket on the horse.
Step 5: ...

Whoa! Actually they have a hard time getting to step two because they're still trying to catch the horse! See the problem?

As such, I work with each horse individually, giving and taking as necessary for each horse. One philosophy I have is this: If a horse ever bucks, kicks, bites or acts out in any negative way with a response, during it's training sessions, the trainer has gone too far, too fast with his work on the horse.

Q: Should I put shoes on my horse?

A: In most cases, yes. If you are training, riding or working any horse it needs to be shod. The only horses not needing shoes are unused animals, such as brood mares, stallions at stud, and horses on pasture not being ridden. Shoes keep the horse's foot healthy, holding support and shape, for when working, riding or training. It saves potential injury to the hoof too. There is no reason not to shoe any horse that is being used, even if it is "not used that much".

Q: How long does it take to train a horse from the very start?

A: Average time is 15 hours of training: One hour a day, every other day, for a month. However, some horses have better temperaments and can be finished in as little as 10 hours, where others may take 20 hours or longer. A trainer can only go as fast as the horse is able to proceed.

Q: How long have you been training horses?

A: I started learning to train forty-five years ago. My father passed his knowledge to me, beginning with a Welsh pony when I was seven years old. Through my teen years I continued learning, training and riding. As an adult, I have successfully trained many horses.

Q: How much do you charge?

A: $45.00 per training hour. A lower fee is available if the owner trains the horse while under my direct guidance (which is best for both you and the horse). There may also be a small travel fee if travel distance is excessive.

Q: Do you have a guarantee?

A: Yes. No results - No charge. Payment only upon completion, and a complete satisfaction with training.

Q: Do you have references?

A: Yes.