Welcome to a deeper understanding of horse training and care. At the core of my philosophy lies a profound belief: every horse, whether ridden or harnessed to a carriage, strives to comprehend and fulfill our requests. An unwilling participant simply could not perform the tasks we ask of them, as the consequences of such unwillingness are starkly evident. This understanding forms the bedrock of our approach, making it our fundamental obligation to communicate our intentions with utmost clarity to the horse. This necessitates the development of effective communication tools for both horse and handler, where a clearer understanding of these tools by the horse translates to more precise communication from the rider or driver.
In lessons and training sessions, I am dedicated to cultivating these essential communication tools for both the horse and the equestrian. My training methodology for horses is grounded in the fundamentals of dressage, emphasizing sound body mechanics. A horse that is methodically trained to utilize its body in the most efficient and effective manner can perform its duties with comfort and ease, fostering a calm, confident animal capable of working for many years without physical or mental strain. This holistic approach ensures the longevity and well-being of the horse, promoting a harmonious partnership.
Training & Instruction Rates and Locations
My training and instruction services are priced at $120 per session. The duration of each session is flexible, tailored to the unique needs and training stage of each horse and student, without incurring additional charges. Typically, lessons last around 50 minutes but may extend as necessary. For specialized needs such as four-in-hand, tandem, or unicorn arrangements, prices may be adjusted slightly based on the increased time and complexity involved.
Throughout the year, my training services are available in two primary locations. From May to October, regular lessons and training take place in East Bridgewater, MA. Subsequently, from November to March, I am based in the Ocala, FL region. I also offer the flexibility of traveling to your location for clinics and personalized training days. If you are interested in hosting a lesson day or arranging for me to travel, please visit my Clinic Page for more information on organizing such events.
Diverse Disciplines and Formats
My passion is for teaching horse enthusiasts across all levels and activities. You do not need to be a competitive driver or rider to benefit from my instruction. Lessons and training can encompass a wide array of disciplines, both from the carriage, under saddle, and on the ground. I actively encourage students to explore all possible training disciplines available to equestrians and equines. Engaging in various disciplines opens up new avenues for communication and learning, enriching the partnership between horse and human.
Carriage Driving
With over three decades of experience as a professional Coachman and trainer, carriage driving is my foremost passion and area of expertise. My early driving experiences involved working with commercial horses for hay rides, weddings, and various livery services. As my interest evolved into a dedicated career, my driving pursuits shifted towards a more sporting direction. Under the tutelage of the late Deirdre Pirie, I was introduced to the sophisticated worlds of Coaching and Combined Driving. Following my college education, I held positions as a Coachman and trainer at esteemed private stables across the United States. This provided invaluable opportunities to drive and compete with a diverse range of equine partners, from single ponies to magnificent four-in-hand teams pulling grand Coaches. As both a coach and trainer, I have guided numerous students through a spectrum of events, from local club gatherings to advanced national combined driving competitions. The inherent joys of carriage driving are universal, regardless of the scale on which it is practiced.
Lessons and training are available for:
- Single horse driving
- Pairs driving
- Four-in-hand driving
- Tandem driving (a personal favorite!)
I also provide training and instruction for competitive drivers in:
- Combined Driving: Driven Dressage, Conditioning and Marathon Training, Hazard (marathon obstacle) Driving, and Cones Driving.
- Pleasure Showing: Preparation for driving in company, Reinsmanship and Super Reinsmanship Driving, Working Class Driving, Pleasure Obstacle and Games Class Driving, and assembling a winning presentation for turnout classes.
Furthermore, I offer training and instruction for recreational drivers in:
- Trail and public road driving
- Driving horses in company
- Preparing a trained horse for a new career in driving.
Starting Horses for Carriage Driving
Unlike many trainers, I do not operate a full-time training stable. Consequently, I selectively start only a few horses and ponies for carriage driving each year. This process is often a collaborative effort, with the equine’s human companions acting as integral teammates. As a result, starting a horse or pony to drive becomes a more extended commitment than a typical 30-day program. However, this approach yields driving horses and ponies with an exceptionally solid foundation and a deep understanding with their people. If you are interested in starting a young horse to drive, please contact me to discuss the possibilities.
Long Lining
Long lining is a highly beneficial exercise for horses across all disciplines. This low-impact activity can serve various purposes, including physical therapy, skill development, and enhancing flexibility and strength. Integrating long lining into your horse’s training regimen can significantly contribute to achieving a higher level of performance.
This practice allows equestrians to gain a more profound understanding of their horse’s gaits and movements. Students of long lining develop a nuanced mastery of using the horse’s bit and bridle, applying this knowledge on an entirely new level. Upon returning to the saddle, riders can integrate the newfound coordination and observations from long lining, becoming more astute and effective riders. Similarly, carriage drivers return to their carriages with a crystal-clear mental image of how their reins influence the bit and, consequently, the horse’s way of going.
Benefits of Long Lining:
- Excellent Physical Therapy for Horses Recovering from Injuries
- Low Impact Workout
- Helps Establish Correct Contact & Work Through the Bridle
- Builds Rock Solid Half Halts
- Helps Establish Better Gaits and Rhythm
- Allows You to Create More Consistent Transitions
- Builds Suspension in Your Horse’s Stride
- Creates a Longer, More Supple Frame
- Establishes Lateral Coordination
- Serves as the First Step Toward Carriage Driving
Under Saddle
My initial introduction to horses was through under-saddle riding at a large lesson barn in Concord, MA, where classes often consisted of 20 students per session with lesson ponies! As a child, nothing brought me more joy than leaving the confines of the arena to participate in Hunter-Pace events, even in the challenging New England weather. To be candid, I faced challenges as a rider throughout my youth and early years of training horses, which partly influenced my transition into carriage driving. As my skills as a horse trainer developed, so did my understanding of working with horses under saddle. I learned to effectively utilize ridden work as a tool to advance a horse’s training.
Throughout my career, I have maintained a strong connection to riding, primarily focusing on dressage as a systematic approach to horse training. I have had the privilege of studying under top professionals and lesser-known experts in ridden dressage and eventing. Each interaction provided invaluable insights and tools that I integrate into my daily training practices. My perspective, gained from being “outside” the traditional riding disciplines, has allowed me to develop a unique insight into working with horses under saddle and their riders. Rather than resorting to rote riding instructions like “Head up, heels down,” I prioritize explaining the “why” behind the “how,” empowering riders to become the most effective equestrians they can be.
Lessons and training under saddle are available for:
- Ridden dressage
- Trail and recreational riding
- Versatility training
- Riding tandem (One horse under saddle, the other in long lines – an incredibly fun experience!)
