Equitation science uses methods backed by equine research in horse training. The training practices we use are chosen because research tells us they are easiest for the horse to understand, most ethical, and generally produce results more quickly. This is not a one size fits all approach, and a lot of these methods are not new. With ES we are weeding out the bad, and selecting practices that research has shown to produce results ethically

Every horse sent to us must pass a minimum checklist of handling requirements. Horses must stand tied to be groomed and tacked, lead with correct responses to halter pressure both forwards and backwards, yield shoulders and quarters, tolerate and understand directions from a dressage whip, and lunge in both directions, all while demonstrating relaxation and consistency.

Our groundwork checklist may take 2 days or 2 months depending on your horse, but must be complete before we move forwards with any ridden work. Horses that are unbacked are subject to mandatory minimum 2 weeks groundwork. While you may be anxious to see your horse going in the tack, a strong groundwork foundation translates directly to successful, relaxed and confusion free early ridden work. Similarly, rushing horses along undersaddle is neither fair nor smart horse training. We cannot guarantee time frames, but will provide plenty of updates and discuss realistic goals as we work with your horse.

We are a starting, handling and schooling touch up service. We are neither cowboys to buck out your horse, nor FEI riders to put the finishing polish on your future grandprix mount. We are here to give your horse the basics he needs to be successful in future training or to be sold on as a promising project with a good ridden start. We offer schooling at your discretion, and will take your horse only as far as you would like and as your time frame allows.