New to Horses - Seeking Knowledge

Some folks simply want to enjoy a recreational experience of interacting with horses.  Me and the Boys can help you discover that joy.  Other folks are contemplating horse ownership, and taking the first step to educate themselves before making the commitment. Most folks are surprised to discover how much they don't know about what is required of them to secure a trusting, respectful relationship with a horse. Effective ground work will keep you safe in their presence. Me and the Boys can help you become confident and knowledgeable so you can make informed decisions with regard to horse ownership. 

Horse Memphis during a lesson at Horse Encounters

Recreational Time - Just for Fun

There are many ways of having fun with horses without the pressures of horse-riding. We can offer a recreational experience suitable for folks who are just looking to spend time with horses, which is a great stress reliever; you can get some exercise by taking a horse for a walk and spending time in nature, while still learning the basics and connecting with these amazing animals. 

I can meet you wherever you are and offer an unforgettable experience of your choice. One way or another, you will thoroughly enjoy spending time with the Boys. 

Tovie walking with horse Memphis

Already Committed

All too often, folks acquire a horse only to realize they don't have the knowledge or skills to deal with an annoying, scary, or sometimes dangerous behaviour. Their dream of horse ownership is turning into a nightmare. Frustration begins when knowledge ends, and all the love and good intention won't remedy the situation. Me and the Boys are delighted to help folks gain a better understanding of what their horse is trying to tell them, and then teaching them a few effective handling techniques that will turn this nightmare into their dream. 

Lesson time at Horse Encounters

Old School - There Is A Better Way

Has an "experienced" horse person told you that getting hurt is a normal part of being with horses, and to just cowboy up? Your horse crow hops a few times, and then you're good to go, or won't stand still for mounting, so just lunge the energy out of them before you mount? Do you often feel that if only you were a better rider, you could stay on when your horse spooks or has separation anxiety? I have overheard various "professional" coaches tell folks the following:

  • You need to use a bigger bit, or bigger spurs;
  • That horse loves pain, so hit it harder with the riding crop;
  • Show that horse who the boss is;
  • The horse is just stubborn, lazy, mean, or plain old crazy

Let me help you open your mind to the possibility that none of these old-school ideas are correct. I promise you, there is a better way.   

Student laying down with horse Memphis during a lesson at Horse Encounters

Click on Vesko's picture to watch this amazing 10-year old already mastering his horsemanship skills. 

Lesson Plans

Private Lessons

Personalized and fun is the best way to describe these sessions. From wherever you are starting, I guarantee you will be 100% thrilled with some new-found skills that will propel you towards your goals with horses and personal confidence. 

Group Lessons

The valuable aspect of learning and sharing the experience in a group is the variety of circumstances that occur when different personalities of both the people and the horses come together. This can be among a group of family members, or friends.  

Tovie doing a lesson with horse Navar at Horse Encounters

Knowledge is Power

I have developed a series of lessons to ensure that you start off on the right track. You will soon discover that the journey of learning about horses never ends. These hands-on lessons will demonstrate what good horsemanship looks like, and will cover:

  • Introduction to horses:
    • Breeds, disciplines, gaits, anatomy, and conformation
  • Safe and effective handling skills that promote mutual trust and respect
  • Grooming tools and techniques
  • Tack - including proper fit and adjustments
  • Health management:
    • Essential care Feet, teeth and parasite control
    • Vital checks (temperature and pulse)
  • Round pen purpose and objectives
  • Liberty work (dancing with a horse)
  • Operant conditioning (positive reinforcement training)
  • T-Touch training methods

Pricing

Rates

  • $85.00 per 2 hour session
  • $70.00 per 1.5 hr session
  • $50.00 per 1 hr session

Packages

Dismounted Series

  • 6 sessions - $400.00
  • These sessions will develop your understanding of horses and their care, and are essential preparation for riding lessons. 

Horse Ownership 

  • 6 sessions - $400.00 
  • These sessions will develop your competency of a variety of ground work exercises and round penning techniques, and how this directly relates to safety in the saddle.

Recreational Experience 

  • 4 sessions - $250.00
  • These sessions will give you the experience of connecting with a horse, and a greater understanding of their behaviour and how we can harmoniously interact with them.

***Each session is approximately 1.5 hours in duration. 

Off-Site Lessons - for you and your horse

  • Add a travel charge of $30.00 for me to come out and work with you and your horse (minimum of 2-hour session). 
  • Add $20.00 for each additional participant in the same session (maximum of 4).
  • Travel fee will be waived if more than one session is booked for the same trip. 

Groups 

  • We can create a reasonably priced, customized Team Building or  Experiential Learning experience (leadership/management, learning, communication) for your group or corporate team. 

Clinics

  • If you have a group interested in a half-day clinic, give me a call and we can arrange something that works well for everyone.

Gift Certificates 

  • Our non-expiring, fully transferable gift certificates are a great way to share horses with your favourite horse lover!

More questions? Send me a message at Tovie@horseencounters.ca 

Horse Memphis enjoying the sun at Horse Encounters