About
I've been riding horses since before I was born (ask me what I mean some time) and I teach ethical, compassionate horsemanship.
I come to you and your horse so I can work with both of you on familiar ground. I'll be teaching you to be your best friend's best friend.
We can cover all things groundwork up to tack-free riding with EVERYTHING in between. We can start a horse who's never been ridden or refine a bomb-proof horse, the sky is the limit!
NOTE: My style of horsemanship is vegan-friendly ;)
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Rachel K.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
I prefer to work from the ground up with new horses and students. My lessons are for students who have horses to work with, we'll start with the basics and progress at your pace.
Everything is based on how well you and your horse work together and understand the training. The first lesson is always extended so that you have time to show me how you and your horse already work together.
For problem horses, the process will be different according to the issue we're addressing. I train horses AND riders.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have 29 years of experience riding and training horses. I've trained newbies and seasoned riders alike, working with horses of all experience levels.
I also served as a 4H trainer during my teens and won numerous blue ribbons in multiple categories during my show days. I've competed in gymkhana, Western, English, and trail events. I also learned show jumping from a former Olympic trainer.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
I charge on a sliding scale based on what you can afford. I'm in this to help horses and riders, not to make you go broke.
NOTE: There will be an added charge for gas depending on the distance I must drive to reach you and your horse.
How did you get started teaching?
I started during my time in 4H after 13 years of riding horses. As an adult, I returned to teaching to pass on my love of compassionate, ethical, natural horsemanship to others.
What types of students have you worked with?
Human students from 8 to 80+ with everyone in between.
Horse students from 1 day old to 24+ years with all levels of training.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
A family member keeps his horse in a pasture that houses a half-blind gelding. On a recent trip, my partner bonded with him and I started training my first special needs horse!
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Hire someone who lives and breathes horses, but also look for someone who matches your style. For example, if you are set on using spurs, whips, harsh bits, and other such training methods, my compassionate and natural style is NOT for you.
Look for someone who gets horses and riding the way that you do.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
Think about the issues you need to fix, what goals you have with your horse, what you need to learn, what your horse needs to learn, and what your end goal is. If you don't know, that's okay too, but be open to suggestions and learning in this case.