Jim McDonald Horsemanship

I wouldnt take lessons with anyone other than Jim at Jim McDonald Horsemanship. He has a way with horses and people that allows the rider to learn how to build a relationship with the horse in addition to learning the athletic skills that come with horseback riding lessons. This includes teaching riders how to effectively communicate with their horses to make the entire riding experience a lot more enjoyable for the rider and the horse! I feel like the horse and I are on the same team during my lessons because of this communication, which makes me feel much safer while in the saddle.

Jim is very kind and patient! He has shown me how to connect with my horse in ways I could never imagine. I feel much more confident about the process of training and caring for my horse. I am a new horse owner and Jim’s knowledge of horse behavior and body language has helped me relate to my horse and form a lifetime bond. Thank you Jim!!

Were so grateful for the wisdom and effectiveness of Jims teachings! My daughter has been learning from him for a year now. She was a already a skillful rider when she arrived (even at 10 years old) but her riding has been elevated greatly and in ways that are valuable even off of the horse. Jim has taught her how to be in partnership and communication with the horse and to see the world thru equine eyes. He has taught her to lead in cooperation and positive relationship instead of trying to control with fear and intimidation. Witnessing the shift has been profound and she loves riding even more than she already did.

I came to Jim as more of a beginner and am feeling more confident and comfortable than I ever have in the saddle.

Jims gentle and skillful way of teaching creates an environment in the arena where horse and rider feel safe and in the hands of a wise, experienced teacher and worthy leader.

I highly recommend Jim for riders of all levels and also for those who want to understand or bond more deeply with their own horse. He is truly a gem!

I honestly was at a loss with my mare. After just 15 minutes of Jim working with her I had a whole new horse ! Super happy with her and the way he handled her and all the information we gathered from today’s session !

I have been working with Jim for about 7 months now. I am brand new to horses and a rather timid rider. Working with Jim has increased my confidence as a horsewoman, rider and person. He is extremely knowledgeable, compassionate and patient! I have learned so much about the way the horses mind works. He is helping me to strengthen my relationship with my mare and establish a mutual trust. There was a time when I wasnt able to do anything with my horse without Jim around. Now I am able to groom her, tack her up, go through my groundwork, mount up, and ride ALL BY MYSELF! One of the most important things that Jim has taught me is that learning to be a horsewoman is a journey; there will be ups and downs...but if you put your heart and soul into it, you will develop a bond with your horse that lasts forever. I still have a LOT to learn, but I am giving myself the gift of time. I am so happy to have Jim in my life, as my instructor and new friend. If you get a chance to take a lesson with him, you wont regret it...it might even change your life.

Absolutely the best. Knowledgeable, perceptive, great communicator who can analyze a myriad of challenging situations and devise creative approaches to solving them. And all of this with patience and a sense of humor.