FAQs
- What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I am never ever not studying and practicing my craft. I am an active member of the United States Dressage Federation and in addition to studying to become a judge, I take several college courses at a time in various riding and equine related topics from equine universities through the USDF University Program (for the purpose of staying abreast industry developments). For the first 7 years that I taught, I certified through the Certified Horsemanship Association which is an organization that emphasizes safety and fun. In 2009, I developed my own criteria for instructor qualification so that I may offer affordable certification to high quality riders and trainers that requires more technical proficiency than CHA but is more accessible physically and financially than some of the leading certification programs in the country.
- What types of customers have you worked with?
Training students and horses in classical dressage and eventing. Lease out high quality horses with free lessons included. Consult for attorneys and clients on horse related court cases. Help individuals setup their own home farm or equine business.
- What advice would you give a customer looking to hire a provider in your area of work?
Make sure that the stables is a safe learning environment and that the lesson horses look happy and well cared for. Make sure that the instructor has been teaching for awhile or that they are apprenticed to someone who has and who will be around to supervise. Ask about multi-lesson/student discount programs. Remember that even if your child ultimately wants to learn barrel racing (for example), they have to start with a good classical foundation and learn balance and communication with the horse prior to learning the sport.