Training Programs

Here at Dark Horse we know it's important for horses to be started correctly from day one. Nicole has successfully trained many of her own young horses and has started many more under saddle.

     Nicole believes in a calm and gentle approach in both training and starting a horse. Her approach includes techniques from many well known horse people such as: Monty Roberts, John Lyons, Linda Tellington-Jones, Anne Kursinski, Charlene Strickland, George Morris and Lendon Grey.

     Always starting from the beginning up Nicole goes back to basics with each horse and first achieves what is known to Monty Roberts fans as 'Join-Up' which aides her in further connecting with the horse. Then it's on to the lunge line. The process evolves from there depending on the needs of each individual horse.

     For older and more seasoned horses, Nicole works with them according to their training needs and the requests of their owners.

     Since each person rides and trains horses in different ways it is sometimes hard for owners to understand the way their horse works after training. To solve this problem Nicole works with both the horse AND owner to help build an understanding partnership between them and open the lines of communication.

     Nicole believes in 'starting' NOT 'breaking' horses. She works hard to make sure that everything that the horse encounters is introduced in a friendly, gentle and non-threatening way. Training is done in such a way that it will not stress the horse mentally or physically.

     Sessions are done only three times a week for young horses and the time, while we strive for an hour each session, may vary according to what the horse is capable of handling. Training is a long process which takes time and Nicole is careful not to rush a horse through. Her approach is taylored for each horse. She spends time getting to know the animal and understand his needs before any training takes place. She wants the horse to feel comfortable with her and she wants to feel comfortable with her knowledge of each animal.

     Nicole is very selective about the horses she allows into her training program and a free evaluation of your horse is given at no charge before she agrees to accept a horse into training. Nicole works with horses who she feels have the ability to learn willingly and to suit their owners purpose. The important part for Nicole is not how much you paid for your horse BUT how intelligent and willing he is.

For more training information or price quotes and to set-up an evaluation contact Nicole by e-mail or phone.