The great thing about being a part of the horse-owning community, is you don’t have to go it alone. The right horse trainer can give you valuable guidance and help you and your horse reach your goals. With some research and understanding of what makes a good horse trainer, you can find the right one for your discipline, experience level, and needs. In this article we’ll discuss how to identify quality trainers, as well as provide resources on where to start your search.
Where To Find Trainers
While a quick “horse trainers near me” internet query might bring up several results, don’t base your research on Google alone. Here are five ways you can narrow down your search.
- Ask around. Talk to people you know who take riding lessons or own horses in training in your area. Ask them what they like about their current and past trainers, as well as areas that could be improved upon. Word of mouth from equestrians whose opinion you trust is often the most valuable resource!
- Search breed and discipline directories. If you enjoy a certain horse breed or riding discipline, there’s a good chance it has a local or national membership association. These organizations often have directories that list trainers by location and offerings. For example, if you’re the proud new owner of a Quarter Horse, visit the American Quarter Horse Association’s professional horseman directory to find trainers experienced with the breed. You can find more breed- and discipline-specific organizations by searching the American Horse Council’s Horse Industry Directory.
- Attend local events. Horse shows, training clinics, organized trail rides, and expositions are great places to observe different trainers in action while also getting an opportunity to meet them in person. You can see how they interact with and treat their horses and clients, then introduce yourself as a prospective client when the time is right.
- Reach out directly. If a trainer comes highly recommended based on word of mouth or internet reviews, don’t be afraid to contact them via phone or email with specific questions. Most reputable trainers will welcome questions from prospective students, and their responses can help you find the right fit for your needs.
Tips for Finding the Right Horse Trainer
Once you’ve settled on a short list of potential trainers, find the perfect match by watching them work and asking the right questions. Here are some suggestions:
- Ask for references, and talk to other horse owners who have worked with the trainer.
- Research the trainer’s education, experience, certifications, or awards he or she has earned.
- Learn about his or her training style and methods to determine if they match your own goals.
- Determine how frequently the trainer gives lessons and if they’re flexible about scheduling around competing commitments such as school or work.
- Confirm pricing for individual lessons or lesson packages, as well as additional services such as coaching at shows or clinics offsite.
- If you plan to board your horse with the trainer, find out if he or she offers boarding options and the costs involved.
- Ask if you can observe a lesson to get a better sense of the trainer’s teaching style and approach to working with horses.
- Also observe the condition of the horses, facilities, and equipment in the trainer’s care. Do the horses have fresh water and clean stalls? Is the trailer well-maintained?
- Discuss your specific goals, how the trainer can help you reach them, and how long that might take.
Take-Home Message
The right horse trainer can help you get the most out of your horse-ownership journey. When searching for a trainer, it’s important to make sure they have the appropriate credentials and experience to ensure you’re getting quality instruction and help with your horse. Start by asking for references from other horse owners, then rely on observation and dialogue to confirm you’ve found the right individual.
