*During our upcoming Saddle Club Meetings, the kids will be learning horsemanship skills that coincide with the riding instruction that they receive in lessons.  While making friends and sharing their love of horses they will learn the importance of horse care, and how proper treatment, training will keep their equine partner happy and healthy.  Teamwork is emphasized and we encourage sharing knowledge & experience and with other children in the group.  The girls will gain experience, knowledge and self-esteem while becoming responsible, proficient young horsewomen.  If they choose they can advance through our levels of horsemanship by testing their knowledge and moving up to the next achievement level.

The Beginner levels are as follows.

Shetlands (B - All New Riders - No test required)

Foxes (B1 - Test required)

Hounds (B2 - Test required)

Hunters (B3 - Level - Test required)

Complete guidelines for skills and knowledge required for testing at each level can be provided upon request.  The riding portion of the evaluation will be given in lessons once the girls are able to perform the requirements necessary to progress to the next level.  The horsemanship portion of the test will be given as an oral examination once the girls are ready.  No competition is required to advance to any level. 

Testing is not required to participate in any of our programs.  It is only offered as a fun way to encourage the children to challenge themselves and learn new things.

Following are examples of some of the topics we will be teaching to prepare the students for their level B-1 test.

Parts of the Horse or Pony

Parts of Saddle and Bridle

Reasons for cleaning tack

We will review how to approach a horse or pony safely, halter him, lead and turn correctly and safely

We will expound upon last months grooming session and learn how to give a horse or pony a bath (weather permitting).

Reasons for Cooling out a horse or Pony after exercise

How to give water, grain, hay & treats to a horse or pony safely

Health/Veterinary Care

Proper Turnout for Riders