Can I ride in my own helmet?

Definitely, as long as it is a horse riding helmet (no bicycle helmets allowed). But if you don't have one, you can use one of ours.

Do I have to wear breeches, gloves or any other special riding clothes for lessons?

No. I only require 3 things- a helmet, long pants and a short-heeled boot. The long pants can be jeans, sweats, khakis, stretch, etc. Anything you are comfortable in that comes to your ankle. Just remember, you may get dirty!

Can I bring a friend to my lesson?

If a friend is interested in taking lessons, please contact me before the lesson so I can plan accordingly.

Do you conduct lessons in the winter?

Yes. Although it is cold out, the horses still need their exercise and everyday care. I advise you dress warmly with gloves (not mittens), long johns, scarf, etc... Layers can always be removed. Working with horses is an outdoor activity and you want to be dressed appropriately for your own comfort in all kinds of weather.

Will I get to ride in the winter?

As long as the horses are dry and the ground is safe (not covered in ice), you should be able to ride. There will be days riding is not safe for the horses, and our lesson will be conducted in the barn or house, reviewing different horse breeds, tack and tack cleaning, parts of the body, horse facts, etc...

What if I need to cancel my appointment?

Please give 48 hours notice to cancel an appointment to avoid the scheduled lesson fee.

Do I have to sign a contract for a certain number of lessons?

No. Hopefully you will enjoy the lessons so much you will continue taking them for as long as you like. There is no risk of breaking a contractual agreement.

I have always loved horses and just want to take a ride. Can I do that without signing up for lessons?

Yes. When you contact me, be sure to mention that. The cost is the same as if it were a private lesson because I will be guiding you either on foot or horseback as well.

I already know how to ride. Can I take a horse out alone, by myself, for a trail ride?

In most cases, no, not alone. But please address us if this is something that interests you. This is best answered on an individual basis.

Are you insured?

Yes, we are insured. We can provide you with a certificate of insurance upon request.
Our customers can become additionally insured on our policy the day of an event for a nominal charge. This rate would be set by my insurance agency depending on individual circumstances.

What is a group lesson?

A group is 2 or 3 people of equal riding ability sharing the hour lesson. Depending on the rider's experience and my discretion, 1 or 2 horses may be used during the group lesson.

Can I ride double in my group lesson?

No. Safety is our number one priority and if one person loses their balance, the other one will fall off as well. You will take turns riding and get equal time in the saddle.

Can I play while my friend/sibling/partner is riding?

No. Even if you are not in the saddle, there is much to gain by watching someone else ride. A lot of what we learn from horses comes from groundwork, not only what we do in the saddle. Playing can be disruptive to your group partner, the horse and/or myself.

I have a disability. Can I take lessons at your farm?

In most cases, yes. While we are not a certified therapeutic riding facility, I want to give everyone a chance to learn about horses and how to ride.  As long as the person can get onto the horse themselves with only the aid of a mounting block, they can ride. Depending on the rider's abilities, I will determine if I need a walker (another person other than myself to walk alongside the horse and rider). If I believe a walker is necessary for the safety of the rider,  there is an additional charge of $5 for the walker.

What do you accept for payment?

We accept cash and personal checks. Returned checks will be subject to a minimum $30 returned check fee and up to the maximum under CT law. Payment will be made at the time of service, unless previous arrangements have been discussed.