July 10, 2020

TRAINING INTENSIVE PRACTICAL

Skills for Riding (or Not)

With Katie Bartlett, Jane Jackson, and Cindy Martin

July 10-12 at Bookends Farm in Sheffield, VT

$300/person 

How to use clicker training while riding is a question we often get. Even if you don’t currently ride or ever plan to, the training techniques we’ll share this year are valuable for everyone, especially if you want to adjust your location to a saddle, a cart, a longe line or at liberty. Building chains, secondary reinforcers, and using cues as reinforcers are some of the skills we have each used and can share with attendees. 

While Bookends Farm ponies are not suitable for most adults to ride, they offer the experience to demonstrate the above skills in hand, so participants can practice the techniques, before taking them to a saddle or cart. With three coaches for the duration of the clinic, you will have access to guidance like no other opportunity (for more information on the coaches, please see the next page).  

The event begins on Friday evening (afternoon?) with pizza and introductions, followed by some introductory  practice on Friday night. Saturday and Sunday are a balance of brief presentations as well as plenty of time for hands-on training.

Fee of $300 for the weekend covers the educational experience, Friday night pizza, light breakfast and casual lunch both days. Non-refundable deposit of $100 is due with entry.  Payment can be made via check (mailed to Jane Jackson, 2908 Square Rd, Glover, VT 05839), Pay Pal (Bookends Farm) or credit card (please contact Jane). Remaining $200 is due on June 10. Refunds after that will only be if your place can be filled by someone on the waiting list.  If not, your entry will be put toward next year’s clinic. 

You will be free to enjoy local fare for Saturday dinner.

Clinic is limited to 12 participants, first come, first served. We will maintain a waiting list for anyone who doesn’t make it in. To fill out an entry form, click the button!

August 8, 2020 9: – 5:

Location- St Johnsbury VT

One day clinic.  6 spots available for horses, unlimited auditors.

Positive Reinforcement training can be used for training new skills (from haltering to jumping to trail obstacles) or for troubleshooting through challenges (trailer loading, clipping, fear of water).  We’ll start where you are successful whether it’s introducing your horse to the basics or helping with training plans for bigger goals. Each horse will get two sessions, one in the morning and one in the afternoon. There will be a “working lunch” break for discussion and questions. Auditors are invited to be active participants in discussion, questions, and any human skill practice.

working spot- $60 for VHC members   $85 for non-members (also gives you year’s membership)

auditors- $20

October 17-18, 2020

Location- Green Mountain Horse Association, So, Woodstock, VT

 This is a great opportunity to end the season with some constructive homework for the colder months. Jane’s material is suitable to all disciplines, breeds and levels. You will also find it applies to canines or any other furry critters that live with you.

Positive Reinforcement can help with challenges such as:

• loading
• tacking up
• standing at the mounting block
• clipping
• hoof handling
• cooperation with veterinary procedures
• leading and turnout manners
• spooking
• as well as training for under saddle or in hand

for more information, see the GMHA website.