How often are riding lessons normally taken?
You
will make the most progress if you ride at least once per week.
Depending on your goals and time available you may want to ride more often.
Depending on your riding skill level you may be able to take advantage of
leasing a horse for additional practice time. Talk with your instructor.
Do I have to wear a helmet?
Yes, they
are required for all riders both adult and children. We do have loaner helmets
available. Many riders eventually purchase their own helmets. Your instructor
can recommend where to get one and what type of helment you might want to
purchase.
What should I wear for my lessons?
We
require that all riders wear a boot with a heel. Keep in mind that your boots
will probably get dirty or muddy at some point. You should wear comfortable
long pants. Most folks wear jeans or leggings. Sweat pants are also popular
attire. NO SHORTS please! Dress for the weather and comfort.
How long must I be in private lessons before I can
move to semi-private or group lessons?
Riders progress at their
individual rates. You must develop certain skills before your instructor will
allow you to move on to riding with others in a group. We try to have riders
in a group who ride at similar skill levels so group availability varies.
Discuss this with your instructor as you progress.
Does Dun-Pikin offer the opportunity to ride in
shows?
We have in-house fun shows occasionally for our weekly
riders. If you are interested in participating in off-site shows such as
dressage, or eventing you should discuss this with your instructor and and set
goals. We can provide coaching, trailering and horse leasing for those who
want to ride in shows (additional fees apply.) Discuss this with your
instructor as this is subject to scheduling and availabilty of the instructor.
We require any riders who want to show off-site to ride at least twice per
week.
Can I bring a treat to feed my lesson horse?
We have horse treats which you can feed your horse after grooming and
untacking your horse. You may also want to bring your own treats such as
carrots, apples, peppermints, and sugar cubes. Just a little bit though as a
reward. Our horses and ponies are well fed and healthy. Help us keep them that
way by not overdoing it!
Are there bathroom facilities?
Yes, there is a
clean port-a-pot with hand sanitizer area.
Can we bring treats to feed the animals?
Yes, the
ponies like carrots, apples, peppermints and sugar cubes. Please only give
ponies treats with staff supervision. Please inquire about what would be
appropriate to feed the other farm animals.
When is payment due and what type of payments do
you accept?
Lessons are normally paid monthly, but for an
additional fee we will accept pay-as-you-go payments each week. See our fee
schedule for details. We accept cash, check, money order or credit card. We
process credit cards on-site via PayPal cell phone ap. You can pay online via
a link on our website. See below.