Are you drawn to driving events at equestrian shows? Do you have a horse that you would like to train for driving? With proper training, carriage driving can be a wonderful experience for both the driver and horse.
Although knowledge of horses is important, the gear and process for driving can present its own challenges.
If you are an experienced equestrian, your relationship with your horse will be an added asset to learning how to drive. Having the help of an experienced driving professional will help you and your horse learn proper techniques to keep you both safe. We offer driving training for horses as well as lessons for people of all levels of equestrian experience who want to learn to drive.
Driving a horse is fun! Many equestrians love the feel of driving a horse in a cart or buggy. However, teaching a horse to drive has inherent risks. Even accomplished riders need assistance with training a driving horse. That’s why it’s important to have the following support system when you start teaching your horse to drive.
A trainer with experience training horses to drive
A safe place, like a fenced-in arena, with good footing for your horse to learn
A staging area within that arena
Tack for lunging, long lining, ground driving, and finally driving
Practice materials to drag such as PVC pipes, thick cotton ropes, and a spare tire
It takes time and careful practice to ensure your horse is comfortable driving.
The most important part of the process is you and the horse’s safety. That’s why we work on building trust with the horse, ensuring it is comfortable, and building up to driving slowly. You won’t put a cart on the horse the first day. But that also means you are less likely to be involved in a dangerous driving accident.
Experience the joy of driving! Many equestrians find driving a freeing and fun experience that can be enjoyed at all ages. Contact us to learn more about training your horse to drive in Santa Rosa, CA.