Frequently Asked Questions
The single most asked question is, why do we work with horses?
Nature provides horses with instincts and senses that are very astute. For their mere survival, a wild horse must be aware of their surroundings and quick to react. They watch for the slightest movement, especially threatening body posture. Horses know how to discern the difference between a calm non-threatening approach and anxious, nervous energy; immediately identifying individuals struggling internally.
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When we can understand that they are sensitive to the stimulus of each participant, when they react to the stimulus through changes in their body language, participants must adjust their feelings and behaviors to work successfully with the horses. As facilitators listen to a horse’s non-verbal communication, together, they have the ability to walk participants through to finding life-altering change.
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Participants are guided by the horses and facilitators to come to their own decisions and work on building life skills for where they are at right now! To move forward with their lives, to build skills and to truly tap into their potential!
Absolutely not! All of our programs (whether riding or on our life skills development programs on the ground) are designed for people of all experience levels.
Safety is our highest priority and each participant will receive a safety orientation.
THIS IS NOT EQUINE THERAPY. We do not require a clinical professional with us to do these exercises, workshops and programs.
There is no special clothing requirement to take part in any of our programs. The only thing that we ask is that you wear closed toed shoes for safety while you are working with the horses. That could be running shoes, cowboy boots, or any other footwear that will keep your toes safe. Dress for the weather and leave your favourite clothes at home. The arena has beautiful sand for our horses to enjoy, and while they love it, you may get a little dusty!! You must bring your own helmet & riding boots.
Yes! The facilitators at Lazy J Ranch are certified with Equine Connection - The Academy of Equine Assisted Learning, a leading organization in Equine Assisted Learning. As well as backed by The EAL Network a leading organization in this specific skills development program with horses.
You can take comfort in knowing that we carry extensive insurance not only for us, but for you too! We want to make sure that every aspect of your experience is exceptional, and believe that you knowing we have you covered is part of that.
No worries! If you aren't being pushed out of your comfort zone, you aren't learning. This is an opportunity to overcome fears or preconceived notions. Some of the people who have attended our programs have started out intimidated. By the end of the program, they have learned more about themselves, they have overcome their fears and walked out with life-altering results!
Knowing is half the battle! Just be sure to take an antihistamine before you come. If you don’t know if you are allergic to horses, we have allergy medicine onsite.