Email me at: littleorchardequine@gmail.com
Everything I do is done with the horse in mind. I will work towards goals, but I am careful not to push the horse past his limitations, be that comfort level or physical ability. I find that keeping the horse at the forefront of thought keeps him sounder and happier longer, and he will give you more try in the long run. If you are looking to work with me, you are looking to work in partnership with your horse, where they have a say in the conversation. This, of course, does not mean the horse gets to go on with poor manners or no obedience, as that is a dis-service to him, but rather that the horse can say no if he feels something is beyond his capability, or that he will not need to hide pain (as they do because they are prey animals). We will build the partnership on the horses natural curiosity, and personality to achieve goals the way the horse needs.
Background
I began my journey at Heart's Haven ranch, where I have had the opportunity to meet many people and horses thanks to Roxy Wright. Some of my early mentors include Bob Lahey and Maureen Snow for natural horsemanship, Leeana Miyashiro for dressage, Karen Jarvie, Andrea Harris and Barbara Edgecombe-Green for hunter jumper. More recently I have had the chance to ride with Allan Wedge jumping, Kenton Miller for mounted archery and working equitation, Darcee Jean Gundlock for a bit of everything and bridleless riding, Sarah Southwell for introduction to French classical dressage, and mestre Dominique Barbier to furthur my pursuit of lightness.
The horse is a mirror to your soul -Buck Brannaman
In my pursuit of lightness and connection to the horse I have not limited myself to only one breed or one type of horse. I have worked with all manner of horses, from draft types, to off track thoroughbreds, arabians, and even miniatures. I have learned to take each horse as an individual and let him guide the pace that we go. While it is important to push outside of the comfort zone, smaller increments have always led to a horse who is happier to take things in stride and show his personality. I always look for relaxation before anything.

Introducing the Team

I could not undertake these endeavors entirely on my own, there simply are not enough hours in the day. Meet the people who help keep Little Orchard Equine run smoothly day to day.
Marko Micovic
Marko helps run the Warhorse side of things, helping introduce the horses and people to weaponry and medieval games. His main mount is Calli and you can usually see them with a sword in hand.
Brittany Young
Brittany can be found catching and tacking horses for both training horses and lesson horses. She is also the main photographer! Always managing to catch good moments when I forget to put the camera on.
Cheyenne Roycroft
Cheyenne takes care of the feeding, and quick tune ups of the horses keeping them happy and healthy. She is working towards helping with more of the training side of things as well.
Katelyn Teyke
Katelynn is always ready to help with beginner riders, making sure they know the ins and outs of leading and tacking their horses. She is also always happy to put a quick assessment ride on potential lesson horses.