Into the Elements
Horses & Healing
Holistic Horsemanship & Equine Assisted Learning
FAQ
What should students wear?
Students are required to wear equestrian helmets, slip off heeled boots, and long pants, gloves are also useful. Students with long hair should wear a low pony tail or braid- no clips, hairbands, etc. under helmets.
What weather conditions cause lesson cancellations?
We do not ride during severe weather - heavy rain, high winds, thunder, lightening, hail, or temperatures or windchill temperatures below -10'C, or above 30'C. In some cases we may also reschedule at temperatures above 25'C. If your lesson has to be cancelled we will let you know as soon as possible and arrange to reschedule.
What if I need to cancel a lesson?
No problem, we can reschedule. However if cancelled with less than 24 hrs notice, students forfeit 1/2 of the lesson fee. If students fail to show up without cancelling, or cancel within a couple hours of the time the lesson is scheduled to begin, the entire lesson fee is forfeit. For same day cancelations please call or text 250-392-0805.
Why do we need to sign a waiver?
It is important for students and/or parents of students to understand that horseback riding can be an unpredictable, and sometimes dangerous, physical activity. Horses, as prey animals, can spook at any number of occurrences, have their own opinions on what they are and are not comfortable with, and have off days just like people. It is better for all of the humans and horses involved when students are aware of the potential risks, and are prepared for things that could occur during a lesson.
The type of lesson I'm looking for isn't listed, do you offer anything else?
We tailor our lessons to each student, helping them reach their goals and learn the skills they are interested in. Just let us know what you're looking for and we will do our best to arrange it, or send you in the right direction!
Why are groundwork/grooming/tacking up included in riding lessons?
Safety while handling horses on the ground is as important as safety while riding. These tasks also help students bond with and gain a better understanding of horses.
Do you accept horse donations?
We are always looking for suitable lesson horses, and while we appreciate offers, we can only accept horses that are sound, healthy, and pass multiple screening tests during a trial period. If you are interested in donating or leasing a horse to our program, and the horse is quiet, sound, and in good health, please contact us to discuss the possibility further.
How do I sign up for lessons or a camp?
Do you ride western or english?
We have tack for both and predominately ride with the western, however our focus is more on the actual horsemanship than a specific discipline.
Do you have gift certificates?
Yes, they are available for all of our services.
Do I need my own insurance?
We are insured through CapriCMW Insurance, however it is recommended by Capri Insurance that students (and everyone involved in with horses in any way) purchase their own individual Horse Council BC Memberships.
Do you offer trail rides?
Yes and no - we offer trail riding lessons to students as part of their horsemanship program, however we do not offer guided trail rides where people just come up for the a couple hours and head out for a ride, or rent horses.
Financial restrictions are stopping me from signing up, is there any outside funding available?
Yes! There are numerous organizations that help students with funding for sports and recreational activities, as well as a couple of local businesses who sponsor horsemanship/EAL students. Please let us know know if you wish to sign up and need financial assistance to do so.
PLEASE DO NOT ATTEND IF YOU ARE ILL (ESPECIALLY IF IT IS CONTAGIOUS), IF YOU HAVE RECENTLY BEEN EXPOSED TO SOMEONE WITH A CONTAGIOUS ILLNESS, OR HAVE ANY OTHER DROWSINESS OR IMPAIRMENT!