The MQH Training Program

Clinics and Personalized Instruction

Scott McClelland is pleased to offer customized training to any individual or group - mounted patrol units, drill teams, 4-H clubs, etc. He can come to you, whether it be east or west coast; or if you prefer, you may join us for a day or weekend at our training facility.

Don't like being in a crowd? Personalized one on one instruction is also available - at any skill level.

We have had guests from all over North America visit the ranch. If time permits, our program will take you out of the arena, maybe to work some cattle in our pastures, or possibly just ride back country trails in some of northwest Saskatchewan's most beautiful scenery.

Don't have a horse with you? Not a problem, bring your saddle and we will match you with one of our geldings.

We believe that by working closely with both you and your horse, and using simple, but assertive drills, you can:

• Correct fundamental behavioural problems,

• Bring out the most in yourself and your horse.
• Make every ride safer and more enjoyable.

Confidence Training

The whole basis of our training program is establishing a foundation of confidence in both the horse and rider. The rider has to be able to read the horse to know when he is scared of an obstacle or just needs a little more time to think it through.

Once a rider understands what their horse is thinking, the horse will gain confidence in the rider and vice versa. From that point on, each successive obstacle the pair faces at work or on the trail will become easier to overcome.

Horses are smart and love a challenge. Over time your horse will look forward to learning new things and love being with you, its rider. Obviously, you will too!

The Personal Touch

Horses all have unique personalities and skill sets, therefore think differently as a result of their life experience to date.

This is why all of our clinics are geared towards smaller groups. Our clinic is designed for horse and rider pairs to get optimum one-on-one time with Scott. Once each horse has been assessed, Scott will identify the areas the horse and rider need to work on, and then implement a customized training program..

We have also found that with this smaller group format, riders feel encouraged to ask more questions. Horse training is a full time business for our family, but not likely for you, so having the opportunity to discuss different approaches and problem solving with Scott gets the most out of the day for both you and your horse.

Gear

Some of the training aids we use at all of our clinics:

• Small tarp – to walk over; carry.

• Plastic shopping bag – an important training tool for many unsure horses.
• Can Man – an old set of coveralls filled with empty aluminium cans; helps your mount get used to loud, obnoxious human looking objects!
• Foam noodles – helps the horse to thrive in aggressive situations.
• Large ball – everybody likes to have something to push around! It builds confidence like no other training aid.
  

We have other tricks in our bag of gear, but use of them depends on each individual group’s needs.

Follow Up

Not all horses (or their riders) will be totally changed in a single short clinic. Our goal is to demonstrate simple drills and concepts that will allow you to understand your horse better. We will show you how to set up similar low cost training aids so you can practice fundamentals together at home.

Sometimes the horse you presently own is not meant for whatever you want from him. And occasionally, the riders themselves need more personal skill development and confidence before taking on new challenges.

Scott is always just a phone call away and is pleased to answer any questions you may have. It is a rare day that he doesn’t get a phone call from one of our clients somewhere in North America.

A Few Final Thoughts

Our clinics are low on stress and high on enjoyment. Riding horses is meant to be fun and we’d like to keep it that way.

Contact Scott by phone (306) 893-7254 or email smqh@sasktel.net

about your group’s needs and prospective dates. We are flexible about the number of riders in each group and will work with you to ensure everyone will get the most out of it.

Hope to see you soon!