Lessons

At Stepping Stone Ranch you will receive only quality individualized instruction tailored to meet your specific needs and interests.

Vera Gannaway teaches private Dressage lessons to both children and adults. She strives to provide her students with the tools to obtain a balanced seat, soft hands and a thorough understanding of the horse and the aids we use to communicate with them. By learning these "basics," the rider is able to feel comfortable on any horse in any situation, and then move on to more advanced riding in any discipline.

For beginning riders of any age, Vera starts with a ground lesson that teaches the student how to safely handle the horse, a little about horse anatomy, how to groom the horse, and finally, how to saddle and bridle the horse. Usually, this lesson is followed by the first riding lesson. Lessons are generally private one on one lessons performed in one of the enclosed arenas. All beginning students are kept on a lunge line (a tether between the horse and the instructor) until the student is capable of safely controlling the horse on their own. Not only does this ensure the safest possible lesson for the rider, it also ensures that the rider learns true balance without learning to balance on the reins.

Lessons may be taken on one of Stepping Stone Ranch's lesson horses, or you may trailer in your horse with proof of current vaccinations and a negative Coggins.

Whether you are a beginner looking to become comfortable with horses, a rider with some experience who wants to learn better control for pleasure riding or showing, or you are an experienced rider interested in the show ring, Stepping Stone Ranch will work with you to increase your riding skills. We encourage you to come and watch a few lessons, get to know the horses and talk with the other students. You will find a fun and open atmosphere at Stepping Stone Ranch.