Frequently Asked Questions

West Wind will accept cash and cheques (payable to West Wind Stables). As well payments can be made via TelPay.ca or internet banking (check with your financial institution).

Lessons

I want to take some lessons but I have never been on a horse, is that o.k.?

Absolutely! We teach all levels including people who have never been on a horse. Safety is first and foremost so we ensure your first experience is not only safe but fun for you! For the first few lessons we guide you through working work around the horse, grooming and getting your assigned horse ready for riding, or as we call it, “tacked up”. After the riding portion of your lesson we also guide you through the “un-tacking” of the horse and putting away your equipment.

We will only progress riders as fast as we can while keeping them as safe a possible. The lessons are designed to be progressive, so each week we build on the prior week’s lesson. We ensure a sound foundation of the basics is present before moving onto more advanced skills.

What can I wear when I first start riding? Do have to buy all the “fancy” riding gear?

No, when you first start riding you do not need to run out and buy all the “fancy” riding gear. There are however some guidelines in place to ensure your safety and comfort.

Starting at the top is the helmet. A helmet is required by all junior riders (under 18) and for anyone jumping. We have a small number of rental helmets available but we do recommend riders purchase their own if they wish to continue riding past their introductory lessons.

Tops and jackets should be well-fitted; t-shirts and sweatshirts are common. In cooler weather it is recommended to layer. Pants should be somewhat loose fitting but not too baggy; sweatpants and leggings can be worn. Jeans are not recommended as they tend be somewhat restrictive.

Boots must have a heel, however no more than 1 inch is recommended. The boot should go over the ankle to provide extra support. You will not be allowed to ride in running shoes or sandals. Gloves are optional but are recommended; they should be well fitted with some sort of grip.

Helmets and riding attire can be purchased at Westgate’s Horse & Country 897-0740 or Greenhawk 256-4870

I already have a bicycle helmet; can I wear it for equestrian riding?

Standards for cycling and equestrian helmets are very different. Bicycle helmets are similar to horseback riding safety helmets in appearance, but are not subject to the design specifications and standards that a riding helmet must pass in order to provide adequate protection.

An equestrian helmet offers additional protection to the back of the head and the sweatband area of the helmet. Equestrian helmets are tested by the Safety Equipment Institute (SEI) for Chinstrap retention, penetration by a sharp object, and for impact absorption. These tests are specifically for horseback riding related accidents.
For more information on the SEI standards visit Safety Equipment Institute. All horseback riding helmets must meet the American Society of Testing Materials (ASTM) standard F-1163.04a.

How long is lesson during the Introduction to Horses Part A program? What can I expect?

For this 8 week program (4-6 riders), you can expect to be at the stable for about 2 hours. We start out with 20-30 minutes of classroom theory, then we move into the barn to get the horses tacked-up (ready to ride) that process takes about 30-40 minutes. Once everyone is ready to ride, we move into the arena where you will ride for about 45-60 minutes. After the ride, the horses are un-tacked and the equipment is cleaned and put away, that takes about 15 minutes.

Introduction to Horses Part A is where beginners from ages 8 - adult are introduced to riding.

What can I expect after completing Introduction to Horses Part A?

After completing Introduction to Horses Part A, you now have an idea of the basics of horse handling and riding and have decided that horseback riding is a sport worth pursuing! The next progression would be to enroll for Introduction to Horses Part B, our second 8 week program. You should expect to be here for 2 hours. Here the riders study theory for 30 min in preparation for Equine Canada's Rider Level 1 Evaluation. The riders are more independent during the tack up portion, which will take 30 min. Once everyone is tacked up, we move into the arena for 45-60 min of riding and practice and polish more of the skills learned during Part A. Riders are now expected to un-tack unsupervised.

The last lesson of this program would be the Rider Level 1 Evaluations. It is not mandatory to be evaluated, but is highly recommended. To gain certification as a Rider Level 1, riders must pass the evaluation, purchase a Manitoba Horse Council (MHC) membership, and pay a small certificate fee to MHC. Certification is not guaranteed.

After riders have completed both Introduction to Horses Part A & B they may choose to advance to regular group lessons (3-4 riders) or regular semi-private lesson (1-2 riders).

How long is a group lesson? What can I expect?

For a group lesson (2-4 people), you can expect to be at the stable for about 2 hours. We start out with 30 minutes of classroom theory, then we move into the barn to get the horses tacked-up (ready to ride) that process takes about 30 minutes. Once everyone is ready to ride, we move into the arena where you will ride for about 45-60 minutes. After the ride, the horses are un-tacked and the equipment is cleaned and put away, that takes about 15 minutes.

When you first start, supervised tack-up is a requirement. We will walk you through the grooming and tacking-up as well un-tacking the horse after the ride. Once we ensure everyone can do this safely these tasks are no longer supervised.

How long is a semi-private lesson? What can I expect?

For a semi-private lesson (1-2 riders), you can expect to be at the stable for about 2 hours. We start out with 30 minutes of classroom theory, then we move into the barn to get the horses tacked-up (ready to ride) that process takes about 30 minutes. Once you are ready to ride, we move into the arena where you will ride for about 60 minutes in total. The hour is split into two 30 minutes sessions, one of which you will be instructed and the second is self-guided practice time. After your ride the horses are un-tacked and the equipment is cleaned and put away, that takes about 15 minutes.

When you first start, supervised tack-up is a requirement. We will walk you through the grooming and tacking-up as well after the ride the un-tacking. Once we ensure everyone can do this safely these tasks are no longer supervised.

What can I expect in the theory classes?

The theory classes give us the opportunity to teach you more about horses. We cover a wide range of horsemanship topics, starting with the basics and working up from there. We do theory mainly in the classrooms, but at times we also do “hands on” sessions in the barn or arena. Early topics include how to safely work around the horse, how the horse sees, reasons for grooming. More advanced topics include first aid, feeding, and basic anatomy.

We also discuss topics specific to riding, such as how we queue the horse while riding, figures and patterns, and riding rules and etiquette. By covering these topics in the classroom, we can then build on the knowledge while you are riding.

What is P'Tit Trot?

The P'tit Trot riding program was created to help children 5 and up learn the basics of English riding with a horse or pony.

The colourful illustrations and amusing antics of P'tit Trot were designed to help kids discover horses and learn the ABCs of riding. They also learn how to take care of their horses.

This program is tailor-made for kids who are interested in horses.

What is the cancellation policy for lessons?

Please notify West Wind Stables as soon as poPlease notify West Wind Stables as soon as possible if a lesson will be missed. Cancellations not received 24 hours before start of lesson will result in forfeit of the lesson time (no make-up allowed).
All lessons (riding & theory) are paid for regardless of the reason of absenteeism. All regular weekly lessons are to be booked in consecutive weeks. No more than 3 cancellations are allowed per calendar quarter.
Student practice rides should be booked 1 week in advance. Last minute cancellations are not allowed and will result in forfeit of time and charge.
West Wind Stables reserves the right to cancel/reschedule lessons due to weather or schedule changes.
To discontinue taking lessons, written notice must be given prior to the 24th of the month else it is assumed lessons are continuing and will be invoiced as such.

Exceptions to above:

Written cancellation of a lesson for the following month given on or before the 24th of the previous month. (i.e. to cancel for August, notice must be received by July 24th)
If appropriate notice is not possible (i.e. illness/family emergency) then the lesson fee may be applied towards:

a. Group: reschedule to semi-private lesson (no theory) for $9.00 charge

b. Semi-private: reschedule lesson (no theory) with no additional charge
Coupons or special group packages (8 week/tot program): all lessons must be used consecutively. Any last minute cancellations will result in forfeit of lesson time and cannot be rescheduled. The only exceptions are:

a. Written notice received at the start of the first lesson of the program, missed lessons can be rescheduled and upgraded for a $14.50 charge (additional charge of $7.00 if tack-up instruction is needed)

b. Weather cancellations

Note: Make-up lessons must be done within 30 days of the missed lesson and may not be done in the rider’s regular scheduled lesson time. Any missed make-up lessons will not be rescheduled (exception weather cancellation).

Leasing

What is leasing a horse?

Leasing a horse is a special arrangement between the owner and a student for use of a horse.

Why lease a horse?

Leasing offers the student the benefit of more rides per week, without the FULL costs of owning a horse. Leasing, however, requires a greater commitment of time and money by the Lessee for the care and maintenance of the horse.

Leasing can serve several purposes:

opportunity to ride a skilled horse for a temporary period of time;
option if purchasing a horse is not feasible at the time;
great first step to help determine what type of horse is most suitable for you before you become a horse owner!

Are lesson costs included in the monthly lease cost?

No, lesson costs are in addition to the monthly lease cost. While leasing you are not charged the school horse lesson fee.

Why are the costs to lease horses different?

Each horse is unique, besides having different levels of training, each horse has different care requirements and maintenance costs and the Lessee pays a portion of these costs. The cost of the lease has many variables:

a) Type of Horse:

Competitive horse: A horse of an age of reasonable maturity and the training level is one that has been past its first showing year. The horse’s talents would be good enough to be a teaching master to the student, or have a talent that the student can work with, having the possibility of competing in the show ring with the purpose of success.

Non-competitive Horse: A horse of either young or older age. A younger horse may give an intermediate to advanced student a chance to learn how to correctly school and train a horse while an older horse may have talent, but competitive endurance may not be there to show at outside shows.

b) Health, maintenance and other fees:

Board Fee is a percentage of the cost of boarding the horse which provides basic hay and grain, arena usage, and daily turnout.

Horse Lease Fee is a fee to help cover the investment that the owner has in the horse. This fee is required in addition to the percentage of board the Lessee has to pay.

Tack Rental is the basic equipment rental required to ride, usually including the bridle, saddle, martingale and pad. If the horse is a competitive horse, show quality equipment may or may not be available. This fee is not charged if lessee has own equipment.

Farrier is the person who provides regular care and maintenance to the hooves of the horse. Depending on the horse and the level of activity or event, costs vary from horse to horse and season to season.

Dewormer is either a paste/powder/injection given to the horses to eliminate internal/external parasites in horses. They receive this once every 6-8 weeks.

Vaccinations given in spring to prevent horses from contracting or spreading viruses/diseases.

Extra Feeds each horse, depending on age, breed, type of work being done, require different feeding regimens, some are easy keepers and require little additional feed, while others require more.

How many days can I ride?

The Lessee will have the use of the horse for at least one riding lesson per week as well as two practice rides. The rides are based on a 1 hour length. The days available to ride are negotiated with the owner of the horse, so that each party has access to the horse. Practice rides are to be written in the schedule book at the bottom of the page in advance to assist staff in knowing who is at the barn and what time they plan to ride. Practice rides can NOT be rescheduled in the case of illness or absence that was not previously arranged between the owner and Lessee.

If the Lessee would like to participate in camp programs, clinics, in house schooling shows or other activities this needs to be agreed upon by both parties. The owner will have first options to the use the horse and will give sufficient notice to Lessee of any schedule changes.

What riding level do I have to be to lease?

Students who can walk, trot, canter and tack up a horse on their own are candidates for leasing. If the student is under 18, parents are required to stay at the stable and supervise during practice ride time. Your coach is the perfect person to talk to if you are interested in leasing. Your coach can recommend a horse to suit your goals, skills, and size. At least three lessons should be be taken on the horse to make sure you and the horse will make a good team!

What level of horse do I need?

West Wind Stables lists the lowest level of student that can lease any of the available horses. For example, if a horse is listed for novice students, that is the lowest level of student that could lease the horse. An intermediate student is still able to lease that horse and may be able to gain higher levels of achievement with that horse. If the horse is labeled for advanced students, it is not suitable for any levels below, such as novice or intermediate. Talk with your coach to see which horse would best suit you.

How long must I lease?

Depending on the agreement between owner and Lessee, the terms of the lease may vary. Generally, West Wind Stables leases horses on a monthly basis. Leases may be terminated by either party upon 30 days written notice.

What if the horse gets injured?

If the injury was caused by neglect of the student, veterinarian care would be paid by the student. Any other injuries are covered by the owner. If the horse cannot be ridden for a period of time due to an injury, other arrangements may be made to ride a school horse.

What if I get injured while riding/working with the horse?

Both parties are responsible for getting and maintaining individual insurance to cover property damage and liability. West Wind Stable strongly recommends all students, lessees, and boarders to maintain a valid Manitoba Horse Council membership to help protect themselves if an accident were to occur.

Rider Levels & Coaching

What are these Rider Levels that I keep hearing about? Where can I find out more?

Equine Canada developed the Learn to Ride Program so that individuals could learn safe horsemanship and riding skills in a correct and safe manner. There are Learn to Ride programs for both English and Western disciplines. By working through the program, individuals are guided through a systematic process that introduces new riders to equestrian sport and riding.

Proper riding technique is best developed with the aid of an accredited instructor or coach, the program has been designed to be delivered by an EC certified coach/instructor.
An accredited examiner, who obtains the standardized exams from their provincial association, will give an evaluation for each level.

You can talk to your coach to get more information about the Rider Levels. You can also find information on Equine Canada’s website at www.equinecanada.ca look under Sport - Learn to Ride.

Are your coaches certified? What does it mean to be certified?

Yes, all of our instructors and coaches are certified with Equine Canada, or are working towards their certification.

Obtaining the certification is the end result of much work and learning on the coach’s part. First they have to obtain a certain Rider Level, attend classroom sessions on coaching and first aid, and put in a required number of hours working and coaching under a mentor. Once they have worked through the prerequisites, they have to attend a one to two day evaluation.

Coaches have to remain current in their status with Equine Canada by attending a set number of hours of upgrading activities, including first aid renewal and riding specific activities.

If I want to become an Equine Canada certified coach/instructor can you help me that?

We sure can! With the guidance of our Equine Canada certified coaches and mentor, you will be guided and supported through the process from initiation straight through to your certification evaluation. This includes assistance in enrolling in the program, meeting the pre-requisites, theory sessions, hands on teaching opportunities and valuable feedback throughout your preparations. Please contact us for more information about enrolment and fees.

Birthday Parties

What can my children wear for a pony party or birthday party ride? Do I have to buy special clothes?

No, you do not have to buy anything special. However, there are some rules that are in place to ensure the safety and comfort of riding party attendees. Parents and visitors attending either a pony party or a riding party are asked not to wear sandals for safety reasons.

For both pony parties and private riding parties, attendees who will be riding must wear long pants, such as sweatpants or leggings; jeans are allowed but are not recommended as they tend be restrictive. Tops, such as t-shirts or sweatshirts should not excessively large and baggy. Party attendees will not be allowed to ride in dresses, skirts or shorts.

Boots are required for all attendees who will be riding; they do not have to be “riding” boots but something of similar styling. Some good options are hiking boots or cowboy style boots. The boot should go over the ankle to provide support and should not have a heel of no more than 1 inch. Party attendees will not be allowed to ride in running shoes or sandals.

Helmets are required for all party attendees who will be riding and will be provided by West Wind.

Summer Camps

Why go to West Wind Stables Horse Camp?

West Wind Stables Horse Camp is a place where kids can learn about horses by working with the horses. They are involved in horse related activities from the time they arrive at the stable until the time they pack up at the end of the day.

What happens over the week at a horse camp?

First Day of Camp:

Parents must come in with the campers on the first day campers so we can ensure all forms are completed and signed. Campers are then assigned into their groups. If there are any concerns with the groups, fear, or nervousness please discuss this with the staff on the first day.

Groups are then set off to either groom and saddle in preparation to ride or go to learn what’s involved in the care of the horses through workbooks and hands on participation.

In the riding lesson campers will learn how to mount, sit balanced, steer and stop their horse. After they are done riding campers will take the equipment off and clean it before putting it away. Groups who were learning in the stable will then switch to getting ready to ride and vice versa.

During the week:

Campers will gain skills and knowledge of all aspects of the horse. They will learn how to safely and confidently work around horses. The campers learn new riding skills and improve their balance during each lesson by taking part in games on horseback.

End of the week:

Each camper will gain the skills to stay balanced on a horse, steer, and stop the horse. If campers are balanced enough they may even be introduced to trotting. On the last day of camp parents are welcome to come and watch the lesson which will include games to show off the skills they have learned! We will have the schedule posted for the entire week including the Friday lesson times so you can make arrangements to come and cheer on your child and take pictures!

Pick up and drop off times?

The camp hours are 9am-4:30pm. You may drop off between 8:30-9am and pick up from 4:30-5pm.

How much time will my child spend with the horses while at camp?

Each child is responsible for his or her own horse each day they are at the camp. This includes feeding, brushing, washing, and anything else the horse needs while the camper is with the horse.

Your child will learn what it takes to care for horses through workbooks and hands-on tasks. They will help feed, water, and sweep up after their horse. Before their scheduled hour of riding time they will get the horses groomed and saddled. Games and activities including the horses are also planned.

Essentially each child will spend the full day with their horse or involved in a horse related activity.

Will my child ride the same horse every day?

Our coaches aim to match horses to the campers’ size and skill. This does not guarantee that your child will ride the same horse every day. We encourage each camper to keep an open mind if they are to ride a different equine partner during their time at camp.

What if my child is sick?

We require a doctor’s note recommending the child not ride in order to facilitate any refunds.

My child has taken a few lessons. Would they still be considered beginners?

If you`re child has not been riding on a regular basis they would be considered beginner or novice riders. Please include any experience your child has had on your registration form and we will group riders with experience together. If you are unsure, please contact us.

When would my child be considered advanced?

If they are currently taking lessons, or are starting to compete they would be considered advanced. Advanced camp requires the camper to be able to groom and saddle with little supervision and to be comfortable controlling a horse in a canter. It is for safety of the riders, as they will be doing 2 rides/day as well as some jumping.

What can I expect after completing Introduction to Horses Part A?

The next progression would be to enroll for Introduction to Horses Part B, our second 8 week program. You should expect to be here for 2 hours. Here the riders study theory for 30 min in preparation for Equine Canada's Rider Level 1 Evaluation. The riders are more independent during the tack up portion, which will take 30 min. Once everyone is tacked up, we move into the arena for 45-60 min of riding and practice and polish more of the skills learned during Part A. Riders are now expected to un-tack unsupervised.

The last lesson of this program would be the Rider Level 1 Evaluations. It is not mandatory to be evaluated, but is highly recommended. To gain certification as a Rider Level 1, riders must pass the evaluation, purchase a Manitoba Horse Council (MHC) membership, and pay a $15 certificate fee to MHC. Certification is not guaranteed.

After riders have completed both Introduction to Horses Part A & B they may choose to advance to regular group lessons (3-4 riders) or regular semi-private lesson (1-2 riders).