Positive Reinforcement Training
Why Positive Reinforcement (R+)?
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Building a connection with your equine based on choice and shared fun is strong.
R+ training is primarily done at liberty from the beginning, giving the equine partner a chance to opt out at any point.
Desired behaviors are reinforced.
Undesired behaviors are extinguished or replaced by shifting the learner’s focus to desired behaviors. -
The key to success in positive reinforcement training is learning your horse’s language and teaching them yours.
Shaping, targeting and other methods of positive reinforcement are like mental puzzles engaging your horse’s mind.
To set your horse up for success you need to be clear in your cues and read their responses well and adapt.With practice this will improve you reading each other's intent in all situations and communicate more clearly.
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Every horse, donkey or mule is different. And each needs a different training plan.
R+ is not a step by step plan but a scientifically proven way of learning. The principles of positive reinforcement can be adapted to follow whatever the learner requires.
Besides a few foundation behaviors there is no order in which behaviors have to be learned or what pace needs to be set.
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R+ does not require lengthy training sessions but can be done in intervals as short as a few minutes.
The maximum duration is dictated by the learner’s and the handler’s attention span.With R+ it can be beneficial to stop after a short session and let the horse process. Often the next session shows progress in the behavior.
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Overcoming trauma and behavioral issues can be challenging.
But our equine friends give us signals, we can use to help them overcome their fears or reservations.With positive reinforcement we give them a choice to say no when it gets overwhelming.
Difficult behaviors can be broken down into small, achievable steps and alternated with easier behaviors to build confidence.
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Standing still for the farrier, getting injections, oral medication - these are just some of the care challenges for horses and owners.
With positive reinforcement, the learner can be systematically counter conditioned to be more relaxed in these situations and eventually just view them as a routine situation.
Choose what fits your needs.
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Clinics
During a clinic every participant has two sessions to work on their personal R+ goals. Each session is between 15 and 25 minutes.
Between sessions we discuss the learning process of horse and handler.
I am available for clinics by request at your location in New England.
Rates vary based on location. -
Private at your facility
Would you like to work more focused with your personal horses?
Book a private session at your facility.
We can work with one horse or multiple horses.
$70/1h (within 30 minutes of Goffstown, NH)
Additional mileage rates for further travel apply.The rate covers you learning by yourself or with a friend.
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Private at my facility
Would you like to focus on your own skills and work with my horses?
Book a private session at my barn in Goffstown, NH.
We can work with one horse or multiple horses.
$60/1h
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Virtual
Virtual training is available upon request.
Requirements:
- Stable internet connection in your training area
- Ability to set up a camera-enabled device to see your training area, i.e. phone on tripod.
- Headset or speakers for communication
Starting at $25 -
Video reviews
Send in your training sessions for review and feedback.
Included for existing, recurrent students
Monthly subscription COMING SOON
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Working Student
Train with my animals at a reduced rate as a working student.
COMING SOON
Tell me about you, your equines & your training goals
If you are interested in working with me, call or text me at (786) 877 - 8102, email myriam@allsparkhill.com or fill out this survey.