TRAINING

We pay attention to every detail in providing an affordable service to our clients. Our program begins with orientation and adjustment to a wholesome feed program which includes two grain feedings and four good quality hay feedings daily. Housing is in 12' by 12' box stalls on clean bedding of shavings.

All horses are subjected to ground training, work in-hand and ground driving in harness. Horses begin work under saddle after satisfactorily completing all elements of initial ground training. 'Under saddle' means horses are trained to stand quietly for mounting, go forward on command and complete transitions as requested. Advanced training for flexibility and suppleness is dependent on the length of stay. Horses expected to trail ride require a longer stay.

All horses that enter training are expected to have a current negative Coggins Test and be recently wormed. All horses are expected to arrive sound and in good health, with feet properly trimmed. Farrier services are available at a reasonable cost if required.

Robert Darling is a member of the Professional Paso Fino Trainers Association.

Breeds other than Paso Finos will be considered for training, either in harness or under saddle on a selective basis.

"Bob Darling has a natural gift for working with the horse, his sincere compassion and love of the animal shines through. My only regret I have is that I didn't send my wonderful Paso Fino Zucchero to Bob earlier. I would recommend Bob Darling to anyone wanting to improve their horse's performance and attitude. THANK YOU BOB - I now am enjoying a wonderful relationship with my horse."
Jane Campbell
Peterborough, Ontario

"We sent our three year old Rocky Mountain filly, Sunni, to Robert Darling Stables for saddle training.

Sunni is a great horse but had received very little training during the year we had her. As a result she was quite spoilt and certainly had obedience issues.

We arranged to leave Sunni with Robert for two months. Robert encouraged us to visit and observe the training which we did on several occasions. It was obvious to us that Sunni was being very well cared for during her Boarding School experience.

After the two months of training we brought Sunni home and are now riding her on a regular basis. Sunni is obedient, gaits, walks and stops on voice commands and leg signals.

Robert trained Sunni to the level he committed to and we have had the opportunity to learn valuable training techniques as well. We look forward to continuing our relationship with Robert and feel very fortunate to have him in our area to assist us with our gaited horses."

Dana & Nancy Hoover