Pinedrop Ponies

Pinedrop Ponies is a premier equine training and lesson program in Chattaroy, Washington. We offer all-breed training with an emphasis on creating versatile, safe, responsive mounts for our clients. Don't let our name fool you- while we love and specialize in smaller equines, we train horses of all shapes and sizes! Our lesson program is focused on nurturing confidence, strength, fitness, and excellent horsemanship in our students. We also offer sale commission, barefoot trims, husbandry coaching, and equine grounding experiences.

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Head trainer, Tonya Ballman Lakewolf, has 24 years of experience with horses and ponies of all shapes and sizes. She grew up helping her family manage their boarding facility, while honing her skills in riding and training on equines with a myriad of personalities. Her training style is gentle, yet effective, with an emphasis on positive reinforcement and LIMA (least invasive, minimally aversive) techniques. She combines a science-based approach with a lifetime of practical knowledge to personally cater a training program to each learner. Her goal is to create a kinder, safer world for horses (and their humans) by continuing to learn and grow her skillset while sharing it with others.

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Students enrolled in riding lessons will learn groundwork, equine biomechanics, care and grooming and, finally, how to ride ergonomically and effectively on a variety of different mounts. Our lesson horses are gentle and trustworthy. We combine principles from different disciplines to create versatile horsepeople and riders who can thrive in any handling or riding situation. We have access to a variety of riding environments including several pastures, an outdoor arena and roundpen, and a robust trail system. We believe in exposing both horses and riders to various practical situations in a manner that safely expands their comfort zones.

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Tonya is well-educated on proper hoof care and nutrition, and is now offering barefoot trims and husbandry coaching. A healthy horse starts with a healthy hoof,  and many behavioral issues can be corrected with adjustments in management. 

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Other services offered by Pinedrop Ponies include sale preparation and commission. We can assist in training and conditioning horses and ponies for sale, creating advertisements, and brokering interactions between buyers and sellers to find the best outcome possible for all involved parties. We believe in putting the horse first, ensuring honesty, and taking the time to find the perfect fit.

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Last, but certainly not least, we are introducing a new program involving "Equine Grounding Experiences." Horses have a profoundly calming effect on many people, and are known for their therapeutic benefits. Not everyone wishes to ride, which is why we will be holding space for people who simply want to spend time with these beautiful animals. Tonya will lead yoga and breathing exercises, along with grounding walks with horses in beautiful natural environments. These are very low-pressure experiences, intended to allow participants to unwind, sink into their senses, and experience the magic of horses firsthand.

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In short, our program is perfect for anyone looking to connect meaningfully and compassionately with horses. We are actively building a community of kind, growth-oriented riders and handlers who put the horse first! If this sounds like you, we'd love for you to join the fun.

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For more information, please visit the "contact" page. We look forward to learning more about you and your equine partners!

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