Testimonials

Testimonials

I have attended one of Scot's Self Defense on the Trails clinics and it was probably the best money I ever spent with my horses. I plan on doing it again hopefully this winter. The techniques are really easy and effective. But fortunately I haven't had much need to practice them.

Kathy & Nick - Moonshadow Ranch - McKenna, WA

We brought Scot in to help us with a troubled rescue horse who had a history of both behavioral and physical problems that had escalated to a crisis situation for our family. In the time he has worked with us, and through the valuable lessons we have learned, I have developed a deeper and more enriching relationship with my horse than I ever thought possible.

While his talent and ability to help horses is apparent, his true value lies in his skill in coaching owners how to think like and interact with their horses in a positive and healthy way. He empowers his clients with skills that will help them establish a solid foundation for any riding discipline.

His methods are respectful of the nature and spirit of the horse. And he quickly establishes a level of mutual trust with both horse and owner that provides the basis for a safe and effective learning environment -- and a springboard to a relaxed and stress-free relationship between horse and owner.

Scot has helped me develop a fun and rewarding bond with my horse. And the skills that he's taught me are transferring well to our other horses, as well. The time spent working with Scot has been a solid and high-return investment in both ourselves and our horses.

S. H., Washington

Our experience with Scot Hansen's clinics, as well as individual lessons has been nothing short of extraordinary. He has a unique capability to work with several different skill levels for both horse and human, whether it is with someone like me whose horse experience is summed up by - "Food goes in here, and out there..." Or with someone like my wife who has been riding since childhood.

Scot brings an open mind and empathetic attitude to each session, with his overriding goals #1 To Be Safe, and #2 Have Fun! We've had several trainers over the years and each have their own set of pros/cons. What we've discovered with Scot is a complete willingness to adjust his training style based on the student/horse situation of the moment. This, coupled with the most complete knowledge base we've encountered has given us a wonderful feeling of empowerment to move forward with our skills and enjoy these amazing animals on a completely different level.

One other point that I must address. My career involves high stress, and high dollar amount negotiations on a regular basis. The experience I've gained from Scot Hansen's approach to working with the animals has impacted the way I interact with my clients on a day-to-day basis. It started at a sub-conscious level, but the more I become aware of the subtle changes, the more I am recognizing positive results.

Bottom line, you should do whatever you can to spend some time absorbing what Scot Hansen has to offer. A clinic, the information on his website, or a private lesson -- it will all have a positive impact on your horsemanship!

G. O., Washington

The skills I have learned at Scot Hansen's clinics have been invaluable. Scot's riding talent, knowledge of the horse, and ability to read both horse and rider are extremely impressive. My Andalusian, DJ, and I were stuck. The exercises that Scot presents at his clinics have facilitated our developing a working relationship through very necessary foundation basics. The results have been a more relaxed partnership between DJ and me -- one built on mutual respect. I can't say enough about the benefits I have received by participating in Scot's clinics.

C. B., Arizona

My first encounter with Scot was a demonstration on loading a horse into a trailer. The horse he was using that day was having difficulty and was clearly afraid. I watched as Scot succeeded in getting the horse to calmly step into the trailer and then stand quietly. It was truly amazing to watch the entire process that led up to finally loading the horse.

At that moment, I knew that this was the person that I wanted to help me work with my three year old filly, and I approached him with that thought in mind. However, after our first lesson, I realized that it would be in my best interest to have him work with both my mare and filly -- and with ME, as well. So the three of us began our training sessions with Scot.

Scot constantly stresses safety on the ground and works to help his students be "thinking rides." My horses and I are in a safer, less stressful position because of the work that we have done under Scot's guidance. He has a firm yet gentle, caring approach to training both horse and rider, and he does it all with a great sense or humor.

V. K., Washington