Trainer: Rae-Lyn Pighin
Location: East Kootenays, BC
Investment: $1,150 per month
Focus: Horsemanship • Softness • Groundwork • Back-Country Readiness

The Spur Valley Approach

At Spur Valley Horses, we build horses the honest western way — with feel, timing,
consistency, and respect. This 30-day program is rooted in practical horsemanship. We focus on building softness, confidence, and reliability — on the ground first, then under saddle, and finally in the back country where a good horse proves themselves.
Our goal is not simply a broke horse, but a willing, confident partner.

Program Breakdown

Week 1 — Foundation & Respect on the Ground
• Leading with softness and intention
• Yielding hindquarters and forequarters
• Backing with light pressure
• Establishing personal space and handler respect
• Desensitizing to ropes, tarps, flags
• Establishing a consistent daily routine
Goal: Develop a mentally connected, respectful horse.

Week 2 — Softness & Responsiveness
• Longeing with bend and softness
• Voice cue transitions
• Soft feel on halter and bit
• Introduction to lateral softness
• Beginning under-saddle work (if applicable)
• Developing rhythm and forward intention

Goal: A horse that seeks release and responds to light cues.

Week 3 — Under Saddle Development
• Walk, trot, lope transitions
• Soft stops and backing under saddle
• Flexion and bend work
• Steering from seat and leg
• Arena obstacle exposure
• Introduction to light back-country terrain
Goal: Calm, steady, and responsive under saddle.
Week 4 — Back-Country Application
• Hill work and balance
• Water crossings (when available)
• Riding alone and in group settings
• Exposure to wind, wildlife, and brush
• Extended trail sessions
• Refining softness outside the arena
Goal: A confident, sure-footed partner ready for real-world riding.

What’s Included

• 4–5 structured training days per week
• Consistent daily handling and care
• Exposure to varied terrain
• Mid-program progress update
• End-of-program evaluation
• Optional owner lesson at completion

Ideal For

• Green horses needing foundation
• Horses lacking softness or responsiveness
• Trail horses needing confidence
• Owners wanting a solid western base
• Horses transitioning into back-country work

Important Program Disclaimer

Every horse is an individual. While this program is designed to build a strong western
foundation, progress depends greatly on each horse’s temperament, prior training, physical condition, and consistency after returning home. Spur Valley Horses does not guarantee a 'finished' horse within 30 days. This program focuses on developing foundational skills, softness, and confidence that owners must continue to maintain and build upon.

Health & Vaccination Requirement

All horses must provide proof of up-to-date vaccination records prior to arrival.
Documentation must be submitted before the start of the training program. Spur Valley
Horses reserves the right to refuse intake if proper vaccination records are not provided.

Spur Valley Horses believes good horses are built with patience, clarity, and consistency — not shortcuts.