Positive Reinforcement Desense

Presented by Iron Oak Canyon Ranch's Animal Care Academy, this first segment of our Equine Education series of clinics and classes will focus on gentle, effective desensitization for horses using positive reinforcement.

In this observational, live-demonstration class, you'll learn the basics of operant conditioning and positive reinforcement, focusing on making your equine partner more confident and predictable in all types of situations. By utilizing positive reinforcement during desense, you can create a purposeful cue for your horse to relax when encountering new and potentially scary obstacles.

This class will be taught by ranch owner Lessa Ritzma, whose previous career credits include zookeeper and exotic animal trainer, along with over twenty years of horse experience.

This is an audit-only, hands-off class. A live equine will participate in the demonstration portion, with a lecture and Q&A to follow. All participants will qualify for the Equine Education: Positive Reinforcement Desense credit for Iron Oak Canyon Ranch's Equine Education certificate, as well as a bonus credit for the Animal Behavior certificate.

$50 per student for 1.5-hour class. Limit 10 students. Weather permitting. For an additional $10, students may purchase a mini training kit to take home and use to practice the principles taught in class with their own horses.

Message us to sign up or ask questions.