Dear Dan,

Many years ago when I first began my foray into the horse world, I met a man like no other, Clyde Stone.   He seemed he could talk to the horses with out talking at all.  He walked in the barn and they all came to attention. All eyes on him.  With what seemed like little or no effort on his part, the horses did his bidding.   For those of us who had the honor to ride with him, we were continually amazed at how a stubborn horse would submit when Clyde walked on the scene.   It was an honor to know him and I never thought I would meet another like him, until now.

Dan Keen has that same gift.   Without bluster or blow, Dan communicates with the horses in a way they understand.  Using neither fear nor intimidation, Dan creates a horse that is soft and submissive.   Their look is that of focused, but calm attention.  He builds a thinking horse. A horse that is thinking, “What does my handler want next?.”

We recently moved my daughter, Ashley, an aspiring Eventer, up from a pony, to her first horse, Gracie.   Gracie has tons of talent and lots of go, but is a bit spooky and stiff.  It’s a big step up for a little rider and Ashley’s confidence took a real hit.  She didn’t feel she could control her new horse and as an Eventer, control is key.      

In the English world of riding, it seems that everything from the horses to the trainers is imported and expensive.  With access to the best in the area, I value no other training more for my daughter’s Eventer than what Dan can provide.    You can shape the horse however you want for your sport, (I call that “top dressing”) but Dan has provided a more important piece.  He has provided my daughter with an equine partner that is attentive and submissive.   He put her in control.

After a short time with Dan, Ashley’s new mount is much more to her liking.  I can see the confidence returning and the partnership she has with her horse growing.   Gracie reacts less and thinks more.  She’s softer and easier for Ashley to shape as she chooses.   Those seem like simple words, but if you know horses, you know there is no more important element to a safe and successful ride.  

Ride with Dan and you will see everything from imported dressage horses to top-notch barrel racers or just good ranch stock.  This training is a great foundation for any discipline and I would recommend it to any and all. 

Sincerely,
Suzette Kyle