FAQ
How long do horses live?
In captivity they can live 40+ years!
Is that horse dead??
No. Some horses when they nap will lay down on their side, all 4 feet stretched out in front of them, eyes and mouth open (occasionally with flies going in and out), and some even make dying sounds. But I assure you, the horse is not dead. In fact, horses that lie down like this outside are comfortable, happy, and feel safe!
What is the age requirement to volunteer?
At 14 you can volunteer in a lesson. At 12 years old you can volunteer in the barn. For more info, check out our Volunteer page!
When is the riding season for able-bodied riders?
Our able-body riding program runs year-round! You can start lessons at any time during the year. For more info, check out the Able Body Lesson page!
When is the riding season for assisted riders?
Assisted riding runs from Spring through Fall each year. Registration forms can be submitted any time, though we only add new riders to the schedule for a few weeks into the season. For specific dates for the current riding season, check out the Assisted Welcome Letter.
What is the process to become a new able-body rider?
The first step is to submit your rider registration form, and $30 membership fee.
We will contact you to discuss any previous riding experience you may have, and find the best day and time for your lessons. All of our able-body lessons are group lessons (3-4 riders), unless you purchase private lessons.
Lessons are every other week. You can also volunteer at the farm to earn credits to help pay for your lessons!
What is the process to become a new assisted rider?
The first step is to fill out all of the required paperwork, which you can find on our assisted rider page. This includes the registration form, rider questionnaire, and medical history form.
Once we receive that paperwork, we will schedule you for an evaluation. The evaluation fee is $45, and is due at the time of the evaluation. At the evaluation, we will determine the perfect horse, instructor, and lesson structure.
After your evaluation, we will contact you to schedule the day and time that works best for everyone’s schedule. The $30 membership fee and annual tuition will be due on or prior to the first day of lessons.
Lessons are every other week during the riding season, followed up by the Horse Show!
How can I pay for lessons?
Lesson payments for able-body lessons are due at the time of the lesson. You can pay your instructor directly, or pay online here.
Lesson payments for the assisted season are due prior to the start of the season.
How can I help Shady Hollow?