Is this a riding lesson barn?

We do not offer traditional riding lessons. We are happy to recommend English & Western riding barns in New Hanover County.

What will I learn during a session?

Sessions are tailored to the individual needs, age and goals of the participant(s). The farm visits, equine-facilitated learning sessions, and workshops offer the opportunities to learn a variety of horse and life skills. Activities may include, but are not limited to: equine body language and non-verbal communication, herd observation and dynamics, haltering and quiet leading, working at liberty {in a paddock}, hand grazing, ground work exercises, boundaries with the horse, horsemanship fundamentals, barn maintenance, horse massage, nature walk, grooming, parts of the horse, feeding and nutrition, and daily care. Our experiences are designed to help an individual or family learn how to be caring and confident with horses. Some of the most important work with an equine is done from the ground.

What ages do you allow?

Ages 8+

Do you have a volunteer program?

We do not have a volunteer program at this time.

What are your primary influences?

We consider ourselves forever students of the horse. They are our #1 guides. We are eternally grateful to other teachers of horse communication and connection. The biggest influence is Carolyn Resnick’s Waterhole Ritutals (aka the Resnick Method of Liberty Horsemanship). Other influences are The HERD Institute and The Masterson Method.

What do I need to wear and bring to a session?

Please wear your own closed-toe shoes. We recommend sturdy rubber boots or work boots, but tennis shoes are fine. Gloves are optional, but they do protect your hands from dirt, bacteria and sharp surfaces. There is some shade here, but mostly we are exposed in the sun and with insects while working with the horses. We recommend sun protection and bug spray. You should always bring a water bottle to avoid dehydration. We provide a hand-washing station with soap and cold water.

When will a session be canceled?

Sessions may be canceled or adjusted on a case-by-case/hourly basis at the discretion of the instructor when any of the following conditions are present at the time of your session:

• More than a 50% chance of severe weather (thunder storms, warnings/watches)

• RealFeel is less than 38 {fall/winter} or more than 92 {spring/summer}

• If lightening is 10 miles or less away (even if farm has no precipitation at that time)

• Heavy precipitation (more than 1” of rain in a short period of time; or snow and ice)

• Steady winds over 18mph; gusts over 25mph

What payments do you accept?

We accept Venmo (@seabreezehorseconnection) or cash.

What is your general sickness policy?

PLEASE: STAY HOME and/or cancel services if you have exhibited or have been in contact with someone who has presented with illness within the previous 24 hours to 2 weeks, including but not limited to: cough, sneezing, fever, chest congestion or additional signs of potential spread of any cold, virus or bacteria/disease. If you have been exposed to anyone who has tested positive for COVID-19 and/or you are in a required quarantine phase from school or work, DO NOT COME TO SESSIONS.

What is your Cancellation Policy?

If you arrive before your session start time, please wait in the parking area.

• Clients who are late will not receive additional time beyond the end of their regular session time.

• Clients who are more than 20 minutes late for a session without reason may not receive services for that day at the discretion of the instructor.

• Client cancellations made less than 24 hours in advance of a session or event are subject to full or partial fees being charged.

• No-shows will be charged 100% of the session fee.

• Clients will never be charged for a session that is canceled on behalf of Seabreeze Horse Connection.

How can I contribute with a donation?

Thank you so much for your consideration and generosity. At this time, we are most at need for helping to pay for rescue horse Spirit. His board, hay, feed, supplements, vet and farrier bills are $400/mo. Your donation goes directly to that fund. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts in helping us keep him here in a safe place where we can continue to help him on his rehabilitation journey. Every $ counts! $3 for instance will pay his hay for one day.

What if I have questions not addressed on this page?

We will respond to all email inquiries and phone calls (910-447-2844) as soon as we can during regular business days to help get you started in the right direction.