Business Details
Natural Horsemanship Training & Equine-Assisted Learning in Anderson, SC
Dark Horse Horsemanship is a family-friendly equine facility dedicated to natural horsemanship and foundation training. Our mission centers on fostering personal growth and emotional healing through hands-on equine partnerships. With over 30 years of combined experience in horsemanship and therapeutic training, our team specializes in building trust-based relationships between humans and horses. We offer structured programs for riders of all skill levels, emphasizing communication, leadership, and emotional regulation. Our certified instructors hold credentials from recognized organizations including PATH, BHS, and Parelli.Through equine-assisted learning, we serve diverse populations such as at-risk youth, veterans, and individuals in recovery. Our facility maintains professional horse boarding services and specialized training programs for young horses. We prioritize safety, ethical training methods, and creating accessible learning opportunities for our community. Our programs have demonstrated measurable improvements in participants' confidence, academic performance, and emotional regulation. We operate with transparency in our operations and maintain partnerships with local nonprofits to expand our impact.
Services
Riding Lessons
Horse Boarding
Equine-Assisted Learning
Summer Camps
HMS Club
Field Trips
Internship Programs
Veteran Programs
Youth Programs
Horse Training
Highlights and features
- We offer certified instructors with over 30 years of combined horsemanship experience
- Our programs have demonstrated 73% improvement in student behavioral outcomes
- We maintain partnerships with local universities for academic collaboration
- Our facility specializes in both horse training and human emotional development
- We serve diverse populations including veterans, at-risk youth, and recovery communities
Associations and certifications
- PATH (Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship)
- BHS (British Horse Society)
- ARIA (American Riding Instructors Association)
What people say
Build confidence
Healing environment
Positive leadership
Emotional regulation
Trust-based approach
Services
Riding Lessons
Our riding lessons focus on developing communication skills and mutual respect between rider and horse. Using natural horsemanship principles, we teach riders of all levels to build trust-based partnerships. Participants gain confidence while learning foundational riding techniques and equine behavior.
Equine-Assisted Learning
These programs use horse interactions to develop emotional awareness and life skills. Participants engage in activities that improve communication, leadership, and emotional regulation. Our certified instructors guide sessions that address trauma recovery and personal growth for diverse populations.
Horse Boarding
Our boarding service provides professional care in a supportive herd environment. Horses receive daily monitoring, feeding, and exercise. The facility offers convenient access to training arenas and experienced staff to maintain optimal equine well-being.
Horse Training
We specialize in starting young horses and refining existing skills using natural methods. Our training develops trust-based relationships while teaching essential groundwork and riding skills. Programs focus on creating versatile horses prepared for various disciplines.
Summer Camps
Our summer camps combine horsemanship education with personal development. Campers learn riding skills while developing responsibility and leadership through hands-on horse care. The programs emphasize teamwork and building confidence through equine partnerships.
People
Bekah Maddox
Owner/Founder/Head Instructor
With over 30 years of experience, Bekah holds certifications from BHS, PATH, and Parelli. She specializes in classical dressage, eventing, and therapeutic riding. Her background includes international training in England and developing programs for at-risk youth.
Mark Maddox
Trainer/Instructor
A 39-year riding veteran, Mark focuses on foundation training and natural horsemanship. He has Parelli Level 4 certification and specializes in mustang rehabilitation. His expertise includes cow working and trail riding instruction.
Kate Whitmyer
Barn Manager
Kate oversees daily horse care operations with a focus on equine well-being. She manages facility maintenance and supports therapeutic programs. Her background includes youth equestrian program coordination.
Vikki Paese
Equine Counselor
A licensed professional counselor, Vikki integrates equine therapy with trauma recovery. She holds multiple certifications in equine-assisted psychotherapy and specializes in family counseling through horse interactions.
Questions
What is natural horsemanship?
Natural horsemanship focuses on building trust-based relationships using horses' natural behaviors. We emphasize communication through body language and positive reinforcement rather than force.
Do you offer programs for children?
Yes, we provide riding lessons, summer camps, and therapeutic programs for children. Our programs help develop responsibility, confidence, and leadership skills through horse interactions.
Can beginners participate in riding lessons?
Absolutely. Our lessons accommodate all skill levels, from complete beginners to experienced riders. Instructors tailor sessions to individual learning needs and comfort levels.
Are your programs evidence-based?
Our equine-assisted learning programs show measurable outcomes. 73% of participating students demonstrated improved behavior and academic performance in our recent programs.
How can veterans benefit from your programs?
Veterans experience emotional healing through horse partnerships. Our programs help reduce anxiety, build confidence, and develop coping strategies through structured equine interactions.
Do you offer horse boarding services?
Yes, we provide professional horse boarding with daily care, herd socialization, and access to training facilities. Our staff monitors equine health and maintains proper nutrition plans.
