Testimonials

Hi Suzette! (Harmony Sport Morgan’s – hosted a RESPECT and RESPONSE clinic)

The clinic was great, I really enjoyed it. This was my first formal introduction to round penning and natural horsemanship methods in action, so I have nothing to compare it to, but that’s sort of good because I can compare it to my own theories and methods. It really made sense to me. I’ve always been big on “ground work” and establishing strong basics, trust, etc., and giving horses credit for being individuals and thinking creatures, and I think a lot of people don’t give that stuff enough credit. I really liked learning the methods Jeff used to show and get the respect and I was quite impressed with the relationship that round penning set up between horse and human. I agree that Jeff’s a very good clinician, he was very personable, encouraged questions at all points, and took the time to make sure we all understood.

I’ve since gotten to see another local trainer up here work with a horse, and he also uses natural horsemanship methods, but it was quite different. He was good and patient, and used praise and reward rather than punishment, but there was much more contact right off the bat instead of establishing the respect and communication first. When he did round pen the horse he didn’t have the complexity of communication that Jeff had. A change of direction was a change of direction, inside turn or out. This other trainer didn’t have the same approach Jeff had about cues, as in stop immediately when the horse responds. So, it really drove home the stuff I learned with Jeff, which seemed much more effective to me. I’ll definitely be down for the next one, let me know!

Stacey – clinic attendee

Jeff-Your clinic this weekend was one of the best I ever have attended on any topic, and, given the number I have been to, that is a real compliment! Watching you work with the variety of dispositions in those 6 animals and the repetition of the “what and how’s” drilled it into memory so deeply that I will never forget it! Much of how I train is similar to some of your techniques, but you brought together the organization, progression, and sequence, along with explaining the “whys”.

Sue Schumacher
Animal Behaviorist and Psychologist
Five Gaits Farm

What impressed me most is that with Jeff there are no secrets. He works with horse and owner teaching them both the same language. He teaches the basics and in a way that makes sense. His training methods teach you how to communicate with your horse enabling you to build a better relationship and earn your horse’s respect. I recommend Jeff Holzer and his RESPECT and RESPONSE training methods to many of my clients.

Mary Cox,
Equine Hoof Care Professional, specializing in Natural Hoof Trimming

After seeing Jeff demonstrate his training methods at the Randolph Farm extension last year, I knew that I wanted Jeff to work with my 9-year-old “yard-art” Quiz. My experience with riding Quiz had been a disaster--waiting for the sudden burst of speed and, the last time, a full rear and my falling in a heap with broken ribs. When Jeff started the round-pen training with him, Quiz was a little obstinate (“Who are you to tell me...?”) Using only body language and his lasso, Jeff convinced Quiz that “going to Walmart” is much better than hard work (going round-and-round). Teaching the cues for soft responses went easily (“OK, I got that fine.”) Quiz accepting the saddle was a little more difficult (“I don’t think I like this!”) The first time Jeff mounted up in the saddle and Quiz stood like a statue made me so happy. My brat has finally learned manners! The next few weeks of Quiz’s lessons will be work under saddle, and my learning to use the cues Jeff taught Quiz. I look forward to finally having a “pleasure” horse to ride this summer. And I thank Jeff so much for all the kindness and friendship my horse and I have found in him.

Marlene Catania (“Quiz”)

Jeff, thanks so much for making my favorite horse of all time a great "trailer loader". He's just a little chestnut Arab, but he and I are friends. It brought tears to my eyes to see him, with your guidance, conquer one of his obstacles. Now when you come back, please help me with de-spooking then he really will be perfect in my eyes. I'm sure people tell you this all the time, but you truelly have a gift of communication - not only with horses but with people also. Thank you for using it on something so valuable.

Kris Lohr

 Just wanted to let you know I was at your open house on Sat. It was Awesome!!!!! Jeff's Natural Horsemanship (relationship) far exceeded my expectations, which I must say were high. Looking forward to more opportunities to learn from his tremendous example. Thanks for the chance to meet Jeff and see some of his methods myself.

Dianne Bingham