“Dustin helped us buy our first horse. He took our family under his wing and turned our mare into a multi-skilled equine partner, and my daughter into a horsewoman – not simply a horse rider. Dustin builds a horse from the ground up, or re-builds them if necessary. His clients come from a wide variety of equestrian pursuits – people who realize that a horse with an excellent foundation will become a competent, respectful partner regardless of discipline. His horses know how to ground-tie (stand still), and respect their human partners. They quickly learn to trust the process because Dustin is clear, consistent, and constructive rather than destructive. He is the kind of professional that educates himself and regularly upgrades his skills and certifications. He has high ethical standards and is a superior communicator who documents his progress and checks in daily. But Dustin is more than a trainer! He is an accredited coach and judge, and competes in several disciplines.”

“I cannot say enough great things about my experience sending Reggie, my unbroke 3-year-old gelding, to Dustin to start. I had originally hoped to start him myself, but after a couple brief rides, my gelding did a few “iffy” things that I was unequipped and inexperienced to deal with. I also realized how quickly my confidence could be affected if I didn’t have a proper start put on my young future dressage partner. I didn’t want to be afraid of my young horse, so I sought help. Dustin started Reggie with groundwork and worked his way up to eventually walk, trot, and canter. Throughout the process, he allowed (and encouraged) me to come out when I could and watch him train Reggie, but he also let me take part in some of the training, from groundwork to lunging and eventually riding. This absolutely gave me the confidence I needed to feel secure in continuing Reggie’s training myself at home. ”

“There are so many words you could use to describe Dustin. Patient, kind, compassionate, understanding, knowledgable and adaptable just to name a few. He knows that all horses and people learn differently, so he makes sure he sets up a program that works for you and your horse. My favourite part, he always makes sure you end each lesson on a positive note.

He is truly amazing!”

“I would like to take this opportunity to recommend Dustin Drader who is a professional horseman and a dedicated trainer and coach. I have had the pleasure of working with Dustin, Judging Shows, Clinics, and lessons. He is a results-driven Trainer and Coach and I would recommend him if you are looking for a solid outcome with your horse or advancing your abilities as a rider. His expertise and persistence in these capacities have been helpful in him growing a successful business.
Dustin’s indescribable abilities when coaching are matched by his wonderful sense of humour, and his will to get the best results possible.”

“Dustin has trained horses and taught lessons at Mission Creek Ranch for several years, as D & L Equine Services have been operating the Ranch. I find Dustin to be delightful company on our days at the barn, always cheerful and quietly confident around clients, both human and horse. He is a dedicated trainer and spends quality time with the horses, both with ground manners and under saddle. He is a very routine oriented person, which the horses find comforting. The workouts are disciplined and geared toward the horses specific training level, from getting started to advanced work. I feel totally confident recommending Dustin to any clients who need help.

Dustin has also branched out into Judging and we have judged together, which was very fulfilling. He has many abilities and is a definite well rounded individual who will continue to expand and improve through his own education.”

“We have used Dustin as our main coach for the Kelowna Hoofbeats 4H club for many years. He represents the kind of horseperson we want our children to be. He is respectful, organized, current, flexible and reliable. He is willing to work with you to make sure you and your horse’s needs are met. I wouldn’t trust anyone else with my club.
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