“My daughter Lucia has been riding with Dorothy for 9 months now and she still loves it! She loves not only learning to ride, but also how to care for and respect horses which I believe is very important. Dorothy teaches her each horse has their own personality just like us, and Lucy has grown to love each one she has ridden for their own special reasons.  Dorothy’s teaching style is calm, fun, with an emphasis on deep breathing in order to learn to calm ourselves so the horses learn to love and trust their rider as well. This provides a session of not only fun but teachable moments of how to calm our minds in sometimes stressful situations which Lucy has been able to apply in daily life. Thank you Dorothy for providing such an amazing atmosphere for our daughter to learn and thrive!”

I have been sending my 8 year old daughter to Belgian Haven for almost a year now. She has been apart of the Summer Camp and March Break Camp. I have never seen my daughter so excited to be apart of something. She absolutely loves going to the farm to help with the animals, riding horses, and of course spend time with Dorothy who she adores! Seeing the joy and excitement in my daughters eyes from the moment we pull in the driveway, to hearing all the stories on the drive home is truly amazing. Belgian Haven is a wonderful, inclusive place to send your children for a fun and educational day/week. We are looking forward to spending time their again this summer!

 “Since my daughter and I started riding lessons and attending Dorothy’s clinics, I’ve noticed positive changes in both myself and my daughter. I have gained much more confidence with horses and my daughter has gained more confidence overall. In the past we have tried to enroll my daughter into many different activities – soccer, baseball and swimming. She always wanted to participate at the beginning, but fear and anxiety always took over making it less enjoyable for everyone.  Our daughter looks forward to going to the barn and lessons every chance she gets. Dorothy has been extremely patient, understanding and kind. She has taught my daughter so much about horses but more importantly she has taught her calming techniques and how to deal with her emotions. Riding with Dorothy has bonded my daughter and I on another level.”

 The experience I had with Dorothy was amazing Being a 1st rider and around horses, Dorothy took the
time and care to make sure I was comfortable as well as General (horse), helping me understand that he could
feel my energy. Dorothy made me feel very comfortable and confident riding for the 1st time. had a
great experience learning to ride and give commands to General (horse). I can’t wait to return and ride more
horses in my future. What a fantastic day!

My little one has been coming to Belgian Haven for riding lessons for several months now and she just
loves it! Through the lessons, she is not only learning to ride but also how to care for and respect the
horses. Since beginning lessons her confidence has just soared, and for that we have Dorothy to thank!
She has been so patient and kind when sharing her knowledge and love of horses with our daughter!
She always looks forward to the next weeks’ lesson and would do it every day if she could!
How can we get people to like Belgian Haven like this?

We signed our two granddaughters up for March break camp at Belgian Haven. The girls had a fabulous time. Everyone at Belgian Haven is dedicated to the children, and their well-being and ensuring the experience to be spectacular. The girls made new friends and wonderful memories. I highly recommend them. Do not miss the opportunity to send your kids to Belgian Haven.

“My daughter is very scared and nervous around horses. Dorothy knew just which horse (little D) would be best matched with Bella. She is so patient with her, reassuring, offers kind words of encouragement and lets Bella go at her speed and does not rush her into doing anything she is not comfortable with. We are still learning to get on and off the horse and working through Bella’s calm breathing to feel safe and comfortable. Dorothy is a very patient, loving human and knows just how to make everyone feel safe and learn at the same time.

Now my son Maverick is also going for lessons. My son has ADHD and high anxiety. Being around the horses helps him to feel safe and relaxed. He has his favorite horse named Teddy.  Maverick the first time just hopped on and rode the horse bareback and has been hooked ever since.  Dorothy knows just how to let Maverick go at his pace and when he needs a moment to go and sit and gather his thoughts or do some breathing she is more than willing to let him do this.  No pressure, no forcing them to do what they do not want to do.

We have also participated in a day camp at Belgian Haven and found it very helpful and fun. Lots of fun things for the kids to do and learn about the horses.  From start to finish you learn that there is a lot more than just jumping on the horse and riding.”