🐴 A Note About Local Riding Programs, Safety, and Why We Speak Up
Who We Are and What We Stand For
Cheyne Ranch is a nonprofit offering inclusive, relationship-based programs where people and animals grow together. Our mission is to create a space for individuals of all ages and abilities to connect, build confidence, and heal through work with horses and nature.
We are guided by clear beliefs: safety comes first, connection transforms, and growth thrives in compassion and evidence-based care. These aren’t just words — they shape everything from how we train staff to how we choose animals for our herd.
Context for This Post
Whether you found this post on your own or someone pointed you here, thank you for taking the time to read. Either way, this post is here to explain why we care so deeply about how equine programs operate — and why safety, ethics, and consistency matter so much to us at Cheyne Ranch.
A Hard Truth: Not All Programs Are Safe
Some local programs operate in ways that deeply conflict with our values. We’ve seen places that skip safety protocols, mistreat or overuse horses, cycle through staff, and put profit above care. In some cases, horses have entered lessons straight from high-risk sources without proper quarantine or evaluation. These practices don’t just affect animals — they put people at risk, too.
What We Choose Instead
We don’t name names or engage in gossip. But we do take a stand. Cheyne Ranch was built on safety, respect, and responsible care. We choose the slower, ethical path, even when it’s harder — because it’s right.
Looking for Another Option?
If Cheyne Ranch isn’t the right fit, we’re happy to recommend a few local programs that share our standards. We want every student to find a safe and respectful place to learn — even if it’s not with us.
A Note About Attending Multiple Programs
We understand that families sometimes explore more than one barn at a time. When a student is enrolled at Cheyne Ranch and a program that shares our values, we fully support that.
But when a student attends a program with unsafe or harmful practices, we often see confusion, conflicting habits, and behavioral issues that impact their progress here. If you’re in this situation, let’s talk — our goal is to make sure every student has a consistent, positive, and safe experience.
How You Can Learn More
If you’re reading this, it’s because I trust that you care too. And you deserve the chance to make informed decisions.
If you ever have questions about what makes an equine program safe, humane, and trustworthy, I would be honored to help.
With care and conviction,
Sally Ann Cheyne
Founder & President, Cheyne Ranch
