Volunteer FAQ's
Which horses will I play with?
Students progress with one main ‘Levels’ horse, but also play with a variety of horses at different levels. Some students are even starting young horses, problem solving with difficult horses, and doing imprinting and early learning with the new foals. With over 60 head of horses you are sure to be kept busy!
Who will support my learning?
Although providing a supportive environment for your learning, Buddy and Devanee do not give lessons. They are students too! However, they will offer their knowledge and experience to you in less formal ways with discussions and answering questions. Students can make full use of all of the Parelli learning materials, DVD’s , etc for study. Horse questions are often discussed at the daily team meeting. The idea is to support each other in the journey to get better for the horse!
Students also benefit by an ongoing instruction from Parelli Professional, Don Halladay. Cardinal Ranch students pay a reduced price for clinics with Don and enjoy an ongoing relationship. Don is a dedicated teacher that would like nothing better than to have his students reach their goals. Whether your goal is a Level 3 green string or if you just want to get better for horses, Don is an incredible inspiration and example to follow.
And don’t forget that the best teacher of all is the horse.
What do students have to pay for?
The arrangement is pretty simple. While you are here you simple accommodation will be provided. You will pay for your own groceries or personal items. Students will be expected to participate in any clinics that are scheduled with Parelli Professional,Don Halladay. Cardinal Ranch students pay a reduced price for clinics. (There is also clinics with Karen Rohlf, and Craig Johnson) Keep in mind that there are no clinics over the winter but this is also a great time to practice and let your learning from the summer soak in. Students that start the Level 3 Development Program in May could stay on for the winter if they like.
Can I bring my horse?
If you want to come for just the clinics, then, Yes. But if you want to be a full time working student you will be playing with a variety of Cardinal Ranch horses. So you might have to leave your horse at home, but won’t your horse be impressed with what you have learned when you return! You will have one main horse in which to make progress through your Levels . Students usually take all of the instruction on their main horse which they are also using to do their Levels assessement.
Many of our previous students have the goal of becoming Parelli Professionals. Having Level 3 savvy, and experiencing different horses is the general experience that will progress you towards the goal of becoming a Parelli Professional or generally a success in the horse industry.
Many students aspire to be professional horsemen/women but don’t get the skills or experience to pursue it seriously. This is an opportunity to have an intensive experience with few distractions. Parelli Level 3 savvy is a great foundation for the human. Add to this study some adventures out in ‘Nature’s Playground’ and horses with many different horseanalities, and you’ll be on your way.
What if I am not finished Level 2?
Many students have finished their Level 2 Assessment at Cardinal Ranch. There are many other aspects of ranch operations that you can focus on while you are building your savvy. You will have daily time with an experienced horse that has already done Level 2. However your time with young horses will be limited until your savvy and experience increases. Students that are newer to the Parelli Program have helped out with inside work and childcare as well as other ranch work. Skills are needed in this department as well to keep the ranch running smoothly.
Who can apply?
Most students that are accepted to come to Cardinal Ranch are well into, or finished Level 2 of the Parelli Program. If you haven’t got started yet, check out our dates for Level 1 clinics or look up a Parelli Professional in your area.
