PONY PROFESSIONALS
'Serious Skills, Serious Fun!'
At Pony Pros, we use natural horsemanship and positive reinforcement training to help us live the "Misty of Chincoteague" dream. In a team-based setting, we jump, trail ride, show, and practice the art of playing with horses at liberty!
Interested in Lessons?
Hello Fellow Animal Lovers! At Pony Pros, we offer horseback riding lessons for toddlers on up! We specialize in creating a joyful, safe atmosphere where students learn about horse psychology and behavior, not just about riding. While we are skilled in teaching sport riding (English and Western), our top priority is teaching students to communicate with their horses and develop a relationship. We teach all different kinds of riding - jumping, liberty, bareback, vaulting, trick training, trail riding - if you can dream it, we do it! With over 20 years experience teaching in Bend, Oregon we are a great place to get your start in the horse community, develop friendships, and create lasting memories. Click here to learn more about lessons!
Why is the business called Pony Pros?
A 'pony pro' is a talented young rider who helps train or tune up horses (and ponies). Sometimes such kids are called 'pony jockeys' or 'catch riders', but the general meaning is that the rider is a hardworking kid with a good attitude and big heart for helping other kids and horses in their riding journeys.
TESTIMONIALS
"I've been riding with Pony Pros for a few years now and I absolutely love it! There is no other riding place like it. We learn all sorts of things other than just riding. We do vaulting, jumping, colt starting, camping trips, trick training... Pretty much anything to do with horses - we do it. Everyone at PonyPros is so friendly, from the teachers to the parents to the kids. Even the ponies are super friendly and very cute! When you go out to the pasture they all come up and say hi and want to be taken out and played with. I always feel safe and accepted there."
Kali Kiger and Mustang, Smokey. Smokey was an untrained horse that Kali started Smokey under saddle during Covid.
A Message From Our Founder:
"When I started Pony Pros, I quickly saw that kids weren’t just coming to ride — they were coming because they loved animals. What struck me was how few programs honored that passion - kids were learning to ride, but losing some of that childlike wonder.
As an animal lover myself, I wanted to change that. At Pony Pros, we make space for learning to ride well and building a deep bond with an animal. Kids light up when they know their horse as a friend, not just a mount in the arena. They take joy in every detail — brushing, feeding, listening, hugging, knowing everything about an animal. We treasure those moments because they fill a child’s heart as much as their skills. That’s what makes Pony Pros different.
Everyone benefits from a genuine horse hug when they come to the barn!" - Kali
TESTIMONIALS
Pony Pros is loved by our local students and by horse people around the world!
To the next person who says, "Have you seen Buck?" I will say, "Have you seen Pony Pros? That is how it should be done!"
K.W.
These people are fantastic! I can't think of any better place to study or to trust with my child's equine education. We are blessed to have them in Bend!
T.W.
I am filled with gratitude for PonyPros on so many levels: the amazing role models you are for my daughters, the memorable events you have arranged and they have participated in, your photographic genius. For the millionth time, I so appreciate your deep understanding of my girls.
J.B.
LIVE, ONLINE CLASSES
Zoom Classes for Students Around the World
HUNTER/JUMPER CLUB
Make friends with other hunter/jumper kids while learning more about how hunters and jumpers works as equestrian sports! This class class is primarily a student-led, discussion based class. Learners are asked to bring new video each week to share with their friends. Groups divided by age/ability.
HORSE CAREERS CLUB
Learn about horse anatomy, conformation faults, common diseases, rehabilitating injuries, tack fitting, healthy feed regimens, conditioning, safe horse-keeping, and more. Great information to help future vets or horse trainers! Mix of lecture and games. Great for people who might want to compete in 4H Horse Knowledge Bowl, Pony Club Quiz, or the National Hippology Academy with IEA.
