Connection Over Competition

Todd Acres is the home of The Unicorn Initiative, a nonprofit dedicated to cultivating meaningful, positive connections between people and animals—with the hope of inspiring a kinder, more compassionate future.

Our programs are different from those at a traditional riding school. Riding may be included when it is safe, appropriate and beneficial, but it is only one part of what we teach.

Through horses, dogs and other farm animals, participants develop confidence, compassion, responsibility, communication skills and a deeper understanding of animal behavior and welfare.

No previous animal experience is necessary—just curiosity, kindness and a willingness to learn. 

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What Makes Our Programs Different?

The Whole Animal Matters

Students learn much more than how to ride. Programs may include grooming, leading, groundwork, animal behavior, body language, safety, nutrition, barn management, enrichment and responsible animal care.

Every Student Is Different

Our small-group and individualized programs are designed to meet participants where they are. Activities may be adapted for different learning styles, comfort levels, abilities and goals.

Animal Welfare Comes First

Mounted activities depend on the health, comfort and suitability of both the participant and the horse. Riding time and animal assignments are never guaranteed. Activities may be adjusted or replaced with meaningful unmounted learning whenever needed.

Skills for Life

Working with animals helps students practice patience, empathy, confidence, problem-solving, teamwork and emotional awareness—skills that reach far beyond the barn.

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Programs We Offer

Horsemanship Academy

A small-group, hands-on program centered on horse care, safety, communication and responsible horsemanship.

Students may explore:

• Grooming and leading

• Horse behavior and body language

• Groundwork and obstacle activities

• Tack, nutrition and basic equine science

• Barn safety and horse welfare

• Mounted education when appropriate

This is an educational horsemanship program—not a traditional learn-to-ride class.

Intro to Vaulting

A fun introduction to equestrian vaulting with an emphasis on fitness, strength, balance, flexibility, teamwork and confidence.

Classes may include:

• Rider fitness and conditioning

• Balance and coordination exercises

• Practice on a stationary barrel

• Horse-handling and safety skills

• Individual and partner movements

• Mounted vaulting activities when appropriate

No previous riding or gymnastics experience is required.

Barn Management & Animal Care

A practical learning experience for students interested in what it truly takes to care for horses and other farm animals.

Topics may include:

• Feeding and nutrition

• Stall and paddock care

• Safe animal handling

• Health and wellness observations

• Farm organization

• Equipment care

• Animal enrichment

• Welfare-centered decision-making

These programs are especially valuable for future animal professionals, horse owners, volunteers and compassionate animal advocates.

Youth Dog Training & Welfare

Students learn positive, humane ways to communicate with and care for dogs.

Activities may include:

• Canine body language

• Positive-reinforcement training

• Basic obedience and manners

• Enrichment and appropriate play

• Responsible dog ownership

• Dog sports and demonstrations

• Guest instruction from local dog professionals

Todd Acres is also home to Valley Dog Sports, allowing students to learn about activities such as Barn Hunt and other dog-training opportunities.

Individual & Buddy Horsemanship

Lessons

A limited number of individualized and two-student horsemanship lessons may be available.

Lessons are designed around the student’s goals and may include grooming, groundwork, horse care, leading, communication, confidence-building and mounted activities when appropriate.

Todd Acres is not currently accepting students into a traditional beginner riding progression. Riding-focused opportunities are limited, and priority may be given to established students, suitable horse leases and participants enrolled in our broader horsemanship programs.

Seasonal Camps

Our camps offer immersive days filled with horses, farm animals, games, crafts, movement, outdoor exploration and hands-on learning.

Camp activities may include:

• Horsemanship and horse care

• Grooming and groundwork

• Educational riding

• Vaulting and rider fitness

• Animal science and welfare

• Farm chores and barn skills

• Dog training activities

• Crafts, games and team challenges

Activities vary by camp theme, age group, weather and animal availability.

Workshops & Special Events

Throughout the year, Todd Acres and The Unicorn Initiative host educational workshops, family experiences and special events.

Offerings may include:

• Pony and unicorn experiences

• Animal-care workshops

• Horse behavior and communication

• Youth leadership activities

• Dog-training workshops

• Seasonal farm events

• Community outreach programs

• Programs for schools, scouts and community groups

• Private group experiences

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Before You Register

Our programs are educational and enrichment-based. They are not medical, mental-health or occupational therapy unless specifically offered in partnership with an appropriately licensed professional.

Program activities, animals and instructors may vary. Safety, animal welfare, weather and individual readiness will always guide participation.

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Come Learn, Connect and Grow With Us

Whether your child dreams of horses, loves dogs, wants to understand animals more deeply or simply needs a welcoming place to build confidence, Todd Acres offers a different kind of learning environment—one rooted in compassion, connection and care.

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