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What You Need To Know:
Before making your first trip out to the ranch, here are some key things that are important to know.
Session Description/Program description: One of the primary questions that we receive when people call is, “So, what is it that you actually do? Will my child be riding a horse?” For starters, our program is between one child, one horse and one leader. We serve all youth ages 7-18. When you arrive at the ranch for your first visit you will be greeted and welcomed by ranch staff. After your paperwork is filled out and in order, you’ll receive a tour of the property, meet our horses, and have some time to get to know us and us to get to know you. After that, your child will begin their formal session by participating in a chore with his or her leader, and then move on to some basic horse care. The chore your child participates in depends on their age and ability, and varies from session to session. Not only does it convey the importance of having a good work ethic, but also gives the child ownership and sense of belonging that we aspire for them to have about the ranch. Your child will not be riding a horse on their first visit, and it is up to both the child’s comfort level and the leader’s discernment as to when your child will begin the horseback portion of his or her sessions.
Weather/What to Wear: Several of our visitors have been surprised by the difference in weather between town and out at the ranch. We have literally seen a temperature shift in excess of 10 degrees at times! With that in mind, it’s important to bring layers of clothing. Sometimes you may need an extra sweatshirt to throw on top when the wind is chilly, or you may need to have a light t-shirt on underneath for when it gets too warm. A hat is always a good idea as well! And of course, long pants and sturdy, closed-toe shoes are a must.
Food/Water: Please make sure that your child has eaten a meal or snacked recently before his or her session. It’s also very important on warm days that he or she has been consuming liquids. Since their session is 90 minutes long and requires physical activity, we don’t want them to be hungry or parched! Having your child bring water along for the session is always highly recommended, and we do have water available here as well.
Release Forms: Every adult and child visitor must have a valid, signed FTYR release form before they are able to participate in our tours, riding sessions, volunteering, etc.
Note: A form must be completed and signed for every visitor regardless of their involvement with horses.
- A legal guardian must sign for all visitors under the age of 18. Any child under 18 who is not accompanied by a legal guardian must bring a release form completed by his or her legal guardian.
- Visitors between the ages of 13 and 18 must sign with their legal guardian.
- Each visitor must have a completed release form on file, and must complete a new one each calendar year.
You can download and fill out your release form ahead of time to bring with you to the ranch by clicking on the Release Form button under the “Our Program” dropdown menu.
Directions: Exit N. Livermore Ave. from 580 and head North about 3 miles. Turn right on May School Road and follow until it ends at the stop sign, about 1½ miles. Turn left on Dagnino Road and FTYR is the first driveway on your right. When passing through the gate, please be sure to leave it as you found it. Follow the gravel road staying to the left. At the top of the hill go over the cattle guard and turn left down towards the parking lot. Welcome to the Ranch! To see a map of our location, please see our Directions page under the “Our Program” dropdown menu.