Our Mission, Our Values

At the Sonoma Equestrian Center our mission is to promote good horsemanship in a friendly, relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere.

We are committed to maintaining and promoting the ongoing learning, health, safety, and welfare of both horse and the rider through polite, intelligent and savvy communication using the principles of natural horsemanship, basic dressage and sound health management.

We dedicate ourselves to lightness in communication and not resorting to mechanical contraptions in training. It's not about the 'gear', but rather about the conversation to understanding. No tie downs, no spurs, no chains or any other mechanical imaginings of human force upon the horse.

Solid trust in equine relationship takes time and patience. There's no quick fixes in teaching and learning for horses or humans. We gentle and teach horses, we do not 'break' them here. Breaking implies the ruining of their natural spirit and as such we diminish our own, too. Dignity for both horse and human is paramount, as is safety and understanding.

Personal Invitation

Please accept our personal invitation to tour our ranch and experience the relaxed manner in which we guide our horses and they guide us. Our tranquil environment allows us to explore our relationship with our equine partners and refine our communication with one another to bring a closer understanding and partnership. Over 40 gently rolling acres for horses and humans alike to nurture themselves.

Besides our equine facility, we host a meditative walking path through a stone sculpture garden around a spring fed pond. Over one thousand rose plants grace our roads and our large oak trees shade our paths. Surrounded by majestic hills in the Valley of the Moon, our views of sunsets and moonrises are spectacular.

Come and experience our ranch! And as we are private, please call 364-2575 for your personal tour.

Thank you,

Anthony & Laura Ponter

Owner, Laura Ponter and rescue filly, Sasha