Horse whisperer rides into Cloverdale

Deborah and Dennis Reis are bringing their "No Dust Tour" to Crossroads Arena in Cloverdale for one night only. The couple will demonstrate techniques on specifically troubled horses and young horses that have never been saddled or ridden.

CLOVERDALE -- As part of his "No Dust Tour," internationally acclaimed horseman Dennis Reis will ride into the Crossroads Arena, 253 W. Stardust Road, for one of his free classes from 5 to 10 p.m. Wednesday.

Reis, who hosts the popular television show "Dennis Reis Universal Horsemanship" on RFD-TV, will amaze his audience with his uncanny ability to communicate with horses. His wife, Deborah Reis, will also be a part of the class, along with their five horses and a donkey.

It is not a stage act, as Reis demonstrates his techniques on specifically troubled horses and young horses that have never been saddled or ridden. His Universal Horsemanship focuses on communicating to the horse in its "language," with a blend of body language, position and timing without the use of force.

The troubled horses brought to him have a variety of problems ranging from bucking, biting, spooking, disrespect, running off, unstoppable and other kinds of adversities. In his one-night class, Reis will demonstrate how horses are able to overcome these problems and transform into a relaxed, gentle, mounts sometimes not recognizable by its owner.

The "No Dust Tour" is educational, entertaining and fun for an entire family.

"It's not just for horse owners," said Reis. "It's also for horse lovers."

The techniques Reis will demonstrate apply to all disciplines including Western, Dressage and other performance styles.

In 1988, Reis established the Reis Ranch School of Universal Horsemanship in Penngrove, Calif. He conducts clinics at his ranch with students from all over the country to learn from the clinician.

Reis' love of horses moved into the political over the past three years and his driving determination culminated Nov. 18, 2004 in the passing of Senate Resolution 452, recognizing Dec. 13 as the National Day of the Horse. It was a unanimous vote.

Anyone interested in attending Reis' horse whisper class at the indoor arena should bring a lawn chair. For more information on Reis and his work, visit reisranch.com, where home study materials are also available.