About Ray

Some people say Ray is part horse, but the truth is, he knows horses from the inside out!

Ray grew up in the saddle on the Berta Ranch, founded by his grandfather in the 1800’s in Carmel Valley, California. With his horse as his working partner and companion, Ray learned the early California Vaquero tradition of horsemanship from his father and uncles while attending to the daily tasks of family cattle operation.

But it was the foreman on a neighboring ranch who showed Ray how to work with horses from the inside out. His name was Tom Dorrance. Ray says of his mentor, “Tom helped me develop feel, timing and balance with horses, but most importantly, through Tom, I’ve learned to look toward the true ‘spirit’ of horsemanship. I usually get a little teary when I consider the depth of horsemanship Tom shared with me.”

Ray has been conducting clinics and demonstrations since 1978 and has worked with thousands of horses in a wide variety of disciplines. His mission is to help riders discover the precious harmony that is possible when the horse is soft in mind and body, balanced, and light on his feet.

In Ray’s approach, there is a genuine depth that bridges a connection between true horsemanship and all of life.

Testimonials

San Jose Mercury

Ray Berta is a real-life Master Horseman. He works with horses on their own level, offering suggestions and letting them choose to follow. Ray brings riders into the horse’s zone.

The Salinas Californian

Ray Berta has a way with horses. He has been called a horse psychiatrist, the Zen cowboy, and a magician. Ray works with the inside as well as the outside of the horse. The horses want to participate with him.

The Tribune, San Luis Obispo

Ray has a special touch with horses. He works with understanding and kindness rather than force. Ray’s voice is soothing to the ears and his tone is soft yet confident as he guides riders toward harmony with their horses.

Patricia Hunt

Working with Ray, I have learned how to help a reactive horse become a responsive and trustworthy companion. Ray gives you direction and helps you find your way, always there to support you and your horse.

Rene Springer, Tornado Farms, Paso Robles

I was amazed at the results of the clinic. We go to clinics all the time and this was the first time we had so much success with our horses.

Kim Berta

Ray has such a rare gift with horses. He practices what he preaches and he is gentle with both people and horses. It always amazes me what Ray can get done with a horse with so little effort.

Susan Baxter MacDonald

Ray Berta Horses is even more than they can explain in their advertising. There is a sense of trust and kindness-coupled with high expectation for the horse and rider that ends up tapping into the best of both.

Jane Smiley, Pulitzer prize winner and author of “Horse Heaven”

Ray is like this still place where there is peace. He helps the horse and rider move from conflict to this place of harmony.

Practical Horseman Magazine

Our cowboy miracle worker. Ray’s effect on a horse seems magical.

Chris Harrold

Thanks to Ray, I’ve learned as much about myself and how I communicate with my horse as I’ve learned about my horse. I’m learning how to work with a willing partner rather than a trained animal.

Mailing Address

Contact Ray

Contact Ray

Mailing Address