West Columbia Barn Hunt

Training is offered in private and semi-private lessons tailored to the individual progress of each dog-handler team. New students must first complete a Rat Handling Lesson before accessing rat rental and facility use. Lessons are available seven days a week from 10 AM to 8 PM. The program progresses from introductory skills to advanced competition-level training, with no fixed class structure—each session is customized based on the team’s current level. The facility also hosts licensed Barn Hunt trials four times per year.

Pricing Summary

Pricing details are not listed on the website. Lessons are scheduled via appointment and require prior registration through the Acuity scheduling system. Rat rental requires completion of a Rat Handling Lesson.

Policies

Policy details regarding cancellations or rescheduling are not provided on the website. All appointments must be scheduled through the Acuity scheduling system.

West Columbia Barn Hunt, operating as The Red Barn, offers private and semi-private Barn Hunt training lessons in a climate-controlled facility located in West Columbia, SC. The business was founded in 2023 by experienced handlers who wanted to create a dedicated space for Barn Hunt practice and trials, eliminating the need to transport straw and live rats for events. The facility includes a separate “Rat Shack” for humane rat housing and is equipped with heat and air conditioning for year-round training. Instructors focus on building teamwork between dog and handler by harnessing the dog’s natural hunting instincts in a fun, positive environment. The Red Barn also hosts licensed Barn Hunt trials four times a year and is preparing to host the Region 3 Barn Hunt Event in March 2026. Training is available seven days a week from 10 AM to 8 PM to accommodate busy schedules.

Students begin with a Rat Handling Lesson before accessing rat rental and facility use. The program is designed for dogs of all levels, from beginners to advanced competitors, with lessons tailored to individual team progress rather than group classes. The facility is open to all breeds and sizes, emphasizing natural scent work and sport-based engagement.

The Red Barn is an official member of the Barn Hunt Association and follows its standards and philosophies. The training approach is rooted in positive reinforcement, encouraging dogs to work independently while the handler supports and guides. The business also offers a store for Barn Hunt-related equipment and supplies.

For those unfamiliar with Barn Hunt, the website encourages viewing YouTube videos to understand the sport before enrolling.

Accomplishments

The Red Barn hosts four licensed Barn Hunt trials annually and will host the Region 3 Barn Hunt Event in March 2026. The facility was built in July 2023 and is operated by a 15-person Trial Committee dedicated to Barn Hunt. The business operates under the official standards of the Barn Hunt Association.

How to Get Started!

Prospective clients must contact the trainer via text or email to begin. The first step is scheduling a Rat Handling Lesson, which is required before accessing rat rental or facility use. Lessons are booked through the Acuity scheduling system.