“When I arrived at the ranch, halter in hand, something incredible happened—Doon walked toward me in greeting. He’d received the communication and here was his answer—he was willing to connect.” - Chaela Sumner

The Art of Connection: Doon

Rigadoon was one frustrated and angry equine when he arrived at his forever home. His human companion, Janice Reagan, of Trailside Ranch, said she took one look at him and felt he had given up on life. “He wanted to die,” she confessed. Rigadoon had suffered through brutal dressage practices that left him shut down and deeply resentful. When she tried to ride him, he made his feelings clear—first by sitting down as soon as she mounted, and when that didn’t deter her, by launching skyward in an attempt to unseat her.

But Janice held on, and over time, they built an unshakable bond! 👊

Years later, I asked Janice if I could do bodywork with Doon. She agreed, but Doon didn’t. Back then, I hadn’t yet embraced the importance of connection and consent in working with horses. The session was a disaster, teaching me only one thing: I needed a new approach.

When Janice shared more about the abuse Rigadoon had endured, we decided that asking for his permission was essential. In the next session, I let him know his body was his own. I promised not to touch him without his consent and assured him I’d stop immediately if he signaled discomfort.

The results were extraordinary. Rigadoon visibly relaxed under my hands and allowed me to complete the entire session. It was a total win.

Even with that breakthrough, Rigadoon remained indifferent to me outside our sessions. When I’d enter his turnout, he wouldn’t lift his head or acknowledge my presence.

For our next session, I tried something different. From the comfort of my bedroom, I meditated and reached out to Rigadoon, heart to heart and mind to mind. I let him know I was coming, reassured him that the session was his choice, and expressed my hope that we could continue building trust.

When I arrived at the ranch, halter in hand, something incredible happened—Rigadoon walked toward me in greeting. He’d received the communication and here was his answer—connection.

Caring for a horse involves countless responsibilities—proper feeding, lunging, grooming, hoof care, supplements, and, for eventers, relentless practice to refine your skills and bond with your horse. But none of that matters without establishing a foundation of trust and connection.

Rigadoon taught me that lesson: true partnership begins when you listen to your horse, honor their boundaries, and build a connection from the heart.