Sundance, Apache and Traveler

April 2020

Three rescue horses, Sundance, Traveler, and Apache, found their new home at the Talley’s Connemara Ranch/Cavallo Foundation herd. With the guidance of Talleys and the support of myself and other dedicated volunteers, these horses seamlessly transitioned into their roles as trail horses and equine therapy support animals. As they integrated into the herd, I quickly discovered the profound importance of spending time in the pasture with these majestic creatures. It was during these moments that strong connections and trust were forged.

Observing the herd dynamics and how I was received among them taught me invaluable lessons about my own presence. The horses gifted me with the understanding that authenticity was key; they didn’t require perfection, but rather, they embraced the rawness of each moment. If I showed up with a facade of happiness when I was truly feeling sad, they sensed it and expressed concern. However, when I allowed my true emotions to surface, they offered support and companionship, just as they did with the rest of the herd. This experience deepened my understanding of the intricate social dynamics within a herd.

Every day, I witnessed the remarkable progress of these horses, and it was a privilege to witness the work of Chip Mandaville, a highly skilled natural horsemanship trainer. The Mandaville family’s legacy in Malibu and Chip’s exceptional connection with horses made his training methods truly impactful.

After six months of building connections, groundwork, and simply spending time together, we embarked on trail rides with Sundance, Traveler, and Apache, marking a thrilling milestone in their remarkable journey.