Companion Connection
Believe Belong Become
Just a bit of backstory . . . In 2009, I wanted to live my dream of being around horses and a horsewoman friend connected me to a farm just outside Kingston, Ontario, where I became a companion to an unrideable mare named Can Do.
This 26-year-old, wise mare made me realize that there had to be other women who wanted to be connected to horses and other horses who would benefit from their very own companion, in addition to the love and care provided by the owner.
By 2014, myself and two horsewomen (both with years of experience) co-created Companion Connection to offer the opportunity to learn about horses and become part of their herd. As a horse companion, you are also invited into the community of horse lovers and learners in Kingston. Check out The Gathering Herd page to discover how you can connect.
Are you wondering what being a horse companion is like?
Here’s what a horse companion has to say . . .
I was looking to spend more time and become more comfortable around horses by having someone with experience close by who could put me at ease and teach me grooming tips. Dawn took the time necessary to explain horse behavior including what they may be needing from me. She made me aware of how my own feelings can be interpreted and affect a horse’s response to me. The companionship of a horse brings a deeper meaning to anyone’s life. It’s like making a good friend who will never let you down. Michelle
But . . . what exactly is it?
Companion Connection begins with a relationship: you and the horse. As with any opportunity to develop a lasting bond, there is no rush.
The importance of presence is emphasized in the time devoted to just being with horses – out in the field or in the barn.
Quietly observing the sights and sounds; grazing on hay or grass, the gentle blowing of air, movement of the horses with each other. Through observation, much can be learned.
The focus on presence brings all bodies into harmony and peacefulness. Horses and humans align in an energetic congruency when sharing presence.
Companions enter the world of silent communication that speaks first in whispers; through the turn of an ear, the swish of a tail, the position of the head. Together, their bodies speak volumes about how they are and what feels comfortable for them.
And companions learn what horses understand of humans through body language, tone of voice, congruence between head and heart.
Horses develop connection through mutual grooming and companions do the same with gentle hands, massaging muscles, clearing and cleaning the body of dirt, and checking for any injuries or bites.
Before grooming with brushes, hands caress the horse’s body to discover favourite scratch spots, identify any injuries and deepen the connection through touch.
To ensure safety, companions need to be attentive, responsive to surroundings and in body – just as the horses are. That’s the bliss.
Win! Win! Win!
Check out these benefits . . .
First, the companion learns about horses in safe, easy-paced sessions that develop presence and mindfulness that lasts long after the visit has ended.
Second, the horse benefits by having a committed “friend” who visits just them, dedicated one-on-one time to bond and share space.
Third, the owner benefits by the companions sharing the care of their horse; knowing that the companion will notify them should any concern be expressed. Often owners have more than one horse and lack the time to dedicate time to any one horse.
More specifically . . .
Companion Connection is a 5-week, personalized, one-to-one coaching program
adapted to meet the experience and comfort level of the woman wanting to become a horse companion.
The program provides:
over 12 hours of individualized, in-person instruction and practical experience,
full-colour resource manual that supports the in-person, experiential coaching,
session reviews for reflective understanding and future reference
self-evaluation & practical assessment in the 5th week to ensure confidence, comfort and capability,
membership with Ontario Equestrian for further peace of mind. (over $75 Value including 5M liability insurance)
While the value of this program is set at $950, a Special Introductory Offer of $700
is available until February 14, 2026– or 2 payments of $375 before that date.
Are you curious to learn more?
Book your FREE INFO HOUR!
Let’s plan a date/time to visit a participating farm near to you, meet the horses and the owner, and to walk the farm to appreciate the bliss of being around horses for yourself.
What happens after the program?
For those women who successfully complete the program and want to further their companionship (minimum of 1 hour per week*), the choices are:
$180 for 3 months of horse companionship**
$210 for 7 months of horse companionship**
$240 for 12 months of horse companionship**