Penelope is a 15-year-old Leopard Appaloosa mare, standing 14.2-3hh, and she is special-needs as she is about 90% blind in both eyes. Despite her blindness, Penelope navigates her surroundings well and never has challenged or damaged fencing, even when startled.
Penelope will need a patient, experienced handler who is willing to take the time to earn her trust. Due to her vision impairment, she can be difficult to catch in a large pasture and will require a lot of patience and gentle coaxing. Once caught, she leads well, stands tied, and stands for the farrier as long as her handler is calm, slow, and able to reassure her when she becomes anxious.
For the right person, Penelope is sound for riding or driving, but she will need a lot of time, trust and the proper training to become successful. Alternatively, she would thrive as a companion horse, as she is low in the herd hierarchy and prefers to have company. She does best when kept outdoors 24/7, as being confined to a stall makes her anxious and upset.
Penelope is not a bad horse, she’s just very anxious due to her blindness and needs someone who can provide her with patience, love, and guidance for the rest of her life. She is a sweet, gentle mare who gets along well with others and just needs someone to trust and care for her.
