Meet Ruth, a beautiful 15 year old chestnut Saddlebred mare who is looking for a patient and understanding home where she can continue to grow and build trust with her people. Ruth has a gentle heart and a lot of potential, but she will need a knowledgeable adopter who is willing to work with her and give her the time she needs to feel comfortable.
Ruth has spent the majority of her life as a potential broodmare, so there is unfortunately not a lot of detailed history about her training or past experiences. Because of this, she should be considered a project horse for someone who enjoys developing a partnership and helping a horse gain confidence. While she may be a little unsure at first, once Ruth warms up to you and learns that she can trust you, she shows her sweeter side and becomes much more cooperative.
One of Ruth’s current challenges is that she can be difficult to catch in the pasture. She tends to be cautious and may take some patience to bring in, but once she is caught, she generally settles and is willing to work with you. With consistency, gentle handling and positive reinforcement, she has the potential to improve in this area.
Ruth is able to stand tied, although she may become anxious at times if she feels unsure of her surroundings. She can be led and loaded, and with calm handling she typically follows along once she understands what is being asked of her. Like many horses who have had limited handling in certain areas, she will currently require sedation for farrier work to have her hooves trimmed. Continued training and regular handling may help her become more comfortable with this over time.
Despite her uncertainties, Ruth does have her favorite things. She loves treats and will happily accept a snack from someone she trusts. One of her favorite forms of attention is having her hind end scratched, which is a great way to start building a positive connection with her. Ruth does very well living out in pasture with other horses and would thrive in a home where she has companionship. She gets along nicely with mares, geldings and even donkeys, making her a good candidate for a herd environment where she can relax and enjoy being a horse.
Overall, Ruth is a good mare with a kind nature who simply needs the right person to help guide her. She would do best with an experienced adopter who understands that she will require patience, consistency and time. In the right home, Ruth has the opportunity to blossom into a trusting companion and valued member of the herd.
