Ruby is a 21 year-old Thoroughbred mare (she’ll be 22 in May!). When Hanaeleh rescued Ruby, she had lost her foal due to starvation and she was very disconnected from life. She was also lame on her front right. After a lot of good food, love and some stall rest, she started to enjoy life again.
We realized that Ruby just had thin soles, and would get stone bruises when exercised unless she had some sort of hoof protection. We got her some boots to help protect her feet, and she has been sound since!
We have trained Ruby under saddle. She makes good decisions in the arena and on trail, but we do not want her to jump because of her age and conformation. She is sound, and we want to keep her that way.
Ruby’s favorite volunteer is Molly, who works with her several times a week. Molly will often longe Ruby on a line or free longe in the arena, both with or without her bridle and saddle. It’s not all work, however, as Molly often plays with Ruby before or after their exercise session, and Ruby loves to follow Molly around the arena.