Pebbles arrived late at night on November 14th and settled in to a quaratine paddock with the other two mares that were pulled from the TN kill pen. When Taylor and I got there the next morning for our first look I was pleased to see that Pebbles was in a relatively decent weight and her feet were not bad in length. Two of the mares were quite approachable and eager for treats but Pebbles remained aloof. Not looking to push her to much Taylor and I spent time brushing the other two mares and just hanging out in the paddock. Towards the end Pebbles was resting close to one of the other mares and I was able to ever so softly touch her neck a bit. I then moved my hand forward and touched her on the cheek at which point she flattened her ears and jumped at me a bit. I was surprised but didn't give ground and she backed down. Lesson learned though. I had asked for more than she was comfortable with and she had shown that she wasn't a turn and run away type. My guess is that she hasn't had much handling but I don't believe she suffered any physical abuse. Her reaction looked very much like how she would treat another horse that had pushed her limits. She never moved away from me though and she wasn't scared. In fact she actually stepped back towards me and rested a leg to go back to dozing. What I learned that first day was that she has zero fear of humans being extremely close to her she just would rather not be touched. It gave me a good idea of where I needed to start with her and I left feeling encouraged. If a horse can come from an auction and have that many changes and stressors in her life, and still be very calm, then given the right training and time she will blossom.
Of the three mares she looked to have the most "belly". None of the mares have any mammary development but if they aren't due until spring then that's to be expected. I'm seriously doubting if she is over 14 hands. The paint mare in this first picture is supposed to be 14.3 I think they said. Pebbles has a lovely mane and an interesting roan face marking about midway downher face. I wondered if it was a scar but if it is I can't see any kind of defect in the skin or bone structure that would support that idea.
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