SAFE Harbor volunteer Heather E has been interacting with Sapphire since her arrival at SAFE, and they’ve developed an interesting relationship. We asked Heather to share her experience with this lovely but troubled horse:

Sapphire is one of the most welcoming horses at SHS. She will pop her head out of her window and nicker a warm “Hello” every morning. I like to think it’s because she’s happy to see us but it might be more about the hay we bring her. 

Early on, I decided to try and spend as much time with her as I can. In the beginning, she just barely tolerated me. I got the pinned ears, stiff body, and mean face. But slowly we’ve established a relationship. She walks to turn out with me, like the grey lady she is. I am now able to groom her with no problems. I’ve also noticed she is not as reactive to having her legs touched. Sapphire and I are working up to me picking her hooves and I’m looking forward to that day. She is such an affectionate horse. She follows you around the arena seeking attention or stand at her gate for a nose scratch. I’m still trying to convince her that she wants my kisses! It’s a work in progress…

Terry has invited me to watch Sapphire during her training with Laura. The first session I saw was not a stellar day for Sapphire. She was testing her limits and challenging who was in charge. By the end, she pulled herself together and was doing what was asked, grudgingly. The next training session was better. Sapphire was more willing, less questioning, and she was learning. She still, however, has her moments of acting out inappropriately. It hasn’t been unprovoked behavior lately but more because she’s being asked to do something that’s hard or new. 

I am truly hopeful that Sapphire has turned a corner in her life and mindset. There is still a lot of work ahead but her cheering section is big. All of us at SAFE are Sapphire’s 12th man.