Tiva is an mature mare. An adult. That’s what someone who met her for the first time observed about her recently, and the statement did a great job of encapsulating so much of who she is as a horse.
Like most adults, Tiva values clarity of communication. In work, she’ll do what you’re asking, but if you’re nagging or not providing her a release, you’ll know (those chestnut ears don’t lie). She’ll also ask you a question or two in return (“do you REALLY want me to go forward?”) and require you to be resolute in your answer. She’s the type of horse who really makes you think about what you’re saying, and how you’re saying it.
Tiva spent the first 10 or so years of her life feral, out on the Yakama Reservation. Likely many of those years she was raising offspring. Her early days around people were fearful. This is a mare who has some serious lived experience. It’s somewhat mind boggling that she has become so gentle, one of the safest horses on the property to be around. She is a star for our volunteers to lead and groom, and she could teach a masterclass on how to stand around. Like anyone over a certain age, she has discovered the true joy of rest. Why expend any extra energy if you don’t have to?
Tiva appreciates a relationship. If you once dropped an apple slice in her grain pan, she’ll nicker for you as you walk by — “hey, got any more of those?” If she’s with you, chances are you could drape the lead rope over her neck and, ‘look ma, no hands’ she’d follow (results may vary over grass). She’s tolerant to kisses on the face, and at certain times of the year, really loves her neck scratched. She doesn’t mind a silly hairdo, nor a wreath around her neck. Tiva enjoys bodywork and trying out the latest and greatest gadgets in this realm.
Tiva is a horse who knows who she is, and who that is is one truly special mare.
