Our Horses: Onyx
Acorn, Aspen, Athena, Beryl, Blackhawk, Cedar, Chaparral, Daisy, Everest, First Star, Hickory, Honey Girl, Jade, Jasper, Joyee, Juniper, Navajo, Onyx, Pearl, Pepper, Pinon, Raven, Sapphire, Sequoia, Springtime, Starbright, Teak, Teton, Tiger Eye, Topaz, Vaquero, Wild Sweet William, and Zoey
We adopted Onyx at an emergency adoption in 1996. She was from the Goshute Herd near Wendover, Utah. She was older, three coming four, and was very spooky. She jumped and whirled and it was obvious to us that she wasn’t going to be adopted because she looked like she was way too difficult. For us, Onyx would be a true test to see if older horses, and especially the ones that were very spooky, could become quiet, reliable horses.
Onyx has developed into an incredible asset to the Windhorse Herd. She became the matriarch of the herd and could give seminars herself on parenting skills. She is a natural leader and protector. She has raised the weanlings, kept the herd from danger and has socialized the herd, teaching them appropriate horse behavior. She has an effective and admirable balance of discipline and acceptance that has kept the herd safe.
Because of her vital role as matriarch, Onyx has not had much training under saddle. Now that the herd is older and has become socialized, Onyx is ready to move into a more intense training program. She has been started under saddle and is a very wise and confident horse. She is particularly drawn to children. She has indicated through her willingness to engage with people a readiness to move on. The ranch has been a good place for her to develop and grow and now she is ready for more challenges.
2009 Update:
Recently, Onyx chose one of our primary volunteers and board member, Linda Reiger, with whom to form a connection. She communicates this desire very clearly. Linda spends time grooming her and teaching her new things every time she comes to the Korrals. Onyx gets one-on-one time with Linda and understands, through their relationship, how special and wonderful we all know Onyx is.
Recently, Onyx chose to live in the closer corral preferring to be with the horses we are riding this winter.... hint ... hint!!!!
