1/11/2026: Nova has made so much progress, she's ready for her forever home!
Nova has made wonderful progress in training with Payton and is now considered adoptable! She can be handled confidently, loads and unloads from a trailer, stands tied (though she'll occasionally try to dig her way to China), and has solid groundwork skills. Her feet have been trimmed, and she's been tested under saddle.
While Nova is still green, she shows great promise—she'll stand patiently at the mounting block and wait for her cue to move. She's had no issues with being mounted or carrying a rider. She does better in a side pull rather than a bit, and she's a bit cinchy, so she shouldn't be cinched up hard while tied. Early in training, she had one spook at the saddle and sat back, but she worked through it quickly and had no further issues.
Nova would make a great match for light riding, as a kid's leadline horse, or simply as a loving companion. True to her sweet nature, she absolutely loves attention and being groomed.
She'll continue training with Payton 1-2 days a week to maintain her progress while she waits for her forever home.
Meet Nova: A 12-year-old Arabian mare with a sweet disposition and a story that's still being written.
Nova arrived at Skagit Animals in Need in need of care—covered in bot eggs, burrs tangled in her mane and tail, underweight with a body condition score of 3/9, and showing signs of a heavy parasite load. Despite her rough start, she greets us with a friendly whinny each morning and will accept treats and brushing.
Where We Are Now
Nova is currently being evaluated physically and behaviorally. We're still learning who she is and what she needs. While she's described as "possibly halter broken," the reality is more complex. She has some behavioral challenges and habits that need addressing and becomes anxious when separated from her companion, Nevada. But our trainer believes she has potential to improve with consistent, patient work.
Nova also has some physical concerns that require veterinary evaluation. We're committed to getting Nova the care and assessment she needs, but until we know more, well, we don’t know more.
What Comes Next
Over the coming weeks and months, we'll be working with Nova to address her handling and behavioral needs while evaluating her physical condition. We will continue to post updates here and in our social channels.
