Nova's Story from Rescue to Remarkable

Nova’s Story: From Rescue to Remarkable

On June 30, 2018, Executive Director and founder Karen Sanchez, along with her husband Joel, made a heartfelt four-hour round trip from The Shane Center to the Last Chance Corral—a rescue dedicated to saving nurse mare foals (see www.borntodie.org for more information). Nova was one of the last two foals of the season, and the moment we saw her—with her big white face, long white eyelashes, and striking athletic build—we knew she was special. Karen’s mother, Kathy Seeds, generously paid the adoption fee, and we brought this fragile, two-week-old filly home. We had no idea that this tiny foal would grow into one of the most beloved and impactful horses in our therapeutic riding program.

Because Nova was without a mother, she quickly became lonely and withdrawn, despite the presence of other gentle horses nearby. To comfort her, we introduced her to our mini donkey, Jethro, and small pony, Lightning Bolt. We also created a “foal-sitting” schedule, where Shane Center students and volunteers spent time with her—reading books, singing lullabies, gently stroking her, and ensuring she drank her milk replacer around the clock. A few dedicated teens even spent the night in the barn with her during those first few weeks, making sure she felt safe, loved, and never alone.

 From day one, we began Nova’s training with intention and care. We knew that the behaviors we shaped in her early days would matter when she grew to 1,000 pounds. We taught her boundaries, exposed her to grooming tools, helped her build confidence around her ears and feet, and socialized her with our calm, older geldings. Though she was nicknamed “Jet” at Last Chance Corral for her energetic personality, she was raised by a wise herd who helped her learn patience and trust.

 As she grew, Nova’s world expanded. We brought her into the office and tack shed, introduced her to wheelchairs, bicycles, dogs, cats, and people of all ages. She soaked up every experience with joy and curiosity. Her coat eventually revealed a rich liver chestnut color with sabino markings, and her personality blossomed into one of warmth, intelligence, and curiosity.

 For years, Nova would watch intently from the arena fence as other horses participated in lessons, as if she longed to join them. And when she was finally old enough, she did—passing every proficiency test required of our therapeutic riding horses. She was carefully developed as a riding horse through natural horsemanship training, dressage fundamentals, attending local schooling shows, learning about sorting cattle, going on trail rides, and going to horsemanship clinics, and lessons. Every step of her journey was guided by a long-term vision: to become a safe, versatile, and deeply connected therapeutic partner.

 Today, Nova is a beacon of hope for our program. She responds eagerly when called, often walking up to volunteers and putting her nose into the halter they are holding, ready to work. If she’s not chosen for a session, she’ll paw at the gate, ears forward, nickering softly as if to say, “Pick me—I’m ready.”

 What makes Nova truly extraordinary is not just her training or temperament, it’s her heart. She was raised from scratch with love, patience, and purpose. Unlike most therapeutic horses who are selected for their temperament later in life, Nova was a gamble—a rescue with an unknown future and an unknown personality. And she has exceeded every expectation we have had for her.

 Nova has made a profound impact on countless riders, especially those on the autism spectrum. One young rider, mostly non-verbal and prone to sudden movements and loud vocalizations, would sometimes flop forward or wiggle uncontrollably in the saddle. Nova would immediately halt—without being asked—and turn her head to check on him. She would even nudge the horse handler, as if to say, “He needs help.” Her sensitivity and intuition are nothing short of remarkable.

 She takes treats gently from the tiniest hands, listens intently to her riders, and adjusts her movements to match their needs. Whether she’s carrying a wiggly toddler, a spirited teen, or an adult refining their skills, Nova is a steady, responsive, and loving partner.

 Nova’s story is one of resilience and transformation. The challenges she overcame as a vulnerable foal shaped her into a horse who deeply connects with our riders—especially those facing their own struggles. She doesn’t just carry them physically; she carries their emotions, their stories, and their hopes.

As a small therapeutic riding program, finding beginner-safe, sound, and healthy horses is increasingly difficult—especially as many of our current lesson horses near retirement. Nova’s journey gives us hope. She proves that with love, patience, and purpose, even the most uncertain beginnings can lead to extraordinary futures.