Paisley is a pretty Paint horse with unique and gorgeous “Medicine Hat” markings around her eyes and ears. As legend tells us, this type of horse has magical powers and is said to bring great luck to its owner…

Paisley has magnificent blue eyes and the sweetest disposition. “She is a big pleaser, social and very affectionate,” according to Susan Peirce. “We expect Paisley will be a wonderful family horse and suitable for a wide variety of family members due to her good nature and kindness.” At Red Bucket, Paisley has benefit from both English and Western training, consistent with the Red Bucket philosophy of providing as much diversity as possible. Paisley does not have a preference but does prefer a gentle touch, compassionate word, and the company of people.

Paisley is almost completely white, but with a colored patch covering the ears and top of her head. According to myth and mystery, this type of horse, the Medicine Hat Horse, holds special powers and gives good luck to its owner and rider. Some Medicine Hats can have other markings, but it is believed the less they had, the more powerful was their magic. The mythology of the Medicine Hat horse says that it has the magical ability to protect its owner and rider from injury, and the special ability to warn their rider of potential danger and harm.

“Paisley has likely inherited two Sabino genes, one from each parent,” explains Linda Rose, a volunteer at Red Bucket. “This is called a Sabino White. One Sabino gene will produce a distinct white spotting pattern common in Paint horses, but two Sabino genes doubles the effect, creating a white or nearly white horse,” says Rose. “Sabino White horses are always at least 90% white.”

While the legend helps to explain the unusual markings and looks of this horse, our own Paisley had a bit of hard luck before coming to Red Bucket. She was the victim of a hoarding situation where we were able to rescue her and 13 others. Jenon Mathes says, “When Paisley first came to the ranch, she was very receptive to grooming and handling. As part of our enrichment program, Paisley had the opportunity to spend time in pasture in order to give her some time just to be a horse.”

After living at pasture for some time, Paisley returned to the ranch six months ago. She is a very social horse and spends her turnout time with her buddy Delilah. They both enjoy their special time together in the afternoons at Red Bucket.

With her willing nature and even temperament, Paisley is now being ridden. Red Bucket’s trainer Shona Barnthouse says, “Paisley is a pleasure to ride. She is extremely smooth, goes perfect in a bitless bridle, is forward moving and always willing!”

Paisley has a pleaser personality and has proven to be a great horse under saddle. She has shown that she can do anything asked of her. She is trained in trail, western and english. There is no drama in Paisley’s personality. She is very sensible and reasonable about anything asked of her. She enjoys human companionship and is a wonderful mare.

Paisley is eagerly awaiting her forever home. She is a unique horse in both appearance and personality. If the legend of the Medicine Hat Horse holds true…someone will be very lucky to have her at their side or under saddle as their very own.

Written by: Johanna Downs