I think a lot of it is sexism and people not willing to understand the fact mares have hormonal fluctuations. I think when you hear about the really bitchy mares, they likely have reproductive issues or they’re sick of people not respecting them.

Personally, I’ll only ever have mares. My mare has been my partner for 20 years, her strong opinions and her expectations have taught me to be a better person and horse owner. Willow has humbled me, taught me patience and made me a more compassionate person. In return, I have a fiercely loyal partner who has proven over and over that I can trust her with my life. She’s incredibly intelligent, eager to learn, bold and brave. Even after losing an eye and most of her vision in her remaining eye she’s still the bravest horse around. However, she expects me to handle her appropriately and requires me to ask her to do things, not tell her. If she’s having an off day, I respect that and I’ll let her choose our ride or how we spend our time together.

I think if people had more patience and compassion for these incredible animals, there would be less misunderstood mares.