MOONLIGHTSSHADOW | The story of helpful Shadow and Paula

Although not initially in the market for an off the track horse, Paula Vaughan was searching for a companion horse to accompany her own horse when introduced to ‘Shadow’. Owned by Jerime Steele, mother of Paula’s friend, it was soon agreed that Shadow would temporarily take the roll of Paula’s companion horse until she finds one suitable.

Fortunately for both, this temporary agreement turned out to be a far more permanent arrangement.

Shadow was the perfect companion horse, happy to be left alone, calm and always happy. He quickly settled into his new life alongside Harley, Paula’s main mount, and the pair become fast friends. It was discovered a few days later that Shadow had a penchant for unlocking gates when he was found alongside Harley wandering the driveway. Shadow and Harley were a wonderful pair.

In late 2024, Harley was sadly put to sleep following the development of ringbone. Devastated by the loss of her horse, but eager to continue riding, Paula turned her attention to turning Shadow into a riding mount.

While in the early days of his training, Shadow has once again proven himself as an asset. His nature is described by Paula as, ‘second-to-none- and he is doing a wonderful job at helping Paula heal from the loss of Harley. Paula is working to expose Shadow to life after racing, and although she had never intended to take on a young horse, has accepted the responsibility.

So far, Shadow has taken every outing in his strides. Paula has high hopes for Shadows future, and is proud of how far he has come in their short time together already.

“As I get older, it becomes more and more important that I have a horse I can trust 100%. I have no doubt that Shadow is going to be this horse,” commented Paula.