pros and cons of 15 years +

[tangosmum]

Considering a been there done that pony for my children (in addition to my youngster). I would like something older...and chilled out and safe genuine pony club type. To potter about on and teach my youngest two (5 and 2 years old) to ride and grow into. 12hh to 13.2 maybe

A 15 year old first ridden bomb proof type would be ideal. But just thinking about horses in their twighlight years and potential problems.

What you you all think.

 

[maletto]

I wouldn't think that just because a horse/pony is over a certain age, it's necessarily more chilled out. My boy is 16 now and is still as bonkers as he's always been

An older pony will still have loads of life left in them, but obviously they will require slightly more attentive and indeed possibly expensive care as they get older.

I certainly wouldn't rule out getting a 15/16 year old on the basis of its age alone

 

[Bay_Beasty]

I dont actually know how old my first pony was, I think about 10/11 11hh welsh mountain. he was a little sod. But my sisters first pony. 13.2 new forest 14 years was lovely, but didnt jump like mine did. But personally, ponies dont age like horses and letting your childrens confidence grow on a horse that will be forgiving is defo what I would do, but I guess its really what you find on the market hope that helps

 

[Spudlet]

15 is not that old these days, there are still horses going around Badminton at that age. And ponies tend to go on for years anyway

Of course, ponies that have been there and done that do tend to have learned all the best ways of not doing anything they don't want to do... but that's character building for the jockeys

 

[Mrs B]

If you can find a teddy-in-a-saddle with a bit of attitude he or she will repay you and your children a thousand fold.

I have seen it work several times, most recently when my old YO's two old boys came to be my new YO's son's ponies. They taught him sooooo much and YO appreciated that they knew their jobs inside out, were forgiving BUT would also not stand for any nonsense from said son!

He loved them very much and is now 15, 6ft and on a 16.2 mare.

They both made it to their very late 20s, had a short and happy retirement until failing health meant their lives had stopped being the fun they should be and they were pts within months of each other.

Bear in mind if you buy a 15 year old, you may have them for that time again!

 

[neweventer]

My second pony was a thirty year old Aarb, and although I didn't jump him, he did an aweful lot for my riding. I was only 12 (on a 14.2) but he taught me to ride after my little wiz aroung 11.2 sec A.
Don't rule out an older pony as they go on for years handled sensibly.
I (when older) hunted a 22yr old who was always near the front. Jumped everything while out. Taught me alot!
I suppose my limited experience of oldies is give them ago. If they pass a vetting run with it as long as the price is right

 

[fjordhorsefan]

My chap is 18, and we still bomb round hacks at a gallop! He is perfect for me - a real confidence giver, very safe. He had a hard life previously I think, going by the splints he has, but they don't bother him and he still looks and acts like a baby!