Nickles1973
Well-Known Member
Long story but please bare with me... My 11 year old Daughter had several bad experiences whilst learning to ride. Fortunately no bad injuries but enough to put an already nervous little girl completely off riding :-(
However her enthusiasm for horses and ponies is as strong as ever so we have let her buy herself a miniature pony. A perfect companion and hobby for her as she has lots of love to give but doesn't want the pressure of having a pony that she could ride.
The pony she bought has been kept as a pet in a back garden with no other equine company and fed nothing but lawn grass. He's an absolute darling though and has thoroughly enjoyed all the grooming and pampering she's been doing and so far hasn't appeared to be at all bolshy or nippy.
He's being introduced gradually to another pony on our yard which is going to be his companion and so far this too is going well so far.
My daughter is keen to start working with him to get him walking out and playing games, maybe doing a bit of pony agillity and also to show him in some fun classes.
I have taken advice from another local lady who produces show mini's about his feeding and care etc but I could still do with a bit of advice about what sort of thing you can do with them?
He lacks a bit of condition, though I am very concious of not letting him put on lots of weight but he could do with a bit of muscle and I was wondering if lunging is acceptable or should we long rein or just lead him in hand lots and lots?
I have an ex racehorse myself and tbh his care seems quite straight forward compared to this little one! (I am a bit of a worrier and do have a tendancy to over think things...can you tell lol!)
However her enthusiasm for horses and ponies is as strong as ever so we have let her buy herself a miniature pony. A perfect companion and hobby for her as she has lots of love to give but doesn't want the pressure of having a pony that she could ride.
The pony she bought has been kept as a pet in a back garden with no other equine company and fed nothing but lawn grass. He's an absolute darling though and has thoroughly enjoyed all the grooming and pampering she's been doing and so far hasn't appeared to be at all bolshy or nippy.
He's being introduced gradually to another pony on our yard which is going to be his companion and so far this too is going well so far.
My daughter is keen to start working with him to get him walking out and playing games, maybe doing a bit of pony agillity and also to show him in some fun classes.
I have taken advice from another local lady who produces show mini's about his feeding and care etc but I could still do with a bit of advice about what sort of thing you can do with them?
He lacks a bit of condition, though I am very concious of not letting him put on lots of weight but he could do with a bit of muscle and I was wondering if lunging is acceptable or should we long rein or just lead him in hand lots and lots?
I have an ex racehorse myself and tbh his care seems quite straight forward compared to this little one! (I am a bit of a worrier and do have a tendancy to over think things...can you tell lol!)
In-hand walking is great for building bonds as its just you and them having a natter 