Should I loan My Pony?

[3Beasties]

I have a very pretty 12hh Strawberry Roan Mare. She is 10yo but has not done a huge amount. She was backed at 5 and was used as a happy hacker for a few years until my neighbor got to big for her. Last winter I sent her away to be broken to drive as I couldn't find another rider for her and I thought driving would be something I could do on my own. I was then told that it would not be sensible to take her driving without someone with me. I'm finding it very hard to find someone willing to come driving with me often enough to bring her on. So she now hasn't been driven for abut 4 months but has been ridden by ten year old for the last month. She is the type of pony that loves regular work but 10 year old has got her own pony so hasn't really got time for my Pony as well.

Is loaning her out the best option? I would want her to stay local to me (Herefordshire) and would vet the home but I have heard so many horror stories that I am not sure its the best thing to do.

 

[lexiedhb]

Could you not find a kiddie to ride her on a regular basis for a nominal fee???

 

[3Beasties]

There seems to be a shortage of Kiddies near me, plus she can be quite marish at times (this does get better with work) so would need quite a confident rider that could keep her in line!

 

[lexiedhb]

Just thought it might be another option, and avoid any "loaning horror" stories!

 

[3Beasties]

That would be a better option I agree, I just wish I could find the ideal child.

 

[Carys]

Can you contact the local pony club branch or possibly fond someone through the child who has been riding her as this way you have a better chance of finding someone suitable who also has the all important back-up