Thoughts on low-maintenance companion for children's pony?

[Lplates]

Interested in every view from chickens to another pony…
Elderly pony, doesn't seem particularly bothered by being out alone, but it would make me feel better, as I do wonder if he is lonely sometimes.
We looked after a friends young pony for a month but had to ask them to take her back as we sadly decided she wasn't safe on the ground with my smaller children after she kicked over wheelbarrows, holes in stable etc. Our pony doesn't seem too bothered she is gone, but he is standing at the gate a bit more, waiting for his feed etc.
The pros for buying another pony would be that my two daughters could then ride together. The cons being the cost and the extra work.
I am going to move our chickens down there when I can get some help, but am also considering cats, sheep, goats, donkeys, mini Shetlands…
Any thoughts v grateful!

 

[Equi]

Get a shetland. They live on air and generally have a good temperament.

 

[The Fuzzy Furry]

A shettie is fine if you have the appropriate fencing & space to restrict diet if needed. (I love them )
However, might possibly suit to get an older one on loan - perhaps check with local PC to see if there is any pony coming up for loan soon.
A loaner means you can give back if things dont suit or when children outgrow, usually an older pony will be set in their ways but also a bit more sedate.

Good luck

 

[paddi22]

don't get goats! They are absolute escape artists and will break your heart. we have two pygmy ones, we adore them but they cause nothing but grief!

We have a mini shetland who is an absolute pet and no bother at all. very low maintenance and absolutely adores kids.

 

[SpringArising]

I always prefer a Welsh A/B to a Shetlands for kids. They're generally more manageable and not as easy to outgrow.


Shetlands are absolute escape artists and very, very strong!

 

[pixie]

Have you thought about rehoming a companion pony from WHW?

 

[Equi]

I've never had one of my shets/minis escape. Nor has my neighbour. I refuse to believe this escape artist thing lol

 

[Polos Mum]

If you have a bit of time to further training

http://www.bransbyhorses.co.uk/re-homing/re-homing animals-Carla.html

or a bit older Mollie

http://www.bransbyhorses.co.uk/re-homing/re-homing-future-friends.html

You're doing your bit for a great charity, no initial outlay, help on hand/ advice etc, when they are outgrown if companion is not what you need then there may well be an option to return them and be happy in the knowledge they will be forever well homed.

 

[MagicMelon]

I personally find the ideal companion is usually something of a similar type. People assume a shetland is the perfect companion but not when its with something like a 16.2hh who can have plenty of grass, you just end up having to stick the shetland in a tiny paddock (to stop laminitis) so its seperate from the other which sort of defeats the purpose. I think another pony is best, of around the same type that your other daughter can ride - might as well get some use of it since the costs are the same Plenty ponies at places like the ILPH.