Looking for the perfect pony? Who isn't? Good ponies-those who can teach kids the ropes when it comes to horsemanship-are said to be worth their weight in gold.
What exactly is a pony, by definition? How does it differ from what we call a horse? Well, a pony is, in fact, a horse. Ponies are a sub-classification of light horses, which are those used for riding. The main difference between a pony and a horse is that a pony is under 14.2 hands. To this end, just about any horse who meets the height requirement can be shown in pony classes. However, there are certain breeds where all the individuals registered must meet pony requirements. These are called pony breeds.
Like other horse breeds, pony breeds vary in size, color, and gait.
Shetland
While this breed originated in the British Isles, it is now quite popular here in the United States. The Shetland has the distinction of being the smallest of the ponies. While it is certainly possible to learn to ride on a well-trained Shetland pony, their small stature means they are quickly outgrown. They also have a fairly bumpy gait, which makes them not so ideal for riding. But don't worry, American Shetland ponies have certainly found their niche! As very fancy driving ponies, you can usually find them pulling carts, carriages and buggies. One of the best things about Shetland ponies is that they are able to grow really thick winter coats. To this end, they are ideal ponies for people in cold climates. According to breed standards, Shetlands can be any color, including multicolored patterns such as the Paint horse.
Welsh
Welsh ponies originated in a part of Great Britain known as Wales. Welsh ponies are considered among the best of the riding ponies, and are known for their smooth gaits and tractable, willing natures. According to breed rules they come in four sizes, which range from 12 to 15 hands. But wait, you say, doesn't a pony have to be under 14.2 hands in order to be classified as a pony? Good catch! In fact, three of the sizes are actually pony sizes. Horses of the largest Welsh size are considered "cobs," or small horses. A cob can be just about perfect for a rider who has outgrown their pony, but is still too small for a horse. Because of this the versatile Welsh pony breed is not only ideal for children, but many adults on the small side have enjoyed Welsh cobs as well!
POA
POA stands for Pony of the Americas. This breed was founded in the United States in 1956. Original POAs were developed by cross-breeding Shetland Ponies with Appaloosa horses, as well as Quarter Horses and Arabians. POAs share the breed characteristics of their founding stock, and range in height from 11.2 hands to 13.2 hands. Because of their Appaloosa heritage, they come in a wide variety of coat patterns. POAs work well for both riding and driving.
Connemara
The Connemara is an Irish pony that has Arabian horses in its ancestry. Connemaras are known for being one of the taller pony breeds, as many of them stand in the 14.2-hand range. Connemaras are often gray or black, although registry rules also allow them to be brown, bay, or dun. Connemaras have very smooth gaits, are willing learners, and are often very athletic. They excel in a wide variety of disciplines, from riding to driving, and are well-suited to both children and driving adults.
When looking at ponies, there are several breeds from which to choose. Knowing certain breed characteristics will help you determine if the pony you are looking at is a good representative of his breed. Good luck finding the perfect pony!
Ponies are great! If you want to share your pony experiences please visit our resource boxes below and we would love to have you as part of our equine community.
Ron Petracek was raised in Southern Idaho, with a black morgan as his adventure companion. His Love for horses has expanded into the largest equine classified network on the internet to date with horse articles, classifieds and social networking.
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Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ron_Petracek
Showing posts with label parents guide to buying a pony. Show all posts
Showing posts with label parents guide to buying a pony. Show all posts
Wednesday, 21 October 2009
Monday, 19 October 2009
First Time Buyer - Parents Guide To Buying A Pony
The best advise I can give any parent thinking about buying a horse or pony for their child is "Do your research!" It's crucial to find the right match for your family. Not every horse or pony will meet your child's needs, financial budget and the family's time schedule.
When looking for a horse or pony parents need to consider whether to buy, lease, or half lease. When buying a horse or pony, parents (not children) are taking full responsibility. The first issue is shelter. Where is the horse or pony going to live? Is there adequate space on the property, is there time to feed twice a day, muck out stalls, turnout and bring the horse or pony in at night? If you decide to lease or half lease a horse, the parents don't own the horse and therefore are bound by the terms and conditions of the contract between parents and the owner. These conditions can vary greatly depending on how much involvement is required by either party.
No matter if the parents decide to buy or lease they need to look for a horse or pony that is safe and respectful of the child. Cool-horses like Quarter Horses and Appaloosas are known for their mellow demeanor and quiet temperament. They can be used for most disciplines in the equestrian world and the child will not out grow a horse like they would with a pony. When looking for a pony be aware of any nasty habits. Because of the small size of a pony, they don't always have proper training under saddle. Even though ponies may be wonderful in hand, they often could have vices when ridden.
The last major thing for parents to consider when buying a horse or pony for their child is - time and money. Can the family commit as many hours that is needed to take care of a horse or pony. Along with riding, there has to be time for feeding, tack cleaning, turn out, mucking stalls and the list goes on! Horses and ponies are expensive! Be prepared to set aside about $1200 a month for a year. If you can afford this and prepared to commit to the many factors involved in owning a horse, your family is ready for a horse or pony.
Janis Macintyre is a mother of two who has been horses her entire life. From pony club as a girl to owning and training three horses as an adult, Janis loves horses and shares her experiences on her site. For more articles like this please visit http://healthyhorsecare.blogspot.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Janis_Macintyre
When looking for a horse or pony parents need to consider whether to buy, lease, or half lease. When buying a horse or pony, parents (not children) are taking full responsibility. The first issue is shelter. Where is the horse or pony going to live? Is there adequate space on the property, is there time to feed twice a day, muck out stalls, turnout and bring the horse or pony in at night? If you decide to lease or half lease a horse, the parents don't own the horse and therefore are bound by the terms and conditions of the contract between parents and the owner. These conditions can vary greatly depending on how much involvement is required by either party.
No matter if the parents decide to buy or lease they need to look for a horse or pony that is safe and respectful of the child. Cool-horses like Quarter Horses and Appaloosas are known for their mellow demeanor and quiet temperament. They can be used for most disciplines in the equestrian world and the child will not out grow a horse like they would with a pony. When looking for a pony be aware of any nasty habits. Because of the small size of a pony, they don't always have proper training under saddle. Even though ponies may be wonderful in hand, they often could have vices when ridden.
The last major thing for parents to consider when buying a horse or pony for their child is - time and money. Can the family commit as many hours that is needed to take care of a horse or pony. Along with riding, there has to be time for feeding, tack cleaning, turn out, mucking stalls and the list goes on! Horses and ponies are expensive! Be prepared to set aside about $1200 a month for a year. If you can afford this and prepared to commit to the many factors involved in owning a horse, your family is ready for a horse or pony.
Janis Macintyre is a mother of two who has been horses her entire life. From pony club as a girl to owning and training three horses as an adult, Janis loves horses and shares her experiences on her site. For more articles like this please visit http://healthyhorsecare.blogspot.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Janis_Macintyre
Saturday, 17 October 2009
Parents Guide To Buying A Pony
So, your little girl has been taking riding lessons for a year now and
(surprise) she wants her own pony. Here’s how to begin.
First, talk to your child’s trainer. He or she may have an experienced
lesson horse they would be willing to lease to you. That’s a good way to
get your feet wet before you commit to the full-time obligation of caring
for your own pony. Leasing arrangements vary, but usually you pay a
monthly fee for riding privileges any time you want, as if it were your
pony. You can ride, train and show the pony. You may also have to pay
for farrier services (usually a hoof trim and/or reset shoes every six
weeks), periodic de-worming and veterinary services.
If you can’t find a suitable leasing arrangement and are still interested in
owning a pony, here are some tips and things to consider along the
way.
1. What age do you want your pony or horse? An ideal age for a
beginner rider horse is 10. You can go a little younger, if you want, but a
well-trained 10-year-old horse has already experienced a lot of life. He
probably won’t be as frisky as a younger horse and will be less likely to
spook or act unpredictably. You are looking for a "bomb-proof" horse,
especially for your child’s first mount. Ten years old is great, as well,
because as your child grows, the horse will have many healthy years
ahead of him for riding and showing.
2. What gender should your pony be? Common experience tells us that
geldings are the best beginner mount, however, some mares can be
excellent babysitters as well. The main drawback to a mare is that some
get moody during their monthly cycles, and can even nip or kick. The
other consideration is if you are ever going to have additional horses
and plan to turn them out in a pasture together, it’s better not to have
one mare and several geldings. Even though they are gelded, the males
will still want to fight over the mare. You can avoid that headache by
sticking with geldings. However, if you plan to always keep your horse in
a stall in a stable with individual turnout, a mare can work out fine. Of
course, a first-time owner should never buy a stallion.
3. Do you want a horse or pony? A small horse may be a better option
than a pony for several reasons. First, your little one is going to grow up
and may be faced in the future with having to sell her beloved pony
because she's outgrown him or her.
Second, horses are a little easier to care for. Ponies are famous for
foundering, a condition that occurs especially when a pony overeats rich
grass. The safest bet for a pony is to never let him eat grass. Feed hay, a
little grain and turn him out on dirt. Horses can founder as well, but not
as easily as ponies.
If you have a pasture-only boarding situation, opt for a horse, not a pony.
Some stables, however, have many ponies they turn out together on dirt.
If your barn is set up to care properly for a pony, go ahead, if not, stick
with a horse.
3. Look in the newspaper, on the internet, ask around at horse shows or
call other trainers. Many trainers will help you find the perfect horse for a
finder’s fee. It can be more expensive, but well worth it in the long run to
have professional assistance. Taking along a trainer to look at a horse
with you can give you confidence as well as an expert set of eyes and
ears in the situation.
4. Once you have a prospect located, find out as much as you can about
the horse or pony. What is its training or background? Has it showed
and where? Does it have any bad habits or fears? Is it friendly toward
other horses? Does it load in a trailer and can I do it myself? Does it or
has it ever had any health problems? Why are you selling now?
5. Get a veterinarian check before you buy. This can cost up to $200, if it
includes x-rays, but it can be well worth the expense and trouble.
Coming home with a horse that immediately is lame can be a big
disappointment. Consider the possibility, too, that the current owner may
be giving the horse bute (horse aspirin) to hide lameness when you are
looking at the horse.
6. Check out the horse unannounced. Show up at the horse’s stables or
pasture when you are not expected. Ask to take the horse for a ride or to
trot him on the lead rope to check for problems. Unfortunately, some
people drug their horses to make them appear more calm than they
really are. Arriving unannounced helps you see the pony as he really is.
7. Get ready for expenses. Make sure you understand and budget for all
the expenses associated with owning a horse or pony. There are
monthly boarding bills, which include food and care. You may also want
to supplement your horse or pony with a hoof, coat or joint supplement.
Your horse needs its hooves trimmed or shoes reset every six weeks.
You also need an annual check from the veterinarian, which at least will
include shots, teeth floating and a coggins test. Many owners give their
horses twice yearly shots, as well as de-worming at least four times a
year.
Of course, now there are expenses for saddles, blankets, bridles, bits,
riding clothes, lessons, helmets, riding lessons and showing fees. If your
trainer will transport your horse for you, great, if not, add a horse trailer
to the list.
Finding the right horse or pony can be a long adventure. Don’t be
tempted to pick one out of the paper and surprise your child with it at a
birthday party. Considering the investment on your part, you want your
child to fall in love with this animal, so his or her opinion needs to count
as well. Finding the right equine companion for your child can begin a
relationship that will last for years.
Diane Samson is a writer with The Lieurance Group, a freelance writers' cooperative in Kansas City, Missouri. Samson can provide writing, reporting and editing services for magazines, newspapers, corporate communications and especially animal publications. Find out more about her writing services at http://www.lieurancegroup.blogspot.com or email her at dianesamson@birch.net
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Diane_Samson
(surprise) she wants her own pony. Here’s how to begin.
First, talk to your child’s trainer. He or she may have an experienced
lesson horse they would be willing to lease to you. That’s a good way to
get your feet wet before you commit to the full-time obligation of caring
for your own pony. Leasing arrangements vary, but usually you pay a
monthly fee for riding privileges any time you want, as if it were your
pony. You can ride, train and show the pony. You may also have to pay
for farrier services (usually a hoof trim and/or reset shoes every six
weeks), periodic de-worming and veterinary services.
If you can’t find a suitable leasing arrangement and are still interested in
owning a pony, here are some tips and things to consider along the
way.
1. What age do you want your pony or horse? An ideal age for a
beginner rider horse is 10. You can go a little younger, if you want, but a
well-trained 10-year-old horse has already experienced a lot of life. He
probably won’t be as frisky as a younger horse and will be less likely to
spook or act unpredictably. You are looking for a "bomb-proof" horse,
especially for your child’s first mount. Ten years old is great, as well,
because as your child grows, the horse will have many healthy years
ahead of him for riding and showing.
2. What gender should your pony be? Common experience tells us that
geldings are the best beginner mount, however, some mares can be
excellent babysitters as well. The main drawback to a mare is that some
get moody during their monthly cycles, and can even nip or kick. The
other consideration is if you are ever going to have additional horses
and plan to turn them out in a pasture together, it’s better not to have
one mare and several geldings. Even though they are gelded, the males
will still want to fight over the mare. You can avoid that headache by
sticking with geldings. However, if you plan to always keep your horse in
a stall in a stable with individual turnout, a mare can work out fine. Of
course, a first-time owner should never buy a stallion.
3. Do you want a horse or pony? A small horse may be a better option
than a pony for several reasons. First, your little one is going to grow up
and may be faced in the future with having to sell her beloved pony
because she's outgrown him or her.
Second, horses are a little easier to care for. Ponies are famous for
foundering, a condition that occurs especially when a pony overeats rich
grass. The safest bet for a pony is to never let him eat grass. Feed hay, a
little grain and turn him out on dirt. Horses can founder as well, but not
as easily as ponies.
If you have a pasture-only boarding situation, opt for a horse, not a pony.
Some stables, however, have many ponies they turn out together on dirt.
If your barn is set up to care properly for a pony, go ahead, if not, stick
with a horse.
3. Look in the newspaper, on the internet, ask around at horse shows or
call other trainers. Many trainers will help you find the perfect horse for a
finder’s fee. It can be more expensive, but well worth it in the long run to
have professional assistance. Taking along a trainer to look at a horse
with you can give you confidence as well as an expert set of eyes and
ears in the situation.
4. Once you have a prospect located, find out as much as you can about
the horse or pony. What is its training or background? Has it showed
and where? Does it have any bad habits or fears? Is it friendly toward
other horses? Does it load in a trailer and can I do it myself? Does it or
has it ever had any health problems? Why are you selling now?
5. Get a veterinarian check before you buy. This can cost up to $200, if it
includes x-rays, but it can be well worth the expense and trouble.
Coming home with a horse that immediately is lame can be a big
disappointment. Consider the possibility, too, that the current owner may
be giving the horse bute (horse aspirin) to hide lameness when you are
looking at the horse.
6. Check out the horse unannounced. Show up at the horse’s stables or
pasture when you are not expected. Ask to take the horse for a ride or to
trot him on the lead rope to check for problems. Unfortunately, some
people drug their horses to make them appear more calm than they
really are. Arriving unannounced helps you see the pony as he really is.
7. Get ready for expenses. Make sure you understand and budget for all
the expenses associated with owning a horse or pony. There are
monthly boarding bills, which include food and care. You may also want
to supplement your horse or pony with a hoof, coat or joint supplement.
Your horse needs its hooves trimmed or shoes reset every six weeks.
You also need an annual check from the veterinarian, which at least will
include shots, teeth floating and a coggins test. Many owners give their
horses twice yearly shots, as well as de-worming at least four times a
year.
Of course, now there are expenses for saddles, blankets, bridles, bits,
riding clothes, lessons, helmets, riding lessons and showing fees. If your
trainer will transport your horse for you, great, if not, add a horse trailer
to the list.
Finding the right horse or pony can be a long adventure. Don’t be
tempted to pick one out of the paper and surprise your child with it at a
birthday party. Considering the investment on your part, you want your
child to fall in love with this animal, so his or her opinion needs to count
as well. Finding the right equine companion for your child can begin a
relationship that will last for years.
Diane Samson is a writer with The Lieurance Group, a freelance writers' cooperative in Kansas City, Missouri. Samson can provide writing, reporting and editing services for magazines, newspapers, corporate communications and especially animal publications. Find out more about her writing services at http://www.lieurancegroup.blogspot.com or email her at dianesamson@birch.net
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Diane_Samson
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