The Farm Ponies

What is a Pony?

Ponies and horses are all in the family called “Equines”.  Some breeds are considered “horses” or “ponies”  despite their size, but most people in the horse industry categorize horses and ponies by their height. Despite a pony’s small size, they are not baby horses.

Equines are measured at the high point, where the neck joins the back, called the withers. An equine that measures over 58″ is called a horse, and an equine that measures 58″ and under is called a pony.  Ponies also have other classifications for size: small, medium, and large.  There is also a category called a “miniature horse” that measures 38″ and smaller.

The Pony Myth – Little Devils of the Farm

There are myths (memes and even group pages on social media) circulating that suggest ponies are little devils roaming the Earth.

All horses & ponies are born with their own unique personalities (like our kids).  However, ponies often get a bad rap because they are handled like toys and then behave … well, in unappreciated ways!

Every equine responds to its environment, past & current treatment, and level of training. All horses and ponies deserve to be handled with care and respect while acknowledging they are all unique individuals!  This is a big part of what we are trying to teach children, that ponies are not toys or sporting equipment.  Horses and ponies all have their unique core personality with moods and emotions based on past and current events, and needs that must be met daily.

These are the farm’s different-sized, but equally generous, lesson ponies;

The farm's miniature horse "Minnie", doing activities in our lesson program.
The farm’s pony, “Minnie” is about 37″ tall (or 9.3-hands).  We guess she is part Miniature Horse or Shetland. She is pictured with a 9-year-old child.
The farm's pony "Lucky", for our kids' lesson programs.
The farm’s pony, “Lucky” is about 41″ tall (or about 10.2-hands) . We guess he is part Hackney. He is pictured here with 8 year old kids.
The farm's pony "Pixie", for our horsemanship lesson programs.
The farm’s pony “Pixie”, is about 44″ tall (or about 11.2-hands). She is pictured here with a 5 year old rider, and a 5’6″ adult.
The farm's large pony "Abby" is about 52" tall. She is an American Mustang.
The farm’s large pony “Abby” is about 52″ tall (or about 13-hands). She is an American Mustang. Pictured here with a 10-year-old child and an adult.

Why Does the Farm use Ponies?

Because they are kid-sized!  The match in size gives our students the ability to do just about everything on their own, from grooming to putting on the saddle to climbing aboard with limited assistance.

At our farm, we believe all equines, regardless of size, deserve respect, proper handling, and appreciation so they are happy in their jobs.  We also spend child-free time with our ponies giving them more training and recreation outside of the lesson program to help keep their temperments pleasant.