Pony Pet

The pony originated from original wild horse prototypes that developed small stature due to living on the margins of livable horse habitat. These smaller animals were domesticated and bred for various purposes, especially in Great Britain and Ireland. Ponies were historically used as "pit ponies" hauling loads of coal up from the mines, for driving and freight transport, as children's mounts, for recreational riding, and later as competitors and performers in their own right. Larger ponies can be ridden by adults, as ponies are usually very strong.

Ponies are generally considered intelligent and friendly, though sometimes are described as stubborn or devious. The differences of opinion may result from an individual pony's degree of proper training. Ponies trained by children, rather than by experienced horse trainers, frequently turn out to be spoiled because children typically lack the experience base to correct bad habits. Properly trained ponies are appropriate mounts for children who are learning to ride..

Worldwide, ponies and other equids usually live outside with access to shelter from the elements. In some cases, animals are kept in a barn or stable, or may have access to a shed or shelter. Ponies require both shelter from wind and precipitation, as well as room to exercise and run. They must have access to clean fresh water at all times, and access to adequate forage such as grass or hay. In the winter, ponies grow a heavy hair coat to keep warm and usually stay warm if well-fed and allowed access to shelter. But if kept artificially clipped for show, or if under stress from age, sickness or injury, a horse blanket may need to be added to protect the horse from cold weather. In the summer, access to shade is well-advised.

For horse owners who do not own their own land, fields and barns can be rented from a private land owner or space for an individual horse may be rented from a boarding farm. Unless an animal can be fully maintained on pasture with a natural open water source, ponies must be fed daily, preferably at least twice a day. If a horse cannot be fed by its owner every day, it is usually kept at a boarding stable, where the staff will care for the horse for a fee.

As equines are herd animals, most have better mental behavior when in proximity to other equine company. However, this is not always possible, and it has been known for companionship bonds to develop between ponies and cats, goats and other species. There are exceptions. Some ponies, particularly stallions may need to live on their own as they may fight with other animals.

Ponies that are not on full-time turnout in a field or pasture normally require some form of regular exercise, whether it is being ridden, longed or turned out for free time. However, if a horse is ill or injured it may need to be confined to a stable, kept in a box stall.

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