PitterPatterPonies work our horses into show condition. They are either lunged, long reined, round pen schooled, free schooled, road worked or worked in hand. Although this takes longer the results are far better as the horses' muscle tone, balance, attitude, coat and general condition are optimised and rather than starve them to give a 'refined' look, you would be amazed at how much a working mini eats to maintain 'fit'. Our driving stallion when covering a mare twice daily and working for 30 minutes ( and who doesn't pace the fence) will eat a good two sections of quality hay and four feeds of sugar beet, chaff, mix and succulents weighing around 3/4 kilo at a time as well as grazing. In the show ring sometimes it can be a fine line between lean and fit to an untrained eye.

Another reason for training is to develop an understanding. We enjoy spending time with our "family" and like humans they can get bored even in a field hock high in grass! Working achieves a deep bond, releases tension, and gives the horses (and us) a different routine whilst learning together. Contrary to popular belief they are more use than a novelty grass cutter and although we have many that love nothing better than to graze all day, most benefit from the confidence a one-to-one brings. We have many jumping, driving, doing obstacles and showmanship. It just takes time, enthusiasm and a chance to let them 'have a go' to fulfil their potential.

Training doesn't need to be a chore or expensive. Make it different and have some fun and enjoy your time together! We have an aged broodmare who squeals and gets all excited when the jumps come out, we open the gate and she'll have a great time doing her own thing then when she's had enough she waits by the gate to come out. Also, a carrot on a length of twine being chases by a fascinated horse can be very entertaining. There are many ways to have fun with your mini, so have a go because if you don't you're missing out on the fun.