So You Want A Pony?

Ponies have specific needs that must be carefully considered before becoming a pony owner! 

• Contact a pony club or breed association and ask current owners what is involved
• Consider leasing or volunteering to care for a pony before buying
• Research information available on the Internet  and in books. 
• Plan for shelter, routine & emergency vet care, feed & supplements, grooming & exercise                   

What kind of shelter will  a Pony need? 

Small Shetland ponies require enough space to move about. One third an acre per pony (under 40") is the suggested mininimum.   The pony will need need some sort of shelter from wind, rain, and mud. A a 6 X 10   stall per pony or larger three sided shelter will do. Secure fencing to protect the pony from dogs and people is a must.  Large predators can severely  injure or kill  a small pony. The enclosure will need  daily manure removal for fly and odor control.  Fresh water and a mineral salt block needs to be available at all times.

Some cities prohibit keeping any size horse or pony within city limits. Be sure to check  whether or not your local zoning ordinances allow keeping a  pony.

What kind of care will a Pony need?

Ponies are adorable, cute, sweet and affectionate, but they are not dogs or cats.  Don't misjudge them based on their size!  They are strong and can become willful and stubborn if not properly trained to respect you !  They need daily attention. Ponies are herd animals that do best when they have company--preferrably other ponies. Often a small goat, or donkey will be a good companion animal. 

How much will it cost to keep a Pony ?

It can easily cost $500 or more a year to keep a pony. If you do not have adequate space and facilities to properly house a pony, you will need to board it at a local farm. Another option is to sponsor or lease a pony so you share in the expenses and care.

• One time (hopefully) expenses
• Feeder
• water bucket
• Pony wardrobe - halter, lead rope, blankets,
• Brushes, hoofpick, fly spray bottle
• Housing -  barn, lshed, sturdy fences
• Horse trailer*

A few ongoing health expenses

• Annual vaccinations - $12-15  ( Encephalomyelitis, Tetanus, Rhino, Rabies, Strangles, West Nile Virus, & Coggins for ponies that travel )   not including vet visit, examination, etc.
• Farrier every 2 months, as ponies must have their hooves trimmed $15-40 each visit.
• Worming (every 2 months or a daily wormer)
• Feed - grazing, hay, alfalfa, grain, salt, supplements .
  Hay can range from $6-15 a bale* depending on your location and the quality of feed. Grass Hay is better for most ponies as they tend to easily founder on alfalfa & other rich feeds.
• Grooming - shampoo, towels, clippers
• Fly control - fly spray, traps, manure disposal, fly mask, fly sheets, beneficial insects
• Vet Visits - ranch calls are $30-60 each, exams $20+, this is before providing any specific treatment
  Colic surgery , though unusual, can easily cost $5000!