Parents who’ve seen the more “characterful” side emerge may read this last sentence with a wry smile. There’s little to rival a naughty pony in prompting tears of sheer frustration – and not just from the child.
Adam explains that ponies are typically blessed with natural intelligence, which can work both ways.
“Ponies can be quicker thinking than horses and may more readily pick up on what you’re trying to teach them,” he says, adding that he and partner David Jinks have produced winners from “all sorts” at their Cheshire yard. “This means you have to stay one step ahead. You’re always trying to second guess ponies – and they’re always trying to outdo you.
“Bad behavior can be due to a number of factors, including environmental stress from stabling arrangements, restricted access to grazing and boredom,” he adds. “Some bloodlines are renowned for being a bit quirky or sharp, while native breeds can have different characteristics. It’s all about knowing how to channel the undesirable and work with the pony’s attributes.”
Key to success, says Adam, is starting the pony correctly with a good, sound education from the outset. But bad habits can develop, especially if he learns to take advantage of a small or nervous rider. Is it possible to retrain delinquent? Adams admits: “We have had ponies here who were not straightforward.
Denne historien er fra June 04, 2020-utgaven av Horse & Hound.
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Denne historien er fra June 04, 2020-utgaven av Horse & Hound.
Start din 7-dagers gratis prøveperiode på Magzter GOLD for å få tilgang til tusenvis av utvalgte premiumhistorier og 9000+ magasiner og aviser.
Allerede abonnent? Logg på
'Sorry, but I wasn't feeling it'
Fresh from the opening meet, Tessa Waugh hasn't quite yet been bitten by the hunting bug. Without the crisp autumnal air and cheek-pinching cold she hoped for, it's a sluggish start
New pair pull off a win
A former European Championships pony is on form with his new rider, while elsewhere former showjumpers and eventers take ribbons
Lording it over the rest
Horses who have returned from injury, a second generation homebred and a long format specialist score on the final weekend of the British season
Smith hits flying form
A \"her way or no way\" mare helps Zoe Smith to an impressive ribbon haul and a rider beats his own boss to the top spot
Jankorado hits the jackpot
Paul Sims is triumphant despite his interrupted jump-off preparation and a borrowed horse comes up trumps
Peanut
From \"dangerous, scary\" to hedge-hopping brilliance, hunting has been the making of this unstable but very lovable equine character
She's a corker
Communication, says long-standing and highly respected Belvoir master Lady Sarah McCorquodale, is the key to all, as Catherine Austen discovers
Access all areas Cavalier Centre
The Cavalier Centre is a fully accessible, state-of-the-art equestrian centre designed to improve lives through horse-based activities. Ellie May Forrester pays a visit
'Use it or lose it'
Not everyone wants to reach for the pipe and slippers at a certain age. Becky Murray speaks to some veteran horse-and-rider combos for their secrets of human and equine longevity
A new way forward
Worm control in horses is vital, but established methods will not remain effective for much longer. Tim Mair FRCVS explains why and how we need to change
