Breeding Miniature Horses Shetland Ponies

Ponies and miniature horses may seem the same, but they’re actually very different. Readers discover this and other fascinating facts as they learn about different kinds of miniature horses. Through accessible main text and fact boxes, they explore ways to care for these horses, as well as essential science curriculum topics such as animal adaptations. Full-color photographs of miniature horses are sure to captivate readers, who can then take the included quiz to test their reading comprehension. From the hills of Scotland to a horse show, readers will go on a fun journey to learn about these adorable animals!

Although Miniature Horses and Shetland Ponies are smallest of all the equines, the enthusiasm of their owners and other fans is gigantic. And with good reason: Minis and Shetlands are as versatile as they are cuddly, found in backyards and indoors where they make perfect pets, and in the show arena where they are as fiercely competitive as equines ten times their size. This book, a celebration of the Mini and the Shetland, begins with a brief history of the breeds in this country with a fascinating look at influential horses and breeders and the continuing growth of the breeds’ popularity. Owners and other devotees share delightful stories about their bond with their pets through “member of the family” anecdotes. How the small equines excel in the show ring focuses on their riding, driving, and breed classes. “Heartwarming” is the word for the work they do as companion and therapy partners of physically and emotionally challenged humans (case in point: Minis have made trainable and dependably guiding eyes for the blind).

The Shetland pony makes up for its small size with strength. In the past, Shetland ponies pulled heavy carts overloaded with coal and peat. Today, the ponies show their strength and talent in harness and jumping competitions. Learn how the Shetland pony went from a pit pony of the mines to a faithful friend of both children and adults.

Page after page is filled with excellent up-to-date information on such things as the importance of the pre-purchase examination, reproduction guidelines for both mares and stallions, mortality and liability insurance, syndication of stallions, advertising and marketing the Miniature Horse, basics of driving, and the purchase and care of tack & equipment, and more! The articles are lavished with over 60 excellent photographs and detailed illustrations. A substantial appendix gives additional information on registries, the "standards of perfection," additional reading sources, and a comprehensive glossary.