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.
This story is from the June 04, 2020 edition of Horse & Hound.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the June 04, 2020 edition of Horse & Hound.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Tanking over the Plain
The Royal Artillery are out in force for their closing meet a fun and fast day out on Salisbury Plain
Sweet dreams
Whether you're looking to smarten up an existing yard or build a new one from scratch, there's a growing range of kit to add comfort and quality, finds Stephanie Bateman
'I didn't think I'd win it from the front'
Jamie Wingove claims an unexpected grand prix victory and a super-versatile 15hh working hunter comes away crowned a showjumping champion
The pick of the picnics
Sport is the main part of an equestrian day out, but good food enhances it. Netia Walker finds out about picnics that will beat the burger van if it ever stops raining
To the bone
Are you searching for a complete guide to joint injections? The hunt is over. Thijs de Bont MRCVS demystifies their contents, application and use in pain and performance management
Deadlock
A deadly disease characterised by lockjaw, tetanus is fatal in the majority of cases. Karen Coumbe MRCVS explains how a vaccine protects your horse
Ready to roll
A lot goes into ensuring safe road travel for horses, be it training, vehicle safety or on-the-day measures. Kieran O’Brien MRCVS explains
Carl Hester's PA
Claudine Bichard on alleviating the enormous paperwork burden, working alongside Valegro and why you mustn’t tell Carl he’s lucky to have her
Robbie Llewellyn
Covid chicken sales and working on Hollywood blockbusters might be an unlikely route to National Hunt success, but Robbie Llewellyn is forging an entrepreneurial path. Gemma Redrup meets him
'No atmosphere was lost'
Ronnie Lee Jones on the importance of good sportsmanship