Hippotherapy
Horsey people-Shetland ponies?
(I live in Australia, I’m 15)I'm moving into a new house, which is a shared property, the whole property is about 5 aches and they are two little Shetland ponies (they are so cute!!=D) in one paddock (I’m not very good with measurements, so I’m just guessing..) which is probably one acre. The paddock is really dry and there isn't much grass at all, mostly weeds and manure,anyways one the ponies hoofs are quite unkept, they are a bit over grown, not really bad I’ve seen a lot worse, but would his hoofs be bothering them? Is there anyway to inprove their paddock's grass without using to much water or money?And what could I suggest/hint to the people that own them? Also, I do intend on scooping up the manure(with a shovel and wheelbarrow), this may sound weird but I find it quite therapeutic,anyways I have leased a horse for a year before and stuff so I know the general idea of how to handle them, and myself when I’m around them, but yeah any tips(I don't intend on riding the ponies)?
Public Comments
- First of all - well done to you, its great you care for these ponies even though they're not yours. You have to be very careful,as these people may not have enough money for shoeing etc,so make friends with them first. Maybe ask to help out there, e.g say you're looking for a job, and if they say they can't pay you,then just ask to volenteer for a bit every day. This way it sounds like they're doing you a favour, and you can make the lives easier for the shetlands and get a better feel of the situation. But if it does carry on, please make an anonymous call to the R.S.P.C.A (or whoever that sort of thing is in Aus.) Hope This helps and good luck =)
- Be aware that Shetlands are shocking over eaters, if you grass up the paddock too much you will make the hoof problem worst and have a weight problem also. The overgrown hoof changes the angle the hoof hits the ground, so naturally it is annoying to the animal, ensure the owners are seeing to the hooves- are they medicating it? Be sure NOT to plant clover because that is toxic to horses in spring. I hope you create an awesome garden from your poop pile!
- You shouldn't rush in to improve their pasture for them. As long as they are getting plenty of hay, they're probably better off since ponies are prone to get laminitis/founder from lots of grass. The manure picking is a good idea, as is brushing the ponies and working with them a little, with the owner's permission of course. Obviously they need thier feet trimmed but I'm not sure of a gentle way to bring that up to the owners, other than just saying it. (like "I was petting Pony A today and noticed his feet look pretty long, like he needs a trim").
- may u can treat them as a pet because animals are much better than human so i can just wish they bring u good luck and u stay happy with them
