Even though I am not a big farm, I still get asked at shows etc. about the minis. I decided that I would make a sheet for absolute beginners or window shoppers. I want to help everybody, but sometimes people just want to know a little bit to see if minis would work for them and don't want to feel like someone is trying to sell them something right then and there. I thought maybe this little write up could be set outside my stall. I would like to make another with slightly more technical information at some point, but we have the state fair this weekend and thought this might be good for that. Let me know what you all think of it . The first part actually sounds a bit like I'm discouraging a sale, but sometimes new people start out by hearing all the cutesy or fun stuff and they forget that they require the same work as any larger breed. Anway, here it is, let me know what you think.
So you want to own a miniature horse.................
If you are new to miniature horses or are looking to get started with them; here are a few things you might want to know. Miniature horses make excellent companions, but it must be remembered that they are still horses and should be kept the same as their larger counterparts. They need ample space to move freely and access to the foods nature intended (grass or hay). While some people have taken miniatures indoors to raise them, they are the happiest and healthiest outdoors . Being indoors should be limited to therapy and ambassador work.
Miniature horses by nature are very inquisitive and friendly, but still need to be handled and socialized early on. Miniature horse stallions can be every bit as aggressive as a larger horse and new owners should seriously look into a gelding or mare or plan on having a stallion gelded if horse is to be a family pet.
While small, miniatures require the same care as a large horse. They do obviously eat less, but they will still need regular hoof trimming, annual vaccinations, deworming, and although it is generally not a problem, they should also be watched for skin conditions due to keeping a slightly longer coat than larger breeds. The teeth of miniatures need all the same attention as a full sized horse as well.
And of course there is always the burning question of what are they good for. Miniatures can be used for several fun activities. Most minis are capable of pulling a reasonably weighted cart. They are great therapy for older persons who miss being around animals, children who want to be around animals but are timid and those with physical or emotional needs. Miniatures also have their own shows and offer a variety of classes from the standard halter class to obstacle, driving and jumping classes. They make an excellent transition for those who love large horses but for health reasons or lack of space find it hard to own a larger breed. And of course, they are great at just being loved and bringing a smile to your face.
If you think that miniature horses may be just what you’ve been looking for, please check out the following resources or feel free to contact us.
Registries:
AMHR: 81-B Queenwood Rd., Morton, IL. (309) 263-4132
AMHA: 5601 South IH 35W, Alvarado, TX. (817) 783-5600
Websites:
Lil’ Beginnings (use these keywords)
Our Farm:
It’ll Do Farms
14585 US HWY 67, Macomb, IL. 61455
(309) 837-2826 for website -keywords-It’ll Do Farms
So you want to own a miniature horse.................
If you are new to miniature horses or are looking to get started with them; here are a few things you might want to know. Miniature horses make excellent companions, but it must be remembered that they are still horses and should be kept the same as their larger counterparts. They need ample space to move freely and access to the foods nature intended (grass or hay). While some people have taken miniatures indoors to raise them, they are the happiest and healthiest outdoors . Being indoors should be limited to therapy and ambassador work.
Miniature horses by nature are very inquisitive and friendly, but still need to be handled and socialized early on. Miniature horse stallions can be every bit as aggressive as a larger horse and new owners should seriously look into a gelding or mare or plan on having a stallion gelded if horse is to be a family pet.
While small, miniatures require the same care as a large horse. They do obviously eat less, but they will still need regular hoof trimming, annual vaccinations, deworming, and although it is generally not a problem, they should also be watched for skin conditions due to keeping a slightly longer coat than larger breeds. The teeth of miniatures need all the same attention as a full sized horse as well.
And of course there is always the burning question of what are they good for. Miniatures can be used for several fun activities. Most minis are capable of pulling a reasonably weighted cart. They are great therapy for older persons who miss being around animals, children who want to be around animals but are timid and those with physical or emotional needs. Miniatures also have their own shows and offer a variety of classes from the standard halter class to obstacle, driving and jumping classes. They make an excellent transition for those who love large horses but for health reasons or lack of space find it hard to own a larger breed. And of course, they are great at just being loved and bringing a smile to your face.
If you think that miniature horses may be just what you’ve been looking for, please check out the following resources or feel free to contact us.
Registries:
AMHR: 81-B Queenwood Rd., Morton, IL. (309) 263-4132
AMHA: 5601 South IH 35W, Alvarado, TX. (817) 783-5600
Websites:
Lil’ Beginnings (use these keywords)
Our Farm:
It’ll Do Farms
14585 US HWY 67, Macomb, IL. 61455
(309) 837-2826 for website -keywords-It’ll Do Farms