Pony Horse

Question
Where would one purchase an experienced pony horse?  Besides a stout gelding, what other advice would you give to someone wanting to enter this occupation?

Answer
The best place to look for a pony horse is the bulletin board of the local racetrack.  You can also talk to the pony people there who may know of one for sale.  Some training centers may have trainers who are looking to sell their lead pony as well.
As far as advice, I'd say that you'd better be prepared to buy two ponies, rather than one, because a single lead pony probably won't be enough to make a living with.  You have to figure that your pony will be galloping several miles a day, plus afternoon work, and that alone will wear him out if you don't have a spare to take some of the load off.  Not to mention that if he gets injured or becomes ill, you'll be without your main source of income, and possibly lose clients, who will have to find an alternate source, and may not return.
Also, be absolutely certain that you know the rules of the racetrack, and that you are very familiar with how to pony, since many of the horses that you are hired to pony won't know how.  They won't be easy to just lope around with, and many will try to bite, kick, or even mount your pony.  Not to mention trying to keep them straight, and not galloping with their head cocked in towards you, which puts a ton of strain on their body and action.  You need to know how to handle all situations before accepting the first job, since reputation is everything.

Good Luck!

Stephanie Frost
www.AlchemyBloodstock.com