A Shetland can do exactly the same job as a bigger pony – ridden, driven, in-hand walks, agility or showing to name a few.
Teddy has had a go at all of these but is happiest when he’s being driven around the lanes and countryside.
Teddy is now 13 years old and was already broken to drive when I bought him in November 2020. I was a complete newbie to driving and needed a pony that would allow me to ‘take the reins’ and give me confidence – I couldn’t have wished for a better pony! Without Teddy and the support of the wonderful ‘Team Teddy’ I wouldn’t have achieved what I have.
We have also competed at ‘indoor’ driving competitions over the winter months which we both enjoy – Teddy particularly enjoys the cones.
Last year we attended our first “Gateway” competition which was a real challenge but again, we both had a lot of fun. These events comprise 3 disciplines – precision & paces (dressage), cones and obstacles. Below is a photo of the obstacles at Gateway competition.
This year we attended our first Concours D’Elegance show – something different again for us both and we came away with Reserve In-hand Champion, quite a day to remember.
Of course, there is always the fun side of having a Shetland pony in your life and Christmas is an ideal opportunity to dress up as an elf, reindeer and Christmas tree.
So yes, a Shetland pony can be a companion pony and your best friend but it also has a lot more to offer its human slave.
