Focus on breed: Shetland
The Shetland pony is famous world over for its diminutive size and shaggy coat, as well as their intelligence and strength. Today Animal Friends is taking an in-depth look into why these ponies have become a national treasure.
Where are they from?
Shetland ponies originate from the Shetland Isles, located northeast of mainland Scotland. Shetland ponies were first used for pulling carts, carrying peat, coal and other items, and ploughing farmland. Then, as the Industrial Revolution increased the need for coal in the mid-19th century, thousands of Shetland ponies travelled to mainland Britain to be pit ponies, working underground hauling coal, often for their entire (sadly short) lives. Coal mines in the eastern United States also imported some of these animals. The last pony mine in the United States closed in 1971.
What are they used for today?
Today Shetland ponies can be used by children for riding and showing purposes, although some adults also show Shetlands. They are also used in harness driving, at fairs or carnivals, as therapeutic riding partners and at petting zoos. There is also a Shetland Pony Grand National where young jockeys can race. Some miniature Shetlands have been trained to aid the disabled, in a similar manner to guide dogs. Horses are perfect for this role as they can remember commands for a long period, and also live for a greater length of time than dogs.
Why choose a Shetland?
Shetlands are hardy, strong and reliable but they are also of smaller stature and require less pasture in order to grow properly. They have a fantastic temperament and work brilliantly with children and adults alike, and are hard workers, able to pull up to twice their weight – in relation to size and weight, this makes them the best horse for manual labour in terms of pulling power. Shetlands can live for up to 30 years, making them brilliant for roles in any line of work. Owners will need to watch for laminitis if on a diet high in non-structural carbohydrates. These little horses are a powerhouse of personality and perseverance, and are well worth considering when deciding to own a horse.
Animal Friends offers a wide range of comprehensive cover, so for a great deal on horse insurance, call us now on 0844 57 32 100, or email us at info@animalfriends.co.uk.
