All About Our Ponies

Everyone asks us questions about our ponies. We get so many questions that we thought we'd better answer them here.

Frequently Asked Pony Questions

• They're so cute!

  That's not a question, but you are right. Ponies are just totally adorable. We love them, and we are proud to be able to let children pet and ride them.

• What are the names of the ponies in the pictures above?

  The white one is Teddy Bear, and the dark one is Blackjack. We have several more ponies.

• They're baby horses, aren't they?

  No, ponies are just small-sized horses. Our ponies are full-grown, but only between half to three-quarters the height of a full-sized horse.

• Where do they live?

  Our ponies stay with us on our farm in central North Carolina. Ponies are very hardy animals, and can live in very hot or very cold regions, and usually do not seek shelter from weather. The Shetland ponies of northern Scotland live happily in fierce, Scottish winter weather! Like them, our ponies grow furry coats in the winter.

• But what about our hot North Carolina weather?

  Horses seem to do well even in desert conditions, if they get enough water to drink. Our ponies like to stand out in the sun, even if they have the choice of going into the shade. They sweat to cool off, just like we do, rather than panting like dogs. This allows them to tolerate heat without stress.

• You don't work in the winter, do you?

  Sure! Just as long as there's no ice and snow on the roads, and the wind's not bone-chilling or frightfully gusty, we are out putting kids on ponies all year 'round.

• Can they come to my party?

  We specialize in birthday parties. Two or more ponies will arrive at the appointed time and will stay for a while, usually more than an hour, giving rides to all the kids. Call us at 919-353-4591 to schedule your party's ponies.

  We also have a special program for daycares, preschools, kindergartens and elementary schools. Click to learn more.

• How much does it cost for a birthday party?

  It's not cheap. But if you want a pony ride, you'll have to call us and discuss your plans with us, because we cannot figure out a price until we go over the details carefully. Your location, the number of children and their ages, and any special needs all enter into determining the cost.

• Our church is having a festival. Can you bring the ponies?

  We can do large and small festivals. At certain times of the year we are booked solid, so always call us far in advance to make arrangements.

• Which color pony is best?

  Just like with people, there are good horses and bad horses in all colors. Our ponies are all good ones, and we have them in lots of colors.

• Can I choose which pony comes to my party?

  Usually not. We choose ponies based on safety and on the ponies' own abilities. All our ponies have years of experience, though.

• Is there somewhere we can go and just ride your ponies?

  Many Saturdays and most Sundays we set up at the Buckhorn Jockey Lot Flea Market in Mebane, just off Interstate 40/85 at exit 157. That's between Durham and Burlington. If the weather's good and we're not there it's because we are doing a pony ride at a church or at some lucky kid's party. Rides at the flea market are inexpensive.

• How long do ponies live?

  With good care, they can live thirty years or more. We have heard of a pony who still does pony rides at the age of 42! His owner tried to retire him, and he refused to retire.

• Do you mean that the ponies actually like working, doing pony rides?

  We think so. They seem to enjoy going off and seeing new places. We try to make sure they are comfortable with riders, which means we limit the weight they carry. They usually work only four hours a day, two days a week.

• What is the weight limit?

  For our smaller ponies, it's 60 pounds, and for the larger ones between 90 and 110 pounds.

• Do ponies bite?

  They have teeth, and they use their teeth to eat grass. It's always a good idea to keep little fingers away from big teeth. But no, they don't try to bite, not like some bad dogs. Ours have never bitten anyone. When we're at your party, ask us to show you their teeth.

• What is the youngest age you allow on the ponies?

  We have seen little babies being held on or above the pony for a picture. Young children, often much younger than one might imagine, seem to do well at riding. Still, except for older kids, we always advise that a responsible adult be next to each rider. Safety is important.

Call 919-353-4591 NOW to reserve your date.