This message is from: "Brigid Verry" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Hi Everyone,
Thanks for the great replies but I have not included enough information so I will update the situation. We live on a sheep and beef farm in the King Country of NZ, which is quite steep. Both my husband & I ride and we have a number of horses of all ages and sizes. Our two children are 4 & 6 and have been around the horses all their lives. Kathleen(6) wee pony is a pure bred Welsh who is a little unsure of some things, like Angus riding around on his bike, when we go for a lead rein ride. I have been trying to find a pony that is steady and reliable in various situations, so she can come out on the farm when I ride my horse, DD an Andalusian. I have found the Andalusian has the lovely kind temperament and is not rattled by the unpredicablness of children, but she to big for Kathleen at this stage to ride. But the scary thing for Kathleen is when a pony takes a hold of the bit and she has no control. ( The case with our faithful friend Apollo(11.2 hh) who has been with my family for 35 years, and taught my brother to ride) So, that was what I meant by are the Fjords too strong for small children? Or will they listen to the lightest touch of the rein and heels? ( With correct training) Not do a sudden move to dislodge their rider?