Route to Loan Course

Route to Loaning a Pony: Basic Pony Care Skills

Before children can safely look after a pony with minimal parental supervision, it is essential they acquire and demonstrate competency in the following areas of pony care. These skills ensure the pony’s health, safety, and well-being while fostering confidence and responsibility in young caregivers.

Daily Care Requirements

1. Hay and Water

   • Understand the pony's daily hay requirements and how to provide hay safely.
   • Ensure the pony always has access to clean, fresh water, whether in the stable or the field.

2. Mucking Out or Field Poo Picking

   • Winter: Muck out the stable, removing soiled bedding and replacing it with clean, fresh material.
   • Summer: Perform regular field poo picking to maintain hygiene and prevent health issues such as worm infestations.

3. Grooming

   • Groom the pony regularly to keep the coat clean and healthy, using appropriate brushes for different areas of the body.
   • Check for signs of injury, irritation, or unusual behavior during grooming.

4. Handling and Leading

   • Confidently handle the pony, demonstrating safe practices when working around them.
   • Lead the pony to and from the field with appropriate control, using a lead rope and headcollar.

Health Checks and First Aid

5. Health Checks

   • Perform daily visual checks for signs of illness or injury, including:
     • Cuts, swelling, or lameness.
     • Changes in appetite, behaviour, or droppings.
     • Cleanliness of eyes, nose, and hooves.

6. Basic First Aid

   • Recognize common minor issues such as small cuts or bruises.
   • Apply basic first aid, such as cleaning minor wounds and using wound spray.
   • Understand when to seek help from an parent or member of staff.

Additional Responsibilities

7. Safety Awareness

   • Always wear appropriate safety gear (e.g., sturdy boots, gloves, and helmet when necessary).
   • Understand and follow safe practices in the stable, yard, and field.

8. Observation and Communication

   • Pay attention to the pony's behavior and temperament, noting any changes that might indicate discomfort or distress.
   • Communicate promptly with a parent or member of staff about any concerns or issues.

Conclusion

These skills form the foundation of responsible pony care and ensure children are prepared to look after a pony with minimal supervision. Regular practice under guidance will help build confidence and competence, enabling them to enjoy their pony loan experience safely and successfully.

How To Book

Simply go To - Make a Booking - then choose the start date of the 11th January (or any Saturday within the course dates) and scroll to the bottom of the page where it states Courses. If you are eligible to join the course i.e the right age range of 6 - 18. If the course has already started you can still join the course, but you will only receive the remaining sessions.