Here are our top 5 reasons why horses and ponies are important for all of us:
1. Good Habits
Riding and being with horses teaches us to be calm and to think of how our actions will affect others. We all know that if we are agitated and out of sorts, our pony picks that up and his behaviour will reflect how we are. Its a good life lesson learning how to think of the consequences before we act!
2. For the future
If (or depending on your viewpoint -when) energy prices rise so much that ordinary people can't afford to use cars for any journeys not considered essential (like going to work), horses will come into their own as work horses once more. Horse drawn buses, stables for keeping your horse at school and in the workplace. Bliss!
3. A Friend
Our horse or pony loves us even when we feel no-one else does. We can tell our pony all our secrets and know for certain that he won't tell! A solid friend for life.
4. Responsibility
Employers want people who can take responsibility and everyone who has or looks after a horse or pony takes responsibility for their wellbeing. We have to think in advance of their needs - whether they need a rug on tonight, why they're limping, what food they'll need for the winter/spring/event. Keeping your own horse well and happy is a big responsibility and is something to be proud of.
5. FUN
Horses are fun. Ponies are fun. Riding is fun. They make us laugh, they make us proud and they love us - whatever we look like. Life is all about having fun and making the most of whatever it is you have to do so enjoy your pony or horse - it's what it's all about!
So those are our reasons why your horse or pony is important not just to you - but for the country and the world!