Known for its small size, sturdy build, and mischievous demeanor that attracts children in educational farm settings... the Shetland pony is a powerhouse and a particularly endearing equine. A little guide to raising this small yet powerful pony!
As its name suggests, this pony breed originates from the Shetland Islands located in the north of Scotland. According to legend, this animal survived in this archipelago since the Ice Age. It may also have migrated from Scandinavia to the Shetland Islands 8000 years ago. This is why it has a very rustic appearance and a thick coat capable of withstanding extreme weather conditions. It is the most powerful and resilient horse in the world.
Some fossil discoveries suggest its origin dates back to the Holocene, an interglacial geological period. Thus, the Shetland pony's distant ancestors could be the Nordic ponies of the tundra in Northern Europe. It might also be descended from shipwrecked horses of the Spanish Armada during the Anglo-Spanish War of 1585. Currently, there is no definitive evidence to confirm any of these theories.
What is certain is that in 1850, the British government banned child labor in mines. The rustic nature and small size of the Shetland pony made it the ideal candidate to replace them. From that point on, this pony was used to transport coal until 1950 when mines started closing, and there was a decision to protect this breed.
Subsequently, the democratization of horse riding and the gentle nature of these animals made the Shetland pony an ideal equestrian learning partner for children. The creation and rise of pony clubs in France during the 70s encouraged the arrival of these equines on our territory. In terms of fame, the Shetland pony gained real celebrity status in the mid-60s through the television series "Poly," based on the novel by Cécile Aubry.
Small, stocky but powerful! This is a brief description of this equine’s physical appearance. Its very low center of gravity, solid bone structure, and well-developed musculature have enabled this animal to develop remarkable strength.
It can pull loads equivalent to 43% of its weight, whereas for most ponies like the Belgian draught horse, this power does not exceed 30%.
The Shetland, due to its strength and endurance, often participates in driving competitions.
The temperament of this rugged and robust equine can be summarized in two adjectives: kind but sometimes stubborn.
Indeed, this animal has no shortage of character! To prevent it from doing whatever it wants whenever it wants, it is advisable to train it from a young age. The Shetland pony is lively, sometimes boisterous, but always cheerful.
Full of mischief, it is rather playful, but never mean. It is precisely its natural kindness combined with good training that makes it the ideal equine for young children. It is a perfect leisure pony for learning to ride or going on horseback rides. The relatively slow growth of the Shetland pony discourages riding it before the age of 4.
Despite its sturdy build, this equine could risk developing bone and muscle pathologies. When free, in a semi-wild state, the Shetland pony is a social animal that gathers in small herds.
A true walking lawnmower, the Shetland pony has a reputation for being very greedy. This is why it is important to monitor its diet. Rich pastures at the beginning of summer increase the risk of laminitis and, more generally, obesity. While its main food source is in pastures, the Shetland pony also needs a varied dietary intake to provide the nutrients it requires.
This equine also feeds on apples, carrots, and turnips, which it is fond of. These vegetables make good supplements but should not be given in excessive amounts. The Shetland pony also enjoys oats and cereals. Ensure that its diet is low in protein but rich enough in vitamins, minerals, and trace elements, especially during the bad season.
The Shetland can easily live 20 years, but many individuals surpass 30 years, and sometimes even 40. Its gluttony predisposes it to certain diseases such as obesity and laminitis, a common condition affecting the feet and hooves. It is both painful and dangerous for the pony. Laminitis is the second leading cause of mortality among Shetlands and more generally among equines. Overconsumption of too rich grass in spring is the main cause of laminitis. The condition is quickly detected by the animal's stiff gait, difficulties in turning sharply, and warmth at the feet.
Diarrhea is among the most common and severe diseases in Shetland ponies. Its complex and fragile digestive system is small relative to the animal's size and, unlike humans, equines cannot vomit. Symptoms are mainly a loss of appetite, irritability, and the absence of droppings. Often the animal lies down and rolls when the pain becomes more intense.
The Shetland pony is also prone to sweet itch caused by insect or fly bites. This condition causes intense itching and hair loss.
The appearance of Cushing's syndrome should also be monitored, due to excessive cortisol production. This endocrine disorder generally occurs in ponies over 15 years old. It is diagnosed by the appearance of a woolly and tousled coat. It is a potentially fatal disease. However, the implementation of medication helps control the progression of the disease, or even cause it to regress.
Provide one hectare of space to raise a Shetland pony. Multiply the area by the number of ponies if you have several. When kept in a stall, the pony should have daily access to the paddock.
In this horse enclosure, it will be able to find ponies of the same species or other equines, preventing boredom. Even though the Shetland remains a hardy animal, it will appreciate being well sheltered and protected from the cold in winter. A cozy shelter and bedding with straw will be welcome and help it retain body warmth!
Make sure to maintain its coat by brushing it regularly, even in winter. This precaution will help remove mud deposits that would prevent it from warming naturally. The hooves and legs should also be closely monitored, especially if the animal frequently moves on moist ground. A brush is enough to remove dirt and debris underneath the hooves.
The Shetland pony reaches sexual maturity around 3 years old and mates around late spring. The gestation lasts 11 months. The litter consists of a single foal. The young are born in early spring the following year. The female nurses until the next gestation or when the pony is removed at 8 months old.
If you do not intend to breed your male Shetland pony, there is no point in bothering it with its hormones. Castration makes grazing simpler with mares, and the animal is much calmer and gentler once gelded.
Key Takeaways! The Shetland Pony is an adorable equine that will bring you much joy. However, this endearing animal loves company! If not surrounded by other companions or various animals, it will need your regular presence, at least one hour a day if possible.
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