Pony rides at horseshow?

[2foals]

Recently my kids and I went to a little charity schooling show. It was a very friendly, low key, family oriented affair and it was my kids' first show. My kids showed in the leadline class on their darling, kid-proof, itty-bitty ponies--who, as an aside, happen to be completely irresistible.

After we walked out of the ring with smiles and ribbons and prizes, a little girl and her mother came up to ask if she could sit on one of the ponies. I saw the look of longing in the little girls' eyes, and though, what could it hurt? Though quite honestly with three kids and two ponies to manage I had my hands full. I let the little girl sit on the pony, and then out of the woodwork (this wasn't exactly a crowded show) came several other kids and their parents asking to sit on the pony. Ok, now I was hot and a little frazzled, and one of my kids needed to use the restroom, and suddenly I was aware of the fact that none of these kids had helmets (I'm a stickler about safety). I let one more kid sit on the pony, and then quickly whisked him onto the trailer.

I don't want to be unfriendly, but I do realize that I really can't be giving pony rides like this. How do those of you with cute ponies gracefully handle these situations?

[Risk-Averse Rider]

I've never been in that situation, but perhaps you could say, "I'm really sorry, but my insurance carrier doesn't allow me to let other people ride my horses."

If you happen to know of a local barn that gives up-down lessons to little ones, you could recommend that the parents contact them.

And if it turns out to be just too stressful for you, you can ship those little irresistible ponies right on over to ME!!!!

[2foals]

If I hadn't felt a little bit on the spot, I think it might have occurred to me that there were two places right nearby where I could have suggested the parents take their little girl for a pony ride or lessons.

I kindof cringe to mention the insurance thing, because people just don't get it. People always respond to that by saying, "Oh, well, I would never sue you!" as if that just clears it all up! What's the big deal, right? But honestly, I do get nervous about the accidents/liability issue. I don't even know this little kid (and kids can be just as unpredictable as horses), and I'm just supposed to plop them down on my pony?

Part of my problem is that with three little kids, I barely have time for my own kids, let alone other peoples'. After bathing, loading and tacking the ponies, squeezing the kids into their jodphurs and boots, well, my tank was on empty!

[hellerkm]

You are a good mom!! that is a ton of work and I am SURE when you are done you just want to get home!!
I would just say that the ponies and kids are tired and now is not a good time. And again mention X barn down the street of they are really interested in riding.

[Susan P]

I might not sound very nice, but I think it's wrong for a parent to allow their kids to beg. There is NO reason for them to expect to sit on your pony anymore than some stranger should ask to drive your car, or take your dog for a walk, or ask to use anything that you own. To just run up to you and ask that is poor manners in my opinion, and to be honest, I don't think it should be rewarded. On the other hand I understand your kindness in trying to make a child happy. I've thrown a lot of kids on my quiet horse, but at a horse show, it's so hectic and as you say, in addition to the liability issue, you have your hands full. I wonder where the parents were when the kids asked to ride your ponies? A bit nervey for adults if you ask me.

[2foals]

There is NO reason for them to expect to sit on your pony anymore than some stranger should ask to drive your car, or take your dog for a walk, or ask to use anything that you own.

Susan P, you are right, but I think that a lot of non-horsey people don't see it that way. They see a pony as an object or a toy (like a bicycle), instead of a living creature that has a personal relationship with it's rider. And even though my kids are small, I think they do have that relationship with their ponies and I want to respect that.

As far as the begging thing, well, the kid's parents were right there and the little girl did ask in a very polite manner, I don't blame them too much for asking.

[Meredith Clark]

Unless you're trying to sell him I would say he bucks or kicks or something if they don't buy the insurance story.

Carry around business cards of your favorite lesson barn and then send them on their way :)

[Huntertwo]

I would just simply state that your insurance does not cover other riders - period. If they give you the song and dance about not suing, I'd stick to my guns and say sorry, just can't take that chance.

[nashfad]

You say nicely that your insurance does not cover such activity & if they persist just look at them, smile, (as you keep walking to your trailer) & say,"It is not an option". You don't owe anyone a "sit on your pony" and it is a liability issue & something could happen (course, you know that).

[poltroon]

When I was a little girl, my grandfather begged rides for me at the local park - the beginning of my riding career. Thus, I remain sympathetic to people who ask for their kids, even if I cannot accommodate them. We need to remember that these people may be future equestrians, and it's worth the effort to be polite and encouraging, as much as possible.

I would say, "You know, the pony has had a big weekend and is a bit tired. She's earned a rest." and smile. And then rack my brain for where to send them for lessons.

But this leads me to my point: you want to get spectators at horse shows? Let's OFFER a pony ride vendor. That is how you get families to come and see the horses and start to think about horseback riding as something that might fit into their lives. Have a pony ride vendor come (it can be a charge or it could be free with admission, whatever is appropriate) and have a stack of flyers with where people can go to take beginner lessons.

The Horse Expo in Sacramento usually has this, and it seemed to be extremely popular.

[2foals]

But this leads me to my point: you want to get spectators at horse shows? Let's OFFER a pony ride vendor. That is how you get families to come and see the horses and start to think about horseback riding as something that might fit into their lives. Have a pony ride vendor come (it can be a charge or it could be free with admission, whatever is appropriate) and have a stack of flyers with where people can go to take beginner lessons.


That's a great idea! I wish shows around here would consider doing that. It certainly would be a great way to pull in spectators. It's just not very fun for kids to either watch a bunch of very similar hunter rounds or watch other kids their own age having a lot of fun doing something they can't do!

I agree about not wanting to discourage possible future equestrians by appearing rude, though if someone was being pushy or inappropriate I guess I wouldn't worry so much about that.

[Quin]

But this leads me to my point: you want to get spectators at horse shows? Let's OFFER a pony ride vendor. That is how you get families to come and see the horses and start to think about horseback riding as something that might fit into their lives. Have a pony ride vendor come (it can be a charge or it could be free with admission, whatever is appropriate) and have a stack of flyers with where people can go to take beginner lessons.




Heck, especially in this economy, talk to those nearby beginner lesson barns to see if THEY want to run the 'pony ride concession'. Great opportunity for direct marketing to prospective riders/parents! If those barns are also participating in the show, maybe offer an opportunity for the little kids to get led once around the ring after the show is over, or at noontime while the judge takes a quick break. (I'm assuming you're talking about smaller local shows here - at the big As, I would think management would probably just want to bring in a regular pony ride vendor).

[nashfad]

That is exactly what I do. My horses/ponies will be @ the Loveless Cafe "Biscuits & Bluegrass Festival" in Nashville, TN on Oct. 10th. We've done this event for years. Great PR & profitable event. We do other events, too,

[poltroon]

At one point, the farmer's market in Glendale had a pony ride vendor. I thought it was brilliant - another great reason to bring the kids out.

[LittleGrayMare]

If people give you the "We'll never sue you!" line you could always respond that THEIR insurance might.

It's great they're interested, but on the other hand you can't risk an injury, which we all know can happen even if the kid is just sitting on a pony who's standing still.

"I'm sorry, my insurance doesn't cover that."
"I'm sorry, my insurance requires a riding release to be signed but I do not have any on me right now."
"I'm sorry, I can't let you ride because of [reason] but you can pet them here." (Hoping no toes would be stomped or fingers chomped...)
"I'm sorry, the ponies are too tired to do any more today and it's their break."
"I'm sorry, I'm not an instructor but why don't you try Barns X, Y, and Z?"
"I'm sorry, [insert reason] but if you're interested in lessons you could check out Barns X, Y, and Z."

[SmokenMirrors]

I might not sound very nice, but I think it's wrong for a parent to allow their kids to beg. There is NO reason for them to expect to sit on your pony anymore than some stranger should ask to drive your car, or take your dog for a walk, or ask to use anything that you own. To just run up to you and ask that is poor manners in my opinion, and to be honest, I don't think it should be rewarded. On the other hand I understand your kindness in trying to make a child happy. I've thrown a lot of kids on my quiet horse, but at a horse show, it's so hectic and as you say, in addition to the liability issue, you have your hands full. I wonder where the parents were when the kids asked to ride your ponies? A bit nervey for adults if you ask me.

You are a steward for your breed and a representative. We were at a show one summer where it was a working draft show and exhibit. While on lunch break in the shade, Smoke half asleep next to me a lady came up with her small daughter asking me if I knew where the pony rides were. That year the fair grounds we were at weren't giving rides so when I told them that, the little girls was disappointed and upset. Hating to see kids cry I offered to put her up on Smoke, the little girls face lit up!! Up she went behind the collar, I showed her how to hold the hames and we walked in a bit circle with the mother right by her side. Next thing I knew I had a line and had my husband come over to help me. Our lunch hour was spent making a lot of kids very happy and many had a photo op with their grand kids too. I have also given people cart rides while practicing or warming up in a ring for a show.

Is it an annoyance? Sure at times, when I am busy but as someone who was once horse crazy, I understand and I don't get upset or mad. I also educate folks on the large draft breeds, their harness, what they do, what they were once used for and still are, etc.

To each his own I suppose, but remember you and or your child were once in those folk's position, sometimes that is all the parents have are good hearted horse folks who are willing to SHARE their equines with the public.

[2foals]

You are a steward for your breed and a representative. We were at a show one summer where it was a working draft show and exhibit. While on lunch break in the shade, Smoke half asleep next to me a lady came up with her small daughter asking me if I knew where the pony rides were. That year the fair grounds we were at weren't giving rides so when I told them that, the little girls was disappointed and upset. Hating to see kids cry I offered to put her up on Smoke, the little girls face lit up!! Up she went behind the collar, I showed her how to hold the hames and we walked in a bit circle with the mother right by her side. Next thing I knew I had a line and had my husband come over to help me. Our lunch hour was spent making a lot of kids very happy and many had a photo op with their grand kids too. I have also given people cart rides while practicing or warming up in a ring for a show.


How kind of you! I really sympathize with the kids and their parents who are fascinated with horses. I was lucky enough to be born to a horsey family, so I never went without, but I cringe to think of the alternative.

The other thing is, the horsey scene can be a hard club to join. It is a little more difficult than signing the kids up for the soccer league or whatever. I hate how horses sports are sometimes seen as an activity or lifestyle for rich, snobby people rather than a true athletic pursuit and when I can, I want to do what I can to dissipate that feeling among others.

Still, with three little kids of my own to watch, 2 ponies to juggle (and without the proper insurance, extra helmets, etc) I'm just not in a position to be giving pony rides at shows. It isn't safe, and it isn't fair to my own kids. While I'm going to politely decline to give pony rides in the future when we are at shows, I am going to try to do what you say and represent horse sports in a friendly and positive manner.

[rabicon]

Thats very nice of you but I am also very scared of what could happen. I don't even let my friends kids on my pony or horses just because you never know. Pony is a dead head and wouldn't move but sometimes they can get a wild hair up their butt and you never know what may happen. I'd tell them like I tell my friends,
"sorry, but I don't think its a good idea because horses have a mind of their own and I don't want anyone to get hurt."

[cyndi]

At least they asked -- my husband and I ride at the beach occasionally. Once, while I had my horse tied to the trailer and was tacking it up - I had turned my back to get something out of the dressing room... my mares had the saddle on, but it was not girthed - I turned around to catch - just in time - a father in mid-hoist of attempting to plop his kid down on my horse!!

Thank god it was my saint of a mare and not the 4 year old I had at home! People can really be idiots sometimes. Most are just ignorant and well-meaning, but this guy took the cake for ignorance and over-the-top rudeness. And he really could not understand why I was so upset - not only the fact he was about to plop his kid down on some horse he knew NOTHING about - but also that the saddle wasn't even girthed up!

[Equinoxfox]

I just read this . And I totally understand your points about Insurance and other reasons NOT to allow rides.

BUT let's think this thing thru.
IF there was someone there who had a " Pony Ride" station set up for young kids , or general public people to do rides or petting. :cool:
IT would help the industry by bringing more people , money, and interest into the Horse World.
I have been to my first State Fair show this year. And there were TONS of kids asking to pet my horse. and I did. I opened his stall door over 1,000 times to allow them the opportunity to do so. I believe in giving back and educating the general public on horses , their behavior, and overall talents or skills they may learn.
IT never hurts to be nice and try to help out our fellow man !!;)

[cyndi]

I have no problem letting people PET my horse - do it gladly all the time - RIDING is a whole other kettle o fish!

[arabhorse2]

Petting is fine. Riding is not.

Sorry, but my horses aren't a free merry-go-round ride for every child or adult who thinks they should be.

I'm very sympathetic to the horse crazed children, because I was one of those doe-eyed little girls whose only goal in life was to pet the pretty horsie. It never would have entered my mind to ask if I could ride them, though.

You can be a great ambassador for your breed and riding in general by letting children and adults ask questions and pet your horses. You don't have to let them up on your animal to be friendly and receptive.

I'm not sure why some people think they owe it to the general public to let them ride their horses, especially considering how litigious the average American adult is nowadays.

I'd also venture that many children who do the pony rides at county fairs, wine festivals, bazaars, etc. will never take up riding. For them it's just something fun to do, like riding an ATV with legs.

I say leave the pony rides up to the people who provide that service, and have the insurance to cover it.

[Equinoxfox]

OH YES. now don't get me wrong here. I am all for PETTING my horse but NOT riding . LOL. :D
I definately say leave it up to those that provide that service . NOT people at horse shows

But at the bigger and better shows. have them come in and set up a area for that.

[equineartworks]

no riding, not ever, no exceptions. They can grab all the free love they can, but they do it from the ground :D

[EventFan]

I understand exactly. It's hard enough to juggle your own kids, ponies, and assorted horse show mom "stuff" without taking care of inexperienced kids and parents.

I would thank them for their compliment, but decline in the sweetest and most upbeat voice that the ponies are worn out and ready for their hay. But then also (as others have suggested) excitely tell them about a local barn that is just wonderful for beginners.

[lesson junkie]

I'm often in the same position at shows. I don't have a pony, he's a big, bay tobiano with the kindest expression-he's a little girl magnet! I spend as much time as I can with them, because I was that little girl-horse crazy with no avenue to horses beyond Breyers. Horsie loves the attention, he's a shameless ham, and as gentle as he looks.

Maybe because he's so tall, I've never had anyone want to climb on, so I've never had to say yes or no.

[Mtn trails]

Petting is fine. Riding is not.

Sorry, but my horses aren't a free merry-go-round ride for every child or adult who thinks they should be.

I'm very sympathetic to the horse crazed children, because I was one of those doe-eyed little girls whose only goal in life was to pet the pretty horsie. It never would have entered my mind to ask if I could ride them, though.

You can be a great ambassador for your breed and riding in general by letting children and adults ask questions and pet your horses. You don't have to let them up on your animal to be friendly and receptive.

I'm not sure why some people think they owe it to the general public to let them ride their horses, especially considering how litigious the average American adult is nowadays.

I'd also venture that many children who do the pony rides at county fairs, wine festivals, bazaars, etc. will never take up riding. For them it's just something fun to do, like riding an ATV with legs.

I say leave the pony rides up to the people who provide that service, and have the insurance to cover it.


Can I hear a big AMEN!!!

I have my own story to relate. I also like to let kids pet my horses if I'm out riding and answer their questions (to a point), but don't offer to let them sit on my horse. I was out with a friend and she was on her 16.3 paint and we stopped to let parents with their kid pet the horses. Before she knew what was happening, the father picked up the kid (about 2) and plopped her on the saddle in front of my friend!:eek: No warning, no asking, nothing. My friend looked at me with a WTF look and told the father to get his kid off. Luckily her horse was steady as a rock and didn't move but JEEZ! It amazes me how stupid some people are.

[katarine]

If a show is big enough to warrant having pony rides, I think that's a great idea.

More than once I've ridden over to a mom and daughter pair, who I could see were just dying to pet a horse at a show, but didn't know anyone there so they didn't know who they dared approach. So I did the deciding for them :) They get to do lots of petting and loving on the horse, and I get to tell them about good places to either rent a horse for a guided ride, or lessons, depending on what they say they are interested in. I was a shy shy shy child, and I had good peeps offer me a horse to pet and love on, I absolutely seek out chances to do the same. Declining to let them ride is easy, I just smile and say this place is a zoo, I'd hate for something to startle my horse and her fall off, it's just not a good place to do such a thing :) It's really pretty easy to manage.

[joiedevie99]

"Unfortunately my ponies have worked hard today and they are too tired, but I'd be happy to let you pet them for a minute. If poopsie would like a pony ride, you can take her to x down the street."

[ESG]

At one point, the farmer's market in Glendale had a pony ride vendor. I thought it was brilliant - another great reason to bring the kids out.

And if the pony ride vendor has his own insurance and the horse show/fairgrounds/farmer's market's insurance also covers a pony ride, then it is a good idea. But insurance for "rental rides" is so prohibitively expensive, even on a one-off basis, that it's not practical. That's why all the pony-mad kids and their parents are begging rides; because they're too cheap to go to a stable and get their kids lessons/rides. :rolleyes: As others have said, it's analogous to walking up to a stranger and asking if your kid can ride their four wheeler, or an adult to take their car for a ride. Bogus! :mad: