Tiny Horse, Big Heart!

From Jim: Gracie, AKA-Amazing Gracie, is currently our only miniature horse. We've had others, Drifter and Lower Case Jack. Minis are not ponies. They are proportioned like full sized horses, have a registry, and are among the most people oriented equines on the planet. They're little. Ours have been from 26" to 30"s-6 1/2 to 7 1/2 hands. They have all had really full manes and tails. Minis seem to come in all the standard horse colors. They are calm of mind and naturally gentle. They are not stuffed animals or pretend horses. They are very much real horses and need to be treated as such. Ground manners are really important and the usual knowledge of loading in trailers and getting foot care and so forth are necessary for them to have. They need the same standard of care by the vet, inoculations, worming, sheath cleaning, dental care and so on as full sized horses. They can be injured if asked to take on tasks inappropriate for their stature. Any that would "ride" a mini should never exceed 10% of the animal's weight, tack included. Very light draft work may be OK, again care should be taken in selecting equipment and tack. Showing at halter and performing in-hand seems to be the best bet for these animals. They are immense fun to be around-just full of personality. Gracie is a documented service animal. She will visit the house bound and infirm, the ill and recuperating. She will be an ambassador to schools, events, and groups. Her story of abuse, rescue, and recovery is wonderful. Her willingness to share her peace and joy of life inspiring. We have loved all of our minis, and when Drifter and Lower Case Jack got their wings, we felt a great loss. They were not a miniature part of our lives...neither is Gracie. She's amazing!