Franciscan FAMILY Farms has a new addition and this time it’s a surprise for the kids in our family. We want the farm to be profitable, character building, and fun for us and the kids so we’ve tried to keep in mind how the kids might enjoy the farm more. For a while one of those “possibly in the future” farm ideas has been a pony for all the grandchildren in the family. Thanks to Scott James, a fellow Dexter cattle breeder in Tennessee, we’re now ready to start training our new pony!
Coco is a 5 year old bay Hackney pony that is the perfect size for the kids to ride until they are about 12 years old. With Anna bding 8 now and other kids still on the way that should keep a pony busy for many years.
We met Scott and his two daughters in Dyersburge TN last night and brought her home. She seems to have really good manners so far but I’m sure we’ll have alot of work ahead of us if we want to be comfortable with her as a “child’s pony”. We’re probably going to teach her to ground drive because I’ve already taught two horses to drive and I’m pretty comfortable with it. Then, after she’s used to a bit and bridle we’ll try to talk my little brother in laws into getting on her back. 
What I love is that she’s not tiny like a miniature horse. Instead, to a small child she’ll actually feel like a real horse. I’ve always wondered how in the world you train a pony to ride, since an adult usually can’t get on them, I guess I’ll find out now.
Your killing me Steven! I was at an Amish auction awhile ago that had a green broke to drive and ride (actually a step above that probably) Hackney pony that sold for $150! I was about to raise my hand at $125 when my wife asked me what I was doing … by the time I was done explaining it was sold
Auctions can be really frustrating that way! I wish this pony was already started in riding and driving but I think we’ll get there. Yesterday we brought Chris and Natalie’s kids to see her (Chris and Natalie are in Italy). The kids were so excited. After a short lesson on safety the 8 year old was leading her all around.
She actually led easier for a child than she did for us adults… that’s a good sign.