History
How It All Began
The Australian Miniature Pony was derived from selectively breeding down in miniature, the smaller known pony and horse breeds. Decades of dedicated breeding, refining height and conformation, has achieved the breed as it is seen today.
As the name suggests, size is a very important requirement and the Ponies must never exceed 87 centimeters.
The Australian Miniature Pony Society Inc was formed in July 1974 at Liverpool, NSW, as a result of an inaugural meeting attended by a number of people intent on creating and promotion this unique, new Australian Pony breed. From this and many subsequent meetings, the Australian Miniature Pony Breed was registered in its own right.
Interest has spread to all Australian states, with small, quality breeding stock being in great demand.
Criteria
What Is A Miniature Pony
The Australian Miniature Pony is small, well-proportioned and has a kind disposition, showing refinement and femininity in mare and boldness and masculinity in stallions. The pony should look just like a typical pony in miniature with a wide range of colour being desirable. To be eligible for registration, an Australian Miniature Pony must meet the Society's requirements, which briefly means that it is 87cms or under in height (measured at the highest point of the withers) and free from hereditary unsoundness. Additional requirements are explained in the "Information and Guidelines Handbook" which all members receive on joining the Society and, other Society Publications.
Temperament
The Australian Miniature Pony is highly intelligent, has a gentle and affectionate nature and requires firm but kind handling. These tiny ponies have gained many admirers through their regular public appearances at children's hospitals, schools, retirement homes and functions.
General Care
A balanced diet, fresh water, a suitable environment and the application of commonsense will generally ensure your Australian Miniature Pony stays healthy and happy, with the addition of a few important factors:
- Ponies should be kept free of parasites and worming on a routine basis is essential. Consultation with a local veterinarian will establish the best regime for your pony.
- Brushing or grooming is recommended to maintain a healthy skin and glossy coat.
- Feet and teethe require attention on a regular basis by a competent person. This also applies to the administration of tetanus and other injections when necessary.
- Availability of pasture, together with the age and workload of the pony, will determine daily intake. Very young or very old ponies, as well as brood mares have specific dietary needs.
- All feed should be of good quality with plenty of roughage and overfeeding should be avoided to discourage the incidence of founder.
- A seaweed or mineral horse lick will provide extra nutrients.
Space Required
An Australian Miniature Pony does not require a great deal of space, but should have adequate shelter and if stabled or kept in a small yard, should be regularly exercised. Regular removal of manure (at least twice weekly), will assist in pasture management and parasite control.
Purpose
How Versatile Are They
Australian Miniature Ponies are the perfect answer for horse lovers who have smaller acreages or who no longer wish to ride or handle larger animals.
- They are suitable for small children to ride, (but please, under adult supervision) and make a wonderful first pony that you will want to keep forever.
- As they are quite robust, they make superb little harness ponies and provided they are gradually conditioned to it, can be driven by adults for quite long distances.
- For those who enjoy showing in led or harness classes, they are a pleasure to exhibit and the whole family can join in the fun with child handler and novelty classes gaining popularity.
- They make adorable pets and thrive on attention from owners and visitors alike. The tiny foals are a delight to cuddle and watch at play.
- They are used for therapy by people with disability, many of whom have discovered what a faithful companion the Australian Miniature Pony can be.
Buying a Miniature Pony
Before embarking on the exciting adventure of purchasing your first Australian Miniature Pony, it is advisable to keep the following points in mind to ensure that the pony you choose is the perfect one for your needs.
- Obtain a list of breeders from the State Contact or Society Secretary and visit a number of studs before making any decision to purchase.
- If you have little or no experience with ponies, enlist the help of a knowledgeable horse person to advise on soundness and conformation.
- Geldings are less expensive and make ideal pets, harness or show ponies. Only top quality animals should be purchased if you intend breeding or showing in breed classes and these will be more costly.
- Height measurements for different societies can vary as much as 3cm and remember that the height measurement is taken at the highest point of the withers.
- If you have any queries regarding the eligibility of a pony for AMPS registration, check with the Registrar before buying.
- The Standard of Excellence for the Australian Miniature Pony is available from the Society and provides a helpful reference.