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- Shetland Ponies
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- Small and stocky, yet big in heart and personality, the Shetland pony’s history can be traced back to ancient times with small horses having been kept on the Shetland Isles since the Bronze Age. A subsequent crossing of the native stock with imported ponies, brought in by initially by Norse settlers has created the hardy compact pony we know today.
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- The true Shetland pony has a small head, short muscular neck and a compact and strong body. With traditionally long and thick manes and tails and a dense winter coat, the Shetland can withstand the harshest of weather conditions. Bred to forage for food on hills with often minimal grazing, Shetland ponies require regulated feed quantities in order to remain healthy. Registered Shetlands can be almost any colour except spotted or champagne and should not exceed a height of 42”.
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- For its size, the Shetland is amazingly strong for its size and can pull twice its own weight. Traditionally used for pulling carts of peat on the island, the Shetland was also once used as a pit pony until the mid 20th century, replacing child labour. Capable of carrying small adults, the Shetland is usually used as a child’s riding pony or a harness pony for both work and pleasure.
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- The Shetland is extremely intelligent and should be handled and trained in the same way as other breeds of horses and ponies. These ponies may look small and cute but they are working animals and should be treated as such. They are loyal and friendly ponies and respond well to firm but kind handling. In return they will be eager to please and give years of pleasure.
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