The adventures of tiny Teddy
We love to see what you’re all getting up to as you work through your #Hack1000miles challenge and this little guy is one we simply can’t get enough of! Teddy, owned by Your Horse reader Linda Wilmer, is taking part but, due to his size (he’s just 42in tall), he’s clocking up his miles without a rider. After all, who said that horses and ponies who can’t be ridden, can’t be walked?
“Teddy used to drive but was diagnosed with a collapsed windpipe four years ago,” says Linda. “He was retired and put out in the field to enjoy life but having watched him chase my mare Sally around with absolutely no problems, I discussed with my vet whether Teddy would be able to do some in-hand work. I got the all clear and we started slowly – he’s coping fine.” In fact, Teddy wouldn’t miss his little walks for all the world. Louise adds: “He loves meeting new people and investigating everything. He needs reassurance from me from time to time but, in general, he’s pretty fearless, as long he can see what everything is. “His favourite thing is when his hooves hit grass. When we go for a run together, he tosses his head and has been known to buck in-hand. We actually tried our hand at horse agility and he found it so exciting that he bucked and managed to trip me up, sending me sprawling!”
Mini goals still matter
Linda had originally signed up to do #Hack1000miles with her mare, Sally. Due to arthritis, Sally can’t cope with greater distances, so Linda is focusing on short hacks with Sally and getting out more with Teddy in-hand. “To anyone else out there with a mini or a little pony, I’d say enjoy everything they can give you. You don’t have to overdo things and, with the support of everyone on the #Hack1000miles Facebook page and Your Horse magazine, I’ve realised I can still be a part of this challenge. The Facebook page feels like a community and it’s great to see everyone’s updates. I’m also enjoying the fitness aspect – it’s brilliant jogging around with Teddy.” And Teddy is not alone. We’ve seen lots of mini-milers getting out on the lead rein. So, if you’re contemplating signing up but aren’t sure leading counts, now you know it does. Don’t think your pony’s legs will stretch to 1,000 miles? Don’t worry – set your own challenge. Teddy’s working towards 400 miles and we can’t wait to see him cross the finish line. #GoTeddy