‘I enjoy the friendship you get at livery’
Ellen Taunton got her first pony when she was seven, and ever since that day in the 70s she has always had equines living on her own land in Kent.
“I live opposite my family home and walk across the road each day to look after our two semi-retired ponies,” says Ellen. “Keeping them at home has always been part of my life, but we’ve also recently loaned a pony on a local livery yard.”
She explains that the main difference is the social aspect of livery.
“If you keep ponies at home you are very much on your own. You make your own routine, and have sole responsibility for land management, fencing, their daily care and everything in between,” she says.
“This can be daunting, but I enjoy seeing the ponies from the bedroom window, and they call to be fed every morning.”
■✓ The pros
“There’s no need to plan what time you ride, or worry if you don’t have the latest kit or if they are muddy. During the Covid lockdowns, my horses were a lifeline and we all realised how lucky we were to have them at home,” continues Ellen.
■✗ The downsides
“There is no support if you’re unwell or want to go on holiday; you have to find cover, which isn’t always easy,” admits Ellen. “You also have no-one to turn to when you are unsure of something.
“My daughter is 13, and is more drawn to the livery yard and the interaction it affords her. She also has access to a flood-lit school there, so winter riding is not limited to weekends. She learns from her peers and challenges herself more too.
“Personally, I enjoy the friendship and laughter that you get at the livery yard.”