We thought we’d finally give our site name some meaning…

As our Head Cowgirl so kindly demonstrates above, we can see there are multiple ways to pet a horse. A word to the wise: do not practice this on police horses, one Cowgirl nearly got arrested in doing so. Think Riverdale Farm, or Sunnybrook Stables instead.

1. Reach out and let Mr. Pony sniff your palm.
Horses don’t want your greasy hands grabbing their face any more than you do. At least not at first.

2. Stroke under his chin.
Like most boyfriends, they love a good chin scratch. Once Mr. Pony has got your scent, you can proceed by whispering sweet nothings to him and stroking under his chin near his whiskers.

3. Only pet. Do not pat.
Leave the patting for your dog at home. Ponies like soft stroking and tickles instead.

4. Help the pony out.
Once you’re comfortable, you can scratch him in all the places he cannot reach with his head (such as his neck, back, or along his withers).

5. Avoid the tender spots.
You may get a boot to the face if you aggressively pat his flanks, rear end, legs, face, or ears.

6. MUSH HIM!!
A little kiss on his nose will make him love you. We think. Well, we haven’t been bitten yet so that’s probably a good sign.

XoXo
– The Cowgirls

How to Mush a Pony, 5.0 out of 5 based on 1 rating

Category: Back Fence, Bucking About · Posted by: Mushy Pony Tagged: Mushy Pony, Petting a horse, Riverdale Farm, Sunnybrook Stables on Tuesday, January 19, 2010 · 1 Comment »