Versatility

The Versatility of the Miniature Horse

The miniature horse is used for many different purposes. The first and foremost reason to own one is because they are easy to love. Miniature horses, depending on which registry you look into, can measure up to 38" in height and can be less intimidating than the larger horse. They love attention and are willing to try almost anything you ask of them. This unique breed will captivate your heart as winter approaches and they grow long and furry coats in the colder climates. In the summer you will see them transform into sleek, well-defined animals. Miniature horses are great with children, the disabled, and grown-ups as well.

This may sound interesting, you say, "but what can you do with them?" The answer is practically everything! If you plan to show or just stay in your back yard, you will find they can do many things.

The different avenues of competition in the show ring are:

	Halter - Which is judged on the conformation of the animal
	Color - This class is judged 100% on color
	Jumping - Judging is based on the method of going over jumps and any faults that may occur
	In-hand Trail - Similar to the larger breeds in that they are led through several obstacles. For example: walking through water, backing through poles, sidepassing or doing a 360-degree turn on the hunches.
	Driving - There are several driving classes you may enter depending on the show you attend. They are judged on your horse's way of going. Just to name a few for your consideration: pleasure, country pleasure, and roadster.
	Obstacle Driving - This is performed the same as an in-hand trail class, only done in your cart with different obstacles.
	Liberty - This is a fun class just to watch as your horse is turned loose in an arena and is judged on their different gaits and style of going while the music of your choice is played. When the music stops, the handler has a time limit (usually 2 minutes) in which to catch their horse.
	Costume - In this class you and your horse dress in corresponding costumes and are judged on originality and presentation.
	Harness Racing - In addition to the above ideas, miniature horses are also being used in this up-and-coming event. They race at a trot, in the cart, and trail heats are run in order to match up horses with equal times. They are then raced against each other with a purse normally being paid out.

In your back yard, you will find them equally valuable too! The larger miniatures may even be ridden under saddle with a small child. You may trail drive through the woods, drive them around your neighborhood, or just take them for a walk. You won't believe the attention they draw, as people really love them. Another growing area for the miniature horse is going to local parades. It is fun to dress up your horse and cart with bows and ribbons while you wave at the spectators. Some miniature owners often take their horses to visit nursing homes, which brings back memories and joy to those who grew up on a farm.

No matter what your goal is, you will find the miniature horse lovable in every sense of the word. They are truly a joy to be around. One word of caution must be expressed however; it has been said that owning a miniature horse may be habit forming!

Blue Water Miniature Horse Club