Rocky pony

I went out to meet my friend Bonnie's new pony, Rocky, today and ride him a little.  He's a Welsh/Thoroughbred cross in a distinctive red roan.  She has pictures of him on her blog.  He's in his late teens, so far as we know, but he's got that pony spunk despite being overweight and out of shape from being little more than a pasture ornament for the past few years.

I brought out my hands measuring stick and my bit fitter to get his measurements.  He stands 14+ hh, and needs a 4.5" bit, so you can definitely see the Welsh pony part of the cross in his size.  He's got a bit of a naughty streak to him, too, which just says 'pony' to me.  (I love ponies, but they do like to poke and taste, investigate and test everyone and everything.) 

He's very sweet & friendly, if a little disgruntled about having to work for a living again.  He's quick to forgive, though, when treats are offered.   ;)

Bonnie & I both forgot our cameras, so I don't have any pictures of him in my saddle (which I brought out to see if we should be looking for a wide tree saddle for him or if regular would be okay -- my wide fit him nicely).  She thought he looked cute going around in it; you'll just have to imagine a little strawberry roan wearing a caramel hunt saddle (with a tartan pad).

Rocky's got a ways to go before he's back in shape and able to go on long rides, but I know Bonnie's very excited about getting him there and will have fun with the process.  Then they can have lots of fun together. 

Congratulations, Bonnie!