Are Miniature Horses REAL Horses?

YES! They have all the same needs and traits that full-size riding horse has! And that is very important to know, because unlike a dog or cat that is part of the household, horses must have certain care and attention in order to stay healthy and fit. So, if you want to get a Miniature, you must learn a great deal about equine care and health. Many sad tales of "starving Minis" in a field somewhere are a direct result of ignorance. Someone thought they could just throw some hay out every day and that would do it.

Can I Keep One in My Room?

Well, you could invite one into your room for awhile, but your Mini will need a home of his own. Horses are very sensitive to changes in their surroundings, pasture mates, humans and daily routine. Making the transition from his old home to yours will be stressful, but with a little foresight, you can help him acclimatize more easily.

Your first concern should be safe, adequate housing for your Mini. It doesn't have to be fancy, but should be sturdy, well-ventilated (but draft-free), well lighted, and large enough to provide a comfortable stall. A 10' x 10' box stall is ideal for a Mini. Ceilings should be high enough to allow good circulation of air; however, be sure that the ventilation is not so great as to be drafty. Ideal flooring for stalls is clay or dirt. Stalls should be free of nails, wood splinters, sharp edges, or anything else on which your Mini might injure himself. Believe it - if its there, he'll find it!
 

What Else Do I Need to Know?

LOTS! Your Mini needs to be properly fed and have plenty of clean fresh water at all times. He needs to have a safe place to exercise and play, and roll and snooze. He needs to be able to get out of the hot sun in the summer and the cold wind in the winter.

He will need to be groomed daily to keep his coat in good condition and pest-free.

His feet will need care and attention on a regular basis.

Your Mini will need to have vaccinations on a regular basis and he will need to be treated for worms regularly. - ALL HORSES HAVE THEM.