lifeofriley
Posted : 2/2/2010 9:11:11 AM
I think if your mother is after a driving pony it would be a lot smarter to buy a small pony and use that rather than breeding your QH with a Shetland.
You have to think worst case scenarios, if you aren't able to keep the foal forever, what sort of market is there for a grade pony who was only bred for size?
There are so many horse/foals/ponies running through auctions for under $500, and you have to think about the pros and cons of purchasing a horse rather than breeding for a mix breed.
Just an example -
Buying a horse
- You can handpick size, temperament, colour, age, gender, suitability, soundness and conformation
- Basic "startup" cost (so to speak) is purchase price, vet exam, possibly transportation
Breeding
- You can only predict to an extent the foal's conformation/temperament etc, it's mostly a lottery. Breeding two completely different breeds opens up a wider field of possibilities.
- Costs: stud fees, mare care, vet exams (ultrasound etc), emergency vet calls and then at the end of it there's a chance you'll end up with a dead mare/foal or both.
Not trying to be negative but these are definitely things that should weigh on your mind. IMO, buying a pony for driving would definitely be the better choice rather then creating another grade pony.