THINGS TO CONSIDER BEFORE BUYING THAT PONY

Ponies that are well trained and experienced are not sold cheaply.  Expect to pay a reasonable amount.  That's not to say that some good deals can't be found but they are usually handled by experienced horse people who know what they are looking for and know how to deal with any training or behaviour "issues" the pony/horse may have which is usually the reason (not always) why it's so cheap.  A GENUINE bargain can sometimes be found if a family member has died or has ill health or someone has decided to "give it up".

Be reasonable about your child's capabilities,  it's easy to over estimate what your child can do, talk to your trainer if you have one or better still join a 4-H group or the Pony Club and get advise from those who know how to help you and can see what your child actually needs, otherwise you are just wasting your money ad could potentially cause serious injury to your child and then quite often the pony is unfairly blamed. 

In some instances inexperienced ponies can work with inexperienced kids if both are supervised by a trainer or a knowledgeable parent/horseperson who knows what they are doing,  a well trained pony is always the first choice for a beginner rider, ponies are very much like children they need consistency, discipline and supervision.

There is no such thing as a bombproof pony, Horses are dangerous; more horse injuries occur every year than in any other sport, kids need to be taught to ride safely and "Rules for safety" adhered to. Proper clothing, helmets and heeled boots are not for fashion but for safety and practicality.

Not every seller is ethical, there are many out there who will gladly take advantage of you so don't believe everything you hear. Check out your sources and ask for references and make sure you are prepared to spend time and money going out and seeing lots of ponies before purchasing, do not buy the first pony you see because it "looks cute".

  Some ponies have won many championship's in halter but they are usually "hot" and "spirited" which is what is needed to do well in the halter classes, consequently they are not always suitable for a young inexperienced child to handle or even ride. A show record is only a fraction of the whole picture.

Be safe, be savvy and above all else, have fun with your new friend.