DIGITAL ISSUE 42 | 2025
Welcome back!
Welcome to another issue of HQ Pony Magazine, packed with a whole lot of pony wisdom.
This edition is all about understanding your pony – and yourself – a little better.
If you’ve ever wondered what your pony is thinking when he suddenly stops at a jump or why he’s convinced the hosepipe is a snake, you’ll love our Pony Brain vs Rider Brain feature.
We’re also sharing why grooming is about more than just prepping for a beauty contest, and giving you a Feed Room Detective challenge to test your stable smarts.
Feeling a little nervous in the saddle? Don’t miss The Brave Rider’s Checklist; it’s full of simple ways to build your courage, step by step. You’ll also find out why we think Kind is Cool, how Nature is the Best Arena, and what to do ‘When Your Pony Says No‘.
So dive in and explore the wonderful world of ponies!
Happy reading,
Lizzie and
the HQ Pony team xxx
Dr Lizzie Harrison | Editor
DIGITAL ISSUE 42 | 2025
contents
The brave rider’s checklist
Building real confidence in and out of the saddle
When your pony says no
Understanding what’s really happening when things don’t go to plan
Pony brain vs. rider brain
Understanding how your pony thinks and why it matters
The secret language of ponies
Learning to read your pony’s body language like a pro
Nature is the best arena
Why time outside helps your pony’s body, brain, and heart
Feed room detective
What’s really hiding in your pony’s bucket?
Grooming secrets only pros know
Why brushing isn’t just about looking pretty
Kind is cool
Celebrating riders who put their ponies first
Pony fun zone
The place for curious, creative, pony-mad riders like you!
Ask Pony
All your questions answered
The
----
brave rider’s
CHECKLIST
Building real confidence in and out of the saddle
Every rider feels nervous sometimes – even the ones who seem fearless in the arena!
But being brave isn’t about never feeling scared. It’s about learning how to stay calm, think clearly, and keep trying, even when your tummy’s full of butterflies.
Here’s how to grow your courage step by step, and become the kind of rider your pony loves to trust.
-------
Step 1.
Remember: Bravery isn’t magic
Bravery doesn’t appear out of nowhere; it’s something you build.
Every time you do something a tiny bit scary, even if it’s just trotting over a pole you once avoided, you grow stronger. Real confidence comes from practice, not perfection.
-------
Step 2. Start with trust
Your pony doesn’t want a superhero; they want a calm leader.
If you’re nervous, your pony can feel it, but that doesn’t mean you’ve failed. Take a deep breath, talk to them softly, and focus on steady movements. When they see you’re calm, they’ll start to relax too.
Bravery is something you share with your pony, not something you have to find alone.
-------
Step 3. Set tiny goals
Big leaps can be scary for both you and your pony. So, break challenges into smaller pieces. Want to canter again after a fall? Start with a strong, confident trot. Want to jump higher? Trot over a pole first. Every small success adds up, like stepping stones. One day you’ll look back and realise how far you’ve come.
-------
Step 4. Don’t rush the feelings
Some days you’ll feel brave. Other days you’ll feel wobbly. That’s okay! Even top riders have off days. Confidence isn’t a straight line; it’s more like a rollercoaster (at least that’s what we’ve found!). The trick is to ride it out with patience. Take breaks, talk to your coach, or just spend quiet time grooming your pony. Building connection counts towards building confidence too.
-------
Step 5. Breathe, smile, repeat
Your body tells your pony how you feel.
When you breathe slowly, your pony’s heartbeat actually slows down to match yours. Smile, even if it feels silly – it helps your brain think, ‘I’m okay.’
Before every ride, take one deep breath in, one out, and picture how you want it to go. That’s what confident riders do.
-------
Step 6. Bravery looks different for everyone
For one rider, bravery might mean jumping a new fence. For another, it’s trotting past a scary bush. For someone else, it’s riding again after a fall. What matters is that you try. Every brave moment, no matter how small, deserves to be celebrated.
----------
In short
You don’t have to feel fearless to be brave. You just have to show up, breathe, and believe that you and your pony can figure things out together.
Because true confidence isn’t about riding perfectly; it’s about riding kindly (and being kind to yourself!), even when things go wrong.
PONY DETECTIVE TIP: If your pony is nervous, don’t push harder, get curious! Ask: ‘Is my pony scared too?’ or ‘Can I make this easier for both of us?’ When you focus on helping your pony feel safe, you’ll often find your own confidence growing right alongside theirs.
Every rider has been there – your pony stops at a jump, plants their feet at the gate, or suddenly decides the scary corner of the arena is actually full of monsters. It can feel frustrating, but here’s the secret: when your pony says no, they’re not being naughty; they’re trying to tell you something.
1. Ponies don’t plot against you
Ponies live in the moment. They don’t hold grudges, plan to embarrass you, or forget how to jump overnight. If your pony resists, it’s usually because they’re confused, scared, sore, or unsure what you want. Once you realise that, ‘no’ turns into an opportunity to ask, ‘Why?’ and that’s when your real partnership begins.
2. The body speaks first
Before your pony refuses, they often give clues: a quick blink, a lifted head, a slower rhythm, a tail swish. Those are early warning signs that something feels wrong. If you can spot those little signals, you can help before it becomes a bigger reaction, by giving them time, reassurance, or a clearer cue.
3. What it means
If you don’t know which it is, take a step back. Remove the pressure and look for clues – your pony will often show you if you’re paying attention.
4. Confidence takes time
Just like riders, ponies lose confidence, too. They might have had a scare at a jump or slipped in the arena. Going slowly, repeating small successes, and rewarding every brave try helps rebuild their trust. Even one calm, kind session can change how they feel next time.
5. Check the basics
Sometimes the reason for a ‘no’ is simple – a tight noseband, an uncomfortable girth, or hooves that need trimming. Always rule out pain first. A pony that’s comfortable in their body is far more willing in their work.
6. Kindness isn’t weakness
You can be both firm and fair. Yanking, shouting, or punishing rarely helps because ponies learn through calm clarity, not fear. When you stay patient, your pony learns that even when they’re unsure, they can trust you to help them through. That’s the moment teamwork really begins.
Final thoughts
A pony who says ‘no’ is giving you information – not attitude. Listen, adjust, and reassure, and you’ll find that the ‘no’ often turns into a quiet, confident ‘yes.’
PONY DETECTIVE TIP: When your pony hesitates, don’t rush to correct them – take a second to notice why. Is their head high? Are their ears locked on something? Is your leg aid clear? The answer is usually written all over their body; you just have to look.
Your pony doesn’t think like a human, and that’s what makes them so amazing! They experience the world through their senses – sound, smell, touch, and sight – and their brains are wired for safety first. Once you understand how ponies process information and react, you’ll find it easier to train, stay calm, and build real trust.
Pony brain 101
Ponies are prey animals, which means their main job in nature is to stay alive by spotting danger and reacting quickly. That’s why they can sometimes spook at a fluttering jacket or a pigeon taking off. Their brains tell them: ‘Move first, think later!’ It isn’t naughtiness (ponies simply aren’t capable of this behaviour); it’s survival instinct. When you stay calm and show them that something is safe, their brain begins to switch from reacting to thinking again.
How ponies learn
Ponies learn through repetition, timing, and reward. They don’t understand words the way people do; they understand patterns. If you’re consistent and reward the right behaviour (even just with a soft voice or scratch on the neck), they learn fast. But if your signals keep changing, your pony gets confused and frustrated. Their brain works best when things are clear and predictable.
Pony memory magic
Ponies have great memories, especially for things connected to strong emotions. That’s why they remember the jump they knocked, the scary corner in the arena, or the rider who made them feel safe.
Good memories build confidence; bad ones can make them nervous. That’s why calm, kind handling always pays off; it teaches your pony that you’re someone they can trust, no matter what.
Rider brain vs. pony brain
Riders often think in words: ‘I’ll ask for canter in the corner, then turn left.’
Ponies think in feelings: “The pressure on my side means move forward. The hands mean slow down.”
When we expect them to think like people, we can get impatient. But when we learn to think more like ponies and be quiet, clear and consistent to help them, communication gets easier for both of us.
Pressure and calm
Ponies don’t understand pressure the way we do. To them, pressure isn’t a punishment; it’s a signal. You add a little pressure (like your leg or rein), and when they respond, you release it. That release is their ‘good job!’ moment.
If pressure keeps building with no release, ponies get stressed and can switch into ‘flight mode.’ Remember: clarity and calmness make learning fun, not frightening.
Final thoughts
Your pony’s brain isn’t trying to be difficult; it’s just trying to feel safe and understood. When you remember that ponies react before they reason, and learn through clear, consistent kindness, you become a rider they can truly trust.
PONY DETECTIVE TIP:
If your pony gets tense or confused, pause and ask yourself: “Does this make sense to a pony brain?” Is your signal clear? Is the pressure fair? The smartest riders are the ones who stop, breathe, and explain again, but this time in pony language.
Your pony may not speak with words, but that doesn’t mean they’re quiet! Ponies have an incredible way of communicating through their bodies – their ears, eyes, tails, nostrils, even the way they stand or shift their weight. Once you start learning their language, you’ll discover they’re ‘talking’ to you all the time.
EARS THAT TALK
Your pony’s ears are like little satellite dishes, always turning to pick up sounds or to show how they’re feeling.
- Ears pricked forward: ‘I’m curious!’ Something has caught your pony’s attention, and they’re alert and interested.
- Ears flicking back and forth: ‘I’m listening to you, but I’m also watching everything else.’ This can happen in busy arenas or out hacking.
- Ears relaxed to the side: ‘I’m calm and content.’ This is a happy, relaxed look you’ll often see when grooming.
- Ears pinned flat back: ‘I’m angry, scared, or in pain.’ Don’t ignore this one; it’s your pony’s way of saying they’re upset or uncomfortable.
EYES THAT TELL STORIES
Pony eyes can say more than words.
- Soft, half-closed eyes: Your pony feels relaxed and safe.
- Wide, whites showing: They’re frightened or startled. Take a breath, speak calmly, and show them there’s nothing to fear.
- Tense or blinking a lot: They might be stressed or uncomfortable – maybe something in their tack doesn’t feel right.
Sometimes body language can have more than one meaning, but that’s why it’s important to look at the whole pony and the situation they are in, not just one part. For example, soft, half-closed eyes can mean that a pony feels relaxed OR can suggest a pony has shut down from excessive pressure. The situation, the pony’s personality and the rest of the body language will help you to know what it really means.
BODY TALK
Your pony’s whole body can reveal how they’re feeling.
- Head lowered, relaxed muscles: A calm, happy pony.
- Neck stiff, body tense: Worry or resistance. Something might feel unsafe or confusing.
- One back leg resting: A chill, relaxed stance.
- Pawing, tossing head, tail swishing hard: Frustration, impatience or pain – often a sign that they’re tired of waiting or unsure what’s being asked. But don’t forget that ‘pawing’ can be a sign of colic.
TAILS THAT TELL TALES
A pony’s tail isn’t just for swatting flies!
- Gently swishing tail: Relaxed and happy.
- Tail clamped down: Nervous or uncomfortable.
- Tail swishing sharply: Irritation or stress – a sign to pause and check what’s wrong.
READING THE FULL PICTURE
It’s important to remember that no single sign tells the whole story. A swishing tail doesn’t always mean irritation, just as pinned ears don’t always mean anger; sometimes it’s just a reaction to a fly or another horse nearby. To really understand your pony, look at their whole body and the situation around them. Their ears, eyes, tail, muscles, and even how they breathe all work together to show how they’re feeling. Once you start seeing the complete picture, you’ll be able to tell the difference between a worried pony, a playful one, and one who’s simply saying, ‘Not right now, thanks!’
FEELINGS FIRST
The more you listen to your pony’s signals, the better your partnership will be. If they’re showing signs of tension, don’t ignore it; it’s their way of asking for help or reassurance. Maybe they’re sore, scared, or confused. When you learn to understand what they’re saying, you can respond kindly and calmly, and that’s what real horsemanship is all about.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Next time you visit your pony, play Pony Detective! Watch their ears, eyes, and tail for five minutes while you groom or feed them. What do you notice? Are their ears flicking towards you when you speak? Do their eyes soften when you scratch their favourite spot? You’ll be amazed at how much they’re ‘saying’ once you start listening.
PONY DETECTIVE TIP:
Don’t rely on one clue alone! A swishing tail or flicking ear doesn’t tell the full story – your pony’s body language works like a puzzle. Look at their ears, eyes, muscles, and tail together, and think about what’s happening around them. The more pieces you notice, the clearer their message becomes.
NATURE IS THE
best arena
Why time outside helps your pony’s body, brain, and heart
Schooling is great; it helps you ride better, stay balanced, and build your pony’s strength. But here’s something the best riders already know: training doesn’t always happen in the arena. Sometimes, the most powerful thing you can do for your pony is to head out into nature and let them just be a pony.
1. Movement makes muscles
•••
When you ride outside – up and down hills, over uneven ground, or along sandy tracks – your pony uses muscles they don’t get to use in a flat arena. Their core, joints, and balance all improve naturally, just by walking on different surfaces. It’s like a gym workout disguised as a hack!
2. Fresh air = fresh minds
•••
Ponies (and riders) can get bored doing the same circles every day. A change of scenery – trees, birds, grass, open space – wakes up their brains and makes work feel fun again. You’ll often find your pony more forward, relaxed, and happy after a quiet hack in nature.
3. Relaxation is training too
•••
Learning to stand quietly while you chat with a friend, or to walk calmly through long grass, is all part of good training.
When your pony relaxes, they build trust – they learn that being with you means feeling safe, not stressed. That calmness carries back into the arena too.
4. Curiosity builds confidence
•••
Letting your pony stop to sniff a rock, look at a bush, or splash through a puddle isn’t wasting time: it’s teaching them bravery!
Each time they explore something new without fear, their confidence grows. Next time you meet something ‘scary,’ they’ll think, ‘I’ve got this.’
5. Even rest is part of training
•••
Hand-grazing days, quiet walks, or rolling in the paddock give your pony time to stretch, breathe, and recover. Muscles need rest to grow stronger, and ponies need downtime to stay happy. A well-rested pony is a willing pony.
Final thoughts
Nature is full of lessons if you’re willing to slow down and listen. So next time you feel guilty for not schooling, remember that walking through fields, exploring new paths, or simply standing in the sunshine together is training too. It’s training for calmness, confidence, and connection.
PONY DETECTIVE TIP: Next time you’re out on a hack, play ‘Spot the Difference.’
Can you feel when your pony’s stride lengthens uphill? When their breathing slows as they relax?
Those little details tell you how their body – and mind – are benefiting from nature’s best arena.
Every pony’s feed room looks a bit like a mystery lab – bags of chaff, pellets, cubes, powders and oils, all promising energy, shine, or strength. But do you actually know what each one does? Becoming a Feed Room Detective helps you understand what fuels your pony’s bod, and why more food doesn’t always mean more energy!
1. The big three: fibre, energy, and balance
Your pony’s body runs best on fibre, not sugar. That means hay, grass and chaff are the most important parts of their diet, not the stuff in the bags. Fibre keeps their stomachs happy and their minds calm.
Then come energy feeds like concentrates; these are for ponies who work harder and need a bit more fuel. Finally, we have the balancing ingredients; they ensure your pony gets all the minerals and vitamins they need to stay healthy.
But here’s the trick with all of this: too much energy feed can make ponies fizzy or even sick, too little fibre can give them ulcers, and the wrong balance of minerals and vitamins can lead to health problems. That’s why every diet needs balance with enough energy to work, but not so much that your pony feels like a rocket, or gets unwell.
2. What’s in the bucket?
Here we match the feeds with what they do:
3. One size doesn’t fit all
No two ponies eat exactly the same way.
A small, chubby pony might only need hay and a vitamin balancer, while a jumping or eventing pony might need extra calories to stay strong.
It’s worth remembering that what works for your friend’s horse won’t necessarily work for yours, and that’s why listening to your vet or nutritionist is always the smartest move.
4. Less can be more
Too many feeds, supplements or treats can overload your pony’s system. Their digestive tract is delicate, and sudden changes can cause colic or upset tummies. If you ever want to try a new supplement, make changes slowly and only change one thing at a time. We also recommend you chat to your vet or equine nutritionist first.
5. Hay: the hero ingredient
Hay might look boring, but it’s your pony’s best friend and they need access to it 24/7. It keeps their gut working properly, gives them something to chew for hours, and stops boredom and stress. A pony without enough hay isn’t just hungry – they can actually get stomach ulcers from too much time without fibre.
in short
A healthy diet isn’t about feeding more; it’s about feeding right. If you can explain what each part of your pony’s feed does and why it’s there, you’re already way ahead of most riders. That’s what being a true Feed Room Detective is all about!
Grooming secrets
only pros know
WHY BRUSHING ISN’T JUST ABOUT LOOKING PRETTY
All ponies need grooming, but it’s not just to make them sparkle for a show.
Grooming is one of the best ways to keep your pony healthy, comfortable, and happy. It also helps you learn what’s normal for them and spot little problems before they become big ones.
Think of grooming as your pony’s version of a friendly check-up and a spa day rolled into one!
1. Grooming builds trust
When you spend quiet time brushing, your pony learns that your hands are kind.
They start to relax when they see you coming, because grooming feels good.
If you always move gently and never rush, while listening to what your pony tells you about where they like being groomed, your pony will begin to lean into the brush or even turn to show you their favourite itchy spots – a sure sign they trust you.
2. Grooming helps you spot changes
Every time you groom, you’re checking for clues.
Does your pony flinch when you brush their back? Are there any bumps, cuts, or patches of dry skin?
Noticing small changes early – like heat, swelling, or tenderness – can help you catch things like insect bites, sore muscles, or poorly fitting tack before they cause pain.
3. Grooming boosts health
Brushing your pony isn’t just about removing dust; it’s about improving circulation and skin health.
A good rubber curry comb massage brings blood to the surface, helps warm up the muscles, and releases natural oils that make the coat shine.
You’re basically giving your pony a mini workout and a glow-up at the same time!
4. Your pony’s skin is full of clues
Dry patches might mean they’re missing something in their diet. Greasy areas could mean they’re sweating too much or need a different rug. If you brush the same way every day, you’ll quickly learn what ‘normal’ feels like for your pony, and when something’s different.
5. Slow down - grooming is communication
Pros don’t rush through grooming because they know it’s not just cleaning; it’s conversation.
When you notice how your pony reacts to your touch, you’re learning to ‘listen’ with your hands. If they sigh, stretch, or lean into the brush, you’re doing a great job. If they pin their ears or move away, they’re saying, ‘That doesn’t feel nice.’ Real grooming is a two-way chat.
6. Make it their happy place
You can turn grooming time into something your pony loves.
Try talking softly while you brush, or always finish with a favourite scratch spot or a few minutes of grazing.
When your pony looks forward to grooming, it strengthens your bond, and makes everything else, from tacking up to training, so much easier.
In short
Every brush stroke is a chance to say, ‘I see you, I care about you, and I’m paying attention.’
Grooming is one of the simplest – and kindest – ways to become the rider your pony truly trusts.
Pony detective tip
Pay attention to what your pony’s skin is telling you! If they twitch, move away, or pin their ears when brushed in a certain spot, don’t ignore it; they might be sore, ticklish, or trying to show you something. A good groomer notices, adjusts, and earns their pony’s trust.
Celebrating riders
who put their ponies first
Winning ribbons is exciting, but at the heart of good horsemanship is something far more important – kindness. Being a great rider isn’t just about jumping higher or scoring better. It’s about noticing how your pony feels, listening when they’re unsure, and treating them with patience and respect.
What kindness looks like
Kind riders… Notice how their ponies feel, not just how they perform.
Kind riders… Speak softly, even when frustrated.
Kind riders… Put comfort before competition.
Kind riders… Reward effort, not just results.
Kind riders… Know when to rest, not just when to ride.
in short
Kindness doesn’t make you soft; it makes you strong.
A rider who listens, waits, and learns earns their pony’s trust forever.
Because at the end of the day, ribbons fade… but the bond you build through kindness lasts a lifetime.
Pony detective tip
Next time you ride, look for one small way to show kindness – an extra scratch, a loose rein after a good try, or an early finish on a hot day. Those tiny choices are what make you the kind of rider every pony hopes for.
Pony fun zone
The place for curious, creative, pony-mad riders like you!
You’ve read and you’ve learned so now it’s time to have some fun!
QUIZ
Ever wondered what kind of rider you really are? Grab a pencil and find out!
Mostly A’s:
Showjumping star! You and your pony love energy, freedom, and flying over fences.
Mostly B’s:
Dressage dreamer! You value harmony, patience, and perfect circles.
Mostly C’s:
Eventing adventurer! You’re brave, determined, and love a challenge.
Mostly D’s: All-rounder extraordinaire! You can turn your hoof to anything.
Craft corner
Make your own grooming box labels!
Your brushes work hard; they deserve some personality!
Label your brushes with their jobs:
e.g. ‘Face brush – gentle only!’;
‘Mane and tail – glam squad duty’; and
‘Hooves – mud buster!’
Photo challenge
Show us your pony’s funniest face!
Does your pony pull hilarious faces? Send us a photo of your pony’s silliest expression and you could feature in the next issue of HQ Pony!
>><<
Email your pics (with your name, pony’s name, and a short caption) to lizzie@hqmagazine.co.za
>><<
REAL QUESTIONS FROM REAL RIDERS
Got a pony puzzle? You ask and we answer! Whether it’s weird behaviour, training troubles, or just pony quirks, HQ Pony’s got you covered.
ASKPONY: My pony rushes after every jump. How do I slow him down?
A: He’s not being cheeky; he’s either excited or nervous! Ponies often speed up because they think jumping means ‘go faster!’ or because they want to ‘get it over with’. The trick is to show him that slowing down is part of the game and will make everything easier for him. After each jump, ride a big circle or a few strides of trot before the next fence. Praise him when he listens. Calm riding and breathing slowly helps too – your pony matches your energy, so if you stay chilled, he’ll soon get the message.
ASKPONY: Do ponies get bored with arena work?
A: Absolutely! Just like you wouldn’t want to do maths homework every single day, ponies get tired of the same old routine. Try mixing things up: poles one day, a hack or hill walk the next, or even a groundwork session in-hand.
A change of scenery keeps your pony’s brain busy and their body happy, and you’ll have more fun too!
ASKPONY: My pony sometimes refuses jumps he’s already done before. Why?
A: Ponies remember everything – good and bad! If something scared him before (a pole rolled, or he slipped), he might feel unsure next time. Go back to basics. Start smaller, praise him for every try, and rebuild confidence one step at a time. Once he feels safe again, you should see those refusals disappear. If you don’t, chat to your vet, as it may be that your pony has hurt himself in some way and is now finding work he used to do much more difficult than before.
ASKPONY: Can ponies remember when we get cross with them?
A: Oh yes – ponies have brilliant memories! They remember tones, tension, and energy. The good news? They forgive easily, too. If you lose patience (and everyone does sometimes), take a breath, soften your body, and start fresh. Ponies live in the present – show them kindness, and they’ll always give you another chance.
ASKPONY: Can ponies feel lonely?
A: Definitely. Ponies are herd animals, so they love company and need it to thrive! If your pony goes in a stable or is in a paddock on his own, make sure they can still see or touch other ponies, horses, or even goats or donkeys. Spending more time grooming, leading, or hand-grazing with them helps too. Companionship isn’t just cute – it’s vital for their mental health.
>> GOT A QUESTION<<
Email lizzie@hqmagazine.co.za and your question might be answered in the next issue!
