Pretty Little Horses

Here is the first series of photos for my mini horse project! I have been waiting for the good weather and it’s here at last. I have been in touch with many mini horse owners over the past few months and  have a bunch of sessions planned for this summer. I’m so thrilled about it. I have always been horse-crazy, but when my mini May showed up I fell head over hoof. I never knew how wonderful minis are. I’m crazy for them now.

Minis are everywhere on Prince Edward Island. These four minis live across the road from me. They are HILARIOUS. I was laughing and giddy the whole time. The followed me all over the place so incredibly curious about me and what I was doing in their field. Luckily three of them lost interest in me after a while so I was able to get some shots, but there was one who just wouldn’t stop following me and snuggling… I can’t wait to go back for more!

Miniature horses are not ponies. While miniature horses are usually less than 34–38 inches, they are considered “horses” by their respective registries because they retain horse characteristics. (Ponies have different characteristics altogether.) Minis have various colors and coat patterns. They are very funny and friendly and are often kept as family pets and primarily serve as a companion animal. They can be ridden, pull carts, and are also trained as service animals for people with disabilities. Yes, you heard me. I was quite surprised. One of my sessions this summer is with a woman here on PEI who uses minis as service and therapy animals. While miniature horses can be trained to work indoors, they are still real horses and are healthier when allowed to live outdoors with proper shelter and room to run. They are generally quite hardy, often living longer on average than some full-sized horse breeds; the average life span of miniature horses is from 25 to 35 years. They are very wonderful little beings that will fill you up with joy.