Have a pony, want another

Question
Hello,
I have a 7 year old, 13hh mixed gelding named Artax. He hardly does any work, and he has never jumped a fence in his life. But he's all alone in our big yard, so we want to get another pet to keep him company, but preferably another horse. One problem is that they're all so expensive, but another is that we're not sure how they'd get along. I've heard that when they first meet, horses kind of fight with eachother, so I want to choose the best kind of companion for him. What breed, sex, or even species would you recommend? Thanks for any advice.
-Hani

Answer
Horses are herd animals and desire companionship.  This move will more than likely be for Artax's benefit.  

Yes, horses do tend to fight around a bit when first acquainted, but this should not hinder the consideration for another horse or a pony.  The fighting is done to see who will be on top.  Horses have a very strict pecking order, and if you elect for another horse or pony, it would be better to introduce them over a period of days so as not to stress the newcomer.  There will be a scuffle, though.  Expect it.

If you go for another horse/pony, I would choose a quiet, even-tempered creature such as a Quarter Horse or a Morgan.  I don't know a lot on ponies, so you'll have to ask someone else or do some research on them.  Usually, horses of different genders tend to get along better than horses of the same sex, so a mare may be a better choice than a gelding.  However, males can bond and become brothers, so don't rule them out totally.

If you don't want to be paying for another horse/pony, there are other barn companions you can choose from.  Goats, llamas, pigs, and even camels have found to make good company for horses.  There are a few downsides to each though -- goats butt, llamas spit, pigs root, and camels, well, they're not that easy to find.  I personally favor goats, as long as their horns are removed.  Still, they can give your horse some bruises and cuts with their playful butting.

I hope this helped.  Any other questions, feel free to contact me again.

Katie