Shetland Ponies

Question
Hello!
First off, you need to know I am a young teen. I chose to ask you my questions because you sound very experienced and I am very into Natural Horsemanship. I hope you know how to deal with Shetland Ponies, though ;)
I just volunteered to work with two Shetland Ponies at a nearby garden a few days a week after school. The two ponies are about 15-16 years old, in very good condition, and pampered! They have a relatively small paddock, with a walk in shelter and area to graze. they are under 9 hands. One is named Snipper, and he is demanding of attention and nips anyone who doesn't give him what he wants! The other is a well mannered pinto named Toughy...both are geldings.
(1) How should I deal with the nipping when I clean the paddock/play with Toughy? My riding teacher tapped her horse's nose when it bites. I have learned that you should grab a hold of their muzzle and blow; this is what the herd horses would do, apparently. What do you suggest?
(2) I have not dealt with Shetlands before (although I have large horse and groundwork experience) and if you have any tips, that would be great.
Oddly, the owners of the garden with the ponies are an old couple who adore ponies but don't know a THING about them. They were so happy when I told them I would help.
Any tips would be greatly appreciated. Also, book suggestions too because I love reading about horses and I have a 4H training book and more currently that I am reading.
Thanks!
-Sarah

Answer
Hi Sarah,
It sounds like you are going to have a ton of fun with these ponies! The fun thing about horses is that is does not matter the breed or size, a horse is a horse. Sometimes people let the little ones get pushy because they are not intimidated by their size- but the same respect is needed wether its a 9 hand pony or a 19 hand Percheron! I would focus on teaching Snipper to get out of your space. If you can stay mindful of where he is and shaking a lead rope or wave your arms at him and have him step back he wont be able to get close enough to you to bite or kick. Until you feel comfortable pushing him out of your space I would just tie him outside while you get your work done. I don't like to tap the nose or grab a muzzle, I think its best just to avoid the behavior. A great book for you to get is "True Horsemanship Through Feel"  by Bill Dorrance. Its great! It has photos and excersizes for you to work on, I think you'll love it.
Let me know how it goes with Snipper!
Caitlin Day Huntress