QuestionI have just got my first mini and I have 4 other regular size horses(3 mares and 1 gelding) and I was wondering if it would be safe to put the mini in the same pasture with the larger horses, once they get use to each other of course.
AnswerHi Sandy-
Thanks for the question. When I got my first mini I put him out with my other horses. They spent hours chasing him which actually was pretty good for all of them as it was good exercise and he was pretty chunky. They never hurt him (in fact, he used to open the barn door for them to go rampaging in the barn). Minis can get along with bigger horses and are often used as companions for larger horses but they can also be seriously hurt. I think it needs to be on a case-by-case basis. You are definitely right to acclimate then to each other first. Then try it on a trial basis-WHILE YOU ARE THERE TO WATCH THEM. I would keep halters on everyone during this process in case you have to perform a "rescue mission." My boy minis have been hanging with my yearling quarter horse colt since he was weaned. They all recently got through a gate into the "big mare" field and I was panicked only to find them all quietly grazing near each other. I still keep them separated because of the potential for serious injury but you know your horses better than me. Worst case, the mini could be next to them without risk. Hope this helps. Best, Toni P.S. You could always get another mini.....
