FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Do I need a big yard?
Don’t have a large yard? No problem. The pony can work in nearly any size yard. If that is not an option, the pony rides can be in the front yard, along a sidewalk or even in a parking lot. Many pony parties are held in a local community park but you should find out if you need permission to have animals in any particular park and if a permit is necessary to reserve a certain area or pavilion.
The petting zoo only needs a 15 to 20 ft. diameter area. In a small yard we usually set the petting zoo in the middle of the yard and give pony rides around it. If a Bouncy Castle, BBQ cooker, picnic table(s), trampoline or any other large object is going to be in the yard we would like to know about it in advance.
If we are setting up the petting zoo on a hot day, we need a shady area so the animals won’t be uncomfortable. Trees are great and a tent is fine too. A nearby water supply is important. If there is none, we can bring our own water, but we need to know in advance.
Who picks up after the pony or petting zoo at my party?
Please let us know ahead of time if you want us to pick up after the petting zoo animals. We always pick up after the pony, especially if the party is held in your back yard. We do not always pick up after the smaller petting zoo animals because their droppings are tiny and disappear into your grass quickly.
What if there is bad weather, or if it starts to rain the day of the party?
If it begins to rain after we arrive, we will continue with the rides as long as it is not lightning and the conditions remain safe.
If it begins to rain before the party or the forecast calls for rain the day of the event, you may postpone the party to another day and your deposit will be transferred.
Are there any restrictions to ride the pony?
--We do not recommend children under the age of 2 yrs. to ride the pony, although sitting the younger child on the pony makes for a great photo op.
--Children between 2 years and 3 years must be walked/accompanied by either a parent, relative or both pony handlers during the ride to insure their safety.
--We allow one pony/horse for every 12-15 participants. Please tell us ahead of time how many (your best guess) people and what age range will be participating. The weight limit for the Mini Horse is 50 lbs., for the Shetland pony is 75 lbs., for the Welch sized pony, 125 lbs, and for the horse, 175 lbs.
What if we own a dog?
Your pet(s) is most likely not accustomed to ponies so to avoid stress on your pet(s) and our pony, we suggest that you put them somewhere they may be happier, inside if possible.
If our party begins at 3:00 pm, when will you arrive?
We attempt to arrive 30 minutes early if we have only ponies or only petting zoo. We like to have 45 minutes set up time if we have ponies and petting zoo. Our set up time is not part of your reserved party time. Your full rental time will begin the moment we inform you that we are ready.
If we have an unexpected delay, I will contact you. Be assured that we will stay for the entire contracted time.
What do you accept for final payment at the party?
We accept cash, money orders and personal checks. Please have your payment ready when we arrive or during our set up. This makes it easy for us to leave at the appointed time without disturbing you during the party and allows us to arrive at our next event punctually.