Would you loan/buy a 20y old pony as a first pony for dd?

[Frangipane1976]

As above really. My 9yo dd is now ready for her first pony having had weekly lessons for three years. So that we really know what we're getting ourselves into (i used to be horsey myself but haven't had a pony or ridden for 15 years now) I want to take a loan pony. This one is loan/possible sale. His ad is as follows and we're going to see him this afternoon:
13.2hh 20yo New Forest Gelding for full loan or possible sale. Ideal 1st/2nd pony or lightweight adult. Loves to jump, loves lots of fuss and attention, 100% in every way. Contact for more info/questions.

What do you think?

Yes, I would loan an older pony.
Far better to have an old pony that has been round the block a few times than a younger feisty thing.
Seen it so many times, parents getting an inappropriate pony that sucks the life of the child.
Nowadays, 20 isn't old either.
I would give them a ring.

Brilliant, that was exactly my opinion fuctifino. We're going to see him this afternoon. Excited. Will post back and let you know how it goes.

I'd definitely loan an older pony but at that age, and your daughters age, she will grow out of it and you will struggle to sell on/be stuck with an older pony.

20yo is a great age for a first pony. Loan if you can so that if there are any issues you can return him.

Call me a cynic though but how can a pony be ideal for 1st pony, 2nd pony or adult rider? It's either truly one in a million or the seller will say anything to sell.

Absolutely nothing wrong with a 20 year old. I'm looking for a safe old plod for myself at the moment and will happily look to buy a 20 year old (as long as the medical history is ok) as all I need is a weekly wander round the bridle paths. If you are planning to loan then totally fine.

How did it go frangipan?

He was lovely. I'm guessing what she meant by the 1st/2nd/adult thing is he's done it all, with being her 1st pony (she's had him for 12 years) then loaned as a second pony and the last loan was to a small adult. My dd rode him around the sand school, walk, trot and canter. He listened to her and did what was asked of him. He was great to tack up, groom etc. and is apparently good in all other respects - but doesn't like other horses near his bum. We've asked to take him on loan with view to buy. Completely take the point about him being outgrown but I have a 6y old who also rides (she rode him yesterday by herself) so he can be passed on to her. Just waiting to hear back from his owner.

He sounds ideal and not liking other horses near his bum is not unusual.
Hope you have good news from the owner.

Sounds fab, hope you hear soon from the owner

We're getting him this weekend! .

Oh lovely ! I hope he brings you all lots of fun !