A while ago several horses at the barn had their teeth floated. I had Trillium's checked, but she didn't seem to need work. I have had horses in the past that needed floating twice a year. The age of the horse, where and what it eats, and how fast its teeth grow all have a bearing on the frequency teeth need attention.

Many horses need semi-annual, annual floats or at very least a regular check up. Floating the teeth removes any sharp edges that may make it difficult to chew or carry a bit. If your horse is losing condition, tossing its head, carrying its head oddly, is a sloppy eater or has bad breath it may need a dental check up. When was the last time your horse's teeth were checked by a professional?

I remember watching the Disney movie, Justin Morgan Had a Horse and deciding I must have a Morgan horse. My mother told me I could have one if I saved up $200 ( a lot of money way back then). I saved birthday money, collected bottles for exchange and searched the couch cushions until my back account reached the right amount. My mother then found a palomino Welsh pony mare in foal to a Morgan stallion. I didn't quite get a Morgan horse, but a Morgan-Welsh cross.

Of course, it helped that my mother's passion was horses and we lived on a farm already. There was no question of whether I was ready for a horse or not. This pony was in fact my third or fourth. But not every child who wants a horse can get one so easily. What do you do when your child is begging for a horse or pony? Read Should You Buy Your Child a Horse or Pony for tips that may help you make the right decisions.

More About Buying Kid's Ponies

• You Want a Horse or Pony: How to Convince Your Parents
• Buying A Child's First Pony FAQ

Horses can get a bit fumble-footed just like the rest of us. But what if your horse is stumbling frequently? Sometimes the answer is as simple as having the blacksmith out to trim your horse's hooves. But sometimes the problem can be a bit more serious. Here are some possible reasons why a horse stumbles.

Read More About Common Riding Problems

• Why Does My Horse Buck When I Ride It?
• Why Does My Horse Toss Its Head?

A horse or pony may be on the top of your Christmas list this year. But horse ownership is a big responsibility, it can be expensive and safety is priority. So if you are in the position of asking your parents (or Santa) for a horse this Christmas here are a few tips that may help you out. Read How To Convince Your Parents to Buy You a Horse and get ready to go to work to prove a horse or pony is a good idea.

More About Buying Your First Horse

• Top Ten Mistakes New Horse Buyers Make
• Finding Your First Horse or Pony