What is the first step in safely catching a pony in the field?

Approaching the pony from the front and walking to its shoulder is critical for safety and effective communication with the animal. By approaching from the front, you allow the pony to see you coming, which reduces the chances of startling it. Moving towards the shoulder is important as this is a safe area for both you and the pony; being at the shoulder gives you the ability to lead the pony without being directly in front of it where it may feel trapped or threatened.

Additionally, this method facilitates a more comfortable interaction since it allows the pony to keep you in its line of sight while maintaining its natural flight response. This approach also sets a calm tone, helping the pony feel at ease, which is essential when catching it in an open area. Other methods, such as running towards the pony, can create fear, while calling its name or using treats might work but do not address the importance of safety in the approach. Therefore, the correct procedure prioritizes the well-being of both the pony and the person catching it.