What is pony play?
In the BDSM context, pony play is a type of pet play, i.e. a type of role play that involves slipping into the role of a horse. It is about imitating an animal, but does not describe sexualized contact with animals. Outfits reminiscent of costumes and typical accessories such as bridles, whips and reins are often used. The person who takes on the role of a horse tries to embody a real horse as authentically as possible.
Pony play often includes techniques from real equestrian sport. There are also different types of human horses: Breeding horses, dressage horses, Ponyboys and Ponygirls or working horses. Some must or may even pull carriages or sulkies and perform tricks. Many ponies therefore have a trainer, handler or trainer, i.e. a person who trains the human horse, gives it commands and more. Pony play therefore often looks bizarre to outsiders. Not only because of the visual appearance, but also because of the often elaborate staging of horse and trainer.
Even though you see many examples of fully outfitted human horses on the internet, such gear is not necessarily required. Pony play is possible without a material battle because it’s more about the mindset, the feeling.
Pony play also distinguishes between kinksters that actually think like real horses in their role as horses and behave and want to be treated accordingly. This is known as pet space, a specific form of subspace. On the other hand, there are the Ponyboys or Ponygirls, i.e. people who experience a power imbalance through their appearance and treatment as a horse. The latter often do not behave in an exclusively equine manner, but also retain their human sexuality in their role, for example.
Why do people engage in pony play?
Ponies have a high value in pop culture. They appear in various comics, films, radio plays and series. Interestingly, some ponyplayers say that “playing ponies” in kindergarten was their introduction to BDSM. For many, pet play and pony play are a way to put their own person aside for a while. By slipping into the role of an animal or, in this case, a horse, you allow yourself to feel more on an instinctive level. As an animal, it is often all about recognizing, interpreting and obeying commands. Not having to decide every step yourself can be very relaxing.
A horse uses a lot of non-verbal communication when being trained and led by an owner. Sensing this and constantly improving and deepening it in play with each other can be very intimate and create a bond. It’s not just about trust and obedience. Horses are strong animals that test their limits and their rank. As a human horse, it doesn’t have to be primarily about submission. There is often an exchange and a dynamic between pony players that differs from many other types of pet play.
If you play as a Ponyboy or Ponygirl, the attraction can also lie in the humiliation. Acting out your role in front of an audience, performing tricks and having to trot on a rein can be humiliating. As can wearing a bridle or gag that prevents you from speaking. Many pony play outfits also have a bondage character or are made of leather or latex. Especially when the really powerful horse is bullied, whipped or sexually controlled as a human Ponyboy or Ponygirl, it can be an exciting exchange of power for those involved.
What should be considered?
If pony play appeals to you, there is no reason not to give it a try. You shouldn’t let the bizarre look or the fear of doing something wrong stop you from experiencing something new. After all, no perfect horse has ever fallen from the sky! It’s best to find out first whether you really like equestrian behavior and/or the role of a pony player before you invest a lot of money in the right equipment. This can be very expensive. Especially when it comes to latex masks, fine halters and custom-made equipment. All this is nice to have for enthusiasts, but not a must for pony play. A gag will do for a start.
