"Sure! Of course it's okay! Would you like to try riding, too?" She guestures towards the paddock gate. Sassy, she knows, won't dare miss an opportunity to be patted and get some carrots and apples.

"I've got a bucket of carrots and apples, if you'd like to feed them too." Smiling, she hopes he doesn't feel threatened here. "Oh! And I'm Ellie, it's nice to meet you!"