[JenB]

At least Tolkien only let Eagles, dragons, and spiders talk. Since the spiders are descendants of Ungoliant, the Eagles are a special case, and everyone knows dragons are something else entirely, it's ok. Oh, and there were those ravens but again, a special case. Sheep don't go around talking to Hobbits. Nor does Bill the pony speak. I think we're all quite glad of that!

[Overtaxed]

Nor does Bill the pony speak

According to Sam he would if he spent much more time around Elves. Maybe that's what happened to Francis the Talking Mule and Mister Ed. (Willlburrr!)