Latest from Horse & Hound in Shetland-ponies

‘Every step was agonising’: ponies found with overgrown feet and their joints collapsing find their happy ending

Eleanor Jones — Thu, 25 Jun 2026 12:52:11 +0000

Two Shetlands who were so neglected they could barely walk when they were rescued have recovered so well, they will be able to meet supporters next month.

Jewels and her daughter Ariel were taken in by HorseWorld in January, after the charity was contacted by the RSPCA. Both had severely overgrown hooves, “making walking almost impossible”.

“X-rays revealed both ponies had chronic laminitis, with significant rotation of the pedal bone in all four feet,” a HorseWorld spokesperson said. “The damage had developed over a prolonged period and was causing extreme pain.”

The charity’s equine welfare advisor Meg Challinor was among those who responded to the emergency call.

“When the call and initial photos came in from the RSPCA, I knew we had to act fast,” she said.

“Within 40 minutes we were onsite with the emergency vet. I knew immediately they had been suffering for a long time.

“Their hooves had grown so badly that the bones inside their feet had shifted. Their joints had begun to collapse. Every single step they took was clearly absolutely agonising. They needed to be removed immediately.”

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

Both ponies were underweight and Jewels had a deep indentation on her face where a headcollar had been left on for a long period of time.

When they arrived at HorseWorld, the charity’s teams assessed the pair.

“Despite the severity of their condition, the ponies quickly revealed bright, curious personalities and a strong will to recover,” the spokesperson said.

“Today, Ariel and Jewels are making excellent progress thanks to ongoing specialist veterinary care, expert farriery, careful management and round-the-clock support from HorseWorld’s welfare team.

“The pair are now looking forward to a future that once seemed impossible and will be among the horses and ponies meeting visitors at HorseWorld’s annual Horse Fest Open Day on Saturday, 25 July.”

Visitors will be able to meet other horses and ponies, watch demonstrations and take part in activities, as well as learning more about the charity.

“While Ariel and Jewels’ story has a happy ending, HorseWorld warns that they are far from an isolated case,” the spokesperson said, adding that the number of calls to the charity about equines in crisis is increasing, as costs continue to rise.

“Ariel and Jewels are just two of many horses who urgently need help each year,” said Ms Challinor. “Cases like theirs remind us why it is so important that we can act immediately when concerns are reported. Every horse deserves the chance of a safe, healthy future.”

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‘We thought we were going to have to have him put down’: much loved 20-year-old bounces back to lead Shetland one-two in 2026 Royal Windsor senior ridden championship

Millie Bowles — Tue, 19 May 2026 14:26:37 +0000

A much-loved gelding who was almost put down on health grounds has claimed the 2026 Royal Windsor senior ridden championship.

The Richardson family’s Shetland Briar Snowman has been a prolific competitor under saddle. Two years ago, they feared they would lose him to a bout of laminitis.

But ridden by 10-year-old Penny Richardson, and now aged 20, the grey gelding is back on form.

Penny’s mother Lucy said: “He was very poorly a couple of years ago. He had really bad laminitis.

“We thought we were going to have to have him put down. We’ve nursed him along and now he’s back in the ring.”

The family have owned Snowman for nine years, and he competed at the highest levels predominantly with Penny’s sister Lily.

Lucy says they are pleased to have the senior classes to try in his later years, adding: “Penny didn’t get to ride him as much as Lily, so it’s wonderful.”

Penny said: “This is his favourite show. He likes hacking, and he likes going to the sweet shop and getting polos. He’s one of my favourite ponies to ride.”

It was a Shetland one-two in the 2026 Royal Windsor senior ridden championship.

In reserve was Queenie Follows aboard 28-year-old Clothie Nightcap. They were led to victory by Queenie’s father Stebe Follows in the senior-plus class for ponies aged 24 and over.

Queenie Follows and Clothie Nightcap, led by Steve Follows. (Image credit: creditUnknown)

When he’s not showing, Nightcap has an interesting role. He has been owned by the Royal Regiment of Scotland for the past seven years, and is their official mascot’s companion.

His breeder Elinor Bosanquet of the Clothie Pony Stud, who shows him on behalf of his owners, said: “He’s taught loads of kids to ride and drive. He still drives and rides today.

“He loves people and he goes round various shows with their mascot, meeting and greeting.”

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‘More!’ 15-month-old rider loves her first ride on tiny stallion – who has his dinner in the kitchen

Eleanor Jones — Sun, 29 Mar 2026 16:52:51 +0000

Tiny rider Lula Noble-Lewis may not be able to speak much yet but she knows “pony” – and “more”, which was her call after her very first ride, aged 15 months, on stallion Simba.

Lula’s mother Tamsin told H&H she and her husband Jamie bought the miniature Shetland for Lula’s first birthday in December, and the pair have developed a close bond.

“It’s just so sweet,” she said. “It’s a very trusting relationship. I wasn’t brought up in the horsey world, but I’m realising now the bond you can have with them, it’s really lovely. They follow each other around and there’s that trust, so when she was riding him, it was just the perfect fit.”

Tamsin said Jamie was originally the horsey one; she “married into it – and I love it”.

“We’ve got five horses now, including Simba, and I’ve started riding too,” she said. “It’s our bread and butter so we wanted to get her a pony and he’s so lovely.

“We didn’t go out looking for a stallion! I was looking at ponies, and showing them to Jamie as he knows so much more than me. Simba was for sale and they said he was really good with kids. When we went to see him, Jamie did a few bits with him and we thought he was perfect – and he has been.”

The Noble-Lewises brought Simba home in November and he and Lula were introduced soon afterwards. They have been spending time together ever since, but Lula’s parents waited until her balance and walking had improved to put her on board for the first time last weekend.

A photo posted by on

“When we took her off, she was just saying ‘More? More?’” Tamsin said. “She’s got a little rocking horse in her room and we’ve been putting her on that and clicking, so she does that now but she’s upgraded from her bedroom pony to a real one.

“She says ‘pony, Mum, Dad’; the odd word, but a lot of them, and she definitely knows what ‘more’ means! We can’t pass the stables without saying hello to him, or she gets very upset.”

And it’s not just passing the stables either; videos on Tamsin’s Instagram show that Simba is also a frequent visitor to the house.

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

“I was working from home recently, as we’d started having the nice weather, and Simba just wandered in,” Tamsin said. “Of course Lula absolutely loved it and now it’s taken off. I call it Simba and Lula’s kitchen; he just comes in and has his dinner with her, it’s lovely. I leave the door open but if I don’t, he’s waiting at the back door – and it’s the longest she’ll stay in her high chair so it’s brilliant for me!”

A photo posted by on

Tamsin said coming into the equestrian world has been “an eye-opener”.

“It’s amazing, I’m so happy to be a part of it now,” she said. “Her childhood, growing up with ponies – what more could you want? I thought I needed to learn to ride and know what I’m doing, if she’s going to grow up with it, and it’s so nice as a family to do, even just going to the stables.

“People who don’t have horses might see it as a chore but I love it. I’m so glad this is our lifestyle now; I wouldn’t change it for anything.”

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‘He gave more than memories and red rosettes’: Fond farewell to Shetland who died aged 31

Bethan Simons — Mon, 02 Mar 2026 12:54:09 +0000

Connections have said a fond farewell to Hector of Transy, a Shetland small in stature but large in character and impact, who has died aged 31.

Hector of Transy, by White Field Ebony out of Mill Of Towie Holly, was bought by Penny Clifford, her sister Samantha Fry and mother Mildred Fry as a youngster and stayed in their ownership throughout his life. He spent his last years teaching children with Nicky Madeley.

“It’s was a typically grey, wet and windy Scottish day when Hector of Transy first came into our lives,” said Penny’s daughter Felicity.

“He was running wild in a herd of Shetlands at the Transy stud just outside Stirling. I remember sitting in stud owner Dougal Dick’s 4×4 while my mum and aunt tried to pick out the pony with the best conformation. It was a hard task keeping track of the one you wanted as they all looked the same: small, hairy and black.

“We eventually landed on one, a deal was struck for £220 and Hector became part of our family. He was bought to help build my confidence after a bad fall and bullying at school left me incredibly nervous. He had never been handled, other than to be gelded and get his microchip, so we herded him into the trailer and took him home a few weeks after that first meeting.

Hector and Felicity meeting Father Christmas. (Image credit: creditUnknown)

“Then began the process of handling him. We were told to treat him like a big horse and he spent six weeks being leant over and long-reined around the roads of Ayrshire before I was allowed to get on him. I don’t remember the first time I rode Hector but once I was on him, any road or field we could safely access became our playground.”

Hector was extremely successful in the show ring; his CV included wins at the Royal Highland Show and Ponies UK and he stood reserve champion for the Scottish Farmer best Shetland award. He also qualified for Horse of the Year Show.

“Hector was never intended to be a show pony but he was a remarkably successful one,” said Felicity. “His forte was looking after small children as a lead rein and first-ridden pony, often the only Shetland in among the Welsh Section As and Dartmoors. He also had roles such as Nana the dog from Peter Pan in the fancy dress.”

One of Hector’s more memorable performances was a rendition of a drunken Shetland in the dressage to music competition – performed to Donald Where’s Your Troosers – at Ponies UK which earned him a spot in H&H in 2003. He also impressed Queen Camilla at the opening of the SRUC rural college in 2007 where he charmed her into dubbing him “lovely”.

Hector’s also made a tremendous impact outside the show ring, teaching 10 children to ride and about the joy of horses. Felicity was his first rider, and when she grew too tall for him, he moved to Nicky Madeley’s where he was loved for his last 16 years. Her son Freddie was his last rider.

Hector and his final young rider, Freddie. (Image credit: creditUnknown)

His adventures were many and with varying degrees of success.

“Herding sheep? Yes, we were quite good at that. Hunting? We had small legs so we couldn’t do the jumps but we made it round. Pony sleepovers were a particular highlight. Hector would be delivered to the school gates on a Friday afternoon to spend a weekend at a friend’s house, making Hector appropriate jumps and cantering wherever we could,” said Felicity, who also remembers falling off every time she rode Hector on the beach.

”What more could you want for an animal to have lived a life full of love until his last moments? My mum should be proud she produced a pony that was not only successful in the show ring but also taught children the joy of horses. We have said goodbye to the ultimate children’s pony, who gave more than memories and red rosettes.”

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From youngest to oldest, smallest to tallest: meet the showjumpers and Shetlands flying first-class to Hong Kong

Eleanor Jones — Sat, 31 Jan 2026 12:12:29 +0000

Nine Shetland ponies – and seven dogs – joined 51 top showjumping horses flying by plane from Belgium to the Far East this week for the Longines International Hong Kong Horse Show (30 January-1 February).

The 12-hour Cathay Cargo charter flight from Liege was carrying the equine stars of this second running of the event, organised by the team behind the London International Horse Show. H&H reported last year that as well as five-star showjumping, audiences have the chance to watch the Shetland Pony Grand National. And participants in both disciplines were among the horses flying to Hong Kong.

The oldest equine passenger on board was 20-year-old Shetland Cranford Fantastic, whose “calm confidence makes him perfectly suited to long-haul journeys”, a Cathay Cargo spokesperson said.

The oldest showjumping horse who has made the trip is John Whitaker’s team world bronze medal-winning ride Equine America Unick Du Francport, aged 17, and the youngest equine passenger was eight-year-old Shetland Okehurst Florence.

Cathay’s cargo director Dominic Perret said: “Transporting these world-class equine athletes is both a privilege and a huge responsibility. We understand the pressure riders and owners face ahead of elite competition, which is why our role is to eliminate travel as a source of stress. Our expertise in live animal logistics has seen a year-on-year tonnage growth in this segment, and supporting this world-class event reinforces our position as the trusted partner for high-stakes animal transport.”

The Cathay spokesperson explained that the Boeing 747 freighter has stalls accommodating one to three horses, and that the passengers are stabled at the airport the night before the flight.

“They have priority boarding, meaning all procedures are expedited to ensure the shortest transit time possible at both departure and arrival airports,” he said. “Throughout the flight, they’re accompanied by specialist attendants who ensure they have everything they need.

The horses are unloaded in Hong Kong (Image credit: creditUnknown)

“Thanks to careful pre-flight preparation, expert in-flight care, and their own impressive air miles, these seasoned travellers arrive in top competitive fitness.”

The horses get ad-lib hay, “and may also enjoy a light meal” at 30,000 feet, there is water available at all times and electrolytes if needed. The temperature on board is set at 12-14C and conditions are monitored throughout the flight.

“After touchdown, the priority is simple: rest, rehydrate, and stretch,” the spokesperson said. “Calm, low-stress ground handling helps ease the transition from air to land, and light exercise combined with gradual training ensures horses are ready to perform at their peak.”

Horses flying to Hong Kong: showjumpers and Shetlands

Among the riders competing at the Asia-World Expo this weekend are Brits John Whitaker and Sameh El Dahan, Simon Delestre and Roger Yves Bost of France, Norway’s Geir Gulliksen and Germany’s Richard Vogel.

The Shetland stars include Damerham Briar Lily, whose training includes swimming in the sea off her local beach, Beeftub Felix, who “loves joining the family for breakfast and will happily sit at the kitchen table” and Slades Dewberry, who has a regular gig pulling Father Christmas’s sleigh through his home village.

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‘Miracle’ pregnant mare temporarily blinded by life-threatening sepsis survives – and keeps her unborn foal

Eleanor Jones — Sat, 10 Jan 2026 17:09:59 +0000

The owner of a pregnant “miracle” mare who survived life-threatening sepsis that made her temporarily blind has praised the vets who saved her – and her unborn foal.

Di Johnston faced the possibility of having to put her seven-year-old miniature Shetland Parlington Flair down as she was so ill with the condition, triggered by an abdominal infection that had spread to her eyes.

She was taken to Rainbow Equine Hospital in North Yorkshire, where the team could only give her a very low chance of survival, and keeping her unborn foal.

A spokesperson for VetPartners, which owns Rainbow, said Di’s usual vet took a sample of fluid from Flair’s abdomen after she had stopped eating and was showing signs of discomfort. This showed she was suffering from bacterial peritonitis, which led to sepsis. Sepsis, a life-threatening reaction to an infection, causes the body’s immune system to attack its own tissues and organs.

“I decided that I had to do what I could to save Flair; she’s only seven and she’s extremely special to us,” said Di. “We bred her, as well as her mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, and her line goes back six generations. She was very sick, but I knew I could trust the team at Rainbow to give her the best chance.”

Rainbow vet Lizzie Cullen, a European specialist in equine internal medicine, said Flair was seriously ill and had to be carefully unloaded when she arrived at the hospital as the infection was affecting her vision.

She added that Flair was a particularly challenging case because as well as peritonitis and sepsis, she had uveitis affecting both eyes, inflammation in her colon and high levels of fat in her bloodstream.

Flair is now recovering at home (Image credit: creditUnknown)

“After discussions with her owner, the decision was made to treat her medically, to avoid performing surgery that the unborn foal would not survive,” the spokesperson said.

Flair was given pain relief, intravenous antibiotics, anti-inflammatories and anti-thrombotics to prevent blood clots. She was given intestinal adsorbents, substances that soak up toxins, intravenous fluids to keep her hydrated and progesterone to support the pregnancy.

Lizzie said: “When Flair arrived at Rainbow she was very ill and the odds were stacked against her.

“She had a number of complications and the fact she developed septic uveitis is very unusual. It’s something often seen in critically ill foals, but it’s rare in adult horses and meant Flair was so sick there had been a breakdown of the protective blood-eye barrier, leading to inflammation inside the eye.

“Flair was at Rainbow for 10 days and our focus was on giving her the best possible supportive care. She had vets, nurses and the yard team monitoring her every day and throughout the night, and it was a real team effort to save her. Everyone was absolutely delighted when she turned a corner and felt well enough to eat again.”

Lizzie said it is still unclear what caused Flair’s illness, and she is very lucky her condition responded to the medication.

“Some of the common causes of such severe peritonitis, such as a penetrating wound or a leak in the gastrointestinal tract, would require surgery and the foal wouldn’t have been able to survive, and such causes are also commonly fatal for the horse,” she said. “We don’t know if the foal has been affected by the medication Flair received, but when we gave her a final check before she left the hospital it had a strong heartbeat, which is positive.”

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

Flair is back at home, Di’s Parlington Miniature Shetland Stud.

“Everyone at Rainbow was amazing,” Di said. “It’s due to their care that she’s still here and I can’t thank them enough. Lizzie was great and explained everything clearly, so we understood what was happening and could make informed decisions, and we were sent regular updates on how she was doing.

“We breathed a huge sigh of relief when they sent through a photo of Flair eating a bowl of grass when she started feeling better. It was my mum, Barbara Johnston’s, 95 birthday, and she set up our stud in 1956, so hearing that Flair was getting better made it an extra special day.

“I’m also very grateful to our usual vet Ellie Keightley of Bainbridge Vets who saw Flair when she was first unwell and diagnosed her quickly and referred us to Rainbow.

“It’s so lovely to have Flair back home with the herd and she’s been out grazing happily and even had a buck in the field, so she seems to be feeling well. It feels like a miracle that Flair is still here, but it will be the perfect ending if she gives birth to a healthy foal next spring.”

Signs of sepsis in horses:

Any source of infection can lead to sepsis if the bacteria enter the bloodstream. Here are some signs to watch out for, although some are not specific to sepsis and can be caused by other diseases:

Lethargy and depression
Fever or an abnormally low temperature
Rapid heart rate
Rapid or laboured breathing
Dark red or purple mucous membranes (gums)
Cool extremities
Weak or absent pulses

If you think your horse could be suffering from sepsis, contact your vet as an emergency.

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Cheeky Shetland on perfect behaviour to welcome The King to Balmoral

Lucy Elder — Thu, 21 Aug 2025 16:24:18 +0000

Shetland Corporal Cruachan IV joined the guard of honour to officially welcome The King to Balmoral – marking the start of His Majesty’s summer holiday in Scotland.

The pony, who took a cheeky swipe at The late Queen’s bouquet at one of their many meetings some years ago, is the beloved mascot of The Royal Regiment of Scotland.

He joined Balaklava Company, 5th Battalion, to greet His Majesty on Monday (18 August), standing proudly with his handler, Pony Major Corporal Rory Stewart as The King inspected his Royal Guard.

“Balaklava Company has the unique privilege of supporting His Majesty The King and the royal household during their summer court in Scotland,” said Major Tommy Blair, the officer commanding Balaklava Company.

“It’s a huge honour to command this parade today marking His Majesty’s arrival at Balmoral, and we’re looking forward to spending the coming months in Royal Deeside.”

Cpl Cruachan IV, 16, who measures just 10.3hh, took up his role in October 2012 and is entitled to wear the operational medals awarded to the regiment during his tenure as mascot.

He lives with his uncle, Nightcap, who ensures his nephew is “put back in his box” if he is getting a little too big for his boots.

The two ponies spend most of their time in stables at Redford Barracks, where they are cared for by Cpl Stewart, and enjoy trips to the beach when the weather is kind.

The King is colonel in chief of The Royal Regiment of Scotland, and Balaklava Company will remain on royal guard in Balmoral for the rest of the summer.

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‘Adorable’ but tiny 15kg foal carries a message to would-be horse breeders

Eleanor Jones — Sun, 17 Aug 2025 15:37:56 +0000

This tiny foal may be the smallest – and most adorable – you’ve ever seen.

Pint-sized Pam, who is 5.2hh or 22in tall and weighed 15kg at her birth in July, is likely to be hugely popular with visitors to her home, World Horse Welfare’s Glenda Spooner Farm in Somerset.

But although she and her mother Sophie have homes for life and a secure future, the charity said her arrival highlights the need for potential breeders to stop and think about whether any foal they breed will have the same.

“Adorable foals like Pam are – unsurprisingly! – very popular with our visitors,” said centre manager Claire Dickie.

“Thankfully, Pam arrived safely without needing veterinary intervention, but foals do present a huge cost to our charity, from initial vet visits – whether routine or emergency – to vaccinations, and microchipping and passporting them.”

Shetland Sophie was part of a group who were rescued last September, unhandled and nervous of people.

Picture by World Horse Welfare (Image credit: creditUnknown)

“Having been born in safety, tiny Pam has had good experiences from day one,” Ms Dickie said. “She’s already very confident and has taken meeting the vet in her stride.

“Both Pam and her mum have a safe future now, but I’d urge anyone considering breeding their own foal to stop and really think about whether they can guarantee them a good home for life. It’s very easy to think that if you’re only breeding a small number of foals – whether one a year or even one in your lifetime – that you’re not having a significant impact on the number of horses out there looking for homes. However, in reality there are thousands of people doing the same each year which adds up to a huge number of extra horses.”

The charity has launched a quiz on its website for people considering breeding. Nine foals have been born in World Horse Welfare centres this year, including one to a mare rescued from being smuggled out of the country.

“World Horse Welfare is incurring significant costs for those 11 alone,” a charity spokesperson said. “To support Pam’s ongoing care, as well as to help other vulnerable horses rescued by World Horse Welfare, visit out website.”

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Want a standard Shetland? Follow this guide on how to find the perfect pony

Alex Robinson — Sun, 29 Jun 2025 07:30:59 +0000

If you want to buy a Shetland pony for yourself if you’re a small adult or for your child, then this guide with tips from a breeder is good place to start.

What is a Shetland pony?

The Shetland pony is a British native breed of pony that hails from the Shetland Isles. It is a small and hardy breed, standing at no more than 42 inches (107 cms), while their minimum height limit is 28 inches (71.1 cms).

The Shetland Pony Stud Book Society provides a breed standard that describes the ideal type:

Shetland ponies may be any colour known in horses except spotted. The mane and tail hair should be long, straight and profuse.

The head should be small, and in proportion. Ears should be small and erect, wide set but pointing well forward. Forehead should be broad with bold, dark, intelligent eyes. Muzzle must be broad with nostrils wide and open. Teeth and jaw must be correct.

The neck should be properly set onto the shoulder, which in turn should be sloping, not upright, and end in a well defined wither. The body should be strong, with plenty of heart room, well sprung ribs, the loin strong and muscular.

The quarters should be broad and long with the tail set well up on them.

These should have good, flat bone. Strong forearm. Short balanced cannon bone. Springy pasterns.

The thighs should be strong and muscular with well-shaped strong hocks. When viewed from behind, the hindlegs should not be set too widely apart, nor should the hocks be turned in.

Straight and free action using every joint. Tracking up well.

The feet should be tough, round and well shaped.

A most salient and essential feature of the Shetland pony is its general air of vitality (presence), stamina and robustness.

Shetland ponies are shown in small breed ridden mountain and moorland (M&M) classes and currently they compete against Exmoors at the Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) final. They are popular choices for junior, lead rein and first ridden ponies, too, given their size. Scopey Shetlands have also featured in 122cm working hunter pony classes over the years.

The Shetland Pony Grand National is an organisation that raises money each year for a nominated charity. A number of ponies and their jockeys race at prestigious venues across the country.

Shetland ponies are also a good option for driving exhibits given their temperaments, weight-carrying abilities, stamina and intelligence.

What should I look for when I buy a Shetland pony?

Claire Connor of the Acresdale Prefix has been breeding Shetlands for a decade.

She regularly imports stock from Europe, also selling foals and youngstock to homes in the UK and across the globe. Her ponies have won breed show championships and have also contended HOYS, London International and The Royal International Horse Show under-saddle.

“First and foremost, a Shetland pony needs to have a good temperament, especially if it’s for a child,” Claire says. “No matter how good a quality a pony may be, if it’s not got a level head and trainable willing nature you won’t be able to get the very best out of that pony.”

Alongside this, Claire says it’s important to source a pony from a reputable and knowledgeable breeder who will have ensured the pony has had the best upbringing prior to your acquisition of it: “People might breed or buy a Shetland as they assume they’re funny, cute and small, and while they are, I’ve seen ponies regularly allowed to run riot and perform tricks, such as rearing up at people especially as foals. Once they get into these habits it’s very hard to stop that behaviour and once fully grown can become dangerous.”

Buying from somebody who has given the pony the correct upbringing and education is advised.

“Shetlands, as with any breed, can also have health issues. For example, some ponies can have issues with their mouths. Jaws can be undershot or overshot meaning their teeth do not aline correctly. Even if you’re not wanting to show, a pony with an incorrect mouth could potentially have issues with eating.

“Also look out for incorrect movement and permanent noise in stifle and hock joints. It doesn’t appear to cause pain, but it can cause a pony to move incorrectly and should be avoided if possible.

“Ultimately, the stamp of Shetland you should look for will depend on the job you want the pony to do; If someone is coming to look at a pony I will always ask what job they have in mind. Do you want the pony for a show/ridden role, are you wanting it more as a family pet, or are you wanting to breed from the pony? It is important to look for attributes that would best suit the job in mind. For example Shetland ponies of a heavier stamp with a much shorter back and limb may not be quite as well suited for the ridden show job as your slightly more athletic stamp of Shetland is.

“Many showing people will seek a full-up 42 inch pony, though in my opinion they are overlooking some real quality marginally smaller ponies by having this mindset. Some people become fixated on the height, being willing to compromise on quality in the process; a bit like four white socks are often idealised in the Welsh breeds.”

Where should I buy a Shetland pony from?

There are online sale sites that have Shetland ponies advertised throughout the year.

You can also pursue private sales, or approach breeders, or visit auctions. The official Shetland breed sale is a warranted sale.

“If you are looking for a ready-made child’s pony with miles on the clock, then a private home could be the best option. “If you have the space and inclination, buying a foal is a good idea; you can put your own stamp on it and you will also get a larger variety of choice,” Claire continues. “Breeders are often looking to retain the three or four-year-olds they have run on in their studs, whereas they’re usually more willing to part with some of their best foals that would otherwise have been retained. You can usually get more for your money in the long run by doing this.”

How much should I expect to pay for a pony?

Claire says standard Shetlands are hard to come by these days, which has impacted the market.

“People have stopped breeding as much so there is consequently a huge lack of standard Shetlands, causing the prices to go up,” she says. “On average, you can buy a foal for between £500 and £1500, with the bigger studs often taking less money for one.

“There seems to be less demand for a one or two-year-old, so they’d usually sell for between £1200 and £1800, on average.

“The prices for three and four-year-olds then jump up massively. For a halter broken three-year-old ready to commence education you can be looking for an average of between £2500 and £3500.

“Ridden ponies can also fetch strong money as there is a big market for them; I’ve had ponies that are going under-saddle for sale that I could have sold 40 times over. Shetlands that do a bit of everything, but might not win HOYS, can go for between £8000 and £10,000. At the end of the day, finding the right pony is priceless to some people.”

I’ve agreed to buy a pony, now what?

It is time to organise a pre-purchase vetting, something that is strongly recommended. If the pony is for a child, perhaps asking for a trial period would be sensible, but not all sellers will agree to this.

It’s important to let the vet know prior to the vetting what you intend to use the pony for so they can assess it accordingly. If the pony is for a child, the vet will hopefully keep an eye on the temperament during the assessment, too. Small ponies can be more susceptible to laminitis so ask the vet to consider this risk.

“I would always check teeth, heart, eyes, limbs and stifles,” Claire says. “If you do not feel experienced enough to assess a pony, I do recommend seeking a vetting, even if just a two-stage, or asking for a simple vet check.”

For more information, you can read H&H’s ultimate guide to buying a horse.

Miniature therapy pony with ‘an awful lot of personality’ nominated for BBC award

Becky Murray — Sat, 21 Jun 2025 16:32:04 +0000

A miniature Shetland therapy pony who spreads joy to elderly residents in care homes and helps those with dementia has been nominated for an award.

Kaf Barriball’s 10-year-old gelding Jo, who is small in size but has an “awful lot of personality”, has been nominated for the animal category at the BBC’s Make a Difference Awards, which “recognise those who improve lives” in their local communities.

In 2019 Kaf was visiting her late elderly mother Janet, who had dementia, at a care home when she saw a sign on a notice board about ponies making window visits to residents.

“As my mum’s dementia progressed she became very, very withdrawn. I would take my German shepherd to visit but it got to a point nothing seemed to work. It was impossible to get any sort of interaction,” Kaf told H&H.

“When I saw the notice, I thought ‘Hang on, I’ve got a tiny pony. Can I bring him in?’”

Kaf first visited her mum with a friend’s older pony to test the water, then she started taking in the then three-year-old Jo.

“I had no clue what to expect, Mum had never had animals, but I was gobsmacked when she was chatting away to Jo,” said Kaf.

“Other residents who I had come to know and who would normally sit in chairs and not look up all wanted to speak to him.”

Kaf started her therapy business Rainbow Dreaming, visiting more care homes with Jo and her American miniature pony Bugs. In 2021, the year Janet died, Kaf applied to become a community interest company – a company for community benefit rather than private profit. The CIC status allows Janet to apply for funding to help subsidise the care home visits.

She is also raising money via a crowdfunder to allow some visits to be free. Donations can be made online.

“It’s not about making money, it’s about helping people,” said Kaf. “People aren’t often aware that these homes don’t have a lot of money for activities, and I think everybody should have access to this sort of thing. Taking Jo to visit my mum was one of the few things that brought her back out of her shell, and gave me my mum back for a short time.”

Kaf recently appeared on BBC Radio Lincolnshire as part of National Care Home Open Week and was accompanied by Jo in the studio. Kaf is also waiting to hear if Jo will be a finalist at the Make a Difference Awards in September.

“We’re not big on social media or very good at marketing, but there’s a lot of people like us doing things with therapy animals trying to make a difference,” said Kaf.

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Super-cute home-bred pony and home-bred rider take first ridden medal

Bethan Simons — Thu, 01 May 2025 10:18:54 +0000

Harry Joslin, nine, was delighted to be winner of the first ever ridden bronze medal for Shetlands astride Rhandolf of Catchpool, also nine years old.

The super-cute pair won their medal, awarded by the Shetland Pony Studbook Society (SPSBS), at the South and West Wales Shetland Pony Group Spring Show.

Although the SPSS has long had a tradition of supporting performance via its performance points scheme and hugely popular performance show, Harry’s mum, Lara Joslin, an experienced Shetland breeder and enthusiast, explained that the medals are part of a new initiative introduced by the SPSBS to further reward exhibitors on the day of competition, with a ridden and an in-hand equivalent awarded to the respective champions.

Harry and Rhandolf topped the first-ridden line-up en route to taking the championship. An added bonus for Harry was beating his brother, Oliver, into reserve after Oliver won the lead rein astride Harry’s former Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) and Royal International Horse Show (RIHS) finalist, Toby of Catchpool.

“We’re so pleased to be the recipients of the first ever ridden medal,” said Lara. “To have done so on a home-bred pony with a home-bred rider is a bonus, and to see both my boys do so well made me beyond proud.”

Rhandolf was bred by Lara and her mother, Anna Stevens, who was founder of the Catchpool stud of standard and miniature Shetlands at their home on the Gower near Swansea. He is sired by the über-successful Brinleyview Comanchee, twice winner of the RIHS, multiple HOYS finalist and Best of Breed at Olympia.

Rhandolf enjoyed an extremely successful term in in-hand classes with championships including at the National Pony Society Summer Championships and Nottinghamshire County, and he almost made history as the first Shetland to stand supreme in-hand at the Royal Welsh Agricultural Society’s summer show when he finished a close reserve in 2022.

“I’ve loved him as a type since he was born and I carried him down the field,” Lara told H&H. “I’m hoping now that he is gelded, he will be a super prospect for my boys in the first ridden classes.”

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Owner of pony found dead with chain still attached banned from keeping horses

Eleanor Jones — Mon, 24 Feb 2025 18:19:20 +0000

The owner of a Shetland who was found dead with a chain still attached to its tether – and another who was alive but in “very poor” condition has been given a suspended prison sentence.

Stephen Edward Griffiths, of Llansteffan, Carmarthenshire, was sentenced at Llanelli Magistrates’ Court on 13 February, having pleaded guilty to two animal welfare offences.

The 62-year-old had admitted caused unnecessary suffering to a male Shetland pony by failing to adequately investigate and address the cause of his poor body condition, and failing to meet the needs of both Shetlands.

The court heard that the RSPCA had been told there were two Shetland ponies needing a welfare check in Llansteffan. RSPCA Inspector Keith Hogben attended on 18 June last year.

“When I arrived at the location I observed a dead grey Shetland type pony in thin condition, hair loss with a chain attached to a collar around its neck but not attached to anything at the other end,” he said.

Mr Hogben added that near the dead pony was a coloured Shetland type in “obvious thin body condition with its spine and ribs easily visible” with a “skin issue”. He had been sprayed with purple spray and was tethered by a chain from his head collar to a tree.

Mr Hogben said there was a bucket of water near the tethered pony but he had been told the caller had put it there.

He asked an equine vet to attend, and Griffiths told him the grey Shetland had been dead for “a couple of days”, but he had not been able to move the body as his tractor had broken. Mr “Mr Hogben was also informed that he had only had the ponies in his care for ‘a couple of months’ and had rescued the skewbald pony from Cross Hands,” an RSPCA spokesperson said.

The skewbald was deemed fit to travel by the vet and was signed over into the RSPCA’s care.

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

In the vet’s witness statement, it was said that the skewbald miniature Shetland stallion was tethered on a short chain, approximately eight foot long.

“He was in a very poor body condition,” the vet said. “His access to available forage was limited due to the tether as the available space he could access was well grazed. He also had a very heavy lice infestation.” The pony’s body condition score was 0.5 out of five.

The vet said the dead grey mare was also in “very poor body condition”, with a body condition score of 0.5 out of five.

“Her spine and spinous processes were protruding, her ribs obvious to see despite her long coat and a skeletal body pelvis,” the vet said.

In mitigation it was heard that Griffiths is “genuinely remorseful”.

He was disqualified from keeping equines for 10 years and given a 16-week prison sentence for the first offence and 16 weeks for the second, to run concurrently and suspended for two years. He was made subject to a community order for one year, and ordered to complete 15 rehabilitation activity requirement days and pay £250 costs.

The surviving Shetland, Groovy Bob, has improved following veterinary treatment in RSPCA care and has been rehomed, the charity’s spokesperson said.

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Shetland ponies fly ‘business class’ to Hong Kong and arrive ‘feeling fabulous’

Eleanor Jones — Fri, 14 Feb 2025 18:01:01 +0000

To top showjumpers, flying all over the world is part of a day’s work. Perhaps less so to top Shetland ponies, who nevertheless took the trip from London to the Far East in style.

The eight tiny superstars were among some 70 horses flown from Europe to take part in the first Longines Hong Kong International Horse Show, at AsiaWorld-Expo from today (14 February) until Sunday. H&H reported that the Shetland Pony Grand National was to feature as part of the show, which is run by HPower, the team behind the London International Horse Show.

Peden Bloodstock arranged the transportation of some of the top showjumpers from Liege in Belgium, and others, and the Shetlands, from Heathrow. Peden director Henry Bullen told H&H today that the show is “amazing”.

“HPower has done an amazing job, it’s really well set up,” he said. “It’s very similar to London, just moved to Hong Kong – but I haven’t seen Father Christmas yet!”

Mr Bullen said Cathay Cargo provided the aircraft, as the show’s official airline partner; two Boeing 747 freighters.

“We had a full charter from Liege, with 46 horses on board, then another eight pallets of horses from Heathrow, including the eight Shetlands, and they all arrived at the same time,” he said. “The Shetlands travelled business class, like the showjumpers; three ponies to a container, in pure luxury.”

Mr Bullen said it was the first time the Shetlands had flown but they were perfect passengers for the 12-hour flight, during which they had hay and water available at all times and were under the supervision of specialist grooms and a vet.

“They came off the flight bouncing and in top form,” he said. “This is a first for the Shetland Pony Grand National to travel out of Europe and on an aircraft, and they were met with great excitement and enthusiasm.

“The handling agents at the airport did start to move one of the pallets thinking it was empty as they couldn’t see them! Then when we were unloading them, suddenly we had a contingent from the Hong Kong Jockey Club helping us. It’s a lovely atmosphere and great to have them here.”

A spokesperson for the Shetland Pony Grand National shared a video of the ponies’ journey, adding: “They arrived looking fantastic and feeling fabulous, happy to have a leg stretch, a roll, and, of course, plenty of scratches with their friends!”

HPower’s Jo Peck added: “We have been delighted to work with our airline partner Cathay Cargo in planning and delivering the logistics of flying these horses from Europe. The care and expertise demonstrated in handling these valuable sports horses using its Cathay live animal shipment solution has been hugely appreciated both by us and their riders.”

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‘They’ll set the event on fire’ Shetland ponies set to take Hong Kong by storm

Eleanor Jones — Sun, 02 Feb 2025 14:21:00 +0000

A team of Shetlands is set to take Hong Kong by storm this month as organisers feel they will “set the event on fire”.

Star combinations from the Shetland Pony Grand National series are flying out to take part in the first Longines Hong Kong International Horse Show, which runs from 14-16 February and is managed by HPower, the team behind the London International Horse Show and Royal Windsor.

The show features CSI5* showjumping – John and Jack Whitaker and Scott Brash are among the entries – and displays, as well as the famous racing Shetlands.

“The team wanted to bring a touch of London to Hong Kong and also provide them with a ‘never before seen’ experience,” a spokesperson for HPower told H&H. “Knowing that horse racing is very popular in Hong Kong, it was felt that the perfect fit for the show would be to take some riders from the Shetland Pony Grand National out to Hong Kong. Some of the riders that were seen in the finals at London International will be making the trip eastwards in February. The Hong Kong Jockey Club is one of the partners for the new Hong Kong show and the excitement is already mounting.”

Event director Jo Peck added that the team is delighted to be able to take the ponies and riders.

“We know that this will set the event on fire – it being a completely new experience to the Hong Kong audience who are so proud of their horse racing,” she told H&H. “I’m convinced these horses and riders are going to be an instant hit.”

Those who took part in the London puissance last year were invited to do the same, and the six-bar, in Hong Kong. The puissance entry list includes Brits Seb Hughes, Gemma Stevens, Nathan Bull, Maisy Williams, Elliott Smith and Paul Gaff.

It was announced last September that the first Longines Hong Kong International Horse Show would run, and that it is to be an annual event.

“It is a collaboration to bring world-class equestrian excellence to Hong Kong,” a spokesperson for the event said at the time. “Longines, the title sponsor with the founding partner the Hong Kong Jockey Club and partners Cathay Cargo and the Hong Kong Tourism Board, have thrown their full support behind LHKIHS, to create one of the most distinguished events in the equestrian calendar.”

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‘He laid in his lap and took his last breath’: devastation as much-loved pony dies after public feeding

Eleanor Jones — Sun, 26 Jan 2025 12:12:26 +0000

The owner of a Shetland who died after he was fed chestnuts by a member of the public said he was loved by all those who knew him – and should have had many happy years ahead.

Zoe Mullins’ nine-year-old Reggie died in his owners’ arms at the end of last year, despite all best efforts to save him. Zoe told H&H that she had repeatedly put signs up asking people not to feed him but that these were ripped down from the edges of his field in Kent.

“My daughter’s grown up with him; we’d had him since before she was born,” she said. “She’s absolutely devastated.”

Zoe said the family spent time with Reggie every day; grooming and playing with him and poo-picking his field. There is a public footpath nearby and houses backing on to it but she said everyone she spoke to was respectful of the need not to feed Reggie.

One morning late last year, Zoe got a call to say Reggie was unwell.

“He was foaming at the mouth, green stuff coming out of his nose, he couldn’t breathe properly,” she said. “I knew it was choke straight away; I called the vet, who treated him but after eight hours, he was no better.”

The vet tubed Reggie that evening but could not dislodge the blockage.

“She gave us two options,” Zoe said. “Take him to Bell Equine for surgery or put him down. We couldn’t leave him to suffer but they a miracle happened; we were rubbing his throat and managed to dislodge the blockage.”

Reggie was put on bute and antibiotics for 10 days and seemed to be recovering but the day after he finished his treatment, Zoe had another phone call to say he was ill again.

“We got there and saw a huge pile of chestnuts, a bag of cut grass and a big loaf of crusty bread and we could see he’d been eating it,” she said. “My partner went to get him so my daughter and I started picking it all up, then I heard my partner shouting for me.”

Zoe ran to the other end of the field to her partner and Reggie.

“It was horrific, how we found him,” she said. “He couldn’t breathe, and as my partner put the headcollar on him, he collapsed. My daughter and son were screaming, we were trying to get up, and all the people from the houses came out and were watching. I lost it; I said ‘It’s because of you; you killed this pony’. They all said it wasn’t them and just walked off; not one person offered to help.”

Zoe rang the vet again and she and her partner managed to get Reggie to his feet but had to support him to stay upright.

“I ran back to the yard to get him a rug; I ran as fast as I could but when I got back, my partner said ‘He’s gone’. He’d just laid in his lap and took his last breath, and that was it.”

Zoe said they had had Reggie seven years but had no issues until about a year ago when foods such as tomatoes, rabbit straw and potato peelings started appearing in the field.

“We put signs up and someone kept ripping them down,” she said, adding that she always checked the field and removed any potentially dangerous foods.

“He was nine; he was happy and healthy and everybody loved him. every little white pony my daughter saw afterwards, she’d say ‘Mummy, Reggie’s back’, and I’d have to say that wasn’t him, he’s in heaven. She’s devastated.”

Zoe posted on Facebook about what happened to Reggie and had hundreds of comments.

“People were saying they would miss him,” she said. “One lady said she’d lost her husband and his name was Reggie too so she’d walk down there every day to see him and she adored him. I just burst our crying, he was so loved by so many people.

“I’d never feed an animal without the owner’s permission. Why couldn’t people look at the signs and leave him alone?

“He was a lovely, lovely pony. We miss him so much; there will never be another one like him.”

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Shetland pony who ‘bears the scars of her past’ begins happy new year

Becky Murray — Fri, 17 Jan 2025 17:31:44 +0000

A Shetland pony who “still bears the scars of her past” has started the new year happy and healthy.

Marjorie, thought to be around 11, was rescued by police in December 2023, when she was found roaming close to a busy area of Harlow, Essex.

Police were unable to find Marjorie’s owner, and after she was treated by a vet at a holding yard, she was taken in by Redwings.

“She was very nervous, had injuries from improper tethering – the scars from which she still bears today – and a painful mouth caused by problems with her teeth,” said a Redwings spokesperson.

Marjorie joined two other Shetlands, Matty and Tiny, who had also recently arrived at Redwings, and the three became “fast friends”.

“Marjorie needed somewhere she could recover from her injuries and receive the ongoing dental care she needed, and with our amazing in-house horse hospital we knew we could help,” said Jo Franklin, Redwings senior field officer and the charity’s Ada Cole Centre manager.

“Over the weeks, Marjorie became used to being checked and cared for and when she was vaccinated for equine flu and tetanus, she showed signs that she was overcoming her nerves around people, which was amazing to see.”

Last September Redwings staff noticed Marjorie had nasal discharge, and an X-ray and dental examination showed her “problem teeth” were the likely source of a sinus infection.

“A diseased tooth was extracted from the back of her jaw and over the following weeks regular treatment from our wonderful vet nursing team also helped to clear the infection,” said Redwings head of veterinary and care Nicky Jarvis.

“Marjorie was relaxed about the whole experience and has made a good recovery from treatment.”

The spokesman said that Marjorie has started 2025 “happy and healthy”.

“She is back with her friends at Ada Cole, thanks to the specialist sanctuary care provided by Redwings and donations from the charity’s supporters, which make it all possible,” he said.

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‘It lights up their day’: farrier Father Christmas and Shetland ‘reindeer’ delight children with hospital visit

Eleanor Jones — Sun, 15 Dec 2024 19:21:42 +0000

Children in hospital were “mesmerised” by a visit from a farrier Father Christmas and a miniature “reindeer”.

Sam Dracott aka the big man joined Sarah Woodland of Dinky Ponies with mini Shetland Tinkerbell, sporting reindeer antlers, on the children’s ward at the Great Western Hospital in Swindon.

Sam, who has over six million followers on social media and usually stars in shoeing and trimming videos, said: “It was a total honour to be able to make so many unwell children smile on this special morning. When we came up with the idea we weren’t sure we would be allowed to do it, but then we met Sarah and the team, the stars aligned.

“I’ve never dressed up as Santa before, but seeing the look on the children’s faces has given me a new love for all things Father Christmas. I would love to do it all again.”

Sarah was on hand throughout to ensure Tinkerbell was happy; Dinky Ponies is “dedicated to supporting mental health and wellness through the healing power of horses, visiting the elderly, children, and adults with physical, mental and learning difficulties, or those just in need of some extra happiness and positivity”.

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

“We are incredibly busy with visits, but we absolutely adore being able to bring joy to the children at Great Western Hospital,” Sarah said. “You can see how much it lights up their day and it makes all the hours of hard work looking after the ponies worthwhile.

“It’s a huge lifestyle commitment and both myself and Darcey (James) spend the majority of our time visiting as many people as we can. We are hoping to find some additional support in the future so we can visit more people in need.”

The Great Western Hospitals NHS Trust voluntary services organise visits as part of a “pets as therapy” scheme.

Voluntary services manager Vickie Hayes said: “The positivity they bring can be seen in almost every single interaction the animals have with our patients and our staff. We are very proud to have volunteers who wish to give their time to making a real difference to those who are most often in their lowest moments.

“Having Sarah bring her ponies to see us is always a privilege and we were especially thrilled to have Santa come along for this festive visit!”

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‘She’d have walked through flames for you’: sad farewell to top Shetland aged 35

Eleanor Jones — Sun, 10 Nov 2024 19:51:14 +0000

A Shetland mare who appeared three times at the London International Horse Show, standing supreme in-hand champion, has “left a massive hole in our hearts” after her death aged 35.

Owners Adam and Ally Pike had to make the final call for their beloved Minnie The Moocher, who took the Veteran Horse Society (VHS) supreme title in 2013 aged 24, but whose age had finally caught up with her.

“We always knew she was a pony who wouldn’t make it easy for us!” Adam told H&H. “We had to make the call. She had one last summer with the sun on her back, then we needed to do it. She was a cracking pony and the stable yard feels very empty at the moment.”

Adam and Ally had owned Minnie, thought to be the only Shetland to win at Olympia, for 32 years.

“Ally had a riding accident and the doctors said it would be ideal if she didn’t ride again,” Adam said. “I said why didn’t we get one to drive or something, not thinking she would want to, then the next minute, she turned up with a three-year-old, with a foal at foot.”

Adam said things were not ideal to start with; Minnie was “a bit feral”.“We couldn’t get near her for two days!” he said. “But she soon came round. She could be a proper chestnut mare and play you up but she was always a good pony – a terrific pony.”

Minnie did not excel in the show ring until she was in her late teens, when Adam and Ally found out about the VHS by chance.

“We happened to be at Arena UK and they had a VHS thing the next day,” Adam said. “We thought we’d have a look, and everyone was having a great time so we sort of fell into it – but all her success was down to [VHS director] Julianne Aston.

“We kept missing out and missing out, then in 2010 and 2011, we got to the finals at Olympia. In 2012, we had a bit of a disastrous year and had a year off, then in 2013 we said we’d have one more go, and she won.

“It was fantastic, to be part of that show; we really felt we’d made the big time. It was terrific, then of course to win, and trot down that centre line, was like winning the pools.”

Adam always led Minnie at shows – he said Ally would enjoy all the preparation but was never able actually to watch Minnie in the ring.

“But of course, she watched that,” he said, of Minnie’s championship lap of honour. “We retired her there and then because she couldn’t have done anything better than that.”

Minnie spent a few years going to some smaller shows – “to make sure she wasn’t bored, as she’d see the lorry going out and think ‘why am I not going?’” – then played mother to some younger ponies, “and bossed them around”.

“She was a fantastic pony,” Adam said. “She was so easy at a show; I never led her in a bit and she was never frightened of anything. We’ve had some ponies who wouldn’t walk through water – but she would have walked through flames for you. She has left a massive hole in our hearts.”

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‘This is the second time I’ve sat on him’: stand-in rider reigns at HOYS with Shetland stallion

Alex Robinson — Wed, 09 Oct 2024 14:21:53 +0000

The 2024 HOYS Exmoor and Shetland pony of the year final kicked off proceedings at the 75th Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) with top honours going to a stand-in jockey aboard a Shetland stallion.

Aliya Khan’s seven-year-old Latijn V.D. Helling triumphed with seasoned Welsh pony and cob rider Libby Grota in the saddle. This was only the second time Libby, a five-time HOYS winner prior to today, had ridden on “Latz”.

“I was in Greece when Aliya messaged me to ask if I would like to ride him here,” Libby said. “I’ve always admired him so I said why not. I rode him for the first time last night so today is only the second time I’ve ever sat on him. I can’t take any credit for this, it’s all down to Aliya’s hard work.”

Libby added: “He’s really pingy for a Shetland. He’s powerful with a lovely trot. It’s been years since I’ve ridden a Shetland, a bit different to the Welsh ponies I usually ride.”

Shetland breeder Claire Connor imported Latz from Holland as a youngster and Aliya has ridden him for the duration of his career. In 2022, he cemented his potential by standing supreme M&M at the Royal Highland. He was bred by the Lap Family, being by Caz V. Stal Nieuwemoed out of Rylanda V.D. Helling.

Aliya, 20, rode him at HOYS in 2022 on his debut and she was presented with the opportunity to buy him last winter.

“He lives at home with me now,” said Aliya, who currently juggles her team of ponies around studying. “He’s so easy to do and he’s got such a sweet character.”

At this year’s HOYS, Aliya opted to ride Claire Connor’s HOYS debutante Jorenzo V.D Veldhoeve, a nine-year-old who qualified at the Royal Highland on his first attempt. He finished third, pipped by Jessica Talbot on the highest placed Exmoor, Julian Walters and David Hodge’s stallion Blackthorn Poldark.

“He’s a baby and he’s not mine, so I always think it’s the right thing to ride my client’s ponies ahead of my own,” Aliya said. “It feels absolutely amazing to have achieved this with these two ponies.”

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‘After a lifetime of eventing, my greatest success!’ Meet equine Fireman Sam and his bonfire

Eleanor Jones — Sat, 05 Oct 2024 18:51:46 +0000

Meet Fireman Sam and his bonfire, aka Harry, Heidi, Dahlia and Honey Woodall, whose efforts meant they won the mounted fancy dress at the Southwell Ploughing Match on 27 September.

Accompanied by their parents Katie and Mark Woodall, four-year-old Harry starred as his favourite cartoon character with 27-year-old Shetland Dahlia; his one-year-old sister Heidi with her 20-year-old Shetland Honey flamed alongside.

Katie told H&H Harry is a huge Fireman Sam fan, so when the idea of the fancy dress class was mooted, he said yes please, and that he would like to go as his hero.

“I said ‘Why don’t you be him and Heidi could be something from Peter Rabbit’, as she’s quite into him, and he said ‘Really Mummy, I’d like her to be the bonfire, then I can have a water gun to try to put her out’!”

Katie said her mother Gill Greeves, “who claims not to be crafty”, created Fireman Sam’s engine from cardboard and red paint. Mark, in a matching outfit, led his son, and Katie took Heidi, both sporting flaming headdresses.

“Harry was going round squirting the audience and Heidi with his water pistol; she got the short straw but was oblivious and Harry thought it was brilliant!” Katie said. “It was a real family affair; both sets of grandparents came and even my granny, who’s in her late 80s, came to watch. Harry had helped make the costume and we all got stuck in.”

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

Katie paid tribute to the Shetlands as the stars of the day.

“They’re absolute saints, the salt of the earth,” she said. “They’re lovely ponies.”

Katie, who started riding as a tot and worked her way up through Pony Club up to British Eventing novice, added: “After a lifetime of eventing my greatest success is down to a cardboard box, tin of red paint, two saintly ponies and a doting granny who is luckily very creative!

“I put it on Facebook and so many people commented. I said to my mum ‘Should we sent it to H&H; wouldn’t it be funny if after all those years of eventing, Badminton grassroots, regional finals, I got into H&H for fancy dress! I thought it might make people smile.”

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‘Full of life to the end’: farewell to pioneering Shetland stallion who leaves a lasting legacy

Alex Robinson — Sun, 29 Sep 2024 19:51:24 +0000

Anna Stevens and Lara Joslin’s successful Shetland stallion Brinleyview Camanchee has died suddenly aged 21.

Brinleyview Camanchee, known at home as Chee, was a pioneer for coloured Shetland ponies, becoming one of the first to consistently compete at top level.

Chee was a Royal International Horse Show (RIHS) winner, qualified for Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) seven times and made appearances at Olympia, where he was best of breed. He was also supreme at the Shetland breed show.

Anna bought Chee from his breeder as a foal. She had intended to buy a filly, but returned with Chee. He was shown in hand as a youngster, winning at the Royal Welsh and at Pembrokeshire County, among others, and he also reigned when shown in Sweden.

“Aged five, he went to Debbie Barr to be produced and she had him for the majority of his career,” said Lara.

Chee was known for his partnership with Gemma Pallett, who rode him to triumph in the small breeds final at Hickstead.

“Gemma wasn’t keen on riding another Shetland but Debbie persuaded her to come and try him as he was such a sweet-natured stallion, and she loved him, like we all did,” Lara said.

One of his career highlights was winning the NFU supreme cup at the National Pony Society (NPS) summer championships, where he was ridden by a ride judge in the championship.

“One year, we took him to NPS champs for the in-hand and Debbie noticed how good he looked,” said Lara. “He hadn’t been sat on since Olympia in December, but we got him to her lorry for 8am the next morning and he went and qualified for HOYS again!”

Towards the latter end of his ridden career, Chee also contended coloured classes, standing out thanks to his show-stopping gallop.

“He was very cheeky and was full of life and character; even on the morning he died he was kicking the gate,” Lara continued. “He lived out his days enjoying life with his ladies at home.”

Chee now has around 50 foals on the ground and the majority of Anna and Lara’s home-breds are sired by him. In 2022, Lara led her son at HOYS on Chee’s son Toby of Catchpool in the M&M lead rein final.

“He’s left us with another generation of ponies,” Lara said. “All of my children’s Shetlands are by him, and we have a field of fillies by him. While it’s lovely his legacy lives on, it makes it all the more sad that he isn’t here with them.

“Chee was one of the first coloured Shetlands to do what he did, and he opened many doors for others. He was eye-catching, but Marmite to some judges. He was our pony of a lifetime.”

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‘She won our hearts’: severely neglected rescue pony put down after two years of love

Eleanor Jones — Sun, 29 Sep 2024 18:51:59 +0000

A “sweet, courageous” Shetland who was rescued from one of the worst cases of neglect a charity has ever seen has died after a final two years of love and care.

The Mare and Foal Sanctuary announced that Poppy had to be put down owing to serious dental issues.

Poppy was one of 13 horses and ponies rescued from a community interest company in summer 2022.

“Many of the equines were in a very poor state,” a spokesperson for the charity said. “Their bones showed through their skin. Some ponies were showing signs of severe depression and sadly, one thoroughbred cross, Mollie, didn’t survive.”

H&H reported on the case early this year when those responsible were sentenced in court.

“When Poppy came to us, she was extremely underweight, scoring just one out of five as her body condition score,” the spokesperson said. “She was suffering from lice and worms, which were causing chronic internal inflammation. She also had cuts and scabs, and seriously overgrown hooves that meant she was wobbly when she walked. She had suffered long-term neglect, and her basic needs had not been met for a long time.

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

“Poppy was extremely timid and although our sanctuary care team worked hard to reassure her and build her confidence around dental treatment, she remained nervous. A full dental examination revealed many issues that would have been causing Poppy pain, and our expert vets set to work correcting Poppy’s teeth, removing several earlier this year. After further serious problems with her remaining teeth, we made the very difficult decision that it was kinder not to continue treatment.”

Sanctuary manager Saskia Joesbury said the team was devastated to lose Poppy.

“She was such a sweet and courageous girl who completely won our hearts,” she said.

“There were times we could see the effort she was making to be brave, and we’re so proud of her for showing so much courage after what must have been a terrible existence. She would often run to the gate to wait for us because she loved cuddles and scratches, and she gave us many signs that she enjoyed her time in the fields with her companions Sherbert and Lola.

“We’re glad to have been able to give Poppy a great deal of love and care in the last two years of her life. Every horse or pony in our care leaves a hoofprint in our hearts and we all hope Poppy felt loved and valued at the end.”

Mare and Foal Sanctuary director of fundraising and communications Dawn Vincent said Poppy’s story had captured the hearts of many.

“I’ve been working with equines for more than 25 years and have seen some shocking welfare cases, but the Family Nest rescue affected us deeply,” she said.

“Some of our senior welfare advisors described it as the worst example of neglect they had ever experienced. The sanctuary’s care team and vets worked around the clock to treat and rehabilitate all the horses and ponies that we rescued and spent a lot of time getting to understand their needs. We’ll always work in the best interests of each individual pony, and it was clear that the extensive dental work Poppy needed due to years of neglect would have been extremely distressing for her.

“We know that Poppy’s final two years with us were filled with the best care at our peaceful Honeysuckle Sanctuary in Newton Abbot.”

The spokesperson said it is owing to supporters’ generosity that horses and ponies like Poppy can be rescued and given “the love, dignity, and respect they deserve”.

“Thank you for making a difference to Poppy’s life,” she said.

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‘What showing should be like’: love for judge who demonstrates show on foot – and canters on the right leg

Eleanor Jones — Sat, 20 Jul 2024 18:51:15 +0000

A judge gave young riders their perfect start in showing as he demonstrated how their ponies should go – including cantering on the correct leg on both reins.

A video of Robert Parker-Jones judging a first-ridden class at the National Shetland Performance Show on 13 July has been seen by more than 53,000 people across the world.

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Karen Hodge filmed Mr Parker-Jones as he talked the riders through their show and went through it on his own two feet, “trotting”, then picking up canter, changing the rein through trot and cantering away on the other rein.

Mr Parker-Jones told H&H he had been invited to judge three “teaching classes”, a lead-rein and a new combination class, as well as this one.

“After I’d done the two classes, I thought the children weren’t really grasping what I wanted them to do,” he said. “Someone reminded me that I had also done it 40 years ago, but I thought it might be easier for them if they saw what I wanted them to do, and actually it worked really well; all of them came out and did exactly what I’d said.”

Mr Parker-Jones added that all the riders followed his example in cantering on the correct leg; the set-up of his own show and the positioning of the transitions may have helped.

“It was nice because it got them thinking about it and discussing it too,” he said.

“I’ve done it in the past; even with dressage tests, to get people to use their space or show where I want them to go. That visual prompt is better than words.”

Mr Parker-Jones said he knows and has judged Karen, who shows Shetlands and a Fell.

“I think she must have been sitting at the bottom of the ring and she saw the first bit, when I set off at walk and got into trot, and must have thought ‘This is worth recording’!” he said.

“I think what’s nice is that in the present climate, judges aren’t the most popular people and this has restored faith. A lot of people have messaged me saying it’s making yourself approachable and interacting, and that it’s so nice people are comfortable and happy.”

Mr Parker-Jones said this was reflected throughout the show, at which he had never judged before but has already agreed to go next year, which was “like going back 50 years; there was a real camaraderie between exhibitors”.

And he said he was amazed by the video’s reach; it has been shared in South Africa and Australia, and people have found pictures of him judging or presenting prizes in both countries.

Karen Hodge told H&H Mr Parker-Jones’s assessment of her thinking was spot-on.

“I thought ‘What’s he up to? Quick!’” she said, adding that the video has also been viewed more than 6,000 times on TikTok, and that it has had very positive feedback.

“‘This is what showing should be like’, is what’s coming across, and rightly so; inspiring the next generation,” she said. “I almost wish my grandson had been in that class as that would have been really helpful.”

Ms Hodges, who also judges, agreed with Mr Parker-Jones about the show.

“It was all very laid-back and good fun,” she said. “Absolutely brilliant.”

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Gemma Owen takes in tiny pony: from severe neglect to social media stardom

Eleanor Jones — Wed, 10 Jul 2024 14:15:38 +0000

A tiny pony who was rescued in one of the worst cases an equine welfare officer had ever seen is to become a social media star with Gemma Owen, his rehomer.

The dressage rider and Love Island contestant “fell in love with” yearling Bert, who was one of a group of 19 Shetlands rescued and taken in by World Horse Welfare. His breeder was sent to prison and banned from keeping all animals for life.

Gemma became a patron of the charity last year after she visited its Penny Farm rescue and rehoming centre. It was during the visit she met Bert and offered him a home once he was ready.

“When I first met Bert, I knew he was special,” Gemma said. “His cheeky personality and spirit despite his early hardships moved me deeply. I am thrilled to welcome him into our home and to share his journey with my followers.”

Bert was a few months old when he was rescued by World Horse Welfare, with his mother Lacey, and the other Shetlands, in “one of the worst cases field officer Sarah Tucker had seen”, a spokesperson for the charity said. “Sadly, eight of the ponies needed to be euthanised due to severe health complications, but Bert was one of the lucky survivors.”

H&H reported last month that in July 2023 World Horse Welfare was contacted about concerns for ponies being kept at Wrancarr Lane, Moss, Doncaster. Field officers found 19 Shetland ponies in “varying states of neglect”, and secured the RSPCA’s help to investigate further.

A World Horse Welfare spokesperson said at the time of sentencing that “most of the ponies were overweight, many had overgrown hooves, and a number showed signs of extreme laminitis”.

“The owner had a ‘veneer of respectability’ within the showing world, with two of her ponies well looked-after and in show condition, but she allowed the others to suffer in such a dreadful way, despite having received a previous caution for identical offences,” the spokesperson said today, adding that some of the ponies showed signs of extreme laminitis. Six had to be put down on site and two more later owing to their health issues.

“One of the best parts of my job is seeing ponies like Bert thriving after rescue and knowing that they will be rehomed into loving, safe homes for the rest of their lives,” said Sarah. “I was delighted when I heard that he is going to Gemma and I look forward to finding out how they get on. Bert will certainly keep them entertained and he couldn’t ask for a better home.”

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Best kept Secret: human awards scheme recognises tiny pony with ‘unique gift’

Eleanor Jones — Sun, 07 Jul 2024 19:21:22 +0000

Organisers of an awards scheme honouring human volunteers had so many nominations for a pony’s dedication, they sent her a special certificate – and are considering an animal category next year.

SAVS, a council for voluntary services, awarded the certificate of nomination to Secret, a Shetland from Silverbirch Animal Therapy CIC in Leigh on Sea, Essex.

The eight-year-old mare lives at the farm, the main aim of which is to offer an alternative to mainstream education to young people who are not in school or college, or on reduced timetables. The CIC also, thanks to 10hh Secret, provides “mobile equine therapy”, by taking the pony to see people who cannot get to the farm such as hospital inpatients.

“This little pony has a unique gift for connecting with people, who need that extra attention that only an equine can bring,” Secret’s owner Nikki Birch said.

“Ever since I have had Secret. I have known that she has something exceptional about her. At home in the fields at Silverbirch Farm, Secret is like any other pony but she seems to sense when we are on an important hospital or hospice visit.

“These visits can be quite emotional for me and my staff, but Secret seems to know exactly what is needed and how to act. Whether it is a special cuddle or allowing people to spend time talking with her, Secret’s gift for connecting brings great joy and happiness to both the patients and the staff.”

The CIC spokesperson said the SAVS team was surprised by the number of people who nominated Secret for the Southend Volunteer Awards, set up to “recognise and acknowledge the exceptional volunteers of Southend-on-Sea, whose tireless efforts and dedication significantly enrich our city”.

Roger Savage of SAVS said: “We want to kindly ask Nikki and Secret to accept this token of our appreciation with our deepest thanks and heartfelt congratulations,” adding that SAVS is considering an award for animals next year, to acknowledge their contribution to society.

The Silverbirch spokesperson said: “Commenting on her achievement, Secret said she was happiest when helping others, then went back to eating grass and chilling with her herd.”

The 7 stages of a horse lover’s life (from jumping broom handles to sensible cobs)

Carol Phillips — Sun, 07 Jul 2024 15:30:57 +0000

Horses give us something special at every stage of our lives, while our relationship with them changes over time...

While a love of horses often manifests itself at a young age, some less fortunate individuals miss out on those wonderful formative years, only realising the error of their ways when they plunge into the horse world later in life.

But regardless of when your passion begins, for all but the very few, once you’ve got the horse bug, it’s here to stay…

1. Infant

For the lucky ones who were born into horsey families, some of their earliest memories will alternate between towing their long-suffering first pony up and down (or round and round) the stable yard, and spending hours brushing their mane and painting their hooves with whatever came to hand. Riding was OK, but less important than spending hours and hours with your very best friend.

For those who didn’t have access to real thing, long summer days were spent hosting our very own My Little Pony gymkhana in our bedroom, or jumping an “Olympic” showjumping course built from upturned buckets and broom handles in the garden on our own two feet. Another pastime was staring longingly out of the car window at every single horse you passed. Regardless of size, colour or condition, they were all perfect in your eyes.

2. Junior

Having moved on from that ancient Shetland pony who put up with all your brothers and sisters before you, it’s time to get cracking with a “proper pony”. Pony Club camp beckons and you’re determined to beat your older sibling/friend by falling off as many times as you possibly can. After all, your friend’s mum said you have to fall off at least seven times to be a proper rider, so you’re determined to least reach that figure.

For others, these are the years of long enjoyable days working hard at the riding school, learning more than you could possibly realise as you muck out, groom, clean tack, square the muck heap and sweep the yard until it gleams. We all had our favourite riding school pony and our day could be made or ruined when you looked in the diary to see which one you had been allocated to ride.

3. Teenager

‘You spend every hour outside school at the stables’: H&H’s website editor Carol Phillips (Image credit: creditUnknown)

For many horsey families, the teenage years are the period when it’s all about working for a place on your Pony Club team for the Areas and then doing everything in your power to help your teammates qualify. To gain a spot at the prestigious national championships is the stuff of dreams, although it can equally be the source of some tension between Pony Club mums and their offspring.

Alternatively all those hours spent at the riding school might have finally persuaded your non-horsey parents that this “phase” isn’t going to pass any time soon. Many years of begging and saving every last penny of your pocket money have resulted in the arrival of a horse or pony “on loan”. He may not be a competition star, but you spend every hour outside school at the stables caring for him like he’s a top equine athlete. And it might keep you away from the opposite sex for a few more years…

4. College/university

This is tricky time as difficult decisions have to be made. Do you throw yourself into university life, saying goodbye to your wonderful equine partner, and allow riding to taking a back seat for a while? Or are you going to try to have the best of both worlds as you struggle home complete with hangover every weekend to keep up with your riding while your friends/family/random individuals keep your ride fit in between? Either way, something has to give…

5. Career

So you’ve said good riddance to your years of education and thrown yourself into the wonderful world of work. If you’ve been able to keep your riding going throughout, then life may not change very much (you’re still constantly tired and skint with little or no social life… but at least you’re managing to ride!)

If you’ve taken a break during university/college and were hoping you’d have more time and income to spend on your riding, the additional costs that come with “adulting” might put an unfortunate squeeze on your equestrian ambitions. If you’re lucky then you might find a student who is looking for someone to look after their beloved while they are away studying — if so that’s a win-win situation.

6. Middle age

So you’ve got the job, the house, the family – the kids are off to school/college/university and finally you’ve got a little bit more time to yourself. But while your heart might want that flashy warmblood or beautiful retrained racehorse, your head is wondering whether a native pony or sensible Irish cob might just be a slightly more realistic choice…

7. Old age

While you find it thoroughly irritating that your body no longer allows you to charge around the countryside on horseback like you once did, nothing brings you peace quite like spending quality time with your wonderful horse. Neither of you are getting any younger, but you know you will carry your love of horses through to the end and you wouldn’t change that for the world.

Tiny foal smaller than average family dog born to rescued miniature pony

Lucy Elder — Sat, 01 Jun 2024 18:59:02 +0000

A tiny foal weighing just 12kg – smaller than the average family dog – has been born safely to a rescued Shetland pony, who pulled through life-threatening illness during her pregnancy.

Pika, who stands at around 4hh (16 inches) high, is one of “if not the smallest” equines welfare charity Bransby Horses has ever had in its care.

Both Polly and her foal are doing well, and their health is being carefully monitored.

Pika and Polly (Image credit: creditUnknown)

“We had been watching Polly very carefully for the past few days, expecting a foal to arrive any day. She was so quick to give birth that when she was checked at suppertime there was no sign, and half an hour later there she was with her foal,” said Bransby Horses senior press officer Maria Thompson.

“We just can’t get over how lovely they both are. We have had to adjust the fencing as it’s too high and would not keep Pika safe.

“We are so pleased both mother and son are doing well as it was touch and go for Polly when she first came to us but, thanks to our wonderful supporters, we were able to provide the care she needed.”

Polly was first seen by a vet at one of the British Horse Society’s (BHS) healthcare clinics, which are aimed at engaging hard-to-reach communities and provide free advice. They also provide reduced-cost services, such as passporting, castration, farrier services, and a weigh bridge.

Bransby Horses works with the BHS at these clinics and, as was the case of Polly, were able to take in a vulnerable equine when there was no other viable option.

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

“Polly was very sick when we first saw her,” said Nadine Hall, welfare and rescue officer at Bransby Horses.

“Her breathing was laboured, and she had muscle tremors. She had a suspected calcium deficiency, and further veterinary investigations showed her liver was not working, a condition which may require long term [sanctuary] care, alongside her pregnancy.

“After initial treatment to ensure she was well enough to travel, she was first taken to a specialist equine hospital for urgent medical attention. She very nearly died because of her conditions.

“Following a miraculous recovery, Polly was transported to our intensive care unit where she gave birth a few weeks later.

“So far mother and baby are doing well, Polly has responded to liver treatment and the liver is starting to work now, although there is still ongoing healing. We are monitoring them closely and hope to get them out into a bigger paddock, once we have adjusted the fencing.”

Pika and Polly (Image credit: creditUnknown)

“Like all equines, Shetland ponies and miniatures need specialist care and management and should only be taken on by knowledgeable people who are prepared to put the animal’s needs first for their entire lifetime, which can be well over a 30-year commitment.”

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(Image credit: Bransby Horses)

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Tiny ‘critically neglected’ pony is seeking special new home after loving rehab – could you help?

Eleanor Jones — Sat, 30 Mar 2024 19:21:22 +0000

A Shetland called Sherbert who was “one of the most critically neglected ponies” rescued from an equine therapy centre is ready for her next chapter after her “terrible ordeal”.

The mare was one of 13 taken in by the Mare and Foal Sanctuary after a multi-agency rescue operation in 2022.

“Many of the equines were in a very poor state with severe malnourishment, conjunctivitis, lice, worm burden, overgrown hooves, heart conditions, alopecia, anaemia and chronic inflammation,” a spokesman for the charity said. “Their bones showed through their skin, and some ponies were showing signs of severe depression.”

Those responsible have been prosecuted; the sanctuary said sentencing judge Simon Carr described the situation as “one of the worst cases of animal neglect he had ever seen”.

The Mare and Foal Sanctuary has spent over a year carefully nursing the ponies and horses back to health, with individual recovery plans and extensive training.

“Having fully regained her health, Sherbert has lifelong sanctuary with the Mare and Foal Sanctuary and is thriving,” the spokesman said. ”But sanctuary staff at Newton Abbot in Devon, where she’s based, now feel she would benefit from one-to-one care with an experienced pony handler as part of the charity’s ‘Sanctuary at Home’ loan scheme.”

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

Syra Bowden, head of welfare outreach and advice added: “Although we will miss seeing her each day, everyone at the sanctuary would love to see Sherbert happily settled in a special new home after her terrible ordeal.

“Our team has been so impressed with Sherbert’s progress. It took a great deal of loving care, support and rehabilitation, but her character and spirit has finally emerged, and she has captured the hearts of everyone who has worked with her.

“At the age of three she’s a sweet-natured, affectionate young pony in good health and we would love for her to find a new home where she can continue to learn and develop in a safe and loving environment. She would make a wonderful companion pony and is sociable in her herd, so she will need other equine company. We think Sherbert will do well with someone who has worked with small ponies before and can give her lots of attention and enrichment exercises.”

The Mare and Foal Sanctuary would like to hear from anyone with experience of equine care who is interested in finding out more about Sherbert or any of its horses or ponies available for rehoming.

Public warned as pony found stuck in cattle grid after walkers left gate open

Eleanor Jones — Wed, 13 Mar 2024 14:47:10 +0000

Firefighters spent hours freeing a pony who had got stuck in a cattle grid – after walkers left a gate open on a footpath.

The public has once again been urged to adhere to the Countryside Code after the rescue, of 21-year-old Shetland Teifi on 5 March.

A spokesman for the Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service said the Crickhowell, Talgarth and Pontardawe crews were called to the rescue, at 7.32 am.

“To avoid Teifi becoming distressed, the vet who was also in attendance sedated him and crews proceeded to utilise road traffic collision and animal rescue equipment to release him from the cattle grid,” the spokesman said, adding that the crews were at the scene until after 11am.

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

Teifi’s owner Beth Watkins said she was “incredibly grateful” to the fire and rescue service for saving her pony.

“They meticulously planned his release and showed great care towards him throughout the incident,” she said. “I’m pleased to say that Teifi is recovering well and he’s since become quite the local celebrity!”

The fire service spokesman added: “Teifi was able to reach the cattle grid due to a gate being left open by walkers on a right of way through the farm that he lives on.

“The UK Government’s Countryside Code urges all those who use the countryside, coast, parks and waterways to always leave gates and property as they are found and to follow instructions on signs. Farmers and landowners may close gates to keep animals in or leave them open to give access to food and water.”

‘He’ll never go without again’: a transformed life for tiny rescued pony

Eleanor Jones — Sun, 11 Feb 2024 19:21:03 +0000

A senior miniature Shetland who was “about as thin as an animal gets” is now living a transformed life – and will never want for anything again.

Charlie, now 26, was emaciated when he was taken into Redwings’ care after his rescue in 2022. His owner has been prosecuted by the RSPCA. Rewings said his spine, ribs and hips were clearly visible.

“Charlie was a shocking sight, he was about as thin as an animal gets,” said Redwings senior field officer Jo Franklin. “He came to Redwings after a period of veterinary care at House & Jackson, who did an amazing job with him for which we’re very grateful.

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

“In order to continue treatment, and for Charlie to live his happiest life, he needed to be in a sanctuary environment, so Redwings offered to give him a forever home.”

Redings staff hope that they will soon be able to introduce 8hh Charlie into a small herd of other Shetlands.

“Since coming to us here at Redwings we’ve seen him totally transform into a healthy, happy pony,” Jo said.

“He’s now out on grass and loves the company of his neighbours. He’s a very friendly boy and enjoys a scritch and a nuzzle from his carers.

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

“Charlie will never have to go without anything ever again, thanks to our brilliant staff and the generosity of our amazing supporters, the Redwings angels.”

Redwings, which took in 104 horses and ponies last year and rehomed 101 to “carefully matched guardian homes”, has launched an appeal for Charlie. The charity is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year.

How small is the world’s smallest horse and other tiny horses facts you need to know

Emily Bevan — Fri, 12 Jan 2024 13:00:08 +0000

Any breed of horse that measures 14.2hh or under is considered a pony, but it’s those smaller than 11hh that can be considered some of the smallest horses in the world. Some of the smaller individuals of these pony breeds can measure under 1m.

Smallest horses in the world: record breakers

Did you know the smallest living male horse is shorter than a greyhound? At 56.7cm or 22.36 inches high Bombel, a nine-year-old miniature Appaloosa who lives in Poland, currently holds the record having been certified by The Guinness World Records for the smallest living male horse in 2018.

Bombel, which means bubble in English, resides at KasKada stud farm in Lodz. He spends his days in his stable and out in the field with his friends and once a month he undertakes voluntary work visiting a local children’s hospital.

There is no current record holder for the title of smallest but the shortest female horse on record was Thumbelina, a miniature brown mare who was even smaller than Bombel, measuring 44.5cm or 17.5 inches. Thumbelina lived in St Louis, Missouri, USA and passed away in 2018 at the age of 17.

While Bombel and Thumbelina are obviously extreme in size, which is affected by them both having dwarfism, there are several breeds which are naturally small or ‘miniature’.

Miniature horse breeds include the Falabella, which originates from Argentina and are less than 8hh (81cm or 32inches tall). Falabellas have just 16 or 17 vertebrae compared to a horse’s normal 18 and they have at least one less pair of ribs. Despite being so tiny, they have the same size heart as larger horses and their expected lifespan is 40-45 years.

Falabellas exist in a range of colours and are renowned for their thick, silky manes and tails. They are popular as therapy or companion animals due to their slim stature and gentle nature.

Falabella Pony (Image credit: creditUnknown)

Smallest horses in other parts of the world

Other miniature horse breeds include the British Miniature (up to 87cm or 34 inches in height), the Dutch Miniature (a maximum of 91cm or 36 inches in height), the South African Miniature (stands at less than 95cm or 37 inches in height) and the American Miniature (no taller than 86cm or 34 inches). All of these have been selectively bred and therefore they have the same conformational proportions as bigger breeds.

While not classed as a miniature horse, the Shetland pony is certainly a small breed. Hailing from the Scottish Island of Shetland, these hardy ponies, which are less than 10.5hh (110cm), have existed for over 2000 years and were originally used to cultivate the land, as a form of transport and in the pits and mines.

Nowadays, Shetland ponies have an easier life and are primarily used as children’s riding ponies or for carriage driving. For their size they are the strongest of all horse breeds and their docile nature makes them a perfect mount for a child.

Another popular small breed of pony in the UK is the Welsh Pony, the smallest of which is the Welsh Mountain or Welsh section A which does not exceed 12hh (122cm). Welsh section B and section C ponies are slightly taller at between 12hh and 13hh while Welsh section D ponies are over 13.2hh.

It is believed that Welsh Mountain ponies have existed since prehistoric times and are descendants of the Celtic pony. Similarly to Shetlands, they have been used by farmers to cultivate the land and as pit ponies. Today they are predominantly used for children to learn to ride and are popular in the show ring in lead rein and first ridden classes.

Welsh Mountains are kind and gentle but tough and sturdy, they are well suited to life in the Welsh mountains and can be any colour except piebald and skewbald.

Japan has two breeds of small horses – the Noma and the Yonaguni, both of which are critically endangered species. The Noma is the smallest of the eight native breeds of Japan and stands at around 10.2hh (107cm) tall.

Noma Pony (Image credit: creditUnknown)

Noma originated from Mongolia so are hardy and strong and agile on mountain terrain. They were originally used in warfare and to work on farmland but today they are ridden by children and are a tourist attraction as the last known figures suggest less than 100 are in existence.

Yonaguni is native to Yonaguni, the westernmost island of Japan, and most of the population live semi-wild there. They were originally used to carry rice and sugarcane around the island and are well known for being strong and calm. They are typically chestnut in colour and 11.2-11.3hh (117-129 cm) in height.

Yonaguni Pony (Image credit: creditUnknown)

China’s smallest breed of horse is called Guoxia, which when translated means “under fruit tree horse” and is a nod to their original use which was to hold the fruit baskets under the trees during harvest. Guoxia, which are also an endangered breed, are typically 9-10hh (91-102cm) tall and like the aforementioned breeds are tough and sturdy with gentle characters.

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Life-sized edible Shetland creation wins award at top cake competition

Eleanor Jones — Sat, 11 Nov 2023 19:51:07 +0000

This is not the sort of Shetland you see every day – as every single visible thing in this picture is edible.

“Ruby”, the result of months of work on the part of Debbie Lock, owner of Little Barn Cakes in Suffolk, won a bronze award at the prestigious Cake International in Birmingham last weekend.

Debbie told H&H the life-size category was a new addition to last year’s competition.

“Horses have always been my life,” she said. “I was a riding instructor but now it’s a hobby; it’s much nicer being inside baking than out in the freezing cold! But I’ve still got my mini Shetlands, a Fell pony and an Andalusian. So when I saw this category, I thought ‘What a good idea’.”

Debbie said she knew a life-size mini Shetland would be doable as “they fit in the back of my Discovery”, so last summer, she and her son went out to take every measurement possible from her real ponies.

Then followed the months of real work. Debbie explained that owing to the challenges of making enough cake for a life-size creation, the rules state that everything visible must be edible, but what is hidden need not be. So she used rods and wood to support expanding foam, which she then carved into shape. This foam was light enough so she could still lift the final creation despite the excess weight of the icing.

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

“Icing is ridiculously heavy; all those years lifting bales of hay came in handy!” she said, adding that she got through plenty of audio books as she carved and recarved the foam, and then perfected every inch of icing.

Debbie used fondant, textured into individual strands of hair and mane, and balls of it with edible glaze to make the eyes, as she worked on every detail down to the barefoot hoofprints in the edible mud on the base.

“I’ve learned a lot,” Debbie said. “The board it was on needed to be thicker; when I arrived in Birmingham, I had to get the first aid kit out as she was a bit lame but my husband’s a vet. Just as well really, we managed to fix her!”

Debbie came fourth in her class, and won a bronze award. She explained that there are gold, silver and bronze awards as well as merits, or nothing.

“I would have been happy with a merit on my first try so it was amazing to get a bronze,” she said. “In that class was last year’s best in show winner and three or four who had done life-size before so I felt a bit out of my depth, but was very pleased with the result.”

And with that experience under her belt, might Debbie tackle her Andalusian for next year’s competition?

“I don’t think so,” she said. “She definitely wouldn’t fit in my car!”

‘She’s totally fearless’: five-year-old rider is off to HOYS solo with her super Shetland

Alex Robinson — Sun, 27 Aug 2023 15:32:42 +0000

A pony-mad five-year-old is heading to Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) off the lead rein with her super-cute Shetland pony Briar Puzzle.

Alexia Lilley and her mother Amy Lilley’s home-produced Briar Puzzle won their first ridden class at Stoneleigh Horse Show, beating more than 30 other entries, before standing HOYS mini mountain and moorland (M&M) champions .

“I just stand at the side of the ring and hope they have a good time,” says Amy, who bought standard Shetland Puzzle last October with the intention of showing him solely as a lead rein contender this year. “When he arrived he very quickly impressed us with his temperament and ability; after only being with us two weeks he finished champion at the BSPS Heritage championships in the Tiny Tots section, and he was also second in the Royal International (RIHS) qualifier.”

Prior to him joining the Lilley family, Puzzle had been ridden off the rein by a 12-year-old jockey as an all-rounder, enjoying hunting and jumping.

“I hadn’t planned for Alexia to come off the lead rein this year, but over winter she went from strength to strength with both Puzzle and her other Shetland, a palomino and white mare named Pinglewood Pasha, who she has been riding solo at shows since she was three,” continues Amy. “Alexia has always ridden well beyond her years, but I never expected her to be aiming for her HOYS first ridden ticket aged five!

“Puzzle is a forward little pony, but he does look after Alexia. He comes down the gears for her, and they are a great combination.

“As she began on super-safe Pasha, she is totally fearless with her riding. She’s always had relatively novice ponies to bring on, and she really has to ride them; she can’t just sit there!”

On the day of their HOYS qualifier win, Amy said that the combinations kept filing into the ring: “It was one of the biggest first ridden classes I’d seen. The ring was bursting with ponies! Alexia and Puzzle have been knocking on the door this year so I was hoping for a place, and they did perform a lovely show. They are quite an impressive combination, even if you’re not a Shetland person, as Alexia is so tiny and Puzzle is chunky. She nailed her conformation, too, standing Puzzle up to perfection.

“The steward called the results out in reverse order and it was so nerve wracking as they moved down the line-up. When they were called into top, and then into the top spot in the championship held just moments later, I really couldn’t believe it and I was so proud of them both.”

Desperate appeal to find missing miniature pony believed stolen

Becky Murray — Thu, 20 Jul 2023 11:33:00 +0000

The owner of a much-loved family pony who has been missing for more than a week, believed to be stolen, has said she will not give up trying to find her.

Allison Wood’s miniature Shetland mare Maisey disappeared from her field in Castle Combe, near Chippenham, Wiltshire, between 8pm on 11 July and 2pm on 12 July. Maisey had been grazing with Allison’s horse Holly when she disappeared.

Allison, who has owned 16-year-old Maisey for 13 years, told H&H that she believes someone may have taken her over a stone wall.

“There are scrabble marks and someone’s trainer footprints where they have skidded at the edge of the field by the wall,” she said.

“At the end of the lane we found tyre tracks. She’s only 31 inches tall and we think someone has put her in a van.”

Allison said Maisey has a history of laminitis and needs to be carefully managed.

“She’s on minimal grass, and this year she has been doing amazing. She’s probably not worth a lot of money, and she can’t be ridden, but whoever has taken her doesn’t know that,” she said.

“She’s part of our family. When we have animals we keep them for their lifetime, and I won’t give up until we find her. She wasn’t really in view, and it’s horrible thinking that someone has been checking us out.”

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

“We just hope to get some good news, and that someone might leave her somewhere and we can collect her,” said Allison.

“We’ve done everything we can to make her too hot to handle.”

Wiltshire Police are appealing for witnesses. A police spokesman said if anyone recognises Maisey and can help locate her, to contact 101, quoting reference 54230073017.

Huge mass of tissue removed from tiny pony’s genitals

Eleanor Jones — Sun, 09 Jul 2023 18:51:12 +0000

This inches-big accumulation developed by a Shetland pony within months shows the need for regular equine genital checks, the person who removed it has warned.

Stephanie of Equi-Bean, who removed the 8cm matter from 28-year-old Hamish’s sheath, told H&H it had built up in the eight months since she had last seen him.

Stephanie, who learned her trade in a former job as a veterinary assistant, said the hard accumulation from the top of Hamish’s penis as it withdrew into the sheath was so large it stopped him dropping his penis at all.

“He could relax the muscle all he wanted but it wasn’t going to come through that, he’s almost plugged himself, bless him,” she said. “His owner messaged me later so say he’d dropped it out like normal every day after I’d been.”

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

Stephanie said she gets huge satisfaction from hearing how much more comfortable horses are once she has seen them.

“It’s so important for their comfort and wellbeing; ; a lot of clients tell me that after treatment, their horses are striding out better, they’re more comfortable and flexible,” she said. “It’s a glamorous job! But that’s what drives me.”

Stephanie said she believes the improvement in horses’ movement is owing to the fact that the presence of a “bean”, a build-up of smegma and/or dead skin, can be uncomfortable, and with its removal, the horse is more comfortable using its hindquarters properly.

And it is not just geldings; she also sees mares for genital hygiene, removing build-ups of similar tissue from the clitoral cavity.

“Mares can also get flaky skin near their teats, and be shorter-striding because it stretches and pinches,” she said. “With the cavity, I can feel if it’s really tight and painful, then when I start taking out [the build-up] the cavity doubles in size as the horse relaxes and I know it’s feeling better.

“I never set out to do this as a career, but weird and wonderful as it is, I quite enjoy it.”

‘A little warrior’: pony who couldn’t walk after parasites attacked his spine is happy back in work

Eleanor Jones — Sun, 14 May 2023 19:21:31 +0000

A miniature Shetland who faced being put down after a parasite migrated to his spine is happy and enjoying his work again, less than a year later.

Oberon, whose 20th birthday was on 7 May, was diagnosed with the condition last June.

“We thought we would have to say goodbye to him,” owner Jema Leopold told H&H. “There’s not much known about the condition but the cases the vets had heard of had not had a brilliant outcome.”

Jema said Oberon, whom she bought as a three-year-old and who has since travelled the country as part of a troupe of performing ponies, at first looked as if he had a locking stifle.

“The vet came on the Sunday and put it back, but then by the next day, he could hardly walk,” she said. “It was that quick.”

Vets thought “Obe” had a neurological issue but were unsure. X-rays found no issues, and although he improved slightly on pain relief, his condition then deteriorated. He was taken to Leahurst equine hospital, where an MRI confirmed the problem.

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

“We were prepared for the worst but we had to give it a go,” said Jema, who was admitted to hospital on the same day as Obe as she had an eye ulcer, for which she needed a cornea transplant.

“He went on steroids and vitamin E – and he gradually got better and better. And now he’s back in work. He’s not doing everything he used to, and I don’t expect him to; I said he could retire as he’s got a home for life here but he’s adamant he wants to work.”

Jema explained that the ponies know to turn out of the arena when they have finished, but Obie wants to stay put and do his job.

“He does what he wants,” she said. “The vet said his good condition helped his recovery, and the work helps keep him strong. He’s basically a little miracle, and he’s so determined. I didn’t give up on him because he didn’t give up.

“It means the world that he’s still here; and would have if he’d had to retire. As long as he’s happy, I’m happy. He loves doing what he does – and in front of an audience, he grows to about 17hh, all 32 inches of him – he’s a little warrior.”

Tiny abandoned pony found with horrific tether injury Warning: distressing content

Becky Murray — Tue, 28 Mar 2023 15:01:56 +0000

An abandoned miniature Shetland found with a horrific tether injury that left the veins in her neck exposed is making progress under veterinary care.

On 18 March a member of the public raised the alarm after discovering Thumbelina wandering next to the river Don at the Jubilee Bridge in Thorne, Doncaster.

RSPCA inspector Tamsin Drysdale was able to catch Thumbelina, and arranged transport and urgent veterinary treatment.

“The wound on the little pony – who is only about the size of a Labrador – was so serious that the muscle had started to rot away leaving her veins exposed,” said an RSPCA spokesman, who added that the injury is believed to have been caused by a tether.

**Warning: very graphic image**

Ms Drysdale described it as “one of the worst injuries of its kind” that she had seen during her 16-year career with the RSPCA.

“When I approached Thumbelina I could smell the wound before I could even see it. The flesh was literally rotting away under her mane and she was obviously in terrible pain and discomfort. She was understandably distressed and it would have taken many weeks of neglect, if not longer, for her to have deteriorated into such an awful state,” she said.

“She’s receiving antibiotics and pain relief and the wound on her neck is currently being cleaned, flushed and re-dressed daily. The vet is pleased at the progress she’s making. It’s going to take time, but we’re cautiously optimistic that she will go on to make a full recovery.”

The spokesman added that Thumbelina is also being treated for an abscess on her lower gum, and she has “deformed” back legs, which “could have been caused by her being tethered for long periods of time”. She is receiving care at the home of an RSPCA fosterer, and has a new stablemate, Roy the cockerel.

“She’s a very sweet-natured little girl and is already beginning to show that sassy nature that Shetlands are known for, so we hope that’s a sign she’s beginning to feel a little better,” said Ms Drysdale.

“I don’t think she would have survived much longer without veterinary intervention. The rain was torrential that night and there was also the possibility that she could have fallen into the river, given the distressed and disorientated state she was in.”

Thumbelina was not microchipped and the RSPCA is appealing to anyone who recognises her, or has information which could help, to contact the charity’s appeals line on 0330 123 8018.

“It’s not known how long Thumbelina had been next to the river and where she may have come from, although a barbed wire fence on nearby land had been cut. The long-standing wound is thought to have been left untreated for many weeks,” said the spokesman.

‘Loved dearly now’: elderly Shetlands among those freed from nailed-shut stables

Eleanor Jones — Thu, 10 Nov 2022 16:00:20 +0000

Two veteran Shetland ponies who were found in “horrific” conditions, among horses standing on piles of muck four feet deep with their heads touching the stable ceilings, have found loving new homes.

Worzel, 20, and 19-year-old Edern were among 40 horses rescued by the RSPCA. Some were in fields with mud up to their knees – and there were foals unable to move as the mud was up to their chests.

“The animals were found without water, hay, or clean dry bedding and didn’t have a hard standing area to stand out of the mud. Several were found with overgrown hooves due to lack of farrier treatment,” said a spokesman for Blue Cross, which took in the two Shetlands.

“Some of the horses were unable to lift their heads up as the muck was so high their heads were touching the roof of the stable and they had no food or water. The RSPCA spent several hours digging out the horses. One stable door was found nailed shut and a crowbar was needed to prise it open.”

The horses’ owners were convicted of five offences and have been banned from keeping all animals.

Blue Cross Burford horse welfare supervisor Clare Bevins said: “We were shocked to see the horrific conditions the horses had been kept in and made to endure.

“The RSPCA did a great job handling and caring for these ponies after their ordeal. We were happy to take them in and find them loving new homes after the neglect they had suffered in their previous home.

“Despite his ordeal, Worzel was very confident and cute, while Edern was a little more nervous because he has some vision issues which makes him a little wary of people approaching.”

Edern was rehomed to Paula Moody, who said she had been “devastated” when she lost her 28-year-old horse Max.

“He left such a massive hole and our horse Astro, who is 17, was very sad and we knew we needed a new companion for him,” she said. “We’ve had Astro since he was three so they had been companions for a long time.

“When we met Edern at Burford we knew straight away that he was perfect. He’s got the sweetest character. He ticked all the boxes and he’s settled in so well. It’s great for Astro to have a new friend and they’ve bonded so well. He’s still a little nervous around people, no doubt due to what he has been through, but he just needs time and patience and it’s very rewarding to see him coming on in our home.”

Worzel (Image credit: Blue Cross)

Jackie Davis had had to say “the saddest farewell” to Harry, another Shetland rehomed from Blue Cross.

“My partner Mark and I were devastated, but to see my horse, Harley, pacing in the field and calling for his beloved best friend Harry was absolutely heartbreaking,” she said.

“We knew Harley was desperate for a companion so to my surprise, it seemed like fate to see Worzel, a very handsome little chap, available on the Blue Cross rehoming website.

“At the age of 20, Worzel was a perfect match as Harley was nearing 21. As Harry was a Blue Cross pony we were able to progress with rehoming Worzel quickly and decided to just get him delivered.

“So our first meeting was when he arrived at our home in Kent, and at that moment Harley’s head lifted and his ears pricked up, but things didn’t quite unfold as we had hoped.

“Harley just longed to be friends with Worzel, but the little fella, all 8hh of him, challenged my 16.1hh Harley to be the dominant one! Thankfully the boys have settled now and are very happy together.

“Worzel is such a sweet little boy, a dream to handle and he is great with our little dog Mavis. He loves being groomed and is gaining our trust all the time.

“Worzel has made our family complete again. This is his forever home; he’s safe now, cared for, spoilt rotten and loved very dearly.”

RSPCA inspector Terri-Ann Fannon said this was the worst horse case she had seen during her time with the charity.

“The horses were knowingly kept hidden in these conditions for a long period of time,” she said. “I am pleased to hear Edern and Worzel are now in loving homes after enduring such misery.”

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Equine flu vaccination shortage remedied – as multiple outbreaks occur

Eleanor Jones — Fri, 04 Nov 2022 14:53:19 +0000

The equine flu vaccination shortage in the UK is thought to have been remedied – as recent outbreaks show the need for disease control measures.

H&H reported this summer and autumn that there were fears of a shortage, owing to issues experienced by a supplier. But the British Equine Veterinary Association (BEVA) told H&H it is expected that the vaccination that was temporarily unavailable will become available next week, and there should already be enough here as alternative vaccines have been imported from the US.

But in recent days, a number of cases of equine flu have been reported, some linked to a Shetland pony sale in Worcestershire (16-18 October) and others in horses recently imported from Ireland. The latter include “multiple cases” reported this morning (4 November).

BEVA president David Rendle told H&H the cases show the importance of vaccination, and of biosecurity measures applied to horses arriving on yards.

“There was no requirement for vaccination prior to entry to the Shetland sale and some of the unvaccinated ponies that attended the sale developed ‘flu after they returned home and have spread infection to stablemates,” Mr Rendle said.

“We are aware of six outbreaks spread across England, Scotland and Wales. The breed society has acted very responsibly and has cancelled further events limiting the potential for further spread. The Shetland Pony Stud Book Society has very responsibly and promptly alerted its membership and those who attended the sale. Credit must also go to the organisers of The North and Mid Wales Shetland Pony Show for their prompt action, which will be likely to have prevented onward transmission of equine influenza.”

Mr Rendle stressed that these outbreaks are a reminder of the importance of vaccinating horses who mix with others, and those at home who come into contact with them.

“It is the unvaccinated ponies that have spread the infection onward and the unvaccinated ponies that have become sick,” he said. “We are often complacent about flu and forget that prior to vaccination being compulsory for competition, outbreaks were far more common. It is a potentially fatal condition that we cannot afford to take for granted.

“The recent vaccine shortage was very unfortunate but as long as people get back to vaccinating at six- to 12-month intervals (six months for horses that are competing and mixing regularly, 12 for lower-risk horses) there will be no lasting harm. In increasingly challenging economic times, it might be tempting to consider saving the cost of vaccination but this cost is tiny compared to the cost of having to treat a horse with ‘flu, the cost to the industry of dealing with an influenza epidemic, and most importantly, the welfare cost to the horse of the disease itself.”

On 28 October, the Shetland Pony Stud Book Society said: “The society has been asked to notify members of confirmed cases of equine influenza in Shetland ponies purchased from the sale at Worcester on 18 October. If you purchased a pony please be vigilant and seek veterinary advice if you have any concerns.”

‘He regularly visits the sweet shop’: Shetland scores HOYS open win with 10-year-old jockey

Alex Robinson — Thu, 06 Oct 2022 16:47:26 +0000

The connections of one Shetland pony raised the roof when he was called forward to take the National Pony Society/Baileys Horse Feeds HOYS Shetland and Exmoor pony of the year title at the 2022 Horse of the Year Show (HOYS).

The pony in question was Lucy Richardson’s grey gelding Briar Snowfox (Foxy), ridden here by 10-year-old Lilly Richardson.

The eight-year-old is by Briar Piccolo out of Southley Mayflower, and he is a half-brother to the Richardson’s prolific mini contender Briar Snowman.

Yesterday, Foxy and Lilly finished sixth in the M&M first ridden final.

“My friend bought him off his breeder, Vivien Hampton, a couple of years ago, but her children weren’t interested in riding, so we took him on,” said Lucy, who bought him last season.

Lilly and Foxy landed their HOYS pass at the North of England summer show, but they’ve won various titles in both open and first ridden ranks during their partnership.

“We broke him ourselves and he does everything; lead rein, first ridden and opens, but he loves the latter,” said Lucy. “He loves galloping and he goes so well in the double bridle. At home he’s a true family pony; he hacks out and he regularly visits the sweet shop.”

Lilly has won HOYS twice on the lead rein and once as a first ridden competitor, but this marked her first open win. The jockey is enjoying a bumper HOYS 2022 as earlier in the day she landed second in the new M&M 122cm junior working hunter pony of the year final with Elberry Suilen.

“We have a great team behind us,” said Lucy. “At home the ponies all hack, jump and go out in the field. This is the first time we’ve won HOYS with a pony we’ve done from home, too, which has always been the dream.”

Lilly said: “It was a hard set show but Foxy is good at that sort of thing. I’m amazed. In the main arena, we’re going to really gallop.”

Elizabeth Etchells with Mary Rose Bryant’s Exmoor stallion Warrenmere Woodcock took second place.

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Six Shetlands among those honoured in annual awards

Eleanor Jones — Fri, 22 Jul 2022 16:58:23 +0000

SIX Shetland ponies were among those honoured for their contribution to the Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) this year.

Chelsea (pictured), Crunchie, Hector, Smartie, Star and Freddo, of Wellow RDA group, were joint winners of the RDA horse or pony of the year award. Theirs were among the names announced as award winners at the 2022 RDA national championships at Hartpury (15–16 July).

Interim RDA chief executive Paul Ringer said: “These lovely ponies engage with every adult and child. They love the attention, and the patience they display is outstanding.”

Wellow RDA founder and head coach Anne Allen, who accepted the award and sash on the ponies’ behalf, said: “They’re a wonderful breed. They’re just the right height for grooming, and children and adults have had so much joy from them.”

Annie Horshaw, of Throstle Nest RDA, was named young volunteer of the year.

Mr Ringer said Annie has “played a key role in establishing a youth group at the centre, as well as developing fundraisers”.

“She has developed personally and shown resilience and determination,” he added. “As well as her volunteering, Annie has had successes at the national championships.”

The participant of the year award went to Mia Prowse, who has been at Abingdon group for 14 years. During this time, she has had success at the RDA virtual championships and was selected to represent Britain at the virtual para dressage World Championships, in which she took a win and a second.

“Her sportsmanship is second to none as she has become a role model and inspiration to younger members of her group,” said Mr Ringer, adding that Mia is also a keen fundraiser. Abingdon said of Mia that “it is rare to meet a participant who has such an acute, gracious understanding of the wider picture of what it means to be part of an RDA group.”

The RDA UK volunteer of the year is Pauline Harrison, north regional chair, who has “an incredibly positive and thoughtful attitude and outlook. Never shying away from a challenge, the support she gives to others is something to be admired and proud of.”

Ms Harrison added: “The only reason I’m here is because I’ve got a wonderful team behind me and fantastic groups. I’m so proud of all of them.”

Every year, the Worshipful Company of Saddlers donates a bespoke “jubilee” saddle to a group, this year to Keswick (Calvert Trust) RDA.

“This is a wonderful gift that’s always gratefully received,” Mr Ringer said.

‘She’s been my little rock’: Shetland mare who helped her owner through hard times shines at major show

Alex Robinson — Mon, 11 Jul 2022 16:07:12 +0000

A Shetland pony mare gave her owner a dream first win at the 2022 Royal Highland Show when she headed her 26-strong in-hand breed class.

Lorraine Bentham’s Melland Queen Of Scots (Diva) was then crowned best female, securing the coveted Dryknowl Trophy.

Lorraine, who works as a referrals coordinator at Oakham Vets, bought Diva as a yearling from her breeder and she says the now five-year-old has “been her rock through some of the hardest times in her life.”

“My sister, Michelle, had a gelding from Diva’s breeders and I had got the Shetland pony bug through showing him,” explained Lorraine. “As soon as the stud had a filly for sale I jumped at the chance.”

Diva was lightly shown as a two-year-old before the Coronavirus pandemic hit. During the pandemic in December 2020, Lorraine sadly lost both her parents to Covid.

“It was a traumatic time for both me and my sister,” said Lorraine. “But Diva was my one constant and kept me in routine. Even when things are terrible you have to go and care for your horses, and Diva was my little rock the whole time.

“If I’m feeling fed up I’ll go to the yard and Diva will bring me so much joy. She goes galloping up the field like a mini Black Beauty, and no matter how bad times get she’s always there for me. If she never won anything I’d love her exactly the same.”

The Royal Highland Show is heralded as one of the ‘ultimate’ fixtures for Shetland pony breeders, and Lorraine and Michelle had always hoped to compete their ponies there.

“When we lost Mum and Dad we realised how short life was and thought we’d better not put these things off any longer,” continued Lorraine. “We treated the show like a summer holiday, and set off with Diva, and Michelle’s pony, Melland Jackson Jive (Jackson).”

Jackson started the run by picking up a fourth in his class, before it was Diva’s turn to take to the ring.

“I knew she was a nice filly, but I never dreamed she would win,” says Michelle. “I’d never seen so many Shetlands in one ring and the class took forever. After the initial inspections, the judge went up and down the line, before pulling 10 forward. He then pulled four forward from this initial line before asking us to walk round. When he called Diva into first I couldn’t believe it, just due to the sheer numbers in the class. I had a tear in my eye. Diva stood above many top breeders, and everyone was so congratulatory. She then took best female, piping many of the younger females to the title. Her show name Melland Queen Of Scots was very appropriate, as she is now officially ‘The Queen of Scots’! Her breeders were also there to watch her win, which was very special. Both ponies then took part in the Grand Parade on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, another dream come true.”

“Diva is such a little character, and she makes myself and many others smile on a daily basis. During lockdown she was many people’s therapy pony and fellow liveries on the yard would regularly be in her stable for cuddles.”

(Image credit: shetland-pony.com)

Appeal to find owner of ‘suffering’ ponies rescued by charity

Becky Murray — Fri, 18 Mar 2022 16:17:03 +0000

Two Shetland ponies, one with “seriously” overgrown hooves, have been taken into a charity’s care while attempts are made to track down the people who allowed them to “get into such a state”.

RSPCA officers attended a field in Wimborne, Dorset, last Friday (11 March), after World Horse Welfare contacted the charity with concerns about a roan Shetland gelding.

“He had extremely long untrimmed hooves which we suspect had not been seen by a farrier for years. The pony was struggling to walk and was clearly suffering,” said RSPCA inspector Graham Hammond.

RSPCA and World Horse Welfare officers managed to catch the pony, who is thought to be under 10 years old, and he was taken into the RSPCA’s care. He was not microchipped.

“We took the pony, who has been named Rocky, for urgent veterinary care. He’s had X-rays, pain relief and emergency remedial farrier trimming. Now I’d like to find out who owns this little pony and has allowed him to get into such a state,” said Mr Hammond.

“Anyone who knows who owns this pony or is responsible for his care, please contact the RSPCA’s appeal line on 0300 1238018.”

An RSPCA spokesman said a “number” of horses were removed from the field and taken into the charity’s care, including another Shetland, who was overweight and needed his hooves trimming. The pony, who has been named Apollo, is receiving care from vets.

“The ponies will remain in RSPCA care while investigations are ongoing. If they are not claimed they will be made available for rehoming once the vet and farrier has given them a clean bill of health,” said the spokesman.

Shetland ponies and snow machines: festive film embraces the magic of Christmas

Becky Murray — Sat, 25 Dec 2021 19:03:17 +0000

Accomplished equine actors Albert and Ernie have once again captured the spirit of Christmas, this time with a little help from their friends.

Devon-based trainer and film-maker Emma Massingale’s latest video, in partnership with NAF, stars Shetland ponies Albert and Ernie, Connemara pony Evenos, Irish sport horse Custard, Charlie the donkey, and Hungarian vizsla Douglas, as the gang get ready for Christmas. Everyone can be seen lending a helping hoof or paw as they put up a Christmas tree and put presents around it, and one half of Emma’s acting “A team”, Ernie gets creative with a snow machine.

Christmas Video 2021We've teamed up with Emma Massingale and her wonderful troupe of talented animals once again to bring you the Christmas video that we know you've been waiting for!! This year, the team is helping Santa to get ready for Christmas……well……most of the team!!Posted by NAF on Friday, December 10, 2021

The festive fun was captured at Powderham Castle, a former British Eventing venue, in Devon.

“I used to event there many years ago. I thought it would be amazing to use their courtyard because they have red doors and lovely stainwork and I love that vintage feel,” said Emma, who had to film “one handed” owing to a shoulder injury she sustained in a carriage-driving accident three months ago.

“Doing the NAF Christmas video is a big thing in my diary and something I love doing. Christmas is all about making people smile, getting into the spirit, and embracing the magic and I definitely did not want to miss that!”

Emma said the video captured everyone’s characters.

“Ernie is very cheeky and Albert is very well behaved. If you had two children Ernie would be the naughty second child! He is so funny, he loves it and does things in his own way. I barely have to tell him to do anything,” she said.

“It was great to include Custard, who I bred from my event stallion Marcus. The Shetlands are always popular on videos but it’s nice to add some other elements too. This was Charlie’s first appearance on screen and to me donkeys are the epitome of Christmas. Douglas’s trick was the hardest – anyone who knows anything about vizslas knows getting them to sit still is a challenge. He’s definitely embracing life at full throttle. In the video you can see his tail and nose twitching, he’s like ‘every bit of me that’s allowed to twitch is twitching!’. He’s a very intelligent dog and good fun.”

Emma hopes to be off “box rest” soon and has a UK-wide tour lined up for 2022 – as well as more videos in the pipeline.

“It’s been three years since I’ve been on tour with the horses. We’re taking the whole team of 17 horses from April until the end of June. The horses are going, my Connemara liberty team, the mules, the ponies, and some the public haven’t met yet – it’s going to be great,” she said.

“I’ve been choreographing and doing lots behind the scenes and I’m very excited about it.”

‘Shy’ Shetland who became ‘star’ therapy pony wins prestigious award

Becky Murray — Tue, 14 Dec 2021 21:03:12 +0000

A therapy pony who overcame his shyness to spread joy among everyone he visits has received a prestigious award at a star-studded ceremony.

Shetland pony Wilson of Therapy Ponies Scotland received the “caring animal” award at the Mirror People’s Pet Awards 2021 (formerly the Animal Hero Awards) and attended the London-based ceremony in person with owners Elaine and John Sangster to collect the honours last Thursday (9 December).

John told H&H that 10-year-old Wilson joined their herd of ponies when he was around six months old but owing to his timid nature, it took him some time to settle in.

“When we first met him he was so shy, he’d run into a corner and hide. When we took him home he was getting a bit bullied by the other ponies and he wasn’t fitting in so we put him in the dog kennel with our Newfoundlands Penny and Innes and he slept there for a little while,” he said.

“At the time it was close to Elaine and I getting married and while we had someone looking after the ponies we thought it might be a bit too much to ask to look after Wilson too so we took him on honeymoon with us to the Buckatree hotel in Shropshire. Every day he came walking with us and the dogs, and I think that was the making of his confidence.”

Around five years ago John and Elaine launched Therapy Ponies Scotland after they were invited to bring Wilson into a rehabilitation home for a visit. The couple now regularly visit care homes, hospices and schools with eight therapy ponies, and Wilson is the “star of the show”.

“We’ve done a lot of training with the ponies. One year we did a presentation at the Royal Dick Vet hospital in Edinburgh and at the end everyone clapped and Wilson went ballistic at the noise. He’s absolutely fine with other loud noises but not clapping so we had to do some training on this before we went to the awards. While we were there instead of clapping everyone was asked to do jazz hands while Wilson was on stage,” said John.

“Wilson is the cheekiest pony you will ever meet but is as gentle as a lamb. He is a very people’s pony. He’s very affectionate and loves a kiss and a cuddle. It’s nice to win the award, but the most important thing to me is Wilson.”

Shetland, 21, bows out after being crowned M&M working hunter pony of the year at HOYS

Stephanie Bateman — Thu, 07 Oct 2021 15:53:48 +0000

CONSISTENT working hunter pony Carmilo Magician ended his prolific affiliated showing career on an incredible high when being crowned the Mountain & Moorland working hunter pony (M&M WHP) of the year at the 2021 Horse of the Year Show (HOYS).

The black 21-year-old Shetland pony, who is by Scamells Crisp out of Magik of Winwick, last won here and was reserve champion in 2019 under owner and rider Beatrice ‘Bea’ Shepherd. This year he retained his 122cm M&M WHP title before going forward to claim the championship, ahead of 143cm winner Laura Avery’s Willoway Free Spirit.

The pair qualified at Moreton-In-Marsh show.

“This is his 10th time here and probably his last, so it’s great to go out on a high,” said Bea. “He took me twice as a first ridden and since then as a working hunter. He’s just the most amazing pony. He’s 21 now and I wasn’t going to bring him out, but his breeders convinced me to and I’m so glad I did. They are so supportive of me.”

At home, the HOYS 122cm M&M WHP winner teaches children to ride.

“He is an angel,” added Bea. “He’s taught two children to ride from scratch this year, from rising trot to taking them to their first show.”

Magician’s stable buddies are racing Shetlands, so most of his homework is going out galloping with the others and having a good time.

“Going out with the racing Shetlands, I get him really fit – we’re cantering a couple of miles and he has to keep up with them – they’re quite fast,” said Bea. “He’ll continue to teach the children to ride as long as he’s still happy to do it. He loves jumping but he gets slightly thick wind so I think this is his last year – he’s got nothing to prove now. He’ll always have a job teaching the children.”

Couple filmed pinning down foal and beating him with pipe as they tried to ‘train’ him

Eleanor Jones — Fri, 04 Jun 2021 16:27:57 +0000

A couple caught on film jumping on a Shetland pony foal, pinning him down on the ground and beating him with a whip and a length of pipe to “train” him have been given suspended prison sentences.

Neil Patterson, of Collingbourne Road, Burbage, and Fay Spanswick, of Bath Road Devizes, both 23, were prosecuted by the RSPCA over the footage.

An RSPCA spokesman said the pair were twice caught on film inflicting cruelty on 11-month-old Fred, in Wiltshire last April.

“During the two videos – lasting a total of 100 minutes – Fred, owned by Spanswick, was subjected to kicks and blows from the defendants,” the spokesman said.

“He was jumped upon and forcibly pinned to the ground. The footage also showed them inflicting blows from a piece of piping and a riding crop.”

The pair, who both admitted causing unnecessary suffering to Fred as they attempted to train him, were sentenced to 12 weeks’ prison, suspended for 18 months, at Swindon Magistrates’ Court on 24 May.

They were also banned from owning, keeping or working with horses, ponies or other equines for five years. They will be able to appeal against the ban in two years’ time.

RSPCA prosecutor Matthew Knight told the court Patterson and Spanswick were filmed attempting to train the colt in an “aggressive and inappropriate” way.

Continues below…

(Image credit: RSPCA)

Pony fed roast chicken dinner undergoes £5,500 colic surgery

I’ve had it said to my face by people, that it’s their enjoyment to feed my horses, and I’m spoiling

(Image credit: RSPCA)

Tom Price jailed after 240 horses removed from ‘appalling’ conditions

“Two of the sites were strewn with hazards such as sharp metal and barbed wire, and at one site the

(Image credit: RSPCA)

In March, the pair had admitted causing unnecessary suffering because of the inappropriate methods of training, rather than intentional harm.

In mitigation, it was said that although Spanswick had previously owned Shetland ponies, all were mares and had been trained, whereas Fred was an entire colt who was unhandled. Patterson was said to have had no prior experience of training horses.

They were each ordered to complete 10 rehabilitation days and 100 hours’ unpaid work, and pay £300 costs and a £128 victim surcharge.

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade to access our H&H Plus online service which brings you breaking news as it happens as well as other benefits.

Shetland ponies take steam train for day out in film-maker’s latest video

Becky Murray — Sat, 15 May 2021 12:03:15 +0000

Two Shetland ponies have enjoyed a fun-filled day out in the great Devon countryside in their latest adventure.

In trainer Emma Massingale’s latest film All Aboard The Pony Express Train, Shetlands Albert and Ernie can be seen buying tickets and boarding a 1930s steam train at Staverton station. Having disembarked at Buckfastleigh, the pair make friends with some otters at the Dartmoor Otter Sanctuary and go on to Totnes Rare Breeds Farm. They finish their day taking in the scenic Devon views, then board the train for home.

All aboard the Pony Express Train!Albert & Ernie are off on an exciting day out. Boarding a 1930's Steam Train they end up in the luggage compartment before disembarking at Buckfastleigh to go an explore some of beautiful Devon! With thanks to South Devon RailwayOtters and ButterfliesTotnes Rare Breeds FarmSupported byCavallo Hoof BootsNAFDengie Horse FeedsMole Valley FarmersDriRugAriat EuropeRiding and Harness StuffFilmed by Jeremy ColwillPosted by Emma Massingale on Friday, May 7, 2021

Emma told H&H the film was “really good fun” to make and she chose her “A team” to star in her latest production.

“The lockdown gave us a perfect opportunity and because it was Devon companies, it was nice to feel like us small businesses helping each other. They’ve been shut for a long time and kindly said we could do a collaboration,” she said.

“The staff at South Devon Railway were doing training that day and when the train stopped it was only for 15 minutes so we had to be in position. Albert and Ernie have done so many different things now; they’ve been on boats and all sorts so I knew they’d be like ‘of course we’ll get on the train no problem!’.”

Nine-year-old Albert and eight-year-old Ernie have starred in many of Emma’s productions including festive films and The Cutest Little Lifesavers.

“They just have this great attitude. It’s like working with actors – but probably less diva-ish! You show them what you want to do once and they crack on. It’s nice because I can really rely on them to be ok with it all,” she said.

“The otters were very interested in the ponies, which was hilarious so that worked really well. I just love telling stories with my ponies. I write a rough storyline but you never quite know what will happen because the ponies don’t get any practice. We go there and film on the day. The first time the ponies jumped on the train was when we filmed it.”

The film has been viewed more than 2.1 million times since its release on 7 May.

“What’s lovely is so many people comment that they enjoy seeing the films. It goes beyond ‘it’s a cute fluffy Shetland’ and people seem to really enjoy the editing. My fiance Jeremy did a fantastic job of filming it all. It’s not easy, we’ve become masters of the one-take wonder!” said Emma.

“It’s nice to be able to offer people that escapism and a happy story. I try to make the storylines appealing to adults and children. The bit I enjoy is the fact I don’t use words so people can interpret the story in their own way, which also means internationally people can enjoy the story too. Everyone has their own variations of what the ponies are thinking; rather than me saying ‘Albert thinks this’ people look at their expressions and natural characters and interpret that themselves, which for me gives a greater viewing pleasure.”

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(Image credit: Emma Massingale)

Shetland finds his soulmate in time for Valentine’s Day

In trainer Emma Massingale’s latest fun film, 10-year-old Shetland gelding Albert can be seen searching for a mate on the

(Image credit: Emma Massingale)

‘The cutest little lifesavers’: Shetland ponies come to the rescue

The ponies can be seen coming to the rescue, complete with blue-flashing lights and full first aid kits, ready to perform their

(Image credit: Emma Massingale)

Emma, who has 11 miniature Shetlands and eight Connemara ponies among her herd, is looking forward to more filming this year with Appaloosa Percy potentially on the cards for a future starring role.

“Percy matches my Dalmatian dog so the plan is to do something with them soon. Percy has had a few cameo roles and he’s starting to show his potential. Training takes a long time, most of them are still babies apart from Albert and Ernie so I like to wait until they’re ready,” she said. “Albert and Ernie look like they’re doing everything on their own; I like to get them to that point so they’re really owning it. If i ask them to get on the train, I want them to do it their own way. That’s the bit that takes longer.

“I’ve got some more NAF videos coming out soon, and I should hopefully be heading off to do some adventures again in September.”

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade to access our H&H Plus online service which brings you breaking news as it happens as well as other benefits.

‘I wish people wouldn’t hide it’: owner who nearly lost pony to strangles encourages others to speak out

Becky Murray — Sun, 09 May 2021 12:03:56 +0000

As the 2021 national Strangles Awareness Week (3-9 May) draws to a close, an owner who almost lost her miniature Shetland pony to strangles hopes to raise more awareness of the disease and encourage others to speak out.

Falkirk-based Sandy Trimmer, who runs the Unicorn Experience offering photograph sessions for children with ponies to help grow confidence, bought then five-month-old Teddy in October 2020, and he became unwell the day after he arrived.

Sandy, who was keeping Teddy with Pumpkin, one of her other ponies, at her home, said he was lying down a lot and placed his head in her lap.

“He had been wormed and microchipped before he left his breeder the day before and at first I thought he maybe had a sore tummy, but I realised he was struggling to stand up and walk so I got the vet,” she told H&H.

“His temperature was off the scale and he was grinding his jaw side to side and drooling.”

Teddy was diagnosed with strangles and given painkillers.

“Under his throat was swollen and the vet advised to hold hot towels around his throat three times a day,” she said.

“About three to four days later he developed a ping-pong ball-sized swelling on his neck. The vet came back and said his immune system was struggling and the site of his microchip had become infected. She cut his neck to drain the pus, and his microchip came out.”

Teddy’s health issues continued and he developed a swelling underneath his eye.

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

“His eye was filling with pus, and I noticed a lump on his head between his eye and his ear. I was told by the vet to massage it and eventually pus came out from the abscess under his eye so it was tracking down,” said Sandy.

“The abscesses under his throat had burst and he had no skin left on the area. They looked disgusting, it was awful but throughout everything he somehow managed to keep on eating.”

Sandy said eventually the abscesses healed. In February both ponies were scoped for strangles and received the all-clear.

“We had to wait a while for Teddy to grow to be scoped as he was so little, the vet said he was the smallest they had ever scoped,” she said.

“It was such a relief for him to be given the all-clear; three times we thought we were going to lose him and so many times I was on the phone to the vets in tears. At the time I was concentrating on getting him through it but when I look back I see how tiny he was. Three different vets at Clyde Vet Group treated him throughout the time he was ill, they were absolutely amazing.”

Sandy, whose other ponies never came into contact with Teddy and were kept at a different location, said she spoke openly to “everyone” about Teddy having strangles and hopes to raise awareness of the disease.

“I didn’t want friends who have horses coming to visit and I made sure if I had to go to the feed shop I did this first thing before dealing with Teddy. I was constantly using disinfectant,” she said.

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(Image credit: Sandy Trimmer)

Ambassadors sought to help raise strangles awareness and end stigma

The annual Strangles Awareness Week takes place 3-9 May and aims to provide owners, yard managers, vets and equine professionals

(Image credit: Sandy Trimmer)

Milestone strangles research tracks strains across world

(Image credit: Sandy Trimmer)

“People still don’t know enough about strangles and are scared to speak out. I’ve been on yards in the past where it’s been advised not to tell people about strangles as people think they will be blamed, but you have to be open about it and I wish people wouldn’t hide it.”

Strangles Awareness Week is a collaborative effort between the British Horse Society, Intervacc, Keeping Britain’s Horses Healthy, Redwings Horse Sanctuary, Scotland’s Rural College’s Premium Assured Strangles Scheme (PASS), Surveillance of Equine Strangles (SES), The (Dick) Royal School of Veterinary Studies and World Horse Welfare. The annual initiative aims to provide horse owners, yard managers, vets and equine professionals with a platform to share their own stories and promote support for those affected by the disease.

This year’s campaign features a series of podcasts with people from across the equestrian industry sharing their experiences of the disease. There is also free resources and support available for those who may be tackling outbreaks.

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade to access our H&H Plus online service which brings you breaking news as it happens as well as other benefits.

At home with native pony breeders Julian Walters and David Hodge

Rebecca Haywood — Mon, 12 Apr 2021 11:00:48 +0000

The duo on a mission to breed “proper”, true-to-type natives for the ridden market talk to Rebecca Haywood about their greatest achievements and plans for the future

A FARMING couple with a passion for promoting the versatility of the British native breeds have not let the global pandemic stand in the way of their ever-growing breeding mission. Despite last year’s showing plans being scuppered by Covid, Julian Walters and David Hodge have carried on at home with as much determination as ever.

Their breeding programme, which began with the Shetland pony, continues to evolve and the pair have recently turned their focus to the Dartmoor and Exmoor breeds, too. The sheep and cattle farmers, who are panel judges on both the Shetland Pony Stud-Book Society and the Dartmoor Pony Society, can look back on pre-Covid years with a huge sense of pride.

Not only have Julian and David achieved some enviable successes in the ring – including three Olympia best of breed titles and two wins of the Kellythorpe Stud Shetland sire of the year award with one of their top sires, Newbarn Piran – but they made history in 2016 when their Shetland mare, Sharptor Trinity, became the first of her breed in 30 years to contest the Cuddy in-hand final. Trinity took the reserve spot in the pony section of the final at Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) in 2016 and 2017, having also finished second at the Birmingham venue under saddle as a lead-rein in 2013.

“The Cuddy is the ultimate for breeders and it became our obsession,” admits Julian. “We were determined to qualify a Shetland and we travelled miles and miles, and did years of county shows. To qualify at Pembrokeshire County Show that first time was the greatest achievement for us, showing that if you work hard enough, you reap your rewards.”

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

Other ponies propelling the stud into the limelight include Sharptor Bellisima, who won the first ridden final at the Royal International (RIHS) in 2016 and finished second in the open small breeds class at HOYS the year before. In 2019, David and Julian landed three breed accolades at the National Pony Society (NPS) summer championship show, with Sharptor Kittiwake also winning the NPS silver medal final. Kittiwake is a daughter of Schivas Kirsty, who won the NPS gold medal in 2012.

THE couple’s home is a 1,500-acre farm in the Dartmoor National Park, near Yes Tor, the second highest point on Dartmoor. The yard stands at 1,400 feet.

“Our ground actually runs higher than that,” says Julian, who met David in 1998. The pair were involved in livestock showing and met through mutual friends. David is the seventh generation to take over the family farm and it was his father, John, who started the Shetland pony stud, breeding under the Halstock prefix.

“I had already established the Shetlands when I met Julian; my father registered the first one in 1967,” says David, who started to source fresh bloodlines and stallions in the 1990s, many of which were miniature Shetlands. “In the year 2000, we did our first show and came home with a champion and reserve. This first outing kickstarted a new love of showing ponies.”

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

The couple continue to farm pedigree Belted Galloway cattle and pedigree sheep, including Valais Blacknose.

“When you start breeding, you’re constantly looking for ways to make the next generation better than the last,” says Julian, who notes that they regularly travel the country visiting Shetland studs to develop their breeding programme. “We search for both pedigrees we like and breed type. We try out different breeding lines, too. We particularly favour the Southley bloodlines, which are put across some of the established black Shetland lines. This blood has clicked for us.”

Julian is quick to credit Bob and Dorothy Griffiths – breeders of their prolific stallion Ladbury Rembrant – who gave them the opportunity to acquire more good bloodstock.

“Rembrant is the sire of Sharptor Trinity and Sharptor Armani, as well as numerous other county show winners,” says Julian, who explained they found late chestnut stallion Newbarn Piran at a stud in Shetland. Piran originates from Southley bloodlines and is the sire of Sharptor Bellisima and Sharptor Silver Skyline, two ponies who qualified for the 2019 HOYS mountain and moorland lead-rein final.

“We discovered some exceptional mares at the Schivas stud,” says David. “Some of these have been successful in the show ring, but have also bred exceptional offspring for us.”

Adds Julian: “What makes the UK unique is the variety of ponies. We love to promote the versatility of the breeds, especially the Shetland – their pedigrees go back to one of the oldest UK studbooks.”

JULIAN and David started to dip their toes into Dartmoor breeding in 2011 with their first Dartmoor foal, Blackertor Moorcroft, being registered in 2014.

“When we ventured into Dartmoors, we were fortunate to find some super ponies,” says David. “We didn’t realise how small the gene pool is. We brought a stallion over from Switzerland; he had old British lines that had been lost here.”

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

Julian – who has taken the in-hand championship at the Dartmoor breed show three times with three different ponies – adds: “The sire who has been the most instrumental here is Shilstone Rocks Rain Man; we bought him as a foal from Elizabeth Newbolt-Young and had great success with him right from the beginning. He’s been supreme champion at the breed show and has been champion at four Dartmoor society star shows.”

The Exmoor is still relatively new to David and Julian. Their interest was sparked when David saw Blackthorn Poldark for sale as a foal on social media. Now aged five, Poldark will be out under saddle this term after a strong in-hand career.

“We’ve had to source some wives for Poldark; one notable mare is Bluebarn Nancy who won the Exmoor championship for us at the NPS championships in 2019,” says David.

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

The stud set-up consists of a combination of old stone buildings that have been adapted to stables, mainly for the stallions, and two American barns with internal stabling, for the mares and youngstock. David and Julian breed around 45 foals a year. They are a combination of all three breeds, but the majority is made up of standard Shetlands.

“Our grazing is suited to native ponies, especially the small breeds, as the land is not the best quality,” says Julian. “Our ponies run in small herds all year, aside from covering time. We’re lucky we never have any ponies suffer from laminitis. The fact they have quite large expanses of land to move on is the reason why they have such free movement, too.”

DAVID and Julian are helped by full-time groom, Stacey Palmer, who has been with them for 15 years. There are two part-time grooms, Conlaed Hooper and Ruby Collyer. The ridden ponies are in production with Jessica Talbot in Somerset.

“Due to the height of the farm, we produce our show team indoors for the early county shows,” says Julian. “We bring our show prospects in around January or February and start the feeding, rugging and grooming to get them ready for our first major show, which is usually Royal Windsor.

“We rough the ponies off in the winter; we believe in stripping them back then starting afresh in the new year. We aim to apply fresh condition by recommencing feeding in the new year for a topline. We are pretty old-school; we make our own mix from straights. Last year, due to the pandemic, we ended up turning the show ponies back out in April,” adds Julian.

“This was really heartbreaking after putting so much effort into them,” says David, who admits they are behind this year due to the uncertainty surrounding the competition season. “It was hard not to have the shows last year and not see everyone, but it was great to be able to catch up with things on the farm.”

Adds Julian: “It’s been an amazing year for pony sales, too, so it’ll be interesting to see if the trade stays as buoyant this year.”

Sharptor Trinity – Shetland Champion (Image credit: creditUnknown)

With hopes that we will get some form of showing term in 2021, David and Julian are looking forward to watching ponies they’ve bred out both in-hand and under saddle.

“We love being involved with these ponies in the show ring,” enthuses Julian. “Our main aim in life is to breed a pony that oozes breed type and quality but can ultimately perform and succeed under saddle.”

Four to watch

SHARPTOR TRICOLORE

Six-year-old bay Shetland stallion

Sire: Sharptor Laser Red

Dam: Sharptor Trinity

Julian says: “Tricolore is being produced by Jessica Talbot under saddle this year. He has the movement of his mother and is a very exciting prospect.”

BLACKERTOR MAGNETO

Seven-year-old black Shetland stallion

Sire: Clivocast Napolean

Dam: Bayview Maggie May

David says: “He had great success in 2018 and his foals from last year are making impressive yearlings. He is the one we have high hopes for.”

BLACKERTOR MERCURY

Three-year-old bay Dartmoor colt

Sire: Shilstone Rocks Rain Man

Dam: Newoak Myth

David says: “He was champion foal at the breed show in 2018 and we hope he’ll follow in his sire’s footsteps.”

SHARPTOR DIVINE

Nine-year-old black Shetland mareSire: Sharptor PredatorDam: Danethorpe DeliaJulian says: “Divine is the broodmare who has been waiting in the wings. She was shown successfully as a junior and was due to come out last year.”