Mini Horse Heroes | animal wellbeing

Welcome to Mini Horse Heroes, where the heartwarming journey with miniature ponies begins!

It all started in 2021 when I met Dude, a special little pony whose comforting presence became a beacon of hope during my recovery following a serious riding accident. I missed loving and caring for horses, and Dude and Nero gave me a reason to get up every morning and I loved getting back into the routine and structure of loving and caring for horses, and the love and care they gave me in return improved my well-being.

I took Dude with me to visit my mum in her care home which was really rewarding and an emotional journey for me as my mum had advanced dementia and often did not know who I was. When she met Dude, it sparked memories and emotions that had faded, reminding her that she had a daughter and even my name.

Dude visiting are homes can be quite an emotional event and he triggers emotions in many people he meets. People are often shocked when they see a pony knocking on their door asking for permission to come in, or watching him doze in their laps or over their beds. It is common for people to cry, but not because they want me to go, generally they want to share their thoughts and emotions with me. Other than my mum, I have had the pleasure of helping a 95 year-old lady to dance with a pony, and I have had 3 experiences of people who never or rarely spoke having a discussion with Dude.

It is amazing that I am able to share this with so many people and I feel very fortunate to have this opportunity with such an amazing pony.

My journey with Dude has inspired me to write a children's book about a lonely pony that visits people in care homes and makes lots of new friends along the way. Look out for Dudie Wudie and the Itchy Scratchy Tree which is due to be published in March 2025.

But it’s not all about Dude. Lulu and now Gertie have joined him in various events within the community. You can meet them all in our Meet the Ponies page.

If you think we can help make your children's party, fete, school, nursery or community event more special with a miniature horse, please do get in touch.