Charity | Posted on February 26th, 2025 | return to news
Dorset horse owners urged to help Devon-based pony charity
An equine charity in Devon is at capacity and is hoping existing or prospective horse owners would consider rehoming a companion pony.
Do you need a companion pony for your horse, or are thinking of owning a horse or pony in the future? Then you could be of help to a charity in Devon.
The Mare and Foal Sanctuary based at Newton Abbot in Devon is currently at full capacity and is looking to rehome around 50 non-ridden ponies this year who would make exceptional companions for other horses.
By offering to rehome one of these ponies on loan, carers will open a space at the currently full sanctuary and extend a lifeline to another equine.
Head of Sanctuary Care Sally Burton said: “There are many horses and ponies in critical need of our help this winter, but until we have the land and resources to care for them responsibly, we simply can’t bring all of them in. This highlights the urgent need for equine carers to rehome ponies on loan with our team’s support and advice.
“While our ridden horses and those in training tend to be the most popular choice, the importance of companion ponies shouldn’t be overlooked.
“As herd animals, all equines require companionship to thrive. In the wild, their natural instinct is to live in groups, and this social behaviour is crucial for their safety and physical and emotional wellbeing. The absence of a companion can lead to stress, loneliness, and challenging behaviours.
“We have many rescued ponies that have been rehabilitated and trained and are now looking for somewhere to live within a herd or as a companion to a single horse. They are gentle ponies with much life experience and social interaction to offer.”
Gillian Gratton, the sanctuary’s welfare and rehoming coordinator, said: “Our Sanctuary at Home scheme gives ponies the chance to live in a home environment where they can get the one-to-one care they need, while still being supported and retaining life-long sanctuary with us.”
If the placement works well, carers can keep their pony for as long as they choose, with low or no rehoming fees, no registration costs and potential help with veterinary costs for some conditions. Carers will also receive unlimited free access to advice and support, with training and care from the charity’s experts.
The sanctuary claims that many of its carers say the ponies become their own best friends, helping them to foster deeper connections and a sense of wellbeing.
Gratton said: “The sheer joy of forming a bond with a pony, watching them interact with others, and caring for their needs can be very special. By rehoming a pony, our carers are directly supporting the sanctuary’s mission and allowing us to rescue more horses and ponies in serious welfare situations.”
The sanctuary relies entirely on donations and legacy gifts. For more information on the charity’s Sanctuary at Home scheme and the equines available, visit https://mareandfoal.org/rehoming/#horses.
You can find out more about the horses and ponies the sanctuary looks after here: www.mareandfoal.org.
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