PIP - Ponies Inspiring People

The Dartmoor Pony Heritage Trust (DPHT) is a registered charity and limited company by guarantee. The DPHT was founded in April 2005; its primary aim is to preserve the indigenous Dartmoor pony herds running on the commons of Dartmoor. The DPHT works with moorland pony keepers to help add value to their stock through a number of initiatives. Our work promotes the ponies’ versatility and temperament.

In addition to our work with farmers we run an extensive education programme; working with a wide range of learners. We have a Service Level Agreement with the Dartmoor National Park Authority. To meet the criteria, we have been entrusted to provide education based around a Dartmoor Pony Experience aimed at primary schools, colleges and life long learners. For the past three years we have worked with students from Millford Special Needs School and Downham College. We have entered a team of five Dartmoor pack ponies to assist and motivate youngsters to complete the Jubilee Challenge (an 8 mile walk across Dartmoor for young people with disabilities, the event takes place during the annual Ten Tors event).

The aim of the PIP project is to provide educational and inspirational interactive equine programmes for children and adults with mental and /or physical disabilities, over three years.

There is no similar programme running in the West of England, but there is substantial proof worldwide that interaction with animals of all types is extremely beneficial to those with disabilities.  Horses in particular provide a broad base of challenges, and have proved to be very successful in developing the emotional and physical capabilities of the participants.  This project also strongly proves the suitability of Dartmoor ponies as calm, gentle animals, ideal for family environments or as ‘part of the family’ for those with disabilities. 

We are greatly encouraged by the positive feedback from the groups we already work with and clear statements of demand from the organisations involved.  Increasing life enriching opportunities and activities for the disabled is a priority for all those who know, work and live with them.  By raising the Dartmoor Ponies specific qualities we hope to improve the quality of many lives.

Please contact Dru Butterfield if you would like to book your group on to a PIP session.

01626 355314 or dru@dpht.co.uk