Please note that the ponies mentioned here have now all been sold to good homes

The Dartmoor Pony Heritage Trust ran a pilot scheme at Brimpts Farm, Dartmeet, to train ponies off the moor using positive handling methods in preparation for sale. The scheme was organised by DPHT volunterr Natalie Torr and Vanessa Bee, of Positive Horsemanship.

The DPHT is a newly-formed charity set up to preserve the Dartmoor Heritage Pony which roams the moor and whose numbers are in serious decline. To increase the value of the foals the DPHT recognises that these ponies, in particular the colt foals, need to be gelded and handled prior to sale to promote them as ideal riding ponies.

The team worked with seven foals and one yearling filly, five of which belong to a local farmer and three which the DPHT has recently adopted.

The training days were extremely successful and by the end of the three days the ponies were used to having a headcollar on, being led around, being tide up and having their feet picked up. Some of themmwere even ready to go out for walks around the farm.

Three of the five foals belonging to the local farmer are now for sale, and we are keen to find them owners who are willing to take their education further. They have learnt all the basics, but they cannot be put out in a field and be expected to remember it all in three years time. With a little work as often as possible, and a lot of time just being around humans these ponies will definitely be willing to try their hardest for their new owners.

We are very keen to hear from people who are interested in the scheme, whether they would simply like an invite to the next taining days, or would like to get involved with the training/organising etc. Please leave us your contact details and we will get in touch. We are very happy to discuss training methods, and are keen to hear from anyone who would like to help.

For more information please contact:

Natalie Torr - 01364 621292

Vanessa Bee - Positive Horsemanship mail @ positivehorsemanship.com

Details of the three ponies that were for sale