Sarah Woodland runs a business bringing miniature ponies to care homes

Sarah Woodland founded Dinky Ponies, a business where she brings Miniature Shetland Ponies to visit elderly residents and children with special needs.

Woodland began her journey after receiving two Miniature Shetland Ponies and deciding they needed a job because their small size limited their ability to perform traditional horse work. She initially hosted parties and handling sessions in public spaces like pub car parks to build her business.

When the weather made outdoor sessions difficult during the fall and winter, she tested whether the ponies could navigate indoor environments and elevators. After a successful trial at a children's daycare, she began contacting nursing homes to offer the ponies as a way for residents to interact with animals. The business has grown significantly over four years, and Woodland now manages seven ponies. She visits care homes for one hour at a time to ensure the animals remain well.

During these visits, Woodland focuses on providing quality time for residents to talk and interact with the ponies rather than hosting rushed sessions. She uses positive reinforcement, such as giving the ponies mints, to help them stay calm while using elevators and navigating laminate floors with specialized shoes. Woodland reports that the reactions from elderly residents vary, with some people laughing and others crying during the visits.

She also takes her ponies to nurseries and residential homes for children with special needs. While Woodland describes the business as difficult to run and not highly profitable, she says the work is fulfilling because it makes both the animals and the people happy.