Two miniature ponies have been visiting a hospital every month to “lift patients’ spirits”.<\/p>\n
Sarah Woodland, founder of Dinky Ponies, takes her therapy Shetland ponies to Swindon’s Great Western Hospital wards in a bid to improve people’s mood and wellbeing. <\/p>\n
Her pony Poppy has now been named a finalist in the BBC Radio Wiltshire’s Make a Difference Awards in the Animal category. <\/p>\n
“We visit a variety of patients each time. The ponies help with depression, communication and just lifting people’s spirits. It really improves their outlook,” Ms Woodland said. <\/p>\n
“Hospitals can sometimes feel cold and clinical and I wanted to bring comfort in an unexpected form. <\/p>\n
“A Dinky Pony brings something magical, a little warmth, softness and a reminder that even the smallest creatures can make the biggest difference.”<\/p>\n
Ms Woodland described Poppy as calm, kind and deeply empathetic.<\/p>\n
“She has this amazing ability to tune into people’s emotions,” she said.<\/p>\n
“I try not to overuse her because she’s so sensitive, but she brings such peace and positivity wherever she goes.”<\/p>\n
She also takes her ponies to hospices and during one visit a young girl, who had not smiled in months, was overjoyed when she stroked Poppy’s nose.<\/p>\n
“Her mum cried, she said it was the first moment that felt ‘normal’ in a long time,” Ms Woodland said. <\/p>\n
Her other pony, Tinkerbell, has her own unique temperament tailored for therapeutic visits.<\/p>\n
Helping the team on their rounds is volunteer Darcy, who said Ms Woodland’s connection with people and ponies makes the whole experience magical.<\/p>\n
Ms Woodland worked closely with the hospital team for more than a year to complete the necessary risk assessments.<\/p>\n
“It took a lot of planning, but the hospital have been fantastic. Not every place would say yes, but the support here has made it possible,” she said.<\/p>\n
Speaking of Poppy’s Make a Difference Award nomination, Ms Woodland said: “It’s such a rewarding thing to do, but to know others see the benefit too, that’s really special.”<\/p>\n