Dartmoor National Park Authority Information for Pony Buyers
| Dartmoor National Park Authority - Information for Pony Buyers Dartmoor National Park Authority is working in partnership with the Dartmoor Commoners' Council, the Dartmoor Hill Pony Association and the Dartmoor Pony Heritage Trust to help raise awareness of the approaching annual pony sales on Dartmoor. Traditionally, ponies that roam the open moor are rounded up at the annual ‘drifts'. The foals are weaned, old mares are taken off the moor and some ponies not required in the herd are sold. Those that are fit enough are then released back onto the commons until the following year. |  Photograph Copyright: Dartmoor Pony Training Centre |
Most of the ponies on Dartmoor regardless of breed have very good temperaments and are gaining a reputation as good value children's ponies. They also make excellent companions to larger horses that might otherwise live by themselves.
There are various ways of buying a pony from Dartmoor. The Dartmoor Hill Pony Association is run by Dartmoor commoners who breed hill ponies. For sales lists and information contact Charlotte Faulkner on (01364) 631036, email redshed@eclipse.co.uk or visit www.dartmoorhillpony.com
The Dartmoor Pony Heritage Trust (DPHT) is a registered charity holding a list of native ponies available for sale, all approved by Dartmoor Pony Society judges. In addition all ponies have been handled in five foundation skills (haltered, leading, loading in trailer, tying up, and grooming and picking up feet). Please contact the Trust on (01626) 355314 or visit www.dpht.co.uk and click on sales list.
Ponies are also taken to the annual pony sales at the markets in Tavistock on 3 October and Chagford on 9 October. These are run by local auctioneers Ward and Chowen of Tavistock (Telephone 01822 610080) and Rendells of Chagford (Telephone 01647 432277).
Ponies are expensive animals to keep, particularly as they can live as long as 40 years! It is important that potential purchasers are aware of their responsibilities with regard to animal welfare and the costs involved. It is always advisable to seek professional help in choosing the right pony for your needs.
Further information can be obtained from www.dartmoor-npa.gov.uk.
Added on: 24/09/08.
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