The United Kingdom Shetland Pony is the perfect child’s pony. Before mechanization Shetlands were used in the coal mines for many decades. They now have a new and very special job. They are offered to differently able children, life use at no charge, in the Personal Ponies Organization.

The U. K. Shetland Pony is a docile little fellow, hairy and troll like, intelligent and capable of doing hard work. Shetlands were used extensively in the last century in the coal mines of Scotland and Wales and in the mines of Pennsylvania and West Virginia. Shetlands often spent thirty years down in the mines. Their temperament is much like that of a draft horse. They are patient and quiet and kind. Indeed the U.K. type Shetland seems the perfect pony for a small child to love. This seems especially true for a small child with disabilities.

The breeding herd for Personal Ponies has been carefully selected to take advantage of the positive qualities of this little Shetland from the Islands. The conformation standard of “wide, round and low to the ground” is certainly the true breed-type of the U.K. Shetland. We trace many if not most of the extended pedigrees of individuals in the breeding herd back to 1881 and the descendants of John Bain who was one of the first imported Shetlands. Gold Melody Boy, who was foaled in 1962, is the Foundation sire for the Personal Ponies Registry which is nationally recognized under the auspices of the organization.

Temperament is of utmost importance when breeding ponies for small children with disabilities. We make every effort to keep this uppermost in mind as we select individuals for the next generation. A pony with a kind attitude, ability to work under saddle and in harness if needed or to be a loving companion, in a size compatible with a small child with challenges, is our goal.

"We expect this concept to continue to be of primary importance as our herd of Shetlands expands. Those who are in charge of the breeding of the Shetlands for children have a serious challenge as well-never to forget that these delightful little equines are bred to be loved and respected for their ancient lineage-and their ability to give joy to a human child with disabilities."

Marianne Alexander National Director of Personal Ponies