Dolly the pony setting a good example
A THERAPY pony named Dolly is doing a different chore each week and is encouraging children to do the same.
Dolly is a mini Shetland pony and last year became the face of a charity which provides therapeutic pony visits across the island to all ages, from pre-school to the elderly.
Sophie Veron, the founder of Sophie’s Smile Ponies, said everyone can pat Dolly and talk to her.
Sometimes they even go in a lift with Dolly to reach people who are not able to come out of their room.
‘We have done story time sessions with some of the schools and Dolly has started doing equine-facilitated learning sessions,’ she said.
‘These sessions aim to improve self confidence and team building skills, through leading Dolly through different obstacles.’
During lockdown, Dolly and Sophie are unable to get out and do their visits but still wanted to do something with Dolly that people could engage with.
‘I also thought that children might need some inspiration, whilst they are stuck at home, to do their chores,’ Sophie said.
‘I post a photo of Dolly doing a different chore each week on our Sophie's Smile Ponies Facebook page and I am encouraging children to comment with pictures of them doing the same chore.’
The chores vary from hanging out the washing and cleaning the car to posting letters.
Dolly also does other things apart from chores, such as hosting an afternoon tea picnic with another pony, Lola.
