Miniature Shetland pony Tinkerbell brought joy to many patients when she accompanied popular farrier and social media star Sam Dracott, who was dressed as Father Christmas, on a visit to the children’s ward at Swindon’s Great Western Hospital.
Bedecked in reindeer antlers, the therapy pony from Dinky Ponies, an equine-assisted therapy business, received plenty of strokes and cuddles as she joined Father Christmas delivering presents.
Sam, who has over six million followers on social media and did several popular demos at Your Horse Live last month, was dressing up as Father Christmas for the first time. Dinky Ponies owner Sarah Woodland was also in attendance to ensure Tinkerbell’s welfare.
“It was a total honour to be able to make so many unwell children smile on this special morning,” said Sam.
“When we came up with the idea we weren’t sure we would be allowed to do it, but then we met Sarah and team, the stars aligned.
“I’ve never dressed up as Santa before, but seeing the look on the children’s faces has given me a new love for all things Father Christmas. I would love to do it all again.”
You can watch Sam and Tinkerbell’s day at the hospital in the following video:
Healing powers of horses
Dinky Ponies is dedicated to supporting mental health and wellness through the healing power of horses. The ponies regularly visit the elderly, children, and adults with physical, mental and learning difficulties, or those that are just in need of some extra happiness and positivity.
“We are incredibly busy with visits, but we absolutely adore being able to bring joy to the children at Great Western Hospital,” said Sarah Woodland.
“You can see how much it lights up their day and it makes all the hours of hard work looking after the ponies worthwhile. It’s a huge lifestyle commitment and both myself and Darcey (James) spend the majority of our time visiting as many people as we can.
“We are hoping to find some additional support in the future so we can visit more people in need.”
Pets As Therapy
Great Western Hospital regularly organises pony visits as part of their ‘Pets As Therapy’ initiative. Their team of ‘Pets As Therapy’ Volunteers have permission to bring registered therapy pets to the hospital and make regular weekly visits to nearly 70 different areas in support of the Trust’s patients, visitors and staff.
“The positivity they bring can be seen in almost every single interaction the animals have with our patients and our staff,” said Vickie Hayes, voluntary services manager.
“We are very proud to have Volunteers who wish to give their time to making a real difference to those who are most often in their lowest moments. Having Sarah bring her ponies to see us is always a privilege and we were especially thrilled to have Santa come along for this festive visit!”
