🌿 February & March at the Sanctuary: Emus, Escapes and Small Miracles

The start of the year brought us everything from sunshine to surprise visitors, emu adventures to life-changing moments for one very special Shetland. Here’s a look at what’s been happening at Parkgate Pony Sanctuary during February and March.

🦤 Meet Eric and Ernie
We never thought we’d be writing about emus… but here we are! Eric and Ernie joined us earlier this year and have quickly become firm favourites with visitors and volunteers alike. These two are full of character and always up to something. Once movement restrictions ease, we’ll be looking to find them a forever home. If you know someone who can offer them a life full of stimulation and space, we’d love to hear from you.

🐴 Runaway Ponies in Gayton
In March, three familiar faces managed to escape and were found wandering in Gayton. Thankfully, we were able to help track down the owners, but it was the second time in just a few weeks they’d decided to go exploring. It’s always a reminder of how important secure fencing is — and how cheeky ponies can be when they want a bit of adventure.

☀️ Sunshine Days for Sid and Sabrina
We’ve had some lovely bright spells over the last couple of months, and Sid and Sabrina have made the most of it, basking in the sunshine and bringing smiles to everyone around them. After a long, wet winter, it’s been lovely to see the horses enjoying the warmth and light again.

🐶 Dog Field Fundraiser Success
A huge thank you to everyone who booked time in our enclosed dog field — together you’ve helped us raise £250 in just one week. The field offers a peaceful, private space for dogs to run and play, and all proceeds go directly towards the sanctuary. If you haven’t tried it yet, it’s located right next to our pony fields in Neston and available for just £10 an hour.

Booking link here:
https://calendly.com/fieldparkgateponies/booking-the-field

🐾 Blossom’s Beautiful Breakthrough
The real highlight of the season has been watching Blossom begin to heal. When she arrived in November, she was in agonising pain from laminitis and could hardly move. Our farrier, Chris Bailey, fitted her with glue-on shoes to ease the pressure — and it’s made the world of difference.

This month, for the first time since joining us, Blossom was able to go out in the field with another Shetland. She rolled, kicked up her heels, and ran. It was a moment of pure joy and proof that every act of care, every donation, every volunteer hour really does change lives. Chris, we can’t thank you enough — and to everyone who continues to support us, your kindness is what makes magic like this possible.

💚 Thank You, Always
Whether it's helping a Shetland take her first steps towards recovery, or giving emus a safe place to stay, everything we do is made possible by your support. Thank you for being with us, for sharing our stories, and for caring so deeply.

‍

‍