23/10/2026
When Abby Met Rowan: A Magical Bond
This is a story of the power of horse and human friendship. It’s about how a decades long bond was formed between a curious young neighbour Abby, and a special Dartmoor Hill Pony, Rowan.
Thirty one years ago, Carol and Michelle were looking for a companion pony for their two riding horses. After learning about The Mare and Foal Sanctuary, they visited Hamlyn’s Farm, one of our original sites, where our founder, Rosemary Kind, began work.
It was there that Carol and Michelle met Rowan and were delighted by the pony’s calm and sensible nature. On that day, Rowan found a loving home that would change her life.
Next door to Carol and Michelle, a young girl called Abby would peer over the hedge to admire Rowan. Then one day, she was invited to meet the pony.
Soon, their friendship began to grow. Abby would visit Carol and Michelle to spend time with them and Rowan. Trust and patience were the building blocks of a lifelong friendship. Abby marvels, ‘I’ve literally known her my whole life ... Rowan’s been there while my life has changed from being a child to an adult.’
Abby’s bond with Rowan grew across the years. The pony became a trusted confidant for schoolgirl secrets and, years later, was the first to hear about Abby’s pregnancy. Beautifully, to this day, their friendship continues, with Abby bringing her children to meet with Carol, Michelle, and, of course, Rowan.
Rowan’s journey is a reminder that horse and human bonds can last a lifetime and generations. If you would like to become a Sanctuary at Home Carer and find your pony friend, look at the wonderful ponies we have available: https://mareandfoal.org/our-work/rehoming/
