Sometimes the most magical moments happen when you’re simply out for a walk. For Lisa Soanes from Nottingham, a chance encounter in October 2015 would change her life forever—and rescue a deserving pony in the process.
A Pony in Need
While strolling along Eppleworth Road, Lisa spotted a young horse tethered alone near a traveler site. She was instantly smitten. Rather than walk past, she called her husband Jim, and together they set out to discover the pony’s owner. After visiting the nearby traveler site, they learned the horse belonged to a man from a neighboring area.
That’s when Lisa made a decision that would transform both their lives: she bought the pony for just £150 and parted with her driving harness to seal the deal.
From Thin to Thriving
The seven-year-old 11.2 hh pony, whom Lisa named Sonny, clearly needed some TLC. “He was incredibly thin when we first got him,” Lisa recalls. The Soanes family spent weeks carefully building up Sonny’s weight and conditioning. They invested in proper dental care and hoof maintenance, setting him up for success. About a year after his arrival, Sonny was started under saddle.
A Dream Temperament
What emerged was something truly special. “He has the most lovely temperament,” Lisa gushes. “One day we decided to pop my daughter Grace on him—she was only seven at the time—and he was absolutely fine. We suspect he may have been ridden around the estate before, but his natural kindness really shines through.”
A Bond Beyond Price
Today, Sonny and Grace are inseparable best friends. Their connection is truly remarkable—the kind of human-animal bond that reminds us why we love horses so much. Lisa often jokes that if Sonny were a full-sized 16.2 hh horse with his incredible temperament and abilities, he’d be worth millions. “Every equestrian would want a horse like him,” she says with pride.
When a tempting offer came along to sell Sonny, Lisa didn’t hesitate. “We turned it down immediately,” she explains. “We couldn’t live without him. He’s part of our family now.”
A Rescue Story Worth Celebrating
Sonny’s journey from neglected pony to cherished family member is a powerful reminder of the impact rescue and proper care can have. For just £150 and one driving harness, the Soanes family didn’t just gain a pony—they found a dream horse that money truly cannot buy.
If you’re considering a pony purchase, remember: sometimes the best horses come with humble beginnings and the greatest rewards come from giving a deserving animal a second chance.