Pet therapy business Pony n Paws is Trader of the Week

In September last year, animal lover Fiona Guile began visiting care homes and schools with her miniature Shetland pony Sammy, and her cockapoo Scamp.

The venture was branded ‘Pony n Paws’ and became Fiona’s way of spreading animal magic to those who need it most.

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She said: “Sammy is such a sweet little boy and Scamp is wonderful – he's very chilled out.

“They always get a great reaction. People adore them.”

Fiona’s idea for Pony n Paws came long before its launch in September, and followed a lifelong love of animals.

She told the Daily Echo: “I’ve been a horse rider since about the age of 16, and I love animals. 

Sammy (Image: Fiona Guile)

“I always wanted to work for myself, and start my own business, and if I could, take my pet to work.

“Then about three years ago, my nan spent her last days in a care room. I went to visit her one day and somebody walked out the home with a dog. I didn’t realise dogs were allowed in there.

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“That was my inspiration. It gave me the idea, and from then on I was determined to make it happen.

“It basically snowballed from there. It took a couple of years to get it ready.”

Under Pony n Paws, Fiona has seen how Sammy and Scamp’s visits have helped to make people smile across care homes and schools in and around Bournemouth.

She describes how engaging with animals can be particularly beneficial for people living with dementia in care homes. 

However, Fiona does not want to limit her services to pet therapy and said she has plans to expand down other avenues.

She told the Daily Echo: “Sammy would be adorable to use for weddings because he’s white, and one of his markings is actually in a heart shape.

“I call myself a pet therapy service, but it’s not just that, it’s whatever anyone requires.”

For more information about Pony n Paws, email Fiona at guilefiona@yahoo.com