Our stables in Teddington (with that lovely rubber matting) are now luxurious, but this is a residential street with no ‘turnout’ (field or paddock). And we only have space 8 horses. This is why horses are rotated, between the Stables and our fields in Surrey.

Every week the lorry travels between the two, collecting some ponies for a week of work and delivering others for a week of chilling. Of course most of the oldies who have retired from work are at the field full time, where they’re delivered ‘meals on wheels’ as you’d expect.

‘Isn’t this a bit disruptive?’ I hear you ask, ‘we thought horses liked routine?’

Well yes and no. We definitely need routine but we’re smart enough to like having more than one! Think about it. You humans might go for a new walk that’s really interesting, with lots of colours, landscapes, and wildlife. It’s just the same for us. We meet lots of people in Teddington (and they always coo over us, who doesn’t enjoy that?), and get to walk, trot or even canter in Bushy Park beneath the oak and lime trees, watched by deer and ducks. At the end of a working week we’ll be tired, but it’ll be happy tired and we sleep well when we get to unwind back at the field. A bit like you humans having a good nap after your walk in the country, or for that matter weekends, or holidays. Two different routines makes for a more stimulating life.

When the human team arrive at the fields to make the latest switchover, there’ll be no shortage of pony volunteers running across to the gate signalling ‘Pick me! Pick me!’ – which is exactly what Eddy is doing here. (He does this every time, by the way.)

The position of ‘cuddle horse’ in Teddington is becoming much coveted. So much to watch and so many admirers, I mean, what’s not to like?

Prodney is Chief Equine Officer (CEO) at Park Lane Stables, and achieved celebrity status following the TV coverage in 2021. And yes, he really is a bit of a star on YouTube and TikTok. Just search for Park Lane Stables and do follow us!