Life beyond rescue: A pony for a lifetime
When Pepe arrived at his new home in September 2001 at the age of 18, nobody could have imagined just how much he would become part of the family.
Now, nearly 25 years later, Pepe remains at the heart of family life, enjoying his favourite treats, sharing a field with his best friend and proving every day just how rewarding rehoming can be.
A match made at Belwade Farm
In 2001, Pepe’s rehomers, Sue and Malcolm, already cared for another World Horse Welfare rescue and were looking to rehome another pony.
“We spoke to our Field Officer Tony and explained we were looking for another pony,” they recall. “We were about to go on holiday to Scotland and Tony said, ‘leave it with me.'”
Taking his advice, the family visited our Belwade Farm Rescue and Rehoming Centre in Aberdeenshire during their holiday and met with our centre manager Eileen.
“We said we were looking for a small pony and she pointed straight to Pepe!’”
The family instantly fell in love with the 10hh Shetland cross.
“Eileen brought him in for us to meet him and we said, ‘We’ve got ourselves another pony!'”
With their children aged just 8 and 10, they spent several visits getting to know Pepe before he made the journey to his new home in England and the moment they had all been waiting for. “That was it and he’s been with us ever since.”
A lifelong friend
Throughout his life, Pepe has been a loyal friend to the horses around him. Over the years, he has shared his life with several horses, including Sonny, Tilly and fellow rescue Megan. For the last 20 years, he has been a devoted friend to Magic, a 14.2hh piebald cob.
“He absolutely adores Magic, although she’s not quite as fussed about him!”
Pepe’s gentle nature and willingness to take everything in his stride means he has always been ready for an adventure.
“He’s competed in showjumping and taken part in Whinny and Woof competitions with our son and dog. He also used to pull an exercise cart around the village and has helped children learn to ride.”
One of the wonderful things about rehoming is that horses and ponies often have so much to offer and can become an important part of family life in ways that nobody expects.
Pepe’s story is a wonderful reminder that rehoming isn’t just about giving a horse a second chance – it’s about welcoming a new member of the family.
A personality everyone loves
When talking about Pepe, his family are quick to mention what makes him such a special pony.
“He’s so calm and gentle and takes everything in his stride.”
It’s a temperament that has won him countless admirers and has allowed him to adapt to different situations and make a positive impact on many people’s lives throughout the years.
Whether accompanying another horse, helping a child gain confidence in the saddle or simply enjoying life at home, Pepe approaches everything with the same laid-back attitude.
The lasting impact of rehoming
Now in his later years, Pepe is still enjoying life with the family who welcomed him home all those years ago. And despite his age, he continues to impress those who care for him.
“He’s the oldest pony our farrier visits, and we’ve been told his teeth are exceptional for his age. Even the vets can’t believe how old he is.”
A fan of carrots and apples, Pepe still enjoys the comforts of his stable each night. Although he has started to slow down a little in recent years and enjoys more rest, he can still surprise everyone with a cheerful canter around the field.
Giving horses a second chance
Looking back over the last 25 years, Pepe’s story perfectly captures what rehoming is all about.
What began as a search for a companion pony led to a friendship spanning decades. In return for a loving home, Pepe has given his family years of companionship, laughter and cherished memories.
His journey is proof that when you choose to rehome, you’re not just changing a horse’s life. Sometimes, they end up changing yours too.
Rehoming plays a vital role in our ongoing rescue work, helping ensure more horses in need can be rescued, rehabilitated and given the chance of a brighter future.
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