Bamboo the shetland hits half a century

Is Bamboo the oldest pony in the UK?

Uplands Way Vets are celebrating veteran horses and ponies throughout September with Equine Golden Oldie Awareness Month. They’re shining a spotlight on our older four-legged friends and their owners who work super-hard to provide the highest quality of care.

One of the oldest ponies under their care is Bamboo, a Shetland pony who’s thought to be a whopping 50 years old! The average lifespan for a pony is 20–30 years, so it’s almost unbelievable that Bamboo has reached this grand old age. Sole Guiñon, a vet from the practice, says it’s really rare for ponies to live this long, but it shows how well his owners care for him.

Bamboo’s been owned for nine years by Holly Banns who runs a retirement livery yard with husband, Tom. Together they do all they can to keep him happy and healthy – including keeping the vets up to date, organising regular dental checks and spotting problems early on. You’d think Bamboo lives a much quieter life in his old age but, surprisingly, he still enjoys being decorated with flowers and going on walks to deliver cupcakes to guests at a glamping site.

For tips on looking after your golden oldie, email [email protected] to grab yourself a copy of their handy booklet.