I went to the annual Shetland Pony Sales in Lerwick because I happened to be in the area and not because I wanted to buy. Yes, I did register in case but I didn’t buy anyone. I sat on my hands. I was good.
This is behind the scenes – the pens where everyone waits to go through the sale ring. Each pony has their own sale number glued onto their rump.
First, there was the sale of tack and various Shetland pony miscellanea.
Then it was the ponies’ turn. Ponies are traded in guineas. It is a tradition from way back. The five pence (the shilling) was the auctioneer’s fee.
The sales weren’t as busy as they have been in previous years and prices were non-existent or low, despite being on iBidder as well so folk could bid over the internet.
Many ponies were left unsold with no bids and reserves were not met. A few went for good money.
And quite right too. It costs money to breed registered Shetland ponies.
To register Colt/Gelding Foal (including passport) – £20.00
To register a Filly Foal (including passport) – £40.00
To license a stallion costs £168.00 (including Voluntary Vet Examination, DNA kit and microchip)
and that is just the paperwork.
So I fully understand why a breeder wouldn’t sell a registered Shetland Pony for pence.
There were some gorgeous ponies too.
Big
And little.
So I sat on my hands and came home with no-one mostly because I didn’t hear any little pony call me. It was very difficult but I managed not to shop!
But I thought you might be interested to see how the set-up works.
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And in other news, ‘Bert is most definitely back. I know it is him. We have had long chat and he came stood in my arms while I stroked and talked to him, wagging his little tail with happiness.
My little Monkey is home. I am very happy.
sad to see so little value in the ponies at the sales and what happens to them now.
glad Bert realises he is home!
looking at those ponies I am sure I do not own a Shetland pony. He must be something else.
and ‘Bert needs his muzzah to help him get fit again! whole (animal) family home! how sweet!
Yay for ‘Bert! I hope he stays longer (permanently) this time around.
Yeah for Bert! We recently brought home a mini (36″), I’m hooked. Planning to hook him to his cart tomorrow. Can’t wait.
It makes me sad too when these ponies don’t get sold…
Yes, because now you really don’t know their fate. Most will just get to grow up. Some won’t.
Thanks for telling us how the sale works — I’m afraid I would have come home with several, they are so darling! Too bad the owners can’t get proper money for all their efforts, what a shame. I’m so glad you have your ‘Bert back!
Welcome home, ‘Bert!
(Oh, how I would love to have that little guy in the last pony photo…)
Interesting how the sales work!
I just hope all the unsold ones get to live in peace somewhere…
Glad to hear that things are home are peaceful and that everyone seems to be coming along well!