A pony who was discovered in a shipping container came out on top in the SEIB Search for a Star in-hand rescue horse and pony Your Horse Live qualifier at Stoneleigh Park last month.

RSPCA Jerry, a coloured cob who is believed to be four, was severely underweight when he was found in 2022 along with another pony named Tom. Sadly Tom’s condition was so bad he had to be put to sleep. 

The pair were discovered following complaints from members of the public about dogs barking in a field. On investigation by the RSPCA, two shipping containers were found – one containing 20 dogs and one with the two ponies inside. 

Following a period of rehabilitation and recuperation by the RSPCA, Jerry was adopted by Theo Charnley in May 2024.

Theo Charnley with RSPCA Jerry.

New partnership

Theo, who’s 13, has enjoyed a successful partnership with his current pony, RSPCA George, winning 26 dressage championships. Theo was on the lookout for a new pony – as he is outgrowing George – when he spotted Jerry on the RSPCA website and used some of his dressage winnings to pay for Jerry’s RSPCA adoption fee.

“I love working with rescue ponies as it’s so rewarding,” said Theo. 

“There is no pressure or expectation on them like there is on ponies that you’ve bought, and I love watching them improve and building a partnership with them.”

As Jerry was only three when Theo got him, it was decided to take him in-hand showing to gain some life experience. 

RSPCA Jerry is doing well in the show ring.

Getting out and about

“We’d never done showing before but it’s proving brilliant for getting Jerry out to see the world. Jerry is very talented and has an incredible trot. He can be a bit exuberant, but he is a real gent and great fun,” said Theo. 

Jerry won the Rescue Equine Showing Society in-hand rescue horse and pony qualifier, a new class for this year, at Stoneleigh Park last month and has qualified for Your Horse Live which takes place at Stoneleigh Park on 7-9 November.

As well as doing well in the showing ring, Jerry has also taken to being backed. Theo has begun breaking him in and is hoping to do some dressage with him in the future.

“We are not in any rush with Jerry and will take our time. He seems to love being ridden and is taking it all in his stride. He is a very nice pony to have around and I’m really excited about the future,” said Theo.

Main image © 1st Class Images, inset images © Charnley family.

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