VOLUNTEERS ARE AN ESSENTIAL AND MUCH VALUED PART OF OUR CHARITY. WE ARE ALWAYS LOOKING FOR KIND AND PATIENT PEOPLE TO JOIN US - EXPERIENCE NOT ESSENTIAL , AS ALL TRAINING WILL BE GIVEN
SO IF HELPING OUT AT OUR DARTMOOR SANCTUARY, WITH HORSES, PONIES AND DONKEYS APPEALS TO YOU, PLEASE GET IN TOUCH ON OUR CONTACT PAGE
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HELPING THEM CAN HELP YOU
Since 1976 we have rescued, rehabilitated and cared for horses ponies and donkeys including our local Dartmoor ponies.
Since 1993 we have always taken in when asked retired Police horses from the Metropolitan Police or Avon & Somerset. These horses have come to the end of their working lives for one reason or another and we provide them with a safe and forever future. They are now away from the stresses of Police life in a wonderful location on the edge of Dartmoor.
This amazing place provides a haven of tranquility and we welcome visitors who may also need a little help and support to come and enjoy time with our horses and ponies.
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Information: All funds to keep these animals have to be raised by ourselves and supporters of DHAPS and BPH - The Police DO NOT have the resources to look after their retired horses.
Every animal can give something back. So in reality helping them can also help us
How It All Began
Meet Our Residents
Horses Can Help You
LATEST NEWS:
STABLE TO STABLE
NEW FOR 2026, To help with the demand we receive on a weekly basis we have set up a new rehoming registration called Stable to Stable. This is to help people looking to find suitable homes for their Equines and for people looking to give an Equine a good home, it will be like a dating service but for horses, ponies and donkeys. Click here for more information
With the power of social media will keep opur followers updated with new information.
Chloe's Fundraiser
This April Chloe will be taking on the tough challenge of running a half marathon to raise money for a new project. We will be advertising more closer to the date but with money raised we hope to put this towards a new grooming shelter which will have a heated shower and heated lamp so that we can pamper the animals but also give some relief to those that suffer with back issues and arthritis.
New Residents
Robbie
Hi my name is Robbie, I am a lovable, cheeky little miniature Shetland that desperately needed a forever home. I recently lost my big companion Jack and my lovely owner needed to make the incredibly sad decision to give me to the Devon Horse and Pony Sanctuary due to unfortunate health issues. I have found my new home here with 2 naughty donkeys for companions and my new big best friend Guardian who lives in the next field. I don't need much other than lots of hay and I do love a treat and a cuddle from the volunteers and staff.
Littles
Hi my name is Littles, I joined the Sanctuary at the beginning of February 2026. I am little Shetland and I am 29 years old with lots of love still to give. I have some problems with my legs but with a little care I will be fine.
Unfortunately my family lost their home and I lost my grazing and my companion, all within a short period of time but I was able to make the journey from Cornwall to my forever home and to make new friends. I have got my eye on Robbie as a potential new boyfriend.