07 July 2026

Dora ‘the pony explorer’ finds a home at Redwings for National Dora Day

A photo of Dora the pony stood in her field.

We have given a home to a young pony signed over to the police after repeated escapes onto the road.

We received a call from local authorities about Dora, so named after the children’s TV character who is always going on adventures, after the one-year-old filly got out of her field in South Norfolk.

Her owners were given notice to repair their fencing to ensure Dora’s and the public’s safety, but when they failed to complete the necessary work she was signed over to police and offered a home at the Sanctuary.

Photo of ponies Dora (right) and Cabilla (left) stood in their field.

Dora (right) with her friend Cabilla (left) in their field at Redwings.

Senior Team Leader Tom Steggall, who is taking care of Dora, said: “Dora is settling in well in her new herd and is making friends. She is a sweet and pretty girl and seems content to put her exploring days behind her for now!

“She’ll definitely be getting some extra fuss to celebrate National Dora Day today (Tuesday 7th July), it’s not often we have a pony with their very own national day!”

Dora’s story has a serious message though. Julie Harding, Senior Field Officer, said: “We are relieved to have Dora in our care and safely off the roads. Escaped horses aren’t just in danger themselves, but they also put the lives of drivers at risk. We have been involved in road rescues in the past where sadly a horse’s life was lost, and we are grateful that Dora was rescued before she was involved in an accident.”

Julie added: “Helping horses in need with safe and secure homes is what we do as a charity, however with rising costs affecting every element of our work, providing this vital care is becoming more difficult. We rely on our supporters to help us be ready to rescue ponies like Dora, and to provide them the care they deserve.”

If you are able to support Redwings to be Ready to Rescue, please donate here.