The Shetland Pony Stud-Book Society
Small ponies have existed in the Shetland Isles for over 2000 years and probably much longer.
Various excavations on the islands have revealed the bones of small ponies that existed during the Bronze Age and it is thought that ponies have been in domestic use there since this time.
IMPORTANT NEWS…
Statement regarding Silver/Silver Gene
After extensive research, it has become apparent that there are abnormalities within the pedigrees of Shetland ponies of the colour Silver or carriers of the Silver Gene.
The SPSBS (Mother Stud-Book Society) strongly advises its members/breeders and members/breeders of its Daughter Societies not to use ponies of the colour Silver or carriers of the Silver Gene within their breeding programs for registered pure-bred Shetland ponies.
Investigation and research into this is ongoing and may result in registered Shetland ponies of the colour Silver or Silver Gene being removed from all Stud Books for pure-bred Shetland ponies.
The Shetland Pony Stud-Book Society
As from 1st January 2022 all foals registered with the SPS-BS must have a DNA profile of the sire completed. Stallions that have already been through either the Voluntary Vetting Examination or previous SPS-BS Stallion Scheme will already have this in place. As a Charity we are obliged to ensure our registered ponies are a pure breed. The Society recommends that members put their colts through the Voluntary Vetting Examination (VVE). This is done to ensure stallions are free from any hereditary conditions. Should you buy a mare in foal please check that the sire has a DNA profile.
Important notice regarding phoning the office
Please note as of 16th September 2024, our phones will only be answered between 10am-4pm.
This is to allow us to process and return the passports in a timely manner.
Our Shop
Please note that our shop has been updated with our latest clothing products. As there are multiple colours and sizes, please add your requirements (colour/size) in the additional notes section at the checkout or alternatively call 01738 623471 and ask for Victoria or you can email me at victoria@spsbs.co.uk and we can discuss your order.
REGISTRATION INCREASE
As of 1st January 2023 there will be an increase in the registration fees for foals sired by colts that have not been successfully through the Voluntary Veterinary Examination, colt foal registrations will be £140 and filly foal registrations will be £180.
Judges seminar March 2026
The 2026 Judges seminar will be held on Sunday 8th March 2026 at Solihull Riding Club, Four Ashes Road, Bentley Heath, Solihull, West Midlands, B93 8QE.
🕰️Arrive 9.30am to 3pm
Tea, coffee and lunch will be provided
🟢Probationary, Intermediate and Senior Judges are welcome to this event. We also extend this invitation to any society member who is considering joining the judges’ panel in the future.
🟢All panel judges must attend one seminar in every 3 years to remain on the panel.
🟢Topics will include a discussion on conformation, movement, the breed standard, safeguarding and the 2026 rule book.
We are looking forward to welcoming you. Please let the office know by the 22nd February if you are attending.
Hat Standards
DNA FIRST FOALING MARES
The Society would like to remind breeders that as of 1st January 2024, all first foaling/maiden mares must have their DNA profile completed prior to foal registration. Please bear this in mind when submitting foal registrations as this may mean they take longer to complete. We would encourage breeders to get mares DNA profiled in advance of foal registration. The cost will be £60.00 this will be for the DNA and mare registration.
DATES FOR YOUR CALENDAR…
SHOWS & EVENTS
Breed Show 2026
Orkney Auction Mart, Grainshore Road, Kirkwall, Orkney
Saturday 22nd August 2026
Click for more info
SALES
Society Sales 2026
Lerwick – 7th October
Aberdeen – 12th October
Worcester – 24th & 25th October
COUNCIL MEETING DATES
Council meeting dates for 2026
Thursday 19th & Friday 20th February
Thursday 16th & Friday 17th April
All correspondence must be in the office three days prior to the meetings, this can be via letter or email.
OFFICE CLOSURES
Public Holidays 2026
Friday 3rd April
Monday 6th April
Monday 4th May
Monday 25th May
Monday 3rd August
Friday 25th December
Monday 28th December
FORMS…
WELFARE
The welfare of Shetland Ponies throughout the UK is a prime concern of the Society. Owning a pony can give great pleasure but there is also a big responsibility involved with the care and wellbeing of the pony. The Animal Welfare Act 2006 requires that you ensure any horse, pony, donkey or mule for which you are responsible, whether on a permanent or a temporary base has:
- A suitable environment to live in
- A healthy diet
- Is able to behave normally
- Has appropriate company
- Is protected from pain, suffering, injury and disease