Meet Merlin, a 16-year-old mini Shetland pony, firm favourite along the Middlewood Way, and our most unusual “Dog” of the Month to date. Yes, he’s a horse. The “doggo” rules have been updated, and we’re very happy about it.
On receiving the honour of St John’s Coffee Shop’s “Dog”/Horse/Pet of the Month, Merlin had this to say: 🐴
“Hi, I’m Merlin! And yes, I’m a horse… a very small, very adorable horse. At 8 hands high I’m a mini Shetland pony, the tiniest and toughest native breed going. We were Victorian royalty, pulling children’s carts and living the pampered life, and I see no reason to change that. Most days you’ll find me along the Middlewood Way, grazing whatever I can get my nose into (my humans have to watch me because I will eat all the acorns and ivy and apparently that’s a problem), and posing for photos with anyone who asks. I am very good at photos. My best mate is Loki the Jack Russell, who has claimed my back as his personal napping spot. He’s lucky I’m so warm and good-natured. Over the years, I’ve also given plenty of tiny humans their very first riding experience, sending them off to bigger horses with confidence. When we visit St John’s I often hang out by the war memorial, enjoying the grass and the fuss. Come and find me and I’ll be the one who looks suspiciously like a dog but is definitely a pony!”
Merlin has been bringing joy to walkers, riders, and coffee shop visitors for years, and we think that deserves some recognition. Come and say hello if you spot him on the grass.
Got a dog (or other animal) that’s visited the coffee shop? Nominate them for Dog Of The Month here.
