My Throw Pony helps collect local trash

He was saddled with the responsibility of carrying loads of garbage.

But when it comes to enthusiasm for the job, Pumpkin, the 38-inch tall Shetland pony, doesn’t miss out.

Owner Georgina Craig says the 21-year-old has been collecting rubbish with her for two years now and gets excited at the sight of sacks as it means a walk.

The mum-of-two said she picks up the rubbish while Pumpkin leads the way – but she said the 220kg pony has a perfect memory and will gallop back when asked so she can load it up.

At first, Pumpkin was a bit reluctant to carry the bags, but now he’s enjoying it.

The two go out on a bike path once a month and Georgina takes Pumpkin on a long leash when it’s busy or when they’re near a road.

The retired Georgina, from Edinburgh, said: “I thought, ‘Why am I carrying these heavy bags when I have a pony that could help me?’

‘He carries two bags over his saddle.

“His recall is very good – better than many dogs. He gallops back when I call him, stands next to me and waits for a carrot.”

She said she first started walking him to give him a bit of exercise and “something he can do off the field,” but then realized they could be doing something more useful at the same time.

Georgina said there’s a lot more litter today than there was 40 years ago, and she mainly collects cans, plastic bottles and snack wrappers that people threw away.

“I think that’s the stuff that people just throw out the car window,” she said.

“I can easily fill the two bags we go out with, there is enough rubbish.

“When people see Pumpkin, they say ‘oh how cute.’

“He’s very cheeky and playful.

“He loves being petted by people when we’re out, but he likes to reach into jackets and pockets to look for treats.”

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