Moon’s Calmer Attitude Helps To Major Success 25th November 2009
DRIVING pony Steffan Sammy Jo, was once a stressful and nervous animal that his owner Donna Howman was determined to help gain confidence and have more fun.

Known as Moon at home, and now 13-years-old, thanks to Donna’s efforts the Welsh Section D is now a major winner in the show ring.

Said Donna: “We bought Moon at weaning direct from his breeder 1996.  He was purchased to match another all jet black colt, purchased just a month previous as a potential driving pair.  

“They were indistinguishable but the secret laid under their forelocks, one white star and, the other, one very small crescent shape, hence Star and Moon arrived.  

“As they grew up they progressed together and each year learned a new trade.  At four-years-old both were put under saddle, at five they were driven singularly and then finally as six-year-olds the ultimate goal was achieved and they became a great pair.  

“Sadly their plans were tragically cut short by the loss of Star.  Moon has always been a very nervous type and really suffered with the stress of losing his friend and the confidence he gave him whilst working together.  

“He also suffered from stress related gastric ulcers and it was then that we looked for ways of helping him manage.  We discovered TopSpec Calmer and the difference was remarkable.  

“He has changed so much, at home and away and in every respect of his management. We started to venture out to a few shows with him and his confidence has just grown, he has gone from strength to strength and now is very happy in his work and really listens.  

“He had not been to more than a few shows in 2009 or been campaigning for qualification but almost at the eleventh hour of the season, he won a qualifying class for the British Driving Society National Championships.  

“In an eleven-strong class at the Championships he won his section, the four wheel exercise vehicles.  Achievement enough, considering his limited experience in the ring.  

“This win earned him a place in the indoor Evening Gala Performance to compete for the overall section.  The electric atmosphere did little to put him off his stride and he was quite at ease with it all, he was pulled forward to take the National Exercise Vehicle Championship.  

“It was a very proud moment as a few years back we wouldn’t have even considered asking him to cope in that kind of situation.  We are thrilled with not only his win but the way he coped so effortlessly.

“He does now have a new partner and given his new found laid back attitude I am sure he will be showing him the ropes shortly as well polishing up his skills so he can try to continue his success next year, this time in the Private Drive ranks.

“Moon has ad lib forage to assist with the management of gastric ulcer prevention which means he can suffer with weight gain.  He is therefore maintained on TopSpec AntiLam so I know he is getting all the gut support he needs without excess calories, and TopSpec Calmer.

“To find a feeding plan that really works for him has made such a difference.”