Over £3,500 was raised for specialist dental surgery required by the miniature Shetland pony, who is a regular visitor to care homes, hospitals, nurseries and schools.

Dolly’s owner, Sophie Veron, said she was blown away by the support from the public.

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Pictured: Dolly’s owner shared a message of thanks online. 

“I have been totally humbled and blown away by the kindness and generosity of all of Dolly’s friends,” said Miss Veron.

“I would like to say a massive thank you to everyone who donated. It is thanks to each of you that Dolly will soon be returning to spreading smiles again.”

Miss Veron runs the registered charity Sophie’s Smile Ponies, which arranges Dolly’s visits – all free of charge – to the elderly, schoolchildren, individuals with disabilities and hospital patients.

The fundraising target of £3,500 was exceeded as the online campaign raised £3,650. Surplus funds will be used by the charity for Dolly to resume her visits. 

Early last month, Express reported that Dolly’s visits had to stop due to her poor health and that a fundraising campaign was underway.

Miss Veron spent over £1,000 herself on investigative treatment, before finding out that Dolly required specialist dental surgery at a cost of an additional £3,500.

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Pictured: Dolly on a visit to a nursery.

The public made contributions towards Dolly’s care through an online fundraising platform. 

Express also reported on a ‘Disco for Dolly’  fundraising event held by children at Notre Dame du Rosaire Primary School.

“The incredibly generous donations and kind support from the public allowed Dolly to undergo her dental surgery and she is on track to make a full recovery,” said Miss Veron.

“She is back in the field with the other ponies and is enjoying rolling around in the mud.”

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Pictured: Dolly has re-joined Sophie Veron’s other ponies as she continues to improve post-surgery.

Miss Veron encouraged islanders to contact her to arrange a visit from Dolly.

“Dolly should be returning to visits in a few weeks. If anyone would like a visit or can think of somewhere that would benefit, please contact me,” she said. 

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