Frequently Asked Questions About the Chincoteague Ponies

Which ponies are sold?
Only foals are sold at the auction, occasionally including a yearling or two.

What are the health requirements for transporting ponies across state lines?
All adult ponies undergo a Coggins Test to confirm they are free from Equine Infectious Anemia (E.I.A.). Health certifications are provided prior to transport.

What is the average age of the foals sold?
Foals are typically between 4 to 6 months old.

Is transportation provided for purchased foals?
No, transportation is the responsibility of the buyer. Private transporters are often available for hire and typically charge by the mile.

Can I donate my purchased pony back to the Fire Company?
This is determined annually. If donations are accepted, it will be announced during the auction.

What forms of payment are accepted at the auction?
Only cash, MasterCard, and Visa are accepted. Personal checks are not permitted.

What equipment is needed to transport a purchased pony?
You must have an S.P.C.A.-certified horse or stock trailer to transport your pony.

Can anyone participate in the pony roundup?
No. Only members of the Chincoteague Volunteer Fire Company’s Pony Committee and approved riders may participate in the roundup.

What do the ponies eat?
The ponies are fed sweet stock feed and hay.

Are halters provided with the ponies?
No, but halters are available for purchase at the auction site.

When do I need to pick up my pony after purchase?
Ideally, ponies should be picked up on the day of the auction. If needed, alternative arrangements must be made with the Fire Company.

What time do the ponies swim across the channel on Wednesday?
The swim occurs at slack tide, which may fall between 7:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. The exact time is announced at the Firemen’s Carnival on Tuesday night.

How many ponies live on Assateague Island?
The Fire Company maintains a herd of up to 150 adult ponies on the Virginia portion of Assateague Island, in compliance with a federal grazing permit from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

Who owns the ponies?
The Chincoteague Volunteer Fire Company owns and manages the herd.

What kind of care do the ponies receive?
In addition to the annual Pony Penning roundup, the Fire Company conducts spring and fall roundups for health maintenance. Ponies receive vaccinations for rabies, tetanus, West Nile virus, Eastern and Western equine encephalitis, and are tested for E.I.A. They are also wormed, receive hoof trimming, and are given routine veterinary checkups.

Bidding on a Pony

• No registration is required to attend the auction.

• Arrive early for the best seating.

• All winning bids are subject to final approval by the Chincoteague Volunteer Fire Company, which reserves the right to reject any bid for any reason.

• If a winning bid is declined, the pony will be offered to the next highest bidder.