Ask The Trailmaster

This is one of those difficult-to-answer questions. If we say yes, then others reading this response might take it to mean that if, for some reason, they aren't happy with a Pony they have purchased or that has been given to them, then they too should be able to turn it in for a different one, regardless of our one-month policy. On the other hand, if we say no, then it seems like we're saying you're stuck with what you bought, and we don't want that. We want you to be absolutely happy with your Ponies. Sooooo... Let's hope your grandaughter is thrilled with her birthday gift (and we do belive she will be); but if for some reason the miniature collection doesn't light up her face with a smile, get back in touch with me personally.

If you would like to send The Trail photos of your horse, we would be glad to pass them on to some of those artists who have painted commissioned custom Painted Ponies before, along with your contact information.

I am aware that a bootleg sample of "King Tut's Royal Trotter" recently appeared for sale on eBay, and that it got a good response. This was one of a number of Ponies we developed as a sample while we were with Westland, and then decided not to proceed. The positive reaction has caused us to rethink the decision, and consider this, or another Egyptian Pony for a future release.

Yes, we have reserved a few of these rare, early-release Ponies in The Vault. Give Rikki Carter, our Director of Special Sales, a call for more information: 1-877-459-5701.

This is a Pony that we love too, and you can expect it to be part of a future release.

Sure there is. Say something to the store owner, the manager, or the clerk on the floor. Let them know you miss the Painted Ponies and would like them back. Retailers value this kind of feedback from customers. Your voice can make a difference.

The name of this Pony is "Buckskin." The artist is Amber Sielsnew. Look for it in stores in the Fall.

Yes, it sometimes gets confusing when you change manufacturers. If the Mustang car brand moved from Ford to Chevrolet, for example, many consumers would be puzzled. Here is what happened: When The Trail of Painted Ponies decided to introduce Painted Pony collectible figurines into the world in 2003, we selected Westland Giftware as the manufacturer. And they continued to manufacture Painted Ponies up until the end of 2009, when our contract was up and we decided to switch to Enesco as our manufacturer. Now, Enesco is the official manufacturer of Trail of Painted Ponies figurines. Where it gets confusing for some is that after we left Westland, we decided to re-craft a certain number of the most popular Painted Ponies with Enesco, which explains why you may come across the same Pony with a different manufacturer's name. Adding to the confusion, after we left, Westland decided to come out with their own line of painted horses, and there was no way legally we could stop them. This has created a certain confusion in the marketplace, and in the minds of some collectors. Know that the first and the original Trail of Painted Ponies collectible figurines are now manufactured by Enesco.

I wish I could give you a better answer. We have done our best over the years to maintain the integrity of our numbering system, and to keep track of just how many Painted Ponies are produced. Now and then something like this comes along, and unfortunately we are unable to go back to our previous manufacturer, or the factory, for an answer. I will say that because each piece is hand-numbered, human error sometimes comes into play. As for the red bead, I would direct you to a local bead or crafts store. Glad you like the Ponies. Thanks for joining us on the ride of a lifetime.

Please contact Rikki, our Director of Special Sales, at 1-877-459-5701. She should be able to help you find a "Motorcycle Mustang." As for breed specific Ponies, we have under development new Painted Pony forms, and we will certainly keep Tennessee Walkers in mind.