Isla and Spikey's story is part of a series on Hawkesbury people and their pets, featuring the work of Hawkesbury Gazette and Courier photographer, Geoff Jones.
IF you're lucky enough to be friends with three-year-old Isla, then you know about her best mate, Spikey.
Spikey came to live with Isla in Glossodia only two years ago, but already he's a firm fixture in the young girl's life.
Spikey is a 12-year-old male pony. According to Isla's mum, Danielle, it was love at first sight for Isla and her little buddy.
"She fell in love with Spikey as soon as she first met him. He was hers for sure," Danielle said.
"They have a wonderful relationship and are best friends."
It wasn't just chance that made Isla fall in love with Spikey. The young girl comes from a horse-loving family, and with numerous adults in her life loving and riding horses, chances were that Isla would follow suit.
Isla's mum, as well as Isla's auntie, both ride. Isla's nannie is a horse breeder.
What do Isla and her pony do together? According to Danielle, all sorts of things, including going for regular rides around Wilberforce.
"They get up to lots of mischief, they go to Woodlands Park Pony Club together. They just love being together," Danielle said.
Does the pony have personality? According to Dannielle, he definitely does.
"Spikey is very cheeky but also very caring towards Isla," Danielle said.
"He always watches out for her."
Isla might be only three - and turning four in November - but she has some firm responsibilities in terms of looking after Spikey, learning important life skills from her relationship with her pet.
"She feeds him, brushes him, and washes him," said Danielle.
Why is Spikey such a perfect pet for Isla?
According to Danielle, "they just click".
"He is such a great pony, he will do anything and put up with anything," Danielle said.
"He adores her and she adores him."