Equine charities collaborate to rescue Welsh ponies

RSPCA Cymru has now launched an appeal for information after the ponies were removed in a joint operation over two days (4-5 April) involving leading charities, two vets and the local council.

The 23 ponies were taken into charity care for welfare concerns and one bay mare was also sadly put to sleep in order to prevent further suffering.

The RSPCA-led operation was carried out in partnership with Caerphilly County Borough Council and other members of the National Equine Welfare Council (NEWC) - The Donkey Sanctuary, Redwings, World Horse Welfare, The British Horse Society, Bransby Horses and Horseworld.

Katana Ashby, Donkey Welfare Adviser at The Donkey Sanctuary, said: “Although no donkeys were involved in this particular situation, I was proud to be part of the team working to alleviate the very obvious suffering of these ponies.

“In a time where pressure on animal welfare charities is mounting it’s important that we continue to work collaboratively. By supporting each other to make the best use of combined resources we will only serve to support equine welfare in the longer term.”

Two ponies rescued during the Gelligaer operation. Credit: RSPCA.

Christine McNeil, RSPCA inspector, said: “We are appealing for information to find out who these ponies belong to. Anyone with information can contact the RSPCA inspectorate appeal line on 0300 123 8018, and quote 1032550.

“We’d like to reassure the public that these ponies are being well looked after and are receiving treatment.”

This latest action marks the fourth time in just eight weeks that charities have attended Gelligaer Common to remove ponies.

Christine added: “It is very sad to see the welfare issues these ponies face. As ever we’re very grateful for the support from the local authority and other equine charities from the National Equine Welfare Council for pulling together to help them.”

Kirsty Withnall, National Equine Welfare Council Director, said: “This operation at Gelligaer Common was another prime example of our strong partnership working, and what we can achieve together for animal welfare. If you are aware of any of the owners of these ponies, we urge you to contact the RSPCA.”