**Rescue Mission for Starving Ponies Amidst Distressing Scene in Ebbw Vale**
A deeply troubling case of animal neglect has emerged in Brynmawr, Ebbw Vale, where a mare and her foal were discovered severely malnourished, confined to a field littered with the bodies of two deceased ponies. The discovery was made by RSPCA Cymru after they received a tip-off alerting them to grave welfare concerns regarding horses in the area.
The harrowing scene unfolded on a private patch of land, though the ponies are believed to have originally come from nearby commons. Upon arrival on 9 May, the RSPCA’s small team swiftly assessed the situation but found themselves unable to carry out an immediate rescue. The ponies, both unhandled and in frail health, presented significant challenges which, combined with the terrain’s hazards, meant that specialist equipment and careful planning would be needed for their safe removal.
During the two weeks that followed, RSPCA volunteers alongside partner organisations monitored the welfare of the mare and her foal. The animals received regular supplies of hay and water to help stabilise their condition while the charity prepared for a more intricate rescue operation. Inspector Suzanne Smith of the RSPCA explained, “The first rescue attempt was simply too risky, both due to the mare’s critical condition and the environmental dangers present. Our priority was to safeguard their welfare, so careful ongoing observation and support were vital.”
Encouragingly, as the days passed, the mare managed to find her way onto a section of derelict farmland, with better grazing that contributed to some improvement in her strength. This development proved crucial, as it left her better equipped to deal with the strenuous process of rescue and transport. Inspector Smith publicly thanked the dedicated volunteers, noting that their proactive input undoubtedly improved the animals’ chances of recovery.
It was only after specialist arrangements could be finalised that a multi-agency team, working in collaboration with groups including HorseWorld, The British Horse Society, and World Horse Welfare, were able to carry out a successful rescue on Wednesday, 21 May. The mother pony and her young foal were safely transported from the scene and are now under the watchful care of animal welfare professionals.
Both animals will now undergo veterinary assessment and receive the treatment required to restore their health. While their prospects have greatly improved, the disturbing circumstances of their abandonment highlight ongoing concerns about animal welfare in rural communities. RSPCA Cymru has stressed that such rescues often involve complex coordination and invisible behind-the-scenes effort, which may not always be apparent to the public.
Moreover, the RSPCA is now actively seeking information about the owner of the abandoned animals. Anyone who may hold relevant details is urged to contact the organisation using the reference number 01515234, as investigations continue into the origin and ownership of the neglected ponies.
This upsetting incident has also once again drawn attention to the importance of vigilance and swift reporting of suspected neglect or cruelty to animals. Inspector Smith added that the RSPCA understands the frustration felt by local residents, but assured the community that considerable work is typically underway, even when not visible, and that collaboration between agencies is often key to bringing these cases to a safe resolution.
Members of the public are encouraged to come forward if they have any knowledge that could assist with the inquiry, while RSPCA Cymru continues its tireless efforts to ensure that all animals receive the care, compassion, and protection they deserve.
The rescued mare and foal now face a hopeful future in the hands of charitable carers, reflective of the critical role played by animal welfare organisations and their supporters in responding to urgent needs within the community.