Support quality, independent, local journalism…that matters

From just £1 a month you can help fund our work – and use our website without adverts. Become a member today

Three horses and their foals have been taken in by the RSPCA, sparking an appeal to find their owners.

The animals were rescued from Gelligaer and Merthyr Common on Thursday November 14 due to concerns for their welfare.

A chestnut mare with a newborn foal was taken in due to concerns for the foal’s welfare, while a grey mare and her grey foal were removed from the common due to an untreated jaw wound.

Meanwhile, another grey mare with dental problems was also rescued from the common along with her steel grey foal.

RSPCA Inspector Christine McNeil said: “These three mares and their foals were taken into possession by Caerphilly County Borough Council under the Animal Welfare Act and are currently in RSPCA care, where they are receiving the appropriate veterinary treatment. 

“In addition, sadly a foal has been euthanised on welfare grounds due to hind leg deformity – which was possibly an old injury – this decision was made by a vet on site.”

The RSPCA is now trying to track down the owners of these mares, and is appealing for information.

Ms McNeil added: “We don’t know who they currently belong to, so we’re issuing an appeal to help with enquiries.”

Anyone with information can contact the RSPCA inspectorate appeal line on 0300 123 8018.

This month, the RSPCA has launched its Join The Christmas Rescue campaign ahead of what it expects to be another bleak winter for thousands of animals.