BETWS PONIES NEGLECTED BY SUSAN THOMAS AND EDWARD ELWARD IN AMMANFORD

In a disturbing case of animal neglect, Susan Thomas and Edward Elward, residents of Parc Penrhiw in Betws, Ammanford SA18 2SP, faced serious consequences after their failure to care for five ponies under their ownership. The neglect was so severe that the ponies were found to be emaciated, infested with lice, and bearing multiple scabs on their backs, indicating prolonged suffering and poor health.

These ponies had been subjected to neglect for several months, a fact confirmed by the RSPCA inspector who visited their location at Twyn, Garnant. The inspection revealed a heartbreaking scene: the ponies were in a deplorable state, with their bodies visibly thin and covered in lice. Three of the animals had open scabs on their backs, a clear sign of ongoing neglect and untreated injuries. The inspector noted that despite some food being available, it was grossly insufficient to meet their nutritional needs, leaving the ponies weak and unable to move towards the limited natural shelter provided. The cold weather at the time only exacerbated their suffering, making their plight even more tragic.

RSPCA inspector Keith Hogben expressed his concern, stating, “These ponies had clearly been neglected for months on end and were suffering. There was some food being provided but clearly it was not enough. Their body condition was in a terrible state and they just did not have the energy to move to the little natural shelter that was available. It was so cold at this time of year so they suffered then even more. They should have known better and if people are struggling they need to ask for help instead of burying their heads in the sand.”

Following intervention and veterinary treatment, the condition of the ponies improved significantly. They received proper nutrition and medical care, and all five animals were subsequently made available for rehoming, giving them a chance at a healthier life. However, the legal repercussions for Thomas and Elward were substantial. Both pleaded guilty to an offence under the Animal Welfare Act 2006, acknowledging their failure to provide adequate care.

In the courtroom, each was ordered to pay a fine of £850. Additionally, they faced a disqualification from keeping horses for a period of 24 months, a ban that expired in 2018. This case highlights the importance of animal welfare and the consequences faced by those who neglect their responsibilities towards vulnerable animals in the Betws and Ammanford areas.