MADAM,

The overpopulation of the South Wales hills by feral ponies and other incoming equines was recognised in 2012 as the root cause of much of the suffering prevalent in the hill pony herds, and as a result of much time and research of the literature, schemes were put in hand to utilise a concept first invisaged in the ‘50s, that of using the animals immune system to ‘switch off’ the breeding cycle, a protocol already utilised in wildlife management in the USA, Canada, and South Africa.

By 2015 schemes were in place at four problem areas, and £34,000 had been raised ring-fenced for the schemes so that there was no call or requirement for SWHP funds to be used. More than 1500 doses were delivered (with only one loss), and results demonstrated the efficacy of the programme. By 2016 foaling season, particularly in one scheme where we were able to operate without interference, the results can only be described as spectacular.

For reasons one can only speculate upon, in 2015 the leadership of the SWHP, ignoring world research into this regime, withdrew its support alleging that it was not only ineffective but a possible cause of ill health (in the ponies).

Quite apart from these comments being untrue, they also impugn my professional competence and motivations. This month’s SWHP news letter includes not only a volte-face of major consequence but is saying that the charity is too small and the scheme too expensive. As stated, the scheme would have been self funding.

Notwithstanding that the SWHP have decided not to proceed with the contraceptive programme "at this time,” no reason has been given.

It can however, from current wording,  be assumed that they intend to do so in the future and my comment re a volte-face still applies. Perhaps the SWHP would care to comment. It is after all monies donated by the public which the charity administers and the public might need re-assurance that decisions are taken after balanced debate and not on a whim.

John Horlock BVSc, MRCVS

(Leominster)

MADAM, 

We agree that there is an urgent need for a strategy to control overpopulation by equines on the hills of South Wales.

The issue is too big for a small charity to manage on its own.

SWHP’s strategy is to persuade the major equine charities and stakeholders jointly to define and execute a policy to achieve a stable long population of horses and ponies on the hills of South Wales.

The Society for the Welfare of

Horses and Ponies

(Monmouth)