A group of ponies rescued after being found in “horrendous” conditions are expected to make a full recovery.
The animals were found on Gelligaer Common, which spans the counties of Caerphilly and Merthyr Tydfil.
The HorseWorld charity said the horses were “running around on common ground with no sign of anyone looking after them”.
It was investigated that the case could be prosecuted, but the owner could not be found.
HorseWorld worked with other charities to rescue 25 ponies from the common before bringing five of them – now Pretzel, Peanut, Pumpkin, Peaches and Plum – to live at their site in Bristol.
The charity stated that there is not enough fodder to take care of the animals.
A spokesman for Caerphilly Council said neither it nor Merthyr Tydfil Council had responsibility for the horses.
Sarah Hollister, head of equine welfare at Horseworld, said: “The positive news is that all five ponies are now doing well and are expected to make a full recovery.”
She said some “very gentle” rehabilitation training has begun with the ponies to help their teams get used to handling.
Ms Hollister added: “For these kind of ponies, we start with gloves that have probably never been in contact with a human, then we start with the top glove and slowly let them touch it when the trainer is at a comfortable distance for them.
“When you accept this, we can get a little closer. It’s a long slow process, you never rush, it takes as long as it takes. The safety, comfort and happiness of the horses is above all.”
The charity said it could take years for the ferrets to fully train and start the new life ahead of them.
He added: “Whatever the future holds, we ensure that once a horse or pony comes into HorseWorld’s care, they have a home for life.
“They’re fine for the rest of their lives.”