The Welsh Government has ruled out changing the law to ban tethering of horses, despite a petition calling for an end to the practice becoming the most signed on the Senedd website with more than 13,000 signatures. Tethering a horse is not illegal, but the RSPCA says it is one of the 'most common' equine welfare issues its inspectors deal with.
Petition Gains Momentum After Fatal Incident
In March, a pony died after being hit by a car on Rover Way in Cardiff, one of several similar incidents on the same road this year, according to a nearby animal rescue centre. The petition text states: 'The suffering of tethered horses has gone on for long enough. They are tied up in unsuitable places, often along major roads. They have no shelter, veterinary help and often no food or water. This is neglect and needs to stop.'
One supporter, Sara, said she signed after the pony died and after 'almost striking two ponies on Rover Way soon after.' She added: 'Every horse on Rover Way should be in a secure large field. There is absolutely no reason for this not to happen.'
RSPCA Reports Rise in Tethered Horse Complaints
RSPCA Cymru received 122 reports concerning horses being tethered across Wales in 2025, compared to 66 in 2024. Since 2021, there have been a total of 471 reports. The charity urges councils to use the Control of Horses (Wales) Act 2014 to seize horses fly-grazing, abandoned, or straying on public land.
Under that act, councils have powers to act, but Caerdydd Penarth MS Huw Thomas noted practical challenges. In First Minister's Questions, he asked if the First Minister would review the 2014 act and outline his position on banning tethering.
First Minister Responds to Tethering Concerns
First Minister replied: 'Tethering is not unlawful, but it is a practice that does raise significant welfare concerns. There are no plans to review legislation at this point in time.' He referenced the Animal Welfare Act 2006, which requires owners to meet welfare needs including shelter, diet, healthcare, and behavioural needs. He added: 'It is very clear to me and to this Government that tethering is unsuitable for long-term use.'
The Welsh Government has a code of practice stating tethering is 'not a suitable method of management of an animal,' but it remains permissible and commonplace in Wales. Huw Thomas acknowledged 'cultural sensitivities' around the issue and called for a calibrated response.
