The Animal Welfare Society of South Africa and the Cart Horse Protection Association stepped in after a pony was found dehydrated, underweight and working despite welfare concerns.
Cape Town, South Africa (09 June 2026) – A pony found pulling a cart between Hanover Park and Kenilworth is now getting a second chance after being removed from a situation that animal welfare officials described as deeply concerning.
The rescue was carried out through a joint effort between the Animal Welfare Society of South Africa and the Cart Horse Protection Association, it highlights the vital role animal welfare organisations play in protecting working animals that often operate out of the public spotlight.
The Animal Welfare Society’s Inspectorate Department was called out on Thursday after reports of a pony being used to pull a cart despite appearing to be in poor condition.
When inspectors arrived, they found an animal in urgent need of help. The pony was severely dehydrated, underweight and suffering from cracked hooves.
Faced with the animal’s deteriorating condition, the Animal Welfare Society contacted the Cart Horse Protection Association, an organisation that specialises in the welfare of working cart horses across Cape Town. The pony was subsequently confiscated and placed in the care of the organisation, where he can begin receiving the treatment, nutrition and rehabilitation he needs.
Animal welfare organisations are encouraging members of the public to remain vigilant and report any horses or ponies that appear distressed, injured, overloaded, exhausted or forced to work in extreme conditions.
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