Equine charities say they are aware of a “distressing” incident caught on video, in which a girl is seen hitting a grey pony.
Both the RSPCA and World Horse Welfare have commented on the footage, which has gone viral online this week.
The video, which appears to have been taken through a door or window, shows the girl mounting a bareback pony who is tied in a yard, and being held by a man.
The pony bucks and the girl falls off.
On landing, the girl appears repeatedly to strike the pony, who moves about in distress.
The man holding the headcollar also chips in, kicking the pony twice, while a male voice can be heard calling the animal a “b*****d” and shouting encouragement at the girl, who shouts: “You’d buck me off?” at the animal.
A spokesman for RSPCA Cymru said: “We are aware of this incident, and would urge anyone with further information to contact us.
“Members of the public can contact our 24-hour cruelty and advice line on 0300 1234 999, to report cruelty or an animal in distress. Calls are treated in confidence.”
A spokesman for World Horse Welfare also urged anyone with first-hand information on the incident to call the RSPCA on the number above.
“We are aware of this video which certainly makes very distressing viewing,” she added.
“We are keeping in close contact with the RSPCA who are looking into this incident and we will offer our assistance if required.”
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The video has been shared and commented upon thousands of times on social media, with most condemning the girl for her actions.
“Please, please tell me that me that this poor pony has been rescued from such an appalling act of cruelty and is now with a loving family?!” wrote one.
“So upsetting to see absolute neglect and abuse to a beautiful, loving being. The poor pony must have been so frightened and scared for its life. INHUMANE! They should never be allowed near any animal again. Arrest them!”
