On 22 January 2026, Cape of Good Hope SPCA inspectors and the City of Cape Town Law Enforcement Animal Control Unit stopped a cart in Kensington after they saw an overloaded pony struggling in the road, reports Cape {town} Etc.
The team acted immediately to detach the animal and assess its condition, putting the public and the pony’s welfare first.
Inspectors found the pony slightly underweight and pulling a load that exceeded three times its body weight, far beyond accepted animal welfare limits (SPCA).
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The cart included the shell of a motor vehicle and other heavy scrap, placing severe strain on the pony’s muscles, joints and breathing. ‘The cart was pushing against the pony’s hindquarters as she struggled with every step,’ the SPCA said.
The seizure followed clear contraventions of the Animals Protection Act 71 of 1962 and the SABS SANS standard for animal-drawn carts.
The pony was taken to the SPCA Horse Care Unit for veterinary assessment, nutrition and hoof care, and will remain under treatment while the matter proceeds.
The case underlines the need for public vigilance and stronger enforcement to protect working equines on our roads.
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Picture: Cape of Good Hope SPCA / Facebook
