Police officers who stopped a pink car got a surprise when they found a Shetland pony standing in the boot.
The traffic check took place in Alsdorf, in the state of North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, on 3rd September, according to a report released by police on 15th September.
The officer discovered the back seat had been folded down with a carpet laid out and the pony standing on it.
The animal appeared calm and was even carrying a bucket of provisions.
The driver said she believed the pony was safely secured with a lead rope tied to a metal bar.
The officer banned her from continuing the journey and offered a EUR 35 (GBP 30) fine, which she refused to pay.
Police have since launched penalty proceedings.
They explained that in a collision at 50kph (31mph), a 150-kilogramme (330-lb) pony could suddenly weigh 7.5 tonnes, making the rope useless and creating a life-threatening risk for the driver, the animal and other road users.
Police reminded motorists that ponies belong in horseboxes, not car boots.
They also issued safety tips for securing loads in cars.
To find out more about the author, editor or agency that supplied this story – please click below. Story By: Michael Leidig, Sub-Editor: Simona Kitanovska, Agency: Newsflash
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