In Gentry, Arkansas, a viral video has been circulating since Sunday showing a pony in an enclosure with a bear – the pony pinned to the ground. The video was shot by a visitor to the Wild Wilderness Drive-Thru Safari.
According to KatvNews, the pony along with other ponies and goats, had been in the enclosure to trim the grass; they are often used to clean out surrounding vegetation instead of lawnmowers. One of the owners of the park, Charles Wilmoth, stated they had been doing this for years, however stated will keep a closer eye on the animals.
The pony, named Piper, seemingly injured by the appearance of the video, has been treated by Siloam Springs Veterinary Hospital and is reported to be doing fine.
“Piper the pony is looking good after her bear encounter Sunday, Sept 1,” business manager Linda Hook stated. “The vet said she is in good condition with no injuries. We are performing an internal review.”
Check out the video:
https://www.facebook.com/melissa.carnes.10/videos/2667299139968619/?hc_location=ufi
“Just driving through the Safari, came across the bear cage with ponies and goats mixed in chillin. Meanwhile a bear gets up and decides he’s hungry for pony. Bear snatches up the pony for lunch while driving by. Talk about getting your money’s worth at the safari. Why would you put ponies and goats in with bears?? #dumb #mothernature #hungrybears #why #smh”
The park recently reopened in March after being closed for maintenance and for a 60-day suspension of its license by the U.S. Department of Agriculture for violating the Animal Welfare Act. The park had not provided sufficient veterinarian care, nor adequate and clean conditions or safe distances between the animals and the public. The safari park also paid a $75,000 fine.
The organization’s Facebook page has since been deleted after copious comments about the video and concern for Piper.
(Blurred photo via screenshot KatvNews)
Follow the National Pet Rescue on Facebook for the latest animal related news.
Yesterday: New life for senior dog nearly euthanized because of family’s new pup
Share the message – Pets are not disposable! Find your favorite color and style here.
I prefer dogs to people #dontjudge
Pick your favorite color and style at this link!
Your purchase helps support the continuation of our site. More styles and messages at our store. Please click here to find them all!
Fight animal abuse! Donate Now
There is no us. There is no them. We are one. Choose your favorite style and color here.
Your purchase helps support the continuation of our site. Find your favorite shirt with a message at this link to our store!
I survived loving a foster dog until a furever home was found – share the message with this one of a kind shirt! Pick your favorite style and color at this link.
Your purchase helps spread an important message AND supports the continuation of this site.
OMG: just can’t fix stupid……..
I don’t suppose these “geniuses” ever thought of putting the bears in a separate enclosure during the mowing?
I am glad that Piper is “OK”……
But, I think they need to change how they are doing their mowing so this event can’t “reoccur”……