Shetland Pony Was Sexually Attacked and Suffered Internal Injuries, Says Distressed Owner

An upset British horse owner is pleading for witnesses to come forward after she says her Shetland pony was the victim of a horrific sexual attack that left the miniature horse with serious internal injuries.

The two-year-old Shetland, standing only 29 inches tall, had been taken from her stable over the weekend, owner Ashleigh Butterworth, 20, told the Manchester Evening News.

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The animal, named Laurell, was found lying in a nearby field and was dehydrated, shivering and seriously wounded, Butterworth said.

“She’s just so small. It’s just disgusting. What sick twisted person would do that to a small animal that’s completely helpless?” the owner said.

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A veterinarian found two internal injuries, she said. The tiny horse is traumatized, Butterworth said.

Someone had to have let her out of the barn, Butterworth said. “It’s impossible for her to let herself out.”

Police are investigating, she said.

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