JIANGSU, China — A shocking case of animal cruelty has ignited a firestorm of criticism across Chinese social media after a man was filmed using his pet dog as the literal "engine" for his modified electric bicycle.

According to a report by the South China Morning Post (SCMP) on the 24th, the footage—captured on March 16 in eastern Jiangsu Province—shows a Golden Retriever trapped in the compartment where the bicycle's battery had been removed. The dog, wearing a tight muzzle, was forced to run continuously to propel the vehicle forward.

The video, filmed by a passerby, revealed the elderly owner holding a stick, presumably used to threaten or coerce the animal into maintaining its pace.

Lack of Legal Protection While the local traffic authorities successfully tracked down the owner, the legal outcome has left many unsatisfied. Because the man is elderly and China currently lacks a comprehensive national animal welfare law, the authorities only provided "educational guidance" regarding the regulations on illegally modified vehicles.

No specific information regarding the dog’s physical condition or injuries has been released, as local traffic laws do not explicitly prohibit or penalize the transport or use of pets in this manner.

Public Outcry The incident has triggered a wave of indignation on platforms like Weibo. Netizens expressed deep concern for the animal's safety, with many pointing out the physiological dangers. "A tight muzzle can severely restrict a dog's ability to pant and regulate its temperature, which is life-threatening while running," one user commented. Others called for stricter animal protection laws to prevent such "medieval" treatment of pets.

[ⓒ Global Economic Times. 무단전재-재배포 금지]