Editor,
Don’t go to the rodeo. Boycott the Ty Murray Invitational Rodeo being held in The Pit during the last weekend in March.
The animals used in rodeos are not wild, dangerous beasts. They are physically provoked into displays of “wild” behavior. They are shocked with electric prods, poked with sharp metal spurs, and tied up with tight, abrasive ropes.
On horses, the flank strap is hung very loosely and very far forward on the horse in the chute. It is “pulled” in the very last second before the horse takes his first leap into the arena. It is equipped with a quick release handle to facilitate its fast removal. That’s why horses quit bucking as soon as the strap is removed, not because the rider has fallen or gotten off.
Animals in rodeos are tortured for our entertainment. Rodeos are cruel. Cruelty is corrosive. It doesn’t stop at the fence, gate or door. Instead of teaching our children that torturing animals is fun, we can choose to model compassion and empathy.
Studies have demonstrated time and again that children who learn to respect animals are more compassionate and respectful toward human beings, which is good for everybody.
Kathleen O’Keefe
retired UNM staff
