In one week alone, the Calgary Stampede cost 4 animals their lives. 3 horses and a steer were all killed or euthanized as a result of being forced to participate in the rodeo. (source)
Update: SHARK has apparently released a video today of Strawberry Fudge (previously blogged) which I will search out and include here if I can. Also as an update to that story, PETA has contacted Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) chairman Keith Martin asking that the use of flank straps be banned.
Warning – Graphic Video Horse Killed at 2009 Cheyenne Frontier Days
“There is absolutely no excuse for forcing animals to buck to the point that they injure or kill themselves,” PETA Director Debbie Leahy said. “The sole purpose of a flank strap is to inflict pain so that animals will flail wildly to get it off.
“The time has come to do away with these cruel devices.” (source)
The time came long ago but I digress.
Again I appeal to everyone to please stop paying to see animals perform in rodeos. Boycott Coke and any other sponsors of these events. Contact them to let them know your feelings. If you can’t find contact information, email me and I will find it for you.
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