Tell the Calgary Stampede to Ban Calf Roping

Calf roping is one of the most disturbing parts of a rodeo. Young calves, just three or four months old, are pursued by mounted riders. The terrified calves run at speeds of over 25 miles per hour. The rider lassos the calf by the neck or torso, jerks the calf off his feet, and slams him to the ground, where the young animal has three of his legs tied together. This violence can result in serious injuries to calves, including broken necks, backs, and legs. Some calves end up paralyzed due to damage to the spinal cord from roping.

Calf roping is a major event at the annual Calgary Stampede. It doesn't have to be. The event is banned in several jurisdictions, including Rhode Island and Baltimore County, Maryland, as well as Germany and the Australian state of Victoria. The second largest rodeo in Canada, the Cloverdale Rodeo, banned calf-roping in 2007 and is still very successful. There is no reason to continue this cruel practice at the Calgary Stampede. Tell rodeo officials to put an end to this barbaric practice.

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