Rodeo operators like to talk about their events' links to traditions and the land. The fact is that the treatment of animals in rodeos is nothing like what goes on in farming practice. Graziers do not ride bulls, wrestle steers or lasso calves.
Meat and Livestock Australia says that "livestock handling should aim to minimise stress". The MLA recommends:
- avoiding sudden jerking movements and loud noises
- behaving in a calm and controlled manner
- calmly speaking to livestock
- avoiding rushing livestock, giv[ing] them time to assess a situation
- preventing overcrowding in confined spaces.
Rodeo surroundings are alien environments to herd animals such as cattle and horses. They are full of loud and strange noises, confining chutes, rough handling, and shouting and jerking movements, along with equipment such as spurs, tight flank straps and electric prods all designed to make peaceful animals behave unnaturally.
Imagine the fear of a calf, taken from its mother's side, trucked a long distance, put into this frightening environment, then chased, roped, pulled to the ground and tied up, just like the poor little guy in the photo (courtesy of Animal Liberation Qld). Who can call this sport or entertainment?
This petition needs to grow so big that it cannot be ignored. Please help, by signing and sharing. If you live in New South Wales, please sign my petition to the NSW Parliament: Petition to Parliament - End Rodeo Cruelty
Thanks to all who are supporting me in this journey to make our world a fairer, better, more respectful place for animals.