What's Wrong with Rodeos?
Rodeo is organized animal abuse. 57% of PRCA (Pro Rodeo Cowboy Association) rodeos result in injury or death of the so-called "animal athletes," and those animals who survive are tormented and terrified. Though the PRCA has rules regarding animal treatment, the rules are almost never followed. The animals are shocked with 5000-volt electric prods, poked with sharpened sticks, have their tails painfully twisted, and endure other abuses too numerous to mention.
Many members of rodeo organizations, including the PRCA and stock contractors, often have checkered criminal histories. Even the PRCA's most recent CEO and CFO were both recently convicted on felony charges. Violent people gravitate toward violent activities, and few activities in our society are as violent as rodeo.
Thankfully, rodeos around the country are losing money and closing down. The Cheyenne Frontier Days Rodeo, one of the oldest, recently announced a $1.3 million loss. The Tres Rios rodeo cost local governments more than $225,000 and will not be repeated. A Gallup poll showed that rodeo, previously with a minuscule 1% interest level, is now so unpopular that it no longer even shows up.