Rodeos are highly promoted, sponsored, and praised even though our sense of decency and compassion tells us the exploitation of animals is not something that should be endorsed. Regardless, those who are able to ignore a sense of caring will come from miles around to enjoy the camaraderie, the festivities, and the abuse of animals.

Calf roping events have been proven to be harmful to the animals involved. There are countless incidents of bruised or broken ribs, broken legs, herniated discs, neck injuries, and even death; all in the name of supposed entertainment. It’s one thing to see the event from the sidelines, but picture it from the point of view of the calf; a young calf stands terrified in the middle of a loud arena. It is already scared, and then a cowboy ropes it, grabs it, and hurls it to the ground with a bone-crushing thump, and ties its legs together. The poor animal is gentle by nature, and yet it is battered and punished for spectator entertainment.

Events like calf-roping teach people that it is okay to exploit those that are weaker than them. As a spectator you’re safe as you sit comfortably in your seat or watch the horror on your television, but in life there is always going to be someone stronger than you. Is it okay if they exploit you? Is it okay if someone bullies you or your child simply because they are stronger? That’s the message you are promoting to your children by attending these events. You can’t be angry when your child comes home with a bloodied nose. It’s their fault for not being strong enough. We need to be very selective of the events we attend, and be very aware of the ideals we promote to our children..

People attend the rodeo to be entertained, and spend "quality time" with their families and friends. It's unfortunate that the cheers and laughing deafen people to the cries of the terrified animals. To be entertained at a rodeo means a living, feeling creature has to suffer.

Think about it.

Mike Rogozinski
Port Coquitlam