The well-being of rodeo livestock is the top priority

Letter
Published: Saturday, May 20, 2006

As the animal and safety coordinator for the Canadian Professional Rodeo Association, I would like to respond to the alleged abuse of livestock at CPRA-sanctioned events.

Our association, consisting of committees, stock contractors and rodeo contestants, does not take lightly the responsibility it has to the public. We have a moral and legal responsibility to care and provide for our livestock in a humane manner; the well-being of the animals in our care is the utmost priority.

It is interesting that Debra Probert of the Vancouver Humane Society brings up the name of Dr. Temple Grandin, a livestock-handling specialist and slaughterhouse designer. Our association and its members work directly within Grandin's guidelines in regard to the benefits of good handling that reduces livestock stress and techniques to improve livestock facilities. Our livestock contractors are handling experts and also operate well within the Canadian livestock transportation codes.

Our livestock contractors have saved hundreds of animals from an early exit from this Earth by taking horses, bulls and steers destined for slaughterhouses and giving them a good and useful life as rodeo animals. Feeder horses and bulls exit via the slaughterhouse at an early age. The average rodeo horse will live to 20 years, bulls upwards of 10.

Ralph W. Murray

Canadian Professional

Rodeo Association, Calgary
© The Vancouver Sun 2006