Bull riding is a sport with a global audience that has endured for centuries. The sheer adrenaline showcased in the eight seconds a rider attempts to stay atop the magnificent creatures is what makes it a riveting spectacle.

However, in celebration of the incredible human skills involved, it becomes essential to address the experience of the majestic animals at the core of this sport as well. As the age-old sport continues to grow, an important question arises. Does bull riding, as a sport, jeopardize animal welfare?

Animal welfare issues that arise in the sport of Bull Riding

According to the RSPCA (the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals), like with all other rodeo events, bull riding is also condoned by the organization. The reason for this is the animal welfare issues that arise in the sport. The first issue pinpointed was “Fear and Stress,” where they noted that the tightened flank strap tied around the bull’s underbelly that causes the creatures to buck repeatedly induces the same reaction akin to a predator attack.

Since bulls are prey animals, the situation for them causes fear, anxiety, and panic and puts them in a fight-or-flight response. They also stated that this is why oftentimes bulls try to escape the chute or hurl themselves to try to rid themselves of the riders and the flank strap. Stress is also what causes excessive salivation or drooling.

The next issue highlighted was the “risk of injury” caused to the animals through their participation in bull riding events. RSPCA highlighted the physical injuries caused to the bulls, including cuts, bruising, bone fractures, strains, and even horn disorders, that many of the magnificent creatures have endured.

They even noted that the loud cheers and sounds from large audiences contributed to excess fear within the animals. Disturbingly, the RSPCA shared that oftentimes the treatment of the injured bulls and emergency facilities was poor, and bulls have even had to walk out with broken legs rather than be sedated and euthanized quickly to end the suffering humanely.

Further points raised by the RSPCA that aim to bring about change

The next point highlighted by the RSPCA was that the sport contradicted good animal handling practices. They explained how bull riding was not considered a good way to handle cattle, as endorsed by farms and ranches that prioritize low-stress stock handling of livestock. In this approach, workers are trained to manage animals calmly, steering clear of actions that may distress them. RSPCA also pointed out how community concerns have begun rising, which has led to increased awareness.

However, they addressed the issue that most businesses remain unaware of the welfare problems that arise with bull riding and rodeo events. They also stressed how, due to the growing community expectations, the pressure falls on the government, businesses, and organizations to handle situations that raise concerns in a sound and responsible manner. This led to the RSPCA emphasizing the important point of the need to enforce compulsory animal welfare standards and a registration and licensing system in the sport, rodeos, and rodeo schools.

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At the core of the sport, bull riding thrives because of the magnificence of these animals, who are more than just participants. As concerns for their welfare arise, it is important to keep their well-being in focus, ensuring the sport does not jeopardize the very beings that make it a timeless tradition.

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