Concerning Event at Princeton Rodeo as Horse Suffers Dangerous Fall and Lands on His Head While Leaping Over a Barrier

In a concerning event at the Princeton Rodeo, a horse experienced a dangerous fall. This incident highlights the risks and potential harm that animals endure in these equestrian events. A majority of British Columbians oppose using animals in rodeos, with concerned residents pushing for municipal bylaws against inhumane rodeo events.

The City of Vancouver, the District of North Vancouver, and recently the City of Port Moody passed unanimous bylaws to this effect. Incidents at the Princeton Rodeo, along with troubling videos from other events emphasized the need of the hour for protecting animals from suffering in rodeos.

Video exposes disturbing equestrian incident at Rodeo

In a recent video posted by the Vancouver Humane Society, a horse was filmed jumping over the arena barrier and landing dangerously on its head during a bucking event. The footage captured the horse tragically landing on its head, posing a significant danger to the animal.

At the beginning of the video, the horse can be seen showing signs of agitation, with the crowd clapping in the background. As the horse starts running, the rider falls off during a jump, and the horse lands face-first on its head when trying to leap over the barrier. The onlookers appear visibly shocked by the incident. The horse quickly regained its footing and continued to run around the arena. The other riders followed it closely behind.

The Vancouver Humane Society expressed their concerns, stating, “Rodeo events, like bareback riding, are accidents waiting to happen, and that’s exactly what occurred here.” They stressed that these events rely on fear, discomfort, and stress for animals, risking their well-being for entertainment. The bylaws protect animals from mistreatment in rodeos. The incident at Princeton Rodeo, along with footage from Chilliwack and Langley, reinforces the need for such regulations in the sport. 

Langley Rodeo stirs controversy as funding and opposition clash

The upcoming Valley West Stampede in Langley marks its second year in September. Supported by provincial funds, it is one of many rodeos receiving grants from the Fairs, Festivals, and Events Fund. Valley West Stampede secured $33,700 in funding. The Vancouver Humane Society voiced its opposition to rodeos during last year’s event, citing concerns about animal treatment. Chantelle Archambault, the Society’s communications director, stressed the ethical contradiction. Valley West Stampede features various events, including bareback riding, barrel racing, and bull riding.

Read More: 8 Years After ‘Most Serious’ Accident During a Race, Jockey Receives Wonderful Surprise From Community

The Humane Society specifically objects to bucking events due to the use of spurs and flank straps. No plans for protests have been announced for this year’s Stampede, but they encourage Langley residents to urge the Township council for a bylaw banning rodeo events. Stampede President Sheila Hicks highlights the event’s professional status and strong community support. Last year, it drew over 6,000 attendees and contributed to Langley’s tourism spending. The ongoing debate surrounding rodeos in Langley encompasses funding, opposition, and their impact on the community.

Watch This Story: Lewis Hamilton’s Unique Relationship With Wild Animals