Rodeos are often criticized as being abusive to the animals used in the events, however. The ironic thing is, the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association has had animal welfare guidelines since 1947.
Most rodeo events reflect real-life practices on cattle ranches.
Cattle often have to be pursued on horseback, roped, and immobilized for such procedures as castration, branding, or vaccination. Even though it looks rough on the animals, Dr. Furman said ranchers take pride in their herds and place a premium on their health and well-being. Those sentiments are reflected in PRCA guidelines, he said, which call for adequate housing and safe transport, and provide for on-site veterinary care. Animals are chosen randomly and inspected before each show, and stimulants and tranquilizers are prohibited. If an animal looks like it may hurt itself in a holding pen, the gate is opened to allow the animal to run.