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  4. RSPCA calls for rodeo boycott

16 November 2012

The RSPCA is calling on South Australians not to attend the rodeo component of the “family

fun day” at Lobethal, which is being held this weekend despite concerns about animal

welfare, heightened by the death of a bull interstate.

RSPCA (SA) Media and Campaigns Manager Jennifer Salter said there are far less

controversial ways for a community to raise funds.

“It’s disappointing that in this day and age, people still think it’s acceptable to put animals at risk

in the name of entertainment,” she said.

“Common rodeo activities such as steer wrestling and bull riding can cause suffering and distress

for the animals involved. The use of devices such as flank straps and electric prods contributes to

this.

“As we’ve recently seen interstate, participation can have serious consequences.

“A bull at the Warwick Rodeo in Queensland appeared to break its leg after falling when coming

out of the chute. It then took nearly thirty minutes for the bull to be removed from the arena for

eventual euthanasia.

“This is a graphic and tragic example of why the RSPCA is opposed to rodeos.

“While a vet must be on-site at all SA rodeos, they can’t prevent the animals from being hurt in

the first place. The only way we can do that is to have rodeos banned.

“They are already banned in the ACT and UK. We’re calling on South Australians to contact the

State Government and urge it to follow suit.

“These activities have no place in a progressive society. The RSPCA would love to see a

successful family fun day in the Adelaide Hills. But staging a rodeo shows poor judgment.

“We are urging people who attend this weekend’s event to leave before the rodeo component gets

underway late in the afternoon.”

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