Editor:

I am writing this in response to Feb. 26 article, "Protesters denounce rodeo, deem it as cruel to animals." The right to voice an opinion is in the First Amendment. However, I am bothered by the misconception of the information that was stated by Lisa Markkula. I have been around livestock for quite some time, and being an animal science major, I know a little about the treatment of these animals. First of all, the livestock that is in the rodeo circuit is treated far better than livestock on dairy or meat farms. Secondly, way back when, when a calf needed to be treated for an illness, branded, or whatever, the only way to obtain the calf was by roping it. In other words, it was not done for "kicks." Also, I seriously doubt the calf would come when called. Third, I have been a veterinary technician for four years, and I have seen more worst-case scenarios of animal abuse and animal neglect than one can see displayed in a rodeo in a lifetime. I am not trying to tell one what to believe, but the misconception of information is a little irritating. I just wanted to voice my opinion like everyone has a right to.

Christine Scott

animal science junior

Christine Scott
Animal Science junior