Say no to the rodeo
To the editor,
The tradition of La Fiesta de los Vaqueros is about to begin this week. Tucson's rodeo is glamorized by the local media and celebrated with a parade. However, there is a darker side behind the rough and tough "cowboy" event.
Animals used in rodeos are severely abused.
Handlers use electric prods, knife sharp spurs, and ointments which eat through skin.
Cows and horses are normally docile creatures but are provoked by a flank, or bucking strap, which pinches their genitals.
Calves that are roped suffer back and neck injuries, bruises, fractures, and internal bleeding.
Some cows end up with broken legs and torn ligaments and are mercilessly dragged from the arena.
The majority of rodeo animals go directly to the slaughterhouse.
Rodeos advocate a negative view toward animals, as they show children that animals are savage creatures that need to be tamed.
Do not patronize events that supports cruelty to animals. Say NO to La Fiesta de los Vaqueros.
Lynne Satanek
Geoscience secondary education senior
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