Horses Shocked by Ike Sankey at Pendleton Rodeo

You guys obviously have no idea about rodeo or bucking horses. 1st off these animals are not anywhere near domesticated they are equivalent to mustangs if you will. These horses are so used to sitting in the chutes they do not put up any fight. You guys need to do your research. Stock contractors are not allowed in the arena. They are not commiting inhumane acts I've been shocked a few times and its no different than being pinched rather hard. Do your research better.

the2amigos: wow, you are ignorant. Perhaps that's from being shocked a few times. Stock contractors are not allowed in the arena? Sorry, bud. You're beyond wrong here. We even have the proof on video. Research better before you post next time.

Without the use of spurs, tail-twisting, and bucking straps cinched around their abdomens and groins, these frightened and often docile animals typically wouldnt even buck. The rodeo experience for animals consists of electric prods, twisted necks, and being violently slammed into the ground. Retirement is a one way trip to the slaughterhouse.

I spoke with the PRCA's Animal Welfare person who basically didn't care about what I had to say. So much for the animals welfare. I have also contacted PETA, and here is the response: Thanks for writing. Now that youve been made aware of these sadistic devices, they become more obvious. But hotshots are standard tools in rodeo—theyve been around as long as youve been attending. Rodeo is an industry fraught with cruelty and I hope you will make this years visit your last.

stardelightbabe: Unfortunately, neither of those responses are surprising.

I never knew anything about the hot shot until I came across your video. I have been going to the Ellensburg Rodeo in WA for many years. In fact, just today, after watching your video last night, I paid close attention to see if it happened. Sure enough, one of the contractors (quite possibly Ike) kept shocking his horses. It was only his stock, and not all the horses received this cruel treatment. Needless to say, I did some hunting down after the show. I will be making phone calls tomorrow.

stardelightbabe: Thanks for your post. This is a great example of what we tell people. If you're not looking for abusive methods, you don't see them. You're there to watch the performances.

We appreciate the effort you're undertaking for the animals. Please let us know any responses you get.

Over the years, the reports weve received about cruelties perpetuated on animals used in this industry would send a chill down your spine: untreated injuries, lame cattle still forced to perform, horses being housed in pens knee-deep in urine and manureI'm sure you would agree that some people will cut many corners in the quest to win. Animals used in rodeo are subjected to abusive conditions in order to guarantee theyll perform as expected by the paying public.

The PRCA's "humane rules" are worthless and most are optional; they are rarely enforced, and when they are, the fines imposed on the cowboys are so small as to be meaningless in comparison to the big prize money being vied for. The organization refuses to divulge the names of those found guilty of violations, penalties imposed or even the injury and death records of animals.

bullrider557: Good. But again we'll state the animal was damaged. What good did your fine do for it? Why doesn't rodeo have a pre-inspection of contestants' gear before approaching the animal in order to prevent such an mishap? Why doesn't rodeo have officials who stop roping events when it's apparent an animal is injured? Fining after the injury is not animal welfare.