Rodeo Animals Are Sitting Pretty

So the rodeo controversy continues (“Animal Lovers Staying on Rodeo’s Back,” April 28)! Fifty-some years ago, as a schoolgirl, I wrote an essay defending rodeo and outlining the rules and care of the animals. The difference between then and now is that the protesters are better organized, more vocal, and definitely better funded.

I’m sure since then, the rules have become even more stringent. There was mention in the article of the stock contractors’ investment in the animals. That may be part of the reason they take good care of their animals, but those of us who love rodeo and the cowboy traditions, love those animals.

When you see those horses and bulls performing, think about this: They work about eight minutes a year; they are well fed and cared for; and since they are so rank, if it weren’t for rodeo, they’d end up at the slaughterhouse. Not all horses and bulls are sweet little pets.

The animal rights activists’ goal right now may be to end rodeos, but their next step will be to deny you and me the right to ride our horses in the parks on a Sunday afternoon. After all, when I do that, I’m “dominating” my horse by getting her to carry me where I want to go when she may prefer standing in her stall eating hay!

NANCY C. LACEY

Orange