Rodeos and Animal Abuse
* May is Be Kind to Animals Month yet several events in Ventura County this month make a mockery of the observance.
Rodeo involves inherent abuse of animals. Imagine running in fear from a pursuer when suddenly a rope yanks you violently by the neck. Imagine being slammed to the ground, your legs roughly tied together. Imagine having a strap pulled so tightly around your lower abdomen that you kick and thrash about in pain. Imagine having your neck brutally twisted.
All of these actions cause pain and stress, and many of them cause injuries and death. Would you consider that sport?
Obviously, there are those who feel the need to exploit and hurt animals while others stand by cheering and clapping. Culpability lies with all who sponsor, participate in or attend such events. Shame on them!
The public can demonstrate compassion for animals by boycotting rodeos, by voicing opposition to the sponsoring community groups and by educating the uninformed about the cruel realities of rodeos.
And please, be kind to animals.
MARGE HACKETT
Ojai
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