AUTHORS NOTE!!! IMPORTANT!!!
Before I even write this chapter, I know I am going to be taking heat for endorsing a rodeo from anyone out there who is against any form of animal cruelty. I do not endorse animal cruelty in any way or form. Personally, I do not see rodeos as cruel. The animals are not trained to buck or be mean through and negative methods. Almost all of the animals you see in a rodeo today were bred for their bucking skills. The rough stock are actually treated quite well mostly easy to handle.
Yes, there are individuals who do things that are cruel. There are still stock handlers out there who endorse methods such as bucking straps and electric shocks to the testicals. I do not endorse any of these methods, but for my stories sake, I will include bucking straps.
Some people have rationalized to me that for eight seconds or less the animal endures discomfort but in return gets treated like a king the other twenty-four hours, fifty-eight minutes and fifty-two seconds of the day.
The only thing that I feel can be seriously cruel is the calf roping because of the age of the stock. There are rules about 'roughing' the stock and many stock contractors are being very stringent with seeing that these rules are followed. These people care about their animals. Even if they didn't, any good businessman knows that damaged stock doesn't sell or perform to its maximum capabilities. It's in their best interest not to damage it.
If this offends anyone, please, just don't read the next chapter
I do not speak as a representative of any cattle companies or rodeos or any other things you may think I am speaking as a representative of. These are my opinions based on my knowledge limited though it may be.
