Entertainment

Animal Entertainment: From Rodeos to Racing

Animals used across entertainment industries face welfare harms that range from moderate to severe, often shielded by cultural tradition.

Key Facts

Rodeo events including calf roping and flank straps cause measurable distress
Greyhound racing dogs are euthanized at rates of 1,000+ per year in the US
Racing pigeons face exhaustion, predation, and disorientation during long-distance races
Bull riding involves flank straps that cause continuous pain during the event
Multiple US states have banned greyhound racing; Florida banned it in 2020

Welfare Considerations

Entertainment animals are used as instruments for human enjoyment without consideration of their welfare costs. Flank straps in rodeo events cause pain that induces the bucking behavior audiences pay to see. Calf roping causes cervical injuries in calves at measurable rates. Racing greyhounds are housed in small kennels and disposed of when their careers end. These harms are normalized by tradition but clearly documented.

What You Can Do

Avoid attending rodeo events that include calf roping or flank strap events
Support greyhound adoption through adoption organizations in your area
Advocate for state bans on greyhound racing in states that still permit it
Oppose any expansion of rodeo or racing events in your municipality
Donate to entertainment animal rescue organizations