Back-to-back livestock euthanizations raise concerns about rodeo safety

Within four days, both a steer and a bucking bull suffered incurable injuries at rodeo events, resulting in euthanizations. Animal injuries during rodeos are considered rare, but the proximity of the two tragedies raises concerns about safety standards.

On March 8, during the championship round at the Kubota PBR (Professional Bull Riders) Little Rock event, cowboy Bradley Fielder mounted legendary bucking bull, Man Hater, for what would become the bull’s final ride.

As a back-to-back PBR World Champion bucking bull, Man Hater was revered for his exceptional athleticism and powerful kicks. Bull riding is a dangerous rodeo event in which a cowboy attempts to stay mounted on a bull for eight seconds, gripping nothing but a rope with one hand. 

Bulls have an instinct to buck, amplified by a soft rope tied around the flank to act as a harmless irritant. Bulls like Man Hater use movements such as spinning, jumping and kicking to throw riders. He was widely respected by the rodeo community and considered one of the toughest bulls to ride.

During his final ride, Man Hater took a misstep and stumbled, suffering a fracture in his right hind leg. On-site veterinarians responded immediately, and Man Hater was rushed to Oklahoma State University for further evaluation. The injury was determined to be beyond repair and he was humanely euthanized. Man Hater is mourned by his owners and members of the rodeo community. 

Just four days later, in Houston, Texas, a steer met a similar fate. In steer wrestling, or “bulldogging” events, a mounted cowboy jumps from his horse to catch a running steer and wrestle it to the ground within seconds. Typically, the steer quickly returns to its feet once released.

On March 11, at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo (HLSR), a steer took a serious fall after being caught by the cowboy. The cowboy immediately recognized the severity of the injury and alerted veterinarians, remaining with the animal until it was removed from the arena with a stretcher. On-site veterinarians determined the most humane thing to do was euthanize the steer. 

While the circumstances of each incident differ, both highlight the unpredictable nature of working with animals in high-intensity environments. In both cases, experienced professionals were present and veterinary care was immediate. Yet even with trained handlers, established safety protocols and rapid response, neither outcome could be prevented. 

Animal injuries and fatalities are uncommon in rodeo, but the back-to-back nature of these tragedies serves as a reminder of the inherent risks tied to the sport. Their close occurrence has intensified discussion among critics about whether putting animals in dangerous situations is necessary.

As the rodeo community mourns these losses, the conversation moving forward will likely center not only on preserving tradition, but on continuing to improve the safety and welfare of the animals at the heart of the sport.