Veterinary studies reveal distress in rodeo bulls and broncs from flank straps

The Health and Human Development Committee of the St. Louis City Council convened on June 12, 2025, to discuss the welfare of animals used in rodeo events, particularly focusing on the practices of bull and bronc riding. The meeting highlighted significant concerns regarding the physical and emotional distress experienced by these animals due to the equipment and methods employed during such events.

The discussion began with an examination of the unnatural bucking behavior exhibited by bulls and broncs. It was noted that while these animals may buck naturally, the exaggerated movements seen in rodeos are largely induced by the use of flank straps, which are designed to irritate the animals and provoke a response. A 2017 study was cited, indicating that bucking bulls are more prone to develop musculoskeletal disorders, including issues with their spines and pelvises, compared to non-bucking bulls.

The committee also differentiated between two types of bronc riding: saddle bronc riding, which utilizes a specialized saddle, and bareback bronc riding, where riders use a rigging attached to the horse's back. Both forms of riding were described as emotionally traumatic for the animals, with evidence suggesting that they experience fear and stress akin to that of prey animals under threat.

Veterinary observations were presented, detailing signs of distress in both bulls and horses during rodeo events. Symptoms such as excessive salivation, fixed staring, and other physical manifestations of fear were discussed, emphasizing the psychological impact of the rodeo environment on these animals. The committee noted that the discomfort caused by the flank strap is not merely incidental but a deliberate aspect of the rodeo experience, aimed at enhancing entertainment value for spectators.

The meeting concluded with a call for greater awareness and potential reforms regarding the treatment of animals in rodeos. The committee underscored the need for continued research and advocacy to ensure the welfare of these animals, highlighting the ethical implications of using them for entertainment purposes. Further discussions and follow-up actions were anticipated as the committee seeks to address these pressing concerns.