Horse dies in rodeo mishap
A horse died following an accident at the Methven Rodeo.
NZ Rodeo Cowboys Association president Lyal Cocks said that following a ‘‘regrettable’’ accident in the main arena at Methven on Sunday, a horse was injured during a second division saddle bronc event when its saddle slipped and the horse became entangled in the girth.
The horse was sedated by the event’s veterinarian but later died.
The competitor, who was uninjured, was bucked off just prior to the saddle coming loose.
Cocks said the welfare of the stock was a priority at every rodeo. ‘‘We endeavour to minimise every potential risk to stock and competitors and it’s disappointing when a rare accident like this occurs.
‘‘I’ve been involved in rodeo, off and on, for more than 40 years and I’ve never seen this happen before,’’ he said. ‘‘We will investigate the accident and, if there’s anything to be learned from it, the investigation will reveal that.’’
He will receive reports from the event’s animal welfare officers and the veterinarian.
The death of the horse comes after the New Zealand Rodeo Cowboys Association announced last month four key changes to improve animal safety.
Cocks said the association constantly reviewed its events to ‘‘look at how we can improve safety for competitors and animals alike’’.
‘‘We are seeking to ensure that any animal injuries at rodeo events, as rare as they might be, are neither due to poor practice nor inadequate training.’’
SAFE head of campaigns Marianne Macdonald said she was saddened that another animal had died at a rodeo in New Zealand.
Animals at rodeo events were put under a great deal of stress, Macdonald said.