Dr Michael Morris - Animal welfare writer Dr Michael Morris has a PhD in zoology from the University of Auckland. He is presently teaching degree courses in environmental management at the Bay of Plenty Polytechnic.

Rodeos are widely promoted as 'family entertainment”, but there has been limited discussion of the animal welfare and educational issues involved. Rodeos, by their very nature, are violent events. The RNZSPCA is vociferous in its condemnation of rodeos, describing how the use of electric prods, flank straps, spurs and ropes can result in 'stress, torment and fear for the animals”.

The New Zealand Rodeo Cowboy Association (NZRCA) argues that injuries from rodeos are uncommon, but an examination of their own statistics shows that they are not so rare that they can be easily dismissed. The NZRCA recorded 42 injuries in the 1999-2000 season. The particularly violent 'sport” of calf roping, where calves are flung onto their backs after running full speed resulted in 4 injuries, including one so traumatic the calf had to be put down. The NZRCA only collect statistics on visible injuries; bruises, strains and the psychological torment of abject terror are not recorded.

Rodeos are banned in a number of countries around the world, and full marks to Auckland Mayor John Banks who has refused to allow these violent events in our most populous city. Rodeos - like circuses, elephant rides, possum tossing and other events where animals are enslaved or humiliated, are sending out the wrong message to children, who learn from the examples they see around them. Children watching a rodeo are learning that it is quite acceptable for an animal to be treated in any way we see fit, simply for the ignoble motive of enjoying its sense of panic and fear. If we wish to foster a respectful compassionate society, we should certainly look at getting rid of shameful displays where the strong prey on the weak, simply because they can.

Dr. Michael Morris teaches environmental management at the Bay of Plenty Polytechnic.