We are aware that calf roping in rodeos is a major concern for animal welfare and one that is deeply troubling to many Australians. Recent polls have proved that it is true – and another proof that this cruel “sport” needs to be put down.

It’s an everyday occurrence at rodeos throughout Australia. From the very beginning, the calves are exposed to an extremely stressful environment. They begin running away in terror the moment they’re removed from the chute. They the calves yell in a roar when they’re caught and attempt to escape after being crushed and tying their feet to each other. When they finally free their feet and are released, they are quick to leave the arena.

Animals shouldn’t be forced to suffer like this to make a point of entertainment. The truth is that Australians are aware of this. They are aware that calves are sentient animals that feel pain and fear. Learn more details about what the latest research has revealed and what it could mean about the future course of this frightening and horrific moment.

Australians speak

Although rodeos have been an element of certain Australian communities for quite a while, a growing percentage of Australians are worried about the underlying and serious concerns for animal welfare that arise from rodeos. Previous independently conducted research has also shown strong and persistent community animal welfare concerns with rodeos. For example, surveys conducted by McCrindle have shown concern about animals used in rodeos increasing from 52% in 2015 to 63% in 2018 to 67% in 2022.

We now have additional evidence of what Australians are thinking about calf roping, which is the one that has the highest risk to the welfare of animals in rodeos.

The most recent survey that was conducted by the RSPCA and carried out independently by 1,500 Australians in February found an overwhelming majority of Australians (61 percent) worried about the impact on the welfare of calf ropes.

This includes a large number of Australians who live in rural or countryside areas in which rodeos take place: 58% living in remote Queensland and 62 percent within WA beyond Perth.

The results of the poll found that over 3 out of five Australians are in favor of their territory or state imposing an end to calf roping.

This is incredibly disappointing because despite the welfare of animals issues that arise from the calf roping process and despite overwhelming public support for ending this brutal practice, calf roping continues to be commonplace all over the world.

At present, calf roping in the calf is permitted legally in Queensland, New South Wales, the Northern Territory, Western Australia, and Tasmania. It’s prohibited from South Australia and Victoria (because there is a minimum body weight of 200 kg in animals), and all rodeos are banned under the law on animal welfare within Australia’s capital territory. Australian Capital Territory.

The results of the polls show the importance of every state and territory which allows the calf roping practice to stop this horrific and depressing incident.

Unwise business decision

The recent polling shows that it’s a wise move for businesses to move away from supporting rodeos. Almost half of Australians are less likely to back companies that sponsor the rodeo in which calves are roping (and for the remaining 2 out of five, it would not have any impact – which means that there’s no benefit and risk).

The RSPCA is encouraging companies to stand up and aid us in seeing how to stop this horrific and terrifying practice. Our suggestion is to find alternative ways to help rural communities without promoting cruelty to animals.

It’s all about a clear message. Australians aren’t just concerned about the negative effects on animals of calf roping, but also they’d like to stop it all. Add on this new research that proves that it’s a traumatic and stressful situation for the calves involved in the roping, and you have an enticing case for a change.