The San Diego Humane Society has launched an investigation following the death of a horse during the recent San Diego Rodeo at Petco Park, which took place from January 10-12.
According to an Instagram post by the Humane Society on February 1, the horse, which competed in the saddle bronc event, showed no visible injuries during the competition but collapsed and died shortly after, despite immediate veterinary response. The investigation seeks to determine if there was any criminal intent or negligence involved in the incident. The Humane Society's statement emphasized their commitment to animal welfare, stating, "We remain committed to seeking the truth and ensuring the welfare of all animals in our community."
According to an Instagram post by the Humane Society on February 1, the horse, which competed in the saddle bronc event, showed no visible injuries during the competition but collapsed and died shortly after, despite immediate veterinary response. The investigation seeks to determine if there was any criminal intent or negligence involved in the incident. The Humane Society's statement emphasized their commitment to animal welfare, stating, "We remain committed to seeking the truth and ensuring the welfare of all animals in our community."
Organized by the San Diego Padres and C5 Rodeo, the 2025 event marks the second year the rodeo has been hosted at Petco Park, an event that has not occurred in the city since the 1980s until its revival last year. The rodeo, which markets itself as bringing a slice of "Americana" to San Diego, is both celebrated and protested. On one side, attendees laud it as a cultural event showcasing impressive athleticism and heritage. On the other, activists decry it as "animal abuse," highlighting the stress and potential harm to the animals involved.
The controversy surrounding the rodeo extends beyond animal welfare concerns. Last year, an attempt by Councilmember Kent Lee and the San Diego Humane Society to introduce legislation restricting certain rodeo practices failed to gain traction in the City Council. This legislative push came amidst public outcry and protests at the inaugural event, which included legal action against the Padres and the rodeo organizers for alleged violations of municipal codes regarding non-service animals at Petco Park.
The controversy surrounding the San Diego Rodeo was further inflamed after a capturing a distressing moment during the inaugural rodeo at Petco Park. The footage showed a 6-year-old racehorse named Waco Kid crashing into a barricade and collapsing during the "Indigenous Relay Race" on the first night of the 2024 event. After the incident, the horse was quickly concealed under a tarp and removed from the arena in a trailer. While C5 Rodeo stated that Waco Kid survived, they did not respond to request for further details or inquiries for updates on the horse's condition.
The city's decision to allocate $150,000 from the San Diego Tourism Marketing District for promoting the rodeo stirred further debate. Critics argue that using public funds for an event involving potential animal cruelty contradicts San Diego's reputation as an animal-friendly city. However, supporters, including leaders from local Indigenous communities and the San Diego Rodeo Alliance, argue for the cultural significance of the rodeo, seeing it as a celebration of heritage.
The recent incident with the horse adds a poignant note to the ongoing debate. Protesters outside Petco Park during the event voiced strong opposition, labeling the activities as cruel, while inside, fans dressed in cowboy attire enjoyed the spectacle of skilled horsemanship and cowboy culture. The Padres have promoted the rodeo not just as entertainment but as a significant cultural event, aiming to boost tourism with targeted advertising campaigns.
As the Humane Society continues its investigation, the broader implications of hosting such events in modern times, especially in a city known for its progressive values, are under scrutiny. The outcome of this investigation could influence future decisions on whether San Diego continues to host rodeos, balancing cultural traditions with animal welfare concerns.
See the full San Diego Humane Society post below.
As the Humane Society continues its investigation, the broader implications of hosting such events in modern times, especially in a city known for its progressive values, are under scrutiny. The outcome of this investigation could influence future decisions on whether San Diego continues to host rodeos, balancing cultural traditions with animal welfare concerns.
See the full San Diego Humane Society post below.
Originally published on February 1, 2025.Ìý
