Toddlers Taught to Abuse Animals
30 March 2009
by Anai Rhoads
AnaiRhoads.org -- Children as young as 4 years-old have been placed in situations where not only are they taught to mistreat animals, but are they are clearly in harms way – all for the sake of entertainment.
A dual form of abuse, both children and animals suffer across the country in a game called mutton busting. These events take place at rodeos, and are comparable to the more well-known bronc riding or bull riding.
During the shows, a sheep is caught and forcibly held down so that a child can be seated on the animal. Once the child grips their wool, the adults release the sheep and cheer as the child hangs on. The winner gets a ribbon or generic prize for being able to hang on the longest. The aim is to have to child hang on for at least 8 seconds.
The frantic animal runs and often tramples the child to get away. Despite some precautions in place to protect the child, such as helmets and knee pads, there are cases where both children and animals suffer injuries. Oftentimes however, these rodeos do not supply any protective gear whatsoever for these children.
The parents of these children eagerly sign waivers that would exempt the rodeo from a lawsuit in the event that the child is harmed during the ride. Most parents willingly sign these waivers and encourage their children to participate. Sadly, the children are often harmed but their parents cannot speak up because they signed and submitted the waiver to the participating Chamber or rodeo.
Countless videos and photos can be found online which show the panic on the animals' faces and the children stunned, hurt and crying during and after their rides.
Mutton busting sends the wrong message to children about animals. Hearing the crowds cheering for them, children begin accepting this game as normal.
Animal abuse is so commonplace around the world, and the creatures that suffer the worst are livestock. Animal rights groups are rightfully outraged, while parents are kept silent through waivers and from fear of speaking up against these acts.
One has to wonder - just where does Child Protective Services (CPS) draw the line on what is deemed as child abuse?
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