As I sit in my family room by a fire thinking about professional rodeo and the great strides made in welfare over the years, I realize I’m quite proud of the sport. I am aware that not all people will agree with the sport of rodeo, but my wish is that none will say that the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) has not gone the “extra mile” to ensure the safety of rodeo animal athletes.

Extensive changes have been made at PRCA over the past 19 years of my involvement. The PRCA has an advisory committee that proposes rules and guidelines to create humane conditions for animal athletes. The committee includes stock contractors, contestants, a veterinarian, and a collegiate representative.

To my knowledge, the PRCA is the only organization that has a full-time animal welfare coordinator. Cindy Schonholtz handles welfare issues, and, just as importantly, coordinates education of members and rodeo committees on the humane care and treatment of animals. She is available at PRCA expense to help any group that would like input from a person who lives and breathes equine welfare.

The latest addition to the PRCA welfare program is a veterinary advisory committee (VAC). The VAC is made up of five veterinarians from throughout the country who are not especially close to the PRCA. Two are experienced in the bovine field and three in equine medicine and surgery