Injured horse killed in front of Selkirk rodeo spectators

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This article was published 18/07/2023 (867 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Animal welfare organizations are calling for an investigation after a horse was severely injured Saturday during a rodeo event in Selkirk and killed by the fair’s veterinarian.

The horse was in a bronc riding event around 6:20 p.m. at the Triple S Fair & Rodeo, when it exited the chute and quickly injured its leg.

Video captured by spectator Ilona Borovlova, 29, appears to show the animal’s leg break before it falls to the ground repeatedly.

The St. Andrews-St. Clements Agricultural Society, which hosts the rodeo, said a qualified veterinarian “immediately” tended to the animal.

“After thorough assessment, and in the interest of the horse’s well-being, the veterinarian made the difficult but humane decision to euthanize the horse,” the society said in an emailed statement.

Kaitlyn Mitchell, director of legal advocacy for rights organization Animal Justice, said the organization was told by spectators the injured animal was covered by a tarp and euthanized, before it was dragged from the grounds with a tractor.

“It’s a tragedy all around,” Mitchell said.

Mitchell, in tandem with the Winnipeg Humane Society, reported the incident to the Office of the Chief Veterinary Officer and Manitoba Agriculture’s animal health and welfare branch, requesting an investigation.

“We are told that many spectators were in attendance and many left the event in tears, upset with the organizers of the event. I am sharing this footage with you in case it has not already been brought to your attention,” Mitchell wrote in her report to provincial officials.

The advocate and lawyer said in her report (viewed by the Free Press) provincial animal care legislation and federal law prohibits causing animals physical pain and suffering, as well as mental or emotional suffering or distress.

“The pain, suffering, and injury inflicted upon this horse must be considered unnecessary, as the event exists for entertainment purposes only and takes place for no valid agricultural purpose,” wrote Mitchell.

A provincial official responded Monday in writing, saying the chief veterinary officer takes the concerns seriously, noting the complaint was forwarded to the appropriate people.

A provincial spokesperson said Tuesday that animal welfare veterinarians within the Office of the Chief Veterinarian are “engaging with organizers of the Selkirk Rodeo and are in discussions about what is and isn’t allowed for events involving animals.”

The spokesperson said they could not provide further comment, as the office is currently investigating the incident.

The St. Andrews-St. Clements Agricultural Society said it prioritizes the safety of the animals.

“Our hearts go out to the horse’s owners and all involved, as safety and animal welfare remain our utmost priorities,” it said in a statement.

Mitchell argued bucking horse events cause needless pain and distress to the animals, using devices including spurs to cause the horses to move unnaturally, describing the event as animal cruelty for entertainment.

“It’s incredibly disappointing to continue to see events like this take place. I think that our attitudes toward animals as a society are evolving, and rodeo events like this are really out of step with modern values of Canadian society,” Mitchell said by phone.

“This death was a tragedy, but it was completely preventable and completely predictable.”

Borovlova, who recently moved to Winnipeg from Ukraine, said she had not heard of rodeo prior to coming to Canada. As a lover of horses, she was intrigued when she saw an advertisement for the event.

“I didn’t know what to expect,” she said. However, when she watched the horse injure its leg, she was horrified.

“I started crying and I ran away,” Borovlova said. “I was terrified.”

Borovlova said she was unable to work or sleep properly for two days after witnessing the horse’s injury. She posted the video online, and said she has since been criticized by rodeo fans.

“I can’t understand how this can be good entertainment, where horses die,” said Borovlova.

erik.pindera@freepress.mb.ca