"Circus animals abused" (Forum, Oct. 2) reminded me of an incident that changed my view of rodeos.
Several years ago, I had the misfortune of sitting in a section with a clear view of horrific abuse of a bull prior to release into the arena. A cowboy had the bull in a tight, corralled space, goading it with a device that caused him to be hurt, gouged or shocked, as was evident by the animal's cries, jerks and gyrations.
What I witnessed was so cruel, I had to leave due to my disgust and disbelief it sickened me. Such treatment not only agitated the animal but caused it to act inordinately scared and defensive all just so some cowboy could attempt to ride it and further humiliate it.
That this animal and others would have to endure such treatment day after day just to entertain, amaze and thrill the masses is more than I will tolerate. Please do not support such cruel and demeaning events.
Joy Dawn Hall
Sandy