ALBANY, NY (WRGB) — The Professional Bull Riders (PBR) event at MVP Arena in Albany is drawing attention not only for its thrilling bull riding action but also for the protests it sparked. As the PBR concludes its final night in town this year, demonstrators are calling for a ban on bull riding and rodeo events in Albany.
Nicole Arciello, executive director of Horseracing Wrongs, said, “I think it’s important for people to know, any kind of animals used for entertainment, they don’t like this. … People say they’re bred to do this, but that’s not true. They’re tormented, and they’re abused to perform for people.”
In response to the protests, the PBR issued a statement emphasizing the care and treatment of their bulls. “PBR bulls are remarkable animal athletes who are treated like kings. They get the best care and live a great, long life. Contrary to misinformation, the bulls are not shocked, agitated or harmed. They are born to buck — it’s in their DNA. Fans attending tonight’s event should be proud to enjoy a sport that puts its animal athletes first,” the statement said. A spokesman added that other bulls enter the food supply at age 3; PBR bulls work for a few seconds each weekend until they are around 10 years old, and then retire to a ranch…