Overview

• Shaded pens for bulls and broncs will be in place to help livestock cool off after researchers observed heat stress indicators at last year’s rodeo.
• Electrocardiogram sensors will be fitted on chuckwagon horses before and during races to track troponin levels and electrical activity that could signal cardiac risk.
• University of Calgary researchers led by Ed Pajor and Renaud Léguillette will analyze heat stress responses and heart health baselines to guide Stampede safety investments.
• Stampede agriculture director Kristina Barnes says the initiatives seek to eliminate controllable risks and set a new standard for animal welfare in rodeo events.
• The Vancouver Humane Society, which reports at least 109 animal deaths since 1986, is urging organizers to remove the rodeo portion over ongoing welfare concerns.