Horse Fatally injured During rodeo Performance - We have received correspondence regarding this article and the tragic accident it refers to.  In one particular e mail the writer referred to the fact that John Payne has received awards for his act and that the livestock belong in the trailer not on the trailer.  Gail Woerner has written the following response for us: 

"Yes, the accident was tragic.  No one likes to see an animal put down.  I must say in defense of John Payne and his act, that he has entertained people all over the country with this act, and his son and daughter have the same act that they perform at other venues across the country.  He has performed this spectacular act thousands of times with no accidents or injury to the animals involved.  If his act weren't unusual and a bit dangerous he would not be one of the top performers in rodeo.  Please also consider the alternative - many of these horses used in acts such as this would probably be sent to the slaughterhouse and end up in a can of dog food, if it weren't for opportunities like this.

The animals that are used in rodeo, whether it be as a competitive animal, or in a performance, are actually very fortunate to be able to have the life the do.  Rodeo people take very good care of their stock, after all it is what earns them a living.  Please don't judge a performer and his act by one accident.  I will assure you John Payne is a very conscientious person that takes extremely good care of his animals.  This was truly a tragic accident and no one has suffered more than John Payne, I'm sure."  Gail Woerner 

"John is a member of Rodeo Attitude and we know how sad he must be at the loss of his horse and partner in his act.  Accidents happen on the job all the time and people are injured or even killed.  They were doing their job and earning a living.  Please understand animals have the right to work and earn a living as well.  If not they would be extinct." Cindy Meyers, President Rodeo Attitude.

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