Officials investigating a claim that some National Western rodeo saddle broncs were inappropriately jolted with an electric prod did not contact the manufacturer before deciding not to seek charges.
Members of the investigating group said they relied on a supplier’s comments that the 4,500-volt device could be used on horses, although the manufacturer says it shouldn’t. They also relied on safety rules set by the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association.
An animal-rights group — SHARK (Showing Animals Respect & Kindness) — filed an animal-cruelty complaint Jan. 25 with the Denver Animal Control Division.
The division has decided not to pursue charges. Its director, Doug Kelley, said a review indicated the horses did not suffer and the electric prod was used according to PRCA rules.
Kelley worked with the National Western’s animal care and use committee, which state veterinarian John Maulsby leads, and the Denver district attorney’s office.
Maulsby said he thought someone from the group had talked with Miller Manufacturing, which makes the “Hot Shot Power-Mite” prod.
Diane Balkin, a Denver assistant district attorney who joined Maulsby and others in the review, said her investigator was the one who called a supplier of the Hot Shot Power-Mite in her presence.
The manufacturer’s marketing director earlier had told The Denver Post the prods are intended for cattle and hogs but not horses.
