Rodeo horses

Question
Hi Shelley -- Just a quick question. (I saw your question an expert site because of searching for "rodeo circuit horses". If you get this message and respond I would appreciate it so very much. I'll try to make this short and to the point: I live in S. Calif. Yesterday, in the Sun. paper there was a photo of a local rodeo event - a "cowboy" on a "bronco" The horse was in sickenly bad shape. The photo was appalling. I want to help this horse. (Buy it.) But first I have to find it. (Never done this kind of thing before, just started today.) I don't expect help from the local rodeo director - but I'll keep trying to talk to someone connected with the rodeo.  I'm writing to you because I saw your post about how terrible rodeos are.  My question: Do you know if horses used by bare back riders are usually owned by the riders themselves or owned by some kind of rodeo company.  Do you think the horses travel around the state (or the whole USA)? If you have any info that might help me plan my next steps I'd appreciate it beyond belief.  Thank you.

Answer
Dear Heidi
Well, you are quite correct that I am not a fan of certain rodeo events. While I empathize with your situation be careful not to think with your heart instead of your head. What do you plan to do with an ex- rodeo bronc if you should actually manage to end up owning it? Remember- this is an animal that has been chosen for its bucking ability and rewarded for behaviors that the rest of the equestrian community would consider to be negative.
As much as I am not a fan of rodeo I would have to say that reputable rodeos (yes I realize that seems like a paradox) usually take very good care of their bucking stock- they are the "bread and butter" of the organization. Good bucking horses can be VERY expensive.
So, who owns the horses- not the riders. The rodeo company might contract out or they may own their own stock. The only way that you would know is if you contacted the specific organization and asked. I'm afraid that if the horse is a good bucking horse- it is unlikely that they would sell- especially if you go in with your heart on your sleeve. If you do get to meet with the horse's owner- remember the old adage that "you catch more flies with honey than with vinegar."
If you believe that the animal as being abused or neglected- I would contact your local humane society and see if you can get them to assist you in your endeavor.
As with all things- try not to paint every rodeo with the same brush. Many of these horses are well cared for by well managed rodeo companies might have met much worse fates because of their unridability- meeting brutality at the hands of bad "trainers" or even euthanization.
Best wishes in your quest
S. Evans