Las Vegas Sun

March 28, 2024

County Bans Intentional Tripping of Horses

The bill, which prohibits intentionally causing a horse to trip, fall or lose it balance, was approved 6-0 on Tuesday.

The move comes in response to reports that arenas have popped up in the county where the activity is conducted as a sport.

Horse tripping is considered a sport in Mexico, with cowboys chasing a horse, lassoing its front legs and causing it to fall forward on its head.

Opponents say horses have suffered broken legs and necks as a result.

"I can't imagine an animal having to go through this," said commission chairwoman Yvonne Atkinson-Gates. "It's pretty sad, especially when we are trying to teach our young kids how to love one another."

Horse tripping has been banned in California, New Mexico, Texas and Maine.

The Nevada Legislature failed to ban the activity in its last session.

State Sen. Dina Titus, D-Las Vegas, said Tuesday that support for the ban at the county level might encourage state lawmakers to outlaw horse tripping next session.

"It's barbaric, horrendous," Titus said. "It just has to be stopped."

The county ordinance does not interfere with the lawful laying down of a horse for medical or identification purposes.

County officials note it is not a rodeo animal welfare bill and does not affect rodeo competitions.

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