Tainted feed claims 70 rodeo Horses

Oklahoma and Kansas probe feed safety after tragic loss

A devastating event at Beutler and Son Rodeo Co. in Elk City, Oklahoma, claimed the lives of 70 horses, believed to be caused by tainted feed. The incident occurred shortly after a new supply of feed was introduced to the horses.

Rhett Beutler, who co-owns the rodeo stock company, described the sudden and shocking death of the horses, which he likened to losing family members.

Following the tragic event, the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food and Forestry, alongside the Kansas Department of Agriculture, initiated a thorough investigation. The inquiry has focused on the feed's origin, which was traced back to Kansas, and involves examining the manufacturing and distribution practices to prevent future incidents.

The loss has profoundly affected the community and disrupted preparations for the upcoming local rodeo event, where Beutler and Son were to provide most of the animal stock.

Founded in 1929, the company is a significant contributor to the rodeo scene, including prestigious events like the National Finals Rodeo.

As the investigation continues, both states are closely monitoring the situation, with samples of the feed under analysis to confirm the cause of death. This incident has underscored the critical need for rigorous safety standards in livestock feed production and handling, emphasizing the community's reliance on such protocols to safeguard animal welfare.