Mushika Foundation Intervenes Regarding the Planned Rodeo in Gliwice
The Mushika Foundation has taken decisive action in response to the American Rodeo Polska event planned for 13 September 2025 in Gliwice. The event intends to use horses and bulls, which—in our assessment—poses a serious risk of violating regulations concerning animal protection and welfare.
An analysis of the event scenario, approved by the Chief Veterinary Officer, revealed that the document contains vague and imprecise provisions that make it impossible to properly assess the conditions in which the animals will be kept and used. At the same time, the organizer’s promotional materials announce “dust, noise, the roar of the crowd, a spectacle of light, fire, and music”—which is in clear contradiction with the obligation to protect animals from stress‑inducing external factors.
The Animal Protection Act prohibits cruelty to animals, understood as inflicting or knowingly allowing the infliction of pain or suffering, including: malicious frightening or teasing of animals, the use of cruel methods in breeding or keeping animals, and organizing animal fights. The conditions of performances and the methods of handling animals used for entertainment or sports must not endanger their life or health or cause suffering—including psychological suffering. It is also forbidden to force animals to perform actions that cause pain or are contrary to their nature.
In the case of rodeo, there is a real risk of causing fear, stress, and panic in animals, as confirmed by observations of such shows in other countries.
In letters sent by the Mushika Foundation together with the Association Lawyers for Animals and the Foundation Someone, Not Something to the Chief Veterinary Officer, the event organizer Westernowo sp. z o.o., the venue operator PreZero Arena Gliwice – Arena Operator Sp. z o.o., the commercial partner Eventim Sp. z o.o., and PreZero Polska sp. z o.o., we presented detailed questions regarding, among other things, the conditions in which the animals will be kept, transport, rest, protection from noise and light, veterinary care, and safety procedures. We also appealed for the cancellation of the event and for withdrawing support for it.
We emphasize that rodeo is not a Polish tradition, and competitions of “human versus animal” cannot be justified by cultural or entertainment arguments. Inflicting pain and suffering on animals in the name of spectacle is incompatible with the values underlying current legal regulations.
At the Mushika Foundation, we believe that the world of entertainment can exist without harming animals. Empathy, respect, and responsibility are values that should define the boundaries of any public show.