Death of three horses at Calgary Stampede - Vancouver Humane Society calls for suspension of chuckwagon races

VANCOUVER, July 12, 2012 /CNW/ - The Vancouver Humane Society (VHS) is calling for the suspension of the Calgary Stampede chuckwagon races following the death of three horses in this evening's race.

"Clearly, the Stampede's much publicized safety improvements have failed to make the race any safer," said VHS spokesperson Peter Fricker.  "Horses continue to die needlessly. This has to stop."

Fricker said the Stampede should suspend the races immediately and conduct a full safety review of the event using independent expertise.

"The Stampede has run out of excuses," said Fricker.  "Now is the time to take real action to stop these horses from dying."

More than 50 horses have died in the chuckwagon event since 1986.

Peter Fricker: Cell: 604 603 5401  Office: 604 266 9744 Debra Probert: Cell: 778 994 9744