by Sarah Love

Created on: April 01, 2009

There is a new and interesting activity for kids out there and it's called "mutton busting." Haven't heard of it?
Not many have, but it is popular in the rodeo arena and county fair circuit. Rodeo and kids you might ask? Is that safe? Well, for the pint-sized participants, the action involves a sheep and lots of protective gear.

Kids as young as two are donning helmets and vests to grasp onto a sheep and hold on tight.

Just like riding a bull, the little dynamos try to stay on their sheep as long as possible. Many times they are tossed off within moments only to roll away from the stomping feet. Some are able to ride away for up to a minute. Future rodeo kings and queens? They just might be!

Where are the parents in all this? Signing documents allowing their toddlers the opportunity to go mutton busting and waiving the rodeo or county fairs responsibility if there is injury. Some parents can't wait for their wee one to turn two so that they can start mutton busting. It seems there is an age limit of two; so many a two year old is brought to go "mutton busting" on their birthday. The proud parents sit in the stadium seats cheering for their young one, hoping for a good ride.

Since mutton busting started, there has been, as expected, much controversy. Both animal rights groups and child protective agencies are finding mutton busting a despicable activity putting both animal and child at risk. Anti-rodeo groups have gotten involved also. Some parents are so proud of their little mutton busters they create websites showcasing their rides and accomplishments.

Most mutton busters endure a couple scratches, or a bump or bruise along the way. Some young "mutton busters" get kicked off their sheep only to want to try it again! It seems to have become a popular way to spend an afternoon, and kids are lining up in droves to give it a try at county fairs. But it's not all fun and games! There are mutton busting competitions and there are trophies provided. This is serious business!

So, what to make of mutton busting? Is this just a great way to have some fun with your toddler and farm animals, or could this turn into something hurtful to children and animals alike?
Only time will tell. This summer, maybe your county fair will host a mutton busting competition of it's
own and you can have a chance to experience mutton busting for yourself. Hey, if you have a youngster over two, you can let them try it for themselves!

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