Fort Worth, November 23, 2025
In response to an EHV-1 outbreak, Fort Worth rodeo organizers have transitioned to bull-riding-only events for two weeks, prioritizing animal health and safety. This proactive approach affects the celebrated Stockyards Championship Rodeo and the iconic cattle drives, which are temporarily suspended. Community leaders are committed to resuming regular events once it is safe. Health officials are closely monitoring the situation to protect equine welfare and maintain event continuity.
Fort Worth Rodeo Events Shift Amid EHV-1 Outbreak
A Community Adjusts to Ensure Animal Safety and Event Continuity
Fort Worth, Texas – A recent outbreak of Equine Herpesvirus Type 1 (EHV-1) has prompted substantial changes in rodeo events at the historic Cowtown Coliseum located within the Fort Worth Stockyards. In a decisive move to protect the health of participating horses, event organizers will shift to bull-riding-only formats for the upcoming two weeks, starting November 21, 2025. This proactive approach aims to contain the virus, which has been associated with a significant equestrian event in Waco earlier this month.
This modification not only underscores the commitment of local organizers to animal welfare but also emphasizes their resilience in the face of unexpected challenges. Through thoughtful coordination and a focus on minimizing bureaucratic delays, Fort Worth demonstrates an ability to adapt swiftly to protect both its showcases of heritage and the welfare of its equine participants.
Impact on Rodeo Events
The widely celebrated Stockyards Championship Rodeo will undergo essential modifications, with equine events being temporarily removed from the schedule. Instead, the programming will center around bull riding and other forms of non-equine entertainment. This adjustment allows for the continuation of regularly scheduled shows while keeping the health of participating horses as a priority. Notably, the decision was made after consultation with the Professional Bull Riders (PBR) organization, reflecting a collaborative spirit within the local rodeo community.
Background on EHV-1 Outbreak
The outbreak of EHV-1, a highly contagious virus affecting horses, traces back to a large equestrian event in Waco, Texas. The Texas Department of Agriculture has issued a statewide alert, advising horse owners, trainers, and facility operators to maintain vigilance regarding their animals’ health. EHV-1 can lead to severe health issues for horses, including respiratory problems, abortions, and in extreme cases, neurological impairment. Importantly, it poses no threat to human health or cattle, but nonetheless represents a significant concern for equine communities.
Community Response and Precautions
Looking Ahead
Organizers at Cowtown Coliseum are committed to resuming regular rodeo events as soon as it is safe to do so. They are maintaining close collaboration with health officials to monitor any changes in the outbreak’s status and will keep the community updated as new information becomes available. The adherence to health guidelines among the community will be vital in managing and ultimately resolving this current health concern.
Key Features of the Article
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Event Changes | Transition to bull-riding-only formats at Cowtown Coliseum for two weeks starting November 21, 2025, due to EHV-1 outbreak. |
| Background on EHV-1 | Highly contagious virus affecting horses, causing respiratory issues, abortions, and neurological damage; no risk to humans or cattle. |
| Community Response | Pause of Fort Worth’s cattle drives to prevent transmission; twice-daily cattle drives on East Exchange Avenue halted until November 28, 2025. |
| Future Plans | Organizers at Cowtown Coliseum working with health officials to monitor the situation and resume regular events once safe. |
FAQ
What is EHV-1?
EHV-1 is a highly contagious virus that affects horses, causing respiratory issues, abortions, and, in severe cases, neurological damage. It poses no risk to humans or cattle.
Why were the rodeo events at Cowtown Coliseum changed?
Due to the EHV-1 outbreak linked to a large equestrian event in Waco, organizers decided to switch to bull-riding-only formats to protect the health of participating horses.
When will the cattle drives in Fort Worth resume?
The cattle drives on East Exchange Avenue are paused until November 28, 2025, to prevent potential transmission of the virus.
How can horse owners protect their animals from EHV-1?
Horse owners should monitor their animals closely for symptoms, avoid attending events with known outbreaks, and consult with veterinarians for guidance on preventive measures.
Will other events in Fort Worth be affected by the EHV-1 outbreak?
Currently, the primary impact is on equestrian events. Organizers are closely monitoring the situation and will provide updates on any additional event changes as necessary.
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