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In 2011, the Stampede adopted new rules for rodeo events and chuckwagon races to try to provide more protection for both human and animal participants.

All horses are now inspected by veterinarians when the animals arrive at the Stampede and before and after every race. There is also a mandatory rest day after every four days of racing.

The number of outriders that accompany each chuckwagon as it thunders around a dirt track was reduced to two from four in an effort to reduce congestion and possible accidents. Several riders have been seriously injured over the years.

The 88-year-old Barker doesn’t buy the attempt.

“I doubt seriously if they’ve made any great strides in making rodeo safe. I don’t know how they could and I would imagine they talk about it more than they actually do.”

He criticized his former game show show earlier this year for giving away trips to the Calgary Stampede as part of a prize package.

“I know that every national animal protection organization is absolutely opposed to rodeo and the Calgary Stampede is considered one of the most despicable of all rodeos in the world.”

The criticism doesn’t surprise Stampede organizers.

“You put it in perspective. We have to hold true to our own values and we know in our heart what outstanding treatment we provide for all of our animals in the show,” said Bob Johnson, Stampede vice-chairman.

“We know we’ll never escape opinions from certain elements of the public. But we hold true to ourselves and the excellent treatment we provide in that regard, but we always seek to improve.”