Investigation Launched After Horses Die in Oklahoma

Beutler and Son Rodeo Company in Elk City, Oklahoma, recently lost up to 70 horses due to suspected tainted feed containing antibiotics deadly to horses. The Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food and Forestry (ODAFF) has launched an investigation, collecting feed samples for analysis in collaboration with the Kansas Department of Agriculture. The feed, which originated from a Kansas supplier, may have been contaminated with Monensin, a compound safe for cattle but lethal to horses. This incident has had significant financial and emotional impacts on the nearly century-old rodeo company. Despite the tragedy, the Beutler family remains determined to continue their rodeo events, supported by the broader rodeo community. The investigation aims to ensure proper labeling and operational protocols were followed by the feed supplier.