How many more animals have to die at river crossing?

Dear editor:

In reference to the article concerning the death of the mule at the Glenn's Ferry River Crossing 2008 of the Snake River.

How many animal have to die at the selfish sacrifice of human priority in the name of "tradition?" Do the supporters of the crossing think spectators enjoy watching animals struggle and drown?

To quote Mr. Jeffrey, "There's not much you can do but prey." Prayer doesn't factor into it. Where are the animal rescue teams? This event couldn't exist without them.

As a professional horsewoman and trainer, most of these animals are ridden once a year. In the parade, or in an attempt to cross the Snake River.

They have to be ridden daily to build a bond of trust between horse, or mule, and rider or handler and ridden or exercised at least six months to be fit physically before their swim.

When will the time come to end this destructive event to protect these animals from human indifference and if it does factor in, I'll pray, soon.

Luka Flynn Pearce