Animal Rights Group Protests Cowboy Monkey

ST. PAUL (AP) - An animal rights group wants "Whiplash the Cowboy Monkey" pulled from a weekend rodeo in St. Paul.

The Minnesota Federated Humane Societies believes the 27-year-old Capuchin monkey is at risk for head trauma. Whiplash entertains audiences by riding a sheep-herding border collie. Whiplash is scheduled for a performance at the World's Toughest Rodeo Friday and Saturday at the Xcel Energy Center.

His owner, Kenny Petet of Stephenville, Texas, says the monkey has been trained to ride the dog since he was two years old. He says his monkey isn't in any danger, receives excellent care and is part of his family.

The monkey's longtime veterinarian, Dr. Joe Cannon, says Whiplash is healthy and is limber enough to handle the act.