The winter sport of skijoring is facing increased scrutiny after recent accidents in Colorado resulted in two horses being euthanized.
The Summit Daily News reports the sport features a horse and rider traveling at speeds around 40 mph while pulling another person on skis through various obstacles.
The most recent incident involved a horse that took a false step and crashed during the city of Leadville's 67th annual skijoring competition. The horse broke its leg and was put down.
Another horse was euthanized after stumbling during a competition in Minturn on Feb. 27.
Some have blamed the incidents on unseasonably warm temperatures which have softened the snow and made it difficult for horses to keep their footing. Others question the sport's impact on horse health and safety.
