The Northeastern Trail Riders Association of Houston, a group involved in mentoring young riders and participating in the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo for decades, was excluded from this year's parade after two horses died during their ride to Houston. Trail boss Anthony Bruno explained that one horse overheated due to being left in a closed trailer with its saddle on, while the second horse succumbed to heat exhaustion. Bruno questioned the rodeo's decision to exclude the group despite their shared commitment to animal care, as they await a decision on their participation in the next year's event.