Stock contractors provide the bucking bulls, bucking horses, calves and steers used in rodeo events. To become a stock contractor, you must obtain and care for quality livestock, obtain contracts to provide animals for rodeo organizers, and transport the animals to and from events.

Start-Up Resources

Stock contractors must have the resources and knowledge necessary to properly care for and transport their animals. You will need a ranch with safe fencing where the animals can live. In addition, animals must be fed and provided plenty of water daily. Stock contractors should be able to provide basic first-aid for their animals and know when an animal's injury or illness requires veterinary care. Stock contractors must also own trucks and trailers to transport livestock to rodeos or contract with a transportation company who can provide that service.

Raise Quality Animals

Decide which type of livestock you want. Stock contractors can choose to keep steers, bulls and bucking horses or specialize in a single area. Many stock contractors have a breeding program. In these cases, contractors have cows or mares that are bred to bulls or stallions in an attempt to produce better performing animals. Contractors may own the bull or stallion or purchase semen and have the females artificially inseminated. This requires a strong understanding of genetics and time-consuming research to find the best animals to breed. Alternatively, stock contractors may purchase proven or prospective rodeo stock. Athleticism, attitude and desire to perform are more important in rodeo stock than pure bloodlines.

Obtain Rodeo Contracts

Contact rodeo organizers and research the organizations' requirements for stock contractors. For example, organizers might enforce a weight or size limit and require horns to be trimmed or capped. Once you determine that you meet the requirements, submit your application and pay any required fees. As of 2013, for instance, PBR, Professional Bull Riders, requires a $300 application fee for stock contractors supplying the Touring Pro Division, and a $1,500 application fee for contractors supplying the Built Ford Tough Series.

Stock Contractor Considerations

Stock contractors are paid when a rodeo uses their animals. According to American Cattlemen, as of 2012, contractors earn between $100 and $8,000 each time a bucking bull is used at an event. In addition, bulls bucking in competitions such as those sponsored by the American Bucking Bulls, Inc. can win up to $250,000. These earnings are offset by frequent travel costs and year-round feed and medical care for the livestock.