An apparatus and system for roping practice incorporating an animal shaped head configured to simulate the movements of a live animal. The apparatus includes a swivel joint at the base of the head and a swivel joint where the neck joins to the body, and includes actuators that independently move the neck and head to a specified pitch and yaw angle. Additionally, the head may be attached to a rotor plate such that the head may rotate clockwise and counterclockwise. A programmable controller is included that may store actuator sequences that simulate real-time head and neck movements of live animals. The controller may be programmed by a control device that comprises one or more actuators such as joystick actuators, and the joystick actuators may directly control the animated head. The head may be removable and interchangeable, and may include removable horns to permit customization of the animated head for the physical characteristics and characteristic movements of a specific breed of animal.