Complaints at Danada overblown

Complaints at Danada overblown

Mistreated horses at Danada Equestrian Center? Sounds like the manure is getting spread pretty thick among a few disgruntled volunteers.

As a volunteer since 2005 and equestrian student since 1995, the biggest mistreatment I’ve seen at Danada has been an excess of attention. The herd’s biggest health issue, according to a qualified veterinarian? Obesity. Apparently too many people believe food equals love for animals. And a staff member with a hammer and a rasp is a staff member shoeing an unruly 2,000-pound animal, not a purveyor of abuse.

The forest preserve district hired a new management team a few years ago, and change is always not easy for some. The new, professional management has renewed Danada’s focus as a public facility that serves all visitors and equestrian students, not just a few volunteers. The improvements at Danada, for visitors, volunteers and horses, have been consistently positive.

I urge Daily Herald readers and DuPage County taxpayers to visit Danada and see for themselves a herd of healthy, contented horses and contented volunteers.

Margaret Ahrweiler Clifford

Wheaton