Horsesdaily News: Page 3 - The 2001 Marty Simensen Memorial Trophy Honoree

The 2001 Marty Simensen Memorial Trophy Honoree
Dr. Denys Frappier

When Dr. Frappier arrived in Fez in 1994, he was overcome with the suffering of the animals. He quickly realized that in most cases the neglect and apparent abuses were due to lack of knowledge and poverty. He put together a program whereby he and his staff aim to educate every owner, upon each visit to the clinic, about the care, nutrition, maintenance, and humane handling of their animal. Without the Fondouk, thousands of animals would suffer and die each year, yet thanks to the MSPCA and Dr. Frappier a real difference is being made.

Through education, the Moroccan people stopped viewing their animals as a means to an end. "Most people do not willfully abuse their animals or disregard their needs. But from ignorance and urgency they sometimes engage in practices that are hard on the animals or even dangerous. It is part of the Fondouk's mission to show by teaching and example that animals can work more productively if humans care for them properly and treat them with compassion and respect," explains Dr. Frappier. So successful are his educational efforts that the number of animals visiting the clinic annually has grown from just over 8000 to 17,000, primarily due to a new understanding of preventative care!

Dr. Frappier himself has said that it is extremely rewarding to attend our greatest equine athletes at international competitions, such as the Olympic Games. He feels a sense of pride knowing that his skill and involvement could make a difference in winning a medal. However, it is not in the same league as the reward he feels when he is able to cure a weak and sick mule, led into his clinic by a poor Moroccan. "When the poor man is able to take his mule home, to work again, and support his family--That is true satisfaction," states Dr. Frappier.

Dr. Frappier continues to work with the CEF and to support the International Teams. As Sharon Brooks states, "He is still on top of his game while serving in this humanitarian capacity! Yet he deals with loneliness, separated from his family in Canada, the lack of resources and trained support staff, the heat, cold, draught, and primitive living conditions in Morocco, and the trials of being immersed in a foreign culture. He does this willingly and with a smile on his face. He knows he is making a difference, one tired and needy animal at a time." For this we all salute him!

On Saturday September 29, 2001 Dr. Denys Frappier wasl honored with as the year 2001 recipient of the Marty Simensen Memorial Trophy under the lights at Dressage at Devon's CDI competition. Join us in honoring Dr. Frappier and in supporting the important efforts of the American Fondouk and the MSPCA 350 South Huntington Avenue, Boston, MA 02130).

By Susanne Owen Hassler