While Nunu, the horse ridden on the Dan Ryan Expressway by the Dread Head Cowboy hasn’t fully recovered from that ordeal, her health has improved since she was taken to a Tinley Park farm.
Forest View Farms owner Jim Larson said Nunu is “doing better” and has been under veterinary care.
“We have to get her up every two or three hours to exercise her a little bit and get her moving around because horses aren’t made to lay down for an extended period of time,” Larson said.
Chicago police took Nunu into custody on Sept. 21 after the Cowboy, whose real name is Adam Hollingsworth, rode her onto the Dan Ryan Expressway to protest violence against children. The horse galloped at times as it headed south on the interstate after entering at 63rd Street.
When authorities found Nunu, she was “collapsed on the pavement near 95th Street, overheated, dehydrated, bleeding from the hooves,” and had dilated eyes.
On Sept. 23, Assistant State’s Attorney Kevin Deboni said there was a chance Nunu may need to be euthanized, and would never ride again.
Larson said he cannot comment on what Nunu’s outlook is, since it’s determined by the veterinarians treating her.
“Right now, we’re just going to continue the care,” he said.
Hollingsworth has been charged with felony animal cruelty and misdemeanor counts of reckless conduct, disobeying a police officer and criminal trespass to state supported property. He has said he has no regrets about the ride.
Whether Hollingsworth gets the horse back depends on the disposition of the court case.
