According to attending veterinarians, Kentucky Derby winner Barbaro continues to gradually improve. The stallion remains in the Intensive Care Unit of the University of Pennsylvania’s George D. Widener Hospital, where he is recovering from injuries suffered at the Preakness on May 20.

“He had an excellent week,” reported chief of surgery Dr. Dean Richardson (pictured with Barbaro), on Tuesday, September 19. “We replaced the boot on his left (laminitic) hind foot with a bandage because the hoof is doing well.

“However, we remain cautious, because he will still need several more months of healing before we’ll know how well the overall hoof structure can be restored.

In addition, Barbaro continues to be comfortable in the cast that has been on his right hind leg for the past three weeks. “We won’t change it unless there is a reason to do so, and we will continue to monitor his comfort closely before deciding when to replace or remove this cast,” said Richardson. “He is enjoying his daily excursions outside to graze, and his appetite is excellent.”
Photo by Sabina Louise Pierce.