Kentucky Derby winner Barbaro continues to improve following the removal of his right hind leg cast last week, according to his medical team.

“Barbaro’s strength on the right hind limb has been gradually improving,” said Dean W. Richardson, DVM, Dipl. ACVS, chief of surgery. “It is normal to be a bit stiff and weak after being in a cast for a long time; however, he is capable of bearing full weight on the previously fractured right hind leg even without the supporting soft bandage.” Barbaro’s lower right hind leg had been in a cast since surgery at Penn’s George D. Widener Hospital following his accident at the Preakness on May 20.

Barbaro’s left hind foot, which had laminitis, continues to improve. “The left hind foot continues to slowly grow but still has a very long way to go,” said Richardson. “Barbaro’s attitude and appetite remain excellent, and he still takes short walks outside to graze each day if the weather permits.”

The next update will be posted on Tuesday, Nov. 28, unless there is a significant change in Barbaro’s condition.

For more information on Barbaro, please see www.vet.upenn.edu.  

Below: Radiographs of Barbaro’s right hind leg, taken May 21 (left) and Nov. 6 (right).

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