(Updated July 11) After evaluating Kentucky Derby winner Barbaro on the morning of July 10, Dean Richardson, DVM, Dipl. ACVS, chief of surgery, replaced the cast on the colt’s injured hind leg for a sixth time.

“The long leg cast was replaced with a short leg cast this morning. This was done with Barbaro in a sling and only under mild sedation,” said Richardson. “The long cast was used as extra support during the anesthetic recovery phase. It is much easier for him to move around his stall and get up and down with a short cast. We also found and treated an abscess in his left hind foot that was bothering him.”

Barbaro spent a comfortable night and is eating well after surgery to stabilize the pastern joint this weekend. “We’re continuing his pain medication, antibiotics and other supportive care,” said Richardson. “He appears more comfortable today and has had a normal temperature, heart rate and overall attitude.”

Barbaro continues to be monitored closely in the intensive care unit of the George D