KENNETT SQUARE, Pa., Nov. 15 (UPI) -- University of Pennsylvania veterinarians said Kentucky Derby winner Barbaro is progressing in its recovery from a career-ending leg injury.
Barbaro won the Kentucky Derby last May but in the Preakness injured its right hind leg. There was a fear the horse would have to be destroyed because of the severity of the injury, in which three bones fractured.
But doctors at the New Bolton Center of the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine have been caring for Barbaro in the six months since the injury and report they are happy with the horse's healing process.
"Barbaro's strength on the right hind limb has been gradually improving," said Dr. Dean W. Richardson, the center's 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."
Richardson said Barbaro's left hind foot continues to improve from laminitis.
