Rachel Doing Well After Doctors Drain Abscess

Rachel Alexandra was described as "bright and alert with a good appetite" on the evening of March 7 after undergoing a surgical procedure at Rood & Riddle Equine Hospital to drain an abscess discovered in the morning.

Veterinarians at Rood & Riddle have been monitoring the 2009 Horse of the Year since she underwent abdominal surgery following foaling complications Feb. 13 after the delivery of her Bernardini filly a day earlier. They continue to view the 7-year-old mare's recovery as "remarkable" in spite of this setback.

"As part of the continuous evaluation and monitoring that Rachel is receiving at Rood & Riddle, an abscess adjacent to her reproductive tract and rectum was found this morning," said Dr. Brett Woodie, in a statement released by Rood & Riddle.

The hospital reported "the abscess was drained successfully via a standing surgical procedure, throughout which Rachel's vital signs remained normal. She came through the procedure well and was even able to graze this afternoon," the statement said.

While this type of hurdle is not unexpected, the daughter of Medaglia d'Oro will remain at Rood & Riddle for continuous observation as she continues down what has been called "a long road" toward recovery.

Another update on her condition can be expected on March 11 unless a change in her condition were to occur sooner.