Barbaro Still Comfortable

Edited press release
Kentucky Derby presented by Yum! Brands (gr. I) winner Barbaro remains comfortable according to veterinarians at the University of Pennsylvania's George D. Widener Hospital.

"Barbaro is doing well on both hind limbs," said chief of surgery Dr. Dean Richardson in a press release from the National Thoroughbred Racing Association. "Because of this, we do not plan to change his right hind cast in the next two weeks."

The colt's left hind foot has laminitis, but Barbaro seems comfortable with that foot as well.

"He needs to continue to improve over the next few months before we will have a better idea about his long term comfort," said Richardson. "Barbaro's appetite and his attitude right now are phenomenal; he attacks his feed and when he goes out to graze, he acts like he thinks he could train."

Doctors remain cautious about Barbaro's prognosis because according to Richardson, there is no assurance he will surmount all his medical problems.

"Right now, he is a surprisingly happy horse," he said. "He is gaining weight and has had his pain medications reduced without any effect on his well being. His strength and overall appearance have been improving since he became well enough to be walked outside each day."

Barbaro remains in the Intensive Care Unit where he is recovering from injuries suffered in the Preakness Stakes (gr. I) May 20.