Uneventful weekend for Barbaro

By: SPORTS NETWORK

Kennett Square, PA (Sports Network) - Kentucky Derby winner Barbaro experienced an uneventful weekend at the New Bolton Center of the University of Pennsylvania. Barbaro is recuperating from major surgery after shattering his right hind leg early in the running of the Preakness Stakes.

"He’s maintaining an excellent attitude," said chief of surgery Dean Richardson. "We change his left hind foot cast regularly, and we may change his right hind cast some time this week."

Two weeks ago Barbaro developed laminitis in his left hind leg. A modified foot cast was put on the left leg. The cast serves as a bandage and was also changed on Monday.

Barbaro spends several hours daily in a sling. "He is out of the sling overnight because he is very smart about lying down and sleeping," said Dr. Richardson. "He continues to eat a diet designed to maximize protein and caloric intake, and his body condition is good for a horse that has had (and is having) his problems. His diet includes a selection of the best quality hay."

The New Bolton Center is located in Chester County, Pennsylvania, not far from home of owners Roy and Gretchen Jackson. The Jacksons visit the colt on a daily basis. Barbaro's trainer, Michael Matz, also lives nearby and visits often.