Kentucky Derby Winner Barbaro Dies

by Michele Cheplic | More from this Blogger

29 Jan 2007 05:15 PM

Sad news from Pennsylvania-the horse that won the world over after shattering his leg at last year's Preakness has died. According to news sources, Barbaro was euthanized today after complications made it impossible for the thoroughbred to live comfortably. Yesterday I read that Barbaro had suffered another setback, but frankly, I was shocked to hear that less than 24 hours later his owners decided to put him down.

In a previous blog I detailed Barbaro's incredible recovery, and like many of you I figured he was going to beat the odds and live the remainder of his life on a farm somewhere. Sadly, Barbaro's doctor said the horse's 8-month-ordeal, which included a litany of ailments - including "laminitis in the left rear hoof, an abscess in the right rear hoof, as well as new laminitis in both front feet" - proved too much for the racehorse many considered a "hero."

"Certainly, grief is the price we all pay for love," said co-owner Gretchen Jackson at a news conference.

Jackson added that the decision to euthanize Barbaro hinged on whether or not his quality of life would be compromised by keeping him alive. Considering the 4-year-old colt had already undergone several procedures and was fitted with fiberglass casts; had pins inserted into his leg; and was fitted with an external brace, his owners say it was amazing that he lived as long as he did.

"We just reached a point where it was going to be difficult for him to go on without pain," Jackson told reporters. "It was the right decision, it was the right thing to do. We said all along if there was a situation where it would become more difficult for him then it would be time."

Personally, I think it's sad when any animal dies-hopefully Barbaro will be remembered as a Kentucky Derby champion instead of the horse that suffered a horrible misstep at the Preakness.

Related Articles:

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Barbaro's Journey Ends

Learn more about Michele Cheplic

Michele Cheplic was born and raised in Hilo, Hawaii, but now lives in Wisconsin. Michele graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison with a degree in Journalism.

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