I had the privilege yesterday to hear Dr. Dean Richardson of the University of Pennsylvania’s New Bolton Center speak retrospectively about his experiences caring for Barbaro. Dr. Richardson was the leading veterinarian directing Barbaro’s surgical and medical care after Barbaro’s catostrophic injury at the Preakness. As we all know, despite the heroic efforts of Dr. Richardson and his staff and the unwavering dedication of Barbaro’s owners, Roy and Gretchen Jackson, Barbaro was euthanized due to multiple limb laminitis in January of this year.

Dr. Richardson spoke to the members of the American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP) rewarding us with a rare glimpse into the details of caring for the world’s most loved and famous horse. The medical details were interesting, but more than the technical specifics of Barbaro’s care, I was moved by the compassion Dr. Richardson showed for his patient and for the Jacksons, almost a year after the end of Barbaro’s life. From listening to Dr. Richardson speak I am also moved by how, even in the face of so much media attention and so much scrutiny generally, the welfare of Barbaro was always first in every decision in his prolonged medical care.

Dr. Richardson is great example of my profession, a great representative of the AAEP, and a great horseman.

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