Rachel Alexandra, the 2009 Horse of the Year who underwent emergency surgery last Wednesday after suffering internal injuries while giving birth to a Bernardini filly on Tuesday, remains in serious but stable condition at Rood and Riddle Equine Hospital in Lexington, Ky., according to an update yesterday by Stonestreet Farm.
Over the weekend, a small amount of feed was introduced into Rachel’s diet in addition to her IV fluids and nutrition, and her appetite continues to improve. Yesterday, she was able to go for short walk outside and nibble on some grass. She remains bright with normal vital signs, and her veterinarians, Dr. Bonnie Barr and Dr. Brett Woodie, are encouraged by her progress.
“If she wasn’t as smart and as strong-willed as she is,” Dr. Barr said, “she wouldn’t be progressing the way she is.”
— Ed Fountaine