LEXINGTON, Ky. (AP) — Two-time Horse of the Year Wise Dan has had emergency colic surgery for a problem with his small intestine, but it’s not expected to end his career.
Trainer Charlie LoPresti told Bloodhorse.com on Friday that Wise Dan began showing signs of the problem after his morning gallop Friday. He was taken to Rood & Riddle Equine Hospital near Lexington, Kentucky, for the hour-long procedure.
The chestnut gelding will remain at the clinic for several days. LoPresti told the website that if Wise Dan fully recovers, he could be away from racing six to eight weeks.
The American Association of Equine Practitioners says colic is the leading cause of death in horses.
Wise Dan won the Woodford Reserve Turf Classic in his most recent start on the Kentucky Derby undercard May 3. The 7-year-old gelding has won 12 of his last 13 starts. He has won six Eclipse Awards.
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