Local vet expresses concern, optimism after Santa Anita horse deaths

WOODFORD COUNTY, Ky. (WTVQ) – A 23rd horse has died at the Santa Anita race track in California. The prominent track hosts several races on the road to the Kentucky Derby.

“More thoroughbreds are bred here than anywhere else in the world, so people here worry about it. So they’re going to make sure that we’re up to standards, make sure that we’re watching close,” said Dr. Brian Waldridge, a veterinarian with Park Equine Hospital in Woodford County.

Waldridge believes the recent weather and makeup of the track may be a factor for the uptick in breakdowns.

“That track’s designed to be a track where it’s more dry, so with climatic differences that can sure change the track surface, the horses aren’t accustomed to that,” said Waldridge.

In response, the track announced an immediate reduction in the amount of anti-bleeding medication lasix allowed on race days.

Waldrige, a veterinarian for almost thirty years, and a horse trainer for eight, says Santa Anita has good veterinarians and pre race exams. He says he’d still allow one of his horses to race on that track.

“I think as long as you know your horse, make sure your horse is sound, make sure your horse is healthy, then I wouldn’t worry about my horse there,” says Waldridge.

ABC 36 reached out to the Kentucky Horse Racing Commission to see if it is concerned about any Kentucky tracks, and to find out if there are any concerns with sending horses to Santa Anita. The commission hasn’t responded yet.