It seems like just yesterday that Barbaro wasn’t given any chance to live. Yet, he’s still here and he’s still fighting. The injury Barbaro suffered during his triple crown race broke the hearts of potentially millions of horse racing fans around the world. Perhaps the thousands of letters and get well cards Barbaro received—along with all the prayers and well wishes—has helped him defy the odds so far.

Dr. Dean Richardson said he was “pleased” with Barbaro’s progress. It’s been almost five months since the disastrous accident in the Preakness. Richardson said that Barbaro’s cast was changed on his right hind leg. He was also given a new show. As to his left hoof, which is suffering from Lamintis, it’s healing gradually.

Richardson gave an update recently and said, “There is good growth along the quarters (closer to the heel) but there will need to be much more healing along the front of the hoof.”

It’s easy to hear the news and get excited for Barbaro. Not too long ago Richardson said he had almost no chance to live and that they could put him down at any moment. However, well wishers still need to be cautious. Richardson was quick to point out that a lot more time is needed. He said, “We still have many months of healing ahead of us.”

For now, Barbaro is doing pretty well. Let’s hope that his progress continues positively. In a statement from the hospital Barbaro’s staying at, they said that he’s grazing comfortably.