Melbourne Cup second favourite Spanish Mission will be re-examined for a third time on Saturday after the horse failed his second vet inspection on Friday after he presented with swelling in its right foreleg during the week.
The veterinarians reported that the swelling in the horse’s right foreleg had resolved, however some heat was still detected in the area. This is consistent with a case of mild cellulitis – an infection under a horse’s skin.
In consultation with representatives for trainer Andrew Balding, the decision was made to send Spanish Mission to the U-Vet Equine Centre in Werribee this afternoon for further examination.
Following examination by specialists at the U-Vet Equine Centre, Spanish Mission has returned to the TAB International Horse Centre.
RV veterinarians will re-examine the horse tomorrow to determine its suitability to accept for the Melbourne Cup field ahead of the 4.30pm (AEDT) acceptance deadline.
A further update on other horses being inspected today as part of the first round of Melbourne Cup veterinary examinations will be provided late this afternoon.
An additional pre-race inspection of all horses in the final field will be conducted by a panel of RV veterinarians on Monday.
Spanish Mission is the easing second favourite in the 2021 Melbourne Cup at $7.50 after being a short as $5 on Thursday before news broke of the horses fitness issues.
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