The dislocation caused destruction of all of the supporting ligaments to the back of the fetlock and pastern joint, making the ankle unstable and requiring surgery.
The fusion took a plate 14 inches long and 18 screws to lock it into place with approximately two feet of wire laced into the back of the ankle to replace the ligaments.
Chelokee successfully covered 24 mares in 2009, but having an injury that prevented him to be put out to pasture and a hoof which required a special glue-on shoe and 24-hour care, it was decided that he might be better served in another breeding program.
He's got a great personality and is a beautiful individual" - Centennial President Don Little Jr On July 8, 2012 Lady Kee (filly) became the first winner for Chelokee winning by 5+1⁄2 lengths at Prairie Meadows.
The University of Arizona Equine Sciences Program stated on its Facebook page that "The fight was still there but his beautiful body was tired and giving out on him.