Bauer had physiotherapy before Cup: trainer
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Bauer is just beaten to the line by Viewed in the 2008 Melbourne Cup. (AAP: Julian Smith)
The trainer of this year's Melbourne Cup runner-up Bauer says he was shocked to hear the horse could be stripped of its second placing.
Racing Victoria Limited is investigating veterinary treatment given to Bauer in the lead-up to the race.
RVL says drugs are not involved, but has refused to provide more details.
The ABC has been told Bauer was given shockwave treatment, which is prohibited in Australia seven days before a race.
Trainer Luca Cumani told Sydney radio station 2KY today that Bauer was given physiotherapy on the Thursday before the race but he was not aware that violated Australian rules.
"This treatment is widely available in every racing country, and it is available in England," he said.
"It is only banned in England on race day, so I wasn't aware that there would be an issue.
"The vet didn't alert me that there would be an issue.
"The vet was appointed by Racing Victoria to look after our horses, so I thought everything was fine.
"I took it for granted that if he recommended it, it would be OK.
"I probably should have looked at the rules myself and I was not aware this physiotherapy was not allowed."
RVL stewards are investigating and Bauer could be stripped of his second placing to Viewed.
Bauer is owned by a syndicate which includes former Test cricketer Simon O'Donnell.
"It sullies what was an unbelievable experience," O'Donnell said.
"But in the fullness of time this will come to a conclusion and at that stage we'll know exactly where we stand."
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