April, enjoying a quiet moment at the Rescue today…

This sweet and sensitive 13 year old mare first came to California Coastal Horse Rescue as a neglected and badly injured 4 month old foal with her seriously ill dam. April’s mama had done all she could for her filly and in her attempt to keep her baby fed, her neglected body was unable to survive the damage from their previous ordeal, and she passed away during her first week at the Rescue while under medical care.

After being treated at CCHR, and surviving the potentially life-ending injury and leg infection that she arrived with at the Rescue, April went on to be adopted and live happily with a family for about 8 years.

Sadly, April’s home, as happens so often with horses and other animal companions, was broken apart by a divorce. Although we were deeply saddened by the upsetting change in her home situation, it was never in doubt as to where she would come back to live: her first safe and loving home, CCHR.

April’s affected leg does not really allow for riding but we think she would be a great companion horse or might even be trained to do some light cart work. If you would like information about adopting or sponsoring April, please contact us at connect@calcoastalhorserescue.com.

When Bella and Jasper arrived at California Coastal Horse Rescue the first wish for them had been granted: they had been spared from being destroyed.

As part of a group of pregnant mares that had been sent to auction, their fate would most likely have been being sent to slaughter. Thanks to the rescue effort that was mobilized by National Equine Resource Network and also made possible by a network of CCHR donors, volunteers and supporters, Bella and Jasper were saved.

 The next wish…

Having arrived at CCHR, Bella and a week old Jasper had to be placed in quarantine for three weeks; the fear was that they had possibly been exposed to Strangles, a highly contagious disease that affects a horse’s lymph nodes in its upper respiratory tract. The hopes and wishes of everyone involved focused intensely on the well-being of these two horses. Another wish was granted; Bella and Jasper came through quarantine without any health concerns.

 And possibly the most important wish…

‘Please let there be happy forever homes and companions for both Bella and Jasper’

Well, this wish has come true in the happiest of ways; both Bella and Jasper have found the people who will become their most trusted friends, protectors and companions. Jasper was taken under Shannon’s wing from the day he arrived at the Rescue and it is beautiful to see the relationship that has developed between them as Jasper has grown. This sweet and energetic (and very mischievous!) colt has found a loving and dedicated friend and teacher in Shannon. Bella, too, has found her special friend and companion in Kate. We hope Kate and Bella will also have a long and happy journey together. From the expressions on their faces it sure looks like they are off to a perfect start!