Meet the Horses of Coachella Valley Horse Rescue
Each horse at Coachella Valley Horse Rescue has its own unique story, from our miniature horses to our program horses and celebrity animals. Whether they're here as permanent residents or have been adopted into loving homes, these incredible animals are at the heart of everything we do. Explore their stories and see how your support is making a difference.
Browse through the categories below to meet our horses, learn about their journeys, and see how you can sponsor or support them.
Miniature Horses, Ponies, And Mules
These small but mighty animals bring big personalities to our rescue. Our miniature horses, ponies, and mules play a special role in our programs, helping children and adults alike connect with their gentle nature and unique charm.
Scooter
Scooter may be small, but he has the heart of a giant! Known for his playful spirit and boundless energy, Scooter loves interacting with kids in our programs. Whether he's trotting around the paddock or enjoying a grooming session, he brings joy to everyone he meets.
Chico
Chico is a sweet and curious mini who loves making new friends—both human and animal. He's often found leading the way during children's activities, showing off his friendly nature and enjoying plenty of attention. Chico's gentle demeanor makes him a favorite among visitors.
Oreo Cookie
True to his name, Oreo Cookie is as sweet as can be! His black-and-white coat makes him stand out, but it's his calm and patient personality that truly shines. He's a comforting presence for children and veterans alike, always ready for a snuggle or a gentle walk.
Baby June Bug
June Bug may be small, but she's full of sass and personality! This pint-sized pony has a spunky attitude and loves to be the center of attention. She's perfect for kids' events, where her feisty energy always brings smiles.
Mamma Maddie
Mamma Maddie is the gentle matriarch of the herd. She has a nurturing side that shines through in everything she does, from guiding younger horses to connecting with the children who visit the ranch. Her calm presence provides comfort to all who meet her.
Horses
From rescues to permanent residents, our horses each have their own path to recovery. Many of these horses have overcome incredible odds to find a second chance at life here at CVHR. Get to know them and their stories.
Magnolia
Magnolia is a strong and resilient beauty who has overcome great odds. After being rescued from a difficult situation, she's now thriving at CVHR. Her graceful movements and gentle nature make her a beloved part of our programs, especially with our veterans.
Honey
As sweet as her name, Honey is a gentle soul who is always there for a quiet moment of connection. She's a favorite in our children's programs, where her calm and patient demeanor makes her the perfect companion for those learning to bond with horses.
Rose
Rose's journey to CVHR wasn't easy, but she's blossomed into a symbol of hope and recovery. She's a quiet, thoughtful horse who brings a sense of peace to the ranch. Rose enjoys spending her days in the pasture, soaking up the sunshine and love from volunteers.
Program Horses
Our program horses are key to the success of our equine-assisted programs. These gentle and trained animals work with veterans, children, and other participants in our camps and programs, helping to heal and build lasting connections.
Grace
Grace is a gentle and wise soul who has become a cornerstone of our veterans' programs. After a difficult start, she has blossomed into a calming presence, helping veterans heal through their work with her. Grace's strength and quiet resilience continue to inspire everyone she meets.
Buttercup
Buttercup's friendly and curious nature makes her a joy to be around. She loves attention and is always the first to greet visitors with a nuzzle. Buttercup has made an incredible recovery since joining CVHR and now plays a vital role in our children's programs, where her playful spirit shines.
Clay
Clay is a stunning Fresian-Quarter Horse mix with a larger-than-life personality. Though he has faced health challenges, his determination and strength have made him a favorite among our volunteers. As a program horse, Clay helps bridge the gap between people and animals, showing how powerful and transformative these bonds can be.
Charlie
Charlie is a gentle giant with a heart of gold. His calm, steady demeanor makes him a favorite among both our volunteers and program participants. Whether he's helping children learn to ride or offering quiet support to veterans, Charlie's presence is a source of comfort and connection.
Celebrity Animals
Some of our horses and animals have captured hearts beyond the rescue. From starring in books to bringing joy to visitors, these celebrity animals are a beloved part of the CVHR family.
Mabel
Pot-bellied pig
Mabel is the most popular pig in the Coachella Valley! Her charming personality and love of attention have made her a local celebrity. She enjoys taking walks around the ranch and bringing smiles to everyone she meets. Mabel is also featured in the children's book series "Guapo's Great Rescue," making her a star both at the ranch and beyond.
Clay
Fresian-Quarter Horse Cross
Clay's striking appearance and friendly nature have made him a standout at CVHR. Not only does he serve as a program horse, but he's also captured hearts as a celebrity animal. Featured in "Guapo's Great Rescue," Clay's story of resilience and strength is known far and wide.
Intakes And Adoptions
Every horse that arrives at CVHR has a new journey ahead. Some are adopted into loving homes, while others remain with us for continued care. Meet the horses that have recently joined us and learn about their adoption stories.
Clay
Program horse
A ~13-year-old Fresian–Quarter Horse mix. Clay had been previously adopted, but he was returned after his new owner couldn't devote enough time to caring for him. So, until the situation improves, Clay is back at Coachella Valley Horse Rescue as a program horse — living at the rescue in winter and at Come Back Ranch in summer, since he can't handle the desert heat. Clay needs special medications and supplements for his chronic skin condition.
Charlie
Program horse
A 24-year-old owner-surrender. Charlie is a fantastic lesson and program horse and has captured the hearts of our volunteers.
Sassy
Adopted
Happily adopted, and renamed Spirit! Sassy was an owner surrender and a loved program horse for many years before an adoption to a horse professional. She now enjoys trail rides with her new mom.
Leo
Adopted
Happily adopted! Leo and Skeeter were very shy and timid. They were adopted together to a family in Norco who have gained their trust and love them both dearly — very spoiled boys in the best home possible.
Skeeter
Adopted
Happily adopted! Adopted with Leo to a family in Norco who loves them both — very spoiled boys in the best home possible!
Stella
Adopted
A beautiful thoroughbred mare who was adopted to a wonderful private ranch home, where she is living the wonderful life she deserves.
Bella
Adopted
Happily adopted! Bella went to a former volunteer who fell in love while helping out around the rescue.