04/23/2026
It is with heavy hearts that we share the news of the passing of our beloved Amigo, who left us earlier today.
Amigo’s journey with California Coastal Horse Rescue began when he was just an 8-month-old foal. He arrived with a severely damaged shoulder - an injury that many would have seen as an insurmountable obstacle. But Amigo was a fighter. Thanks to the dedication of our team and the support of custom corrective shoes, he defied the odds and lived a full and happy life right here at the rescue ranch.
If you have ever visited the sanctuary, you likely met Amigo. He was our “social butterfly” - a friendly, outgoing soul who never met a stranger. Whether he was greeting volunteers at the gate or nudging a visitor for an extra scratch, his personality was as big as his heart. He proved every single day that a physical limitation doesn’t define a horse’s spirit.
As you probably know, we took Amigo to the equine hospital in Somis last week to find out why he had not been feeling well. Recommended tests and biopsies were performed while he was there, and sadly, we received terrible news: Amigo had cancer. To ensure that our treasured boy did not suffer, we made the very difficult decision to have our veterinarian help him cross the Rainbow Bridge. Amigo passed away today, surrounded by the love he had known for so many years and at his beloved ranch home, where he had found sanctuary and hope.
Amigo was a living testament to our core belief: all horses have value, regardless of their age or disability. He wasn’t just a “rescue horse”; he was a teacher, a friend, and a cherished member of our CCHR family.
Rest easy, our beloved and sweet boy. You’ve earned your wings.