Success Stories
Bonnie
OTTB (suspected Dutch Warmblood)
Bonnie is a beautiful 12-year-old Off-the-Track Thoroughbred whose journey has taken her from the racetrack to the dressage and show jumping arena, and now to a new chapter focused on healing. Based on her build, movement, and athletic ability, we suspect she may have Dutch Warmblood influence, although her registered history identifies her as a Thoroughbred.
Bonnie came to ECSF through Madison's connections with barns in the Portland area. She arrived with chronic injuries and consistent lameness that had made it difficult for her to continue the athletic career she once enjoyed. Rather than giving up on her, Madison has made Bonnie the focus of a long-term rehabilitation project, applying current research and evidence-based rehabilitation techniques to determine whether she can regain comfort, soundness, and a meaningful future.
Bonnie's past includes racing, dressage, and show jumping, leaving her with an incredible athletic foundation but also the physical and emotional challenges that often accompany high-performance careers. She is intelligent, incredibly expressive, and never afraid to share her opinion. Sensitive to both sound and touch, Bonnie can be reactive and fiery, requiring patience, consistency, and an understanding of how her body and mind work together.
Over the past six months, Bonnie has made remarkable progress. She is moving more comfortably, becoming more relaxed, and slowly learning that life doesn't always have to be stressful. One of the greatest influences in her rehabilitation has been her friendship with a calm Friesian gelding owned by one of our nonprofit supporters. His quiet confidence and patient nature have helped Bonnie discover that she can slow down, trust those around her, and simply enjoy being a horse.
One of the most noticeable changes has been her color. Once appearing nearly black, Bonnie has spent enough time outdoors that her true coat has emerged—a rich, beautiful red. Somehow, it suits her perfectly. That vibrant color reflects the fiery personality we have come to know and love. Beneath her strong opinions and spirited nature is a horse with tremendous heart, resilience, and the desire to connect.
Bonnie's journey is still unfolding, but every step forward is a victory. Whether she returns to athletic work or simply enjoys a comfortable life as a beloved companion, she reminds us that rehabilitation is about more than healing injuries—it is about restoring confidence, building trust, and giving every horse the opportunity to thrive.
We are incredibly proud of how far Bonnie has come and look forward to seeing what the future holds for this remarkable mare.
Kashiki
Quarter Horse
Meet Kashiki: A True Veteran Deserving a Peaceful Forever Home
Kashiki is a wise and gentle older mare who has spent her life as the steady heart of a training program. Calm, experienced, and endlessly patient, she’s helped countless riders learn the ropes with confidence and care. She’s truly seen it all—from first trots to final shows—and has always carried herself with quiet strength and grace.
Sadly, her loving owner has experienced serious medical issues and can no longer care for her. Now, Kashiki needs a soft landing—a forever home where she can enjoy her golden years surrounded by kindness, safety, and the appreciation she so deeply deserves.
If you believe every horse should be honored for their years of service and heart, please consider giving Kashiki the peaceful retirement she’s earned.
Rick'e
Meet Rick’e: A Sweet Quarter Horse Looking for a Healing Home
Rick’e is a 10-year-old Quarter Horse gelding with a heart of gold and a story still unfolding. He’s believed to have experienced a back injury, and while we’re still working with vets to fully understand his medical needs, one thing is crystal clear—Rick’e is a gentle soul who wants to connect.
Every time you enter the gate, he’s the first to greet you with a soft eye and a nuzzle, eager for affection and companionship. He’s an easy keeper with a calm demeanor, making him a joy to have in the pasture.
Rick’e may need some time and support to get back on his feet fully, but he offers so much love in return. He’s looking for a home with patience, compassion, and a willingness to walk alongside him on his healing journey.
Billy
Mustang
Billy's journey began as a Bureau of Land Management (BLM) pull, spending much of his life confined to a stall. Initially labeled as aggressive and struggling to keep his hooves grounded, Billy endured over two years without access to pasture, resulting in confirmation issues. However, his resilient spirit remained unbroken. Billy is addition to ECSF is a result of the Echo Mountain fires. His continued stay is a result of his mustang spirit and his need for pasture life and herd mates.
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With the love and care of his moms (still part of his life and care), Billy, now six years old, has blossomed into a beautiful and sweet soul. Despite his challenges, he has learned new tricks and is now able to be ridden. After a year of training in the arena, Billy is preparing for his first forest adventure as summer approaches.
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While his confirmation issues may pose concerns as he ages, they do not dampen his spirit or enthusiasm for new experiences. With his devoted family by his side, Billy's journey continues to be one of growth, resilience, and the joy of newfound freedom.
Thea
Appendix
One of the best ways for a horse to enter a rescue is through a proactive, responsible owner. In this case, the owner was aging and, though the horses were still well cared for, they chose to surrender them before any decline in health or condition occurred. Thea, a 15-year-old mare, came in alongside her son, Playboy. She is well-trained, has had some exposure to barrel racing, and has a spirited but gentle nature. Thea enjoys attention and doesn’t mind people loving on her.
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Play Boy
Appendix
Playboy is a 4.5-year-old Appendix gelding who is looking for a home where he can continue his training and grow into his potential. He has been exposed to cows, busy roads, and a variety of people, showing a good foundation for further development. While he is lower in the herd hierarchy, he is currently spending time with the larger group to build social skills and learn his manners.
Playboy enjoys human interaction and grooming, and he accepts a saddle well. However, he can spook at movement when asked to trot, so he will benefit from a patient, experienced handler to help him build confidence. He has already made great strides and, with continued support, will become a wonderful partner for the right person.
