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Burrito arrived in February of 2020 as part of a County of San Diego Department of Animal Services case with two bonded ponies, Chips and Salsa. They also brought along a cow named Olga. Their owner loved them and had cared for them for years, but dementia prevented him from continuing that care.

Since Burrito was so bonded to his pony friends, we opted to keep them together and they lived in our corral of "littles" with Ciaran, Wyoming and Billy.

We believe Burrito was born in 2003. He was 17 years old when he came to the ranch. All of the animals in this group were in desperate need of hoof care when they arrived. Although Burrito’s feet looked the best, he was the most visibly "ouchy" when he walked, especially on turns. Unfortunately, x-rays showed rotation of the coffin bone of both of his front feet, indicating a history of laminitis. X-rays also revealed arthritis.

In addition to arthritis in his pastern joints, Burrito had extensive arthritis in his neck and spine.

Over the years, Dr. Harlan had effectively treated Burrito's arthritis with steroid injections. We are so grateful to Dr. Rivett for continuing these treatments. Unfortunately, recent injections resulted in minimal improvements for Burrito. So, on Friday, March 6 we made the difficult decision to say goodbye.

Burrito was truly a gentle soul that tolerated all of his veterinary treatments so well. He was such a a good boy for our volunteers and loved being showered with attention. He announced mealtimes twice a day with his beautiful, baritone bray. His passing has left a huge hole in the ranch.

We have no doubt that Chips and Salsa greeted their friend at the Rainbow Bridge. The three of them will be kicking up their heels and chasing butterflies. Run free sweet boy without arthritis and pain. You deserve days filled with sunshine and green grass. You and your beautiful bray will be missed.