Last year, Colorado Horse Rescue saved a scared miniature horse named Eloise from a livestock auction. She was uncertain, overwhelmed, and deeply afraid of the people around her. It took time, patience, and a lot of gentle encouragement for her to begin to trust again. That trust began to grow through the steady presence of Grace, our Placement Program Manager, who built a quiet bond with her day by day.

When Eloise came to us, we were told she had been “exposed,” meaning there was a chance she was pregnant. But early on, the signs weren’t clear. A blood test suggested she was pregnant. However, those are not always accurate. When we did an external ultrasound, it didn’t show a foal, we didn’t know for sure whether or not she was expecting. 

That all changed just a little over a week before the big moment…Eloise’s milk came in! That’s when we knew: a baby was for sure on the way!

Not long after, Eloise gave birth to a beautiful, healthy filly. Our staff came together to vote on a name, and the winning choice was Juniper, a perfectly fitting name for this adorable springtime baby.

Juniper has already proven to be quite the character. She’s spunky, curious, and full of life. She shadows her mom wherever she goes, and while she’s still too young to eat hay, that doesn’t stop her from trying to nibble on it like a grown-up.

Eloise, now a much more confident mare, has stepped into motherhood with grace. She’s attentive, calm, and clearly head-over-hooves for her little girl. Just the other day, after Juniper woke from a nap and started romping around, Eloise finally took a moment to rest. With Grace close by keeping a watchful eye, it was as if Eloise thought, “The babysitter’s here — I can finally relax.” Meanwhile, Juniper kicked and bucked in joyful circles around her mama, full of energy.

Both mama and baby are thriving, and we couldn’t be more thrilled. From frightened and uncertain beginnings to this joyful new chapter, Eloise and Juniper’s story is one of hope, healing, and the beauty of second chances. We can’t wait to see where their journey takes them next.

Enjoy this video of sweet Juniper!