Happy two year Rescue-versary, Renegade!

Renegade came to the CAPE Animal Sanctuary in May of 2019 after his loving guardian passed away. He had been cared for by the wonderful Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter for 9 months before coming to CAPE. It took time for him to get comfortable in his new setting. He wouldn’t allow anyone to get close, shaking his head, huffing and stomping when anyone tried to touch him. He was underweight and obviously uncomfortable from arthritis and equine Cushing’s Disease.

Renegade stayed in an isolation pasture for the first few weeks as we worked to build trust and make him comfortable. With guidance from CAPE's vet, we started treatment through medication for his arthritis and Cushing’s Disease. He was also put on a special diet to help him gain and maintain weight. Slowly, he was introduced to the pasture with Remy, an ex-racehorse, and seven other rescued burros. Flash forward to today, Renegade is now one very happy boy and has settled into a great routine.

He spends most of the day right next to his best friend, Remy. He has built a very special rapport with the CAPE Animal Caretakers, who continue to work diligently to maintain Renegade’s weight and overall health. His medications are given every morning followed with kisses. What a difference these two years have made!

If you’d like to support our efforts to help animals, like Renegade, who are in need of special care, please visit: www.capeanimals.org/animal-medical-fund

Photograph by the amazing Therese Hukill-DeRock