The Mini project
The Ruff Project’s First Horse & Goat Rescue
When we received the call about a group of starving and neglected miniature horses and a goat, we knew we couldn’t turn away. With our past horse experience, there was no hesitation—these animals needed help, and they needed it now. Within just 72 hours, we had a team assembled to feed, trailer, build a safe new home, and provide everything they needed to start healing.
Their story is not an easy one to read, but it’s one that deserves to be told. These four souls endured months of starvation and neglect after their owner abandoned them. What was once a small-scale breeding operation turned into a heartbreaking scene of survival. There were originally four miniature horses and one goat, but one stallion didn’t make it—he tragically died from starvation before we arrived.
Now, the survivors—Misty, Copper, Breyer, and Franco—are safe and deeply loved!
We’re in urgent need of donations to continue caring for our animals and rescuing more in need. Every dollar helps us provide food, medical care, and safe shelter for dogs who have nowhere else to go.
Your support truly saves lives — please consider donating today so we can keep making a difference!
Misty
Misty is a gentle 7–8-year-old miniature horse who has already endured more than most ever should. She’s halter-broken, sweet, and trusting despite everything she’s been through. Misty has had six babies—two passed away, two were sold, and two remain: Copper and Breyer. She’s expecting again and will stay in our care until her new foal is safely weaned. Her calm, motherly spirit has been the heart of this rescue.
Copper
Copper is a stunning 2-year-old chestnut gelding who is learning what love feels like for the very first time. He came to us never having been touched, groomed, or fed properly. With time and patience, he’s started to trust. He’s now vaccinated, microchipped, dewormed, had his teeth floated and pulled, and is fully gelded. Copper still gets a little shy about being haltered, but a handful of treats and kind words go a long way. He will be ready for adoption on early 2026 and will need an experienced, patient home to continue his journey.
Breyer
Breyer is a sweet, curious little guy with a heart full of hope and a personality that shines. Named after the Breyer model horse because he looks like a little horse doll, Breyer is spunky, affectionate, and eager to connect with people. Though he’s still learning to trust and navigate the world, his gentle spirit and playful nature make him impossible not to love.
Breyer’s health requires ongoing care for a molar root infection, and he may need surgery in the future, but with patience and love, he continues to thrive. This little miniature horse is ready for a home that can support his needs while cherishing his joyful, spirited personality.
Franco
Franco is the wise, gentle elder of our goat herd who has touched everyone’s hearts with his sweet and calm nature. Now living his best hospice life, Franco enjoys the simple pleasures — soaked pellets, beet pulp, and minerals served several times a day, all while relaxing on a peaceful property surrounded by love.
Though he isn’t available for adoption, Franco is deeply cherished and cared for, spending his days comfortably and surrounded by those who adore him.
🐴 The Mini Project – Adoption Requirements
At The Ruff Project, our mission is to ensure every miniature horse we rescue is placed in a safe, loving, and knowledgeable forever home. Many of our minis have come from neglectful or unsafe situations, and we are dedicated to making sure they never experience that again.
We take the adoption of our minis very seriously and carefully screen each applicant to find the best match for both the horse and adopter.
❤️ Basic Care Commitments
Adopters must agree to the following lifelong care standards:
Hoof care every 6 weeks
Dental exams and maintenance every 6 months (or as prescribed by your veterinarian)
Daily feeding, cleaning, and exercise
Return the horse to The Mini Project if you can no longer care for them — rehoming on your own is not permitted
🐴 Housing & Companionship Requirements
Miniature horses are herd animals and cannot live alone.
If you do not already have another mini, you’ll need to adopt a pair.
Bonded minis must be adopted together.
Minis are not adopted out as companions to full-sized horses, as they can be easily injured.
You must also provide:
Safe, secure housing with shelter from the elements and protection from predators
A clean environment with fresh water available at all times
A stall of at least 24×24 feet with daily turnout access
Proper fencing (no barbed wire)
An emergency evacuation plan
🧡 Adopter Qualifications
To be eligible to adopt, you must:
Be 21 years or older
Have prior horse-keeping experience (mini or full-size)
Have a steady income and financial ability to provide ongoing care
Typical care costs range from $300–$500 per month per mini
Emergency care (such as colic) can reach several thousand dollars
Reside in Southern California (home checks required)
Agree to random barn checks by The Mini Project
Understand that adopted minis:
May not be bred
May not be ridden, even by small children
If your circumstances ever change, The Mini Project will always welcome your mini back and assist with transport back to the sanctuary.
🩺 All Adoptable Minis Receive:
Every mini offered for adoption has received full veterinary care and is healthy in both body and mind. This includes:
Comprehensive veterinary exam
Rhino/Flu vaccination
EEE/WEE/Tetanus/West Nile vaccination
Deworming
Recent hoof care
Teeth floating and X-rays
Gelding (for males)
🐾 Adoption vs. Sponsorship
Some of our minis will remain in sanctuary care due to age, health, or special needs. Those horses are available for sponsorship, helping us cover the costs of their ongoing care, food, and medical needs. Only minis that are fully rehabilitated and ready for a new beginning will be listed as available for adoption.
At The Mini Project, we’re not just finding homes — we’re building forever partnerships.
If you believe you can provide the love, care, and stability one of our minis deserves, please fill out our adoption application and start your journey today. 💕