“Cookie” the Miniature Horse to Be Sworn in as an Honorary Community Ambassador on November 5 at the Monterey County Sheriff's Office in Salinas

 

The Monterey County Sheriff’s Office is proud to announce that “Cookie,” a 15-year-old miniature horse who survived

severe neglect and was rescued from a slaughter pipeline, will be officially sworn in as an honorary Community

Ambassador. Cookie’s appointment recognizes her remarkable recovery and the positive role she will play in building

relationships between the Sheriff’s Office and the public.

In April 2024, Cookie was rescued by Ruby’s Purpose Rescue in Paso Robles after being located in a Texas “kill pen,” where

she was scheduled to be shipped to Mexico for slaughter. Malnourished, severely underweight, and suffering from multiple

health issues, Cookie needed extensive care and compassion to survive.

Around the same time, Monterey County Sheriff’s Deputy Rebecca Gordano saw a social media post announcing Cookie’s

arrival at the rescue. Having recently lost a personal horse and seeking a companion for her adopted blind donkey, “Violet”

(also rescued through Ruby’s Purpose), Deputy Gordano reached out to inquire about adoption. Shortly afterward, Cookie

was welcomed into the Gordano family’s small farm in Monterey County, joining more than 30 rescued animals, including

pigs, sheep, dogs, cats, turkeys, and chickens.

Over the past year and a half, Cookie has made an extraordinary transformation. Once timid and withdrawn, she is now

social, curious, and enjoys interacting with people — especially children. Her gentle nature has made her a symbol of

compassion and second chances. Her care and wellbeing are funded 100% by the Gordano family.

“Cookie isn’t just a miniature horse — she’s a bridge to our community,” said Monterey County Sheriff Tina Nieto. “For

some people, especially those who may feel intimidated or unsure about approaching a law enforcement professional,

Cookie will provide a gentle and welcoming way to start that connection. By having her join our deputies at community

events, we hope to build trust, spark conversations, and strengthen the relationships that keep our neighborhoods safe and

united.”

The next phase of “Cookie’s” life will see her sworn in as an Honorary Community Ambassador at 11:30 AM on Wednesday

November 5, 2025, at the Monterey County Sheriff’s Office, 1414 Natividad Road, Salinas, California. “Cookie” will make

her first public appearance at the Salinas Farm Day event on Thursday, November 6 at the Salinas Sports Complex.