Chincoteague Pony Dies Following Rescue Attempt

Image Courtesy of Chincoteague Volunteer Fire Company

CHINCOTEAGUE ISLAND, Va. – The Chincoteague Volunteer Fire Company (CVFC) has announced the death of pony after extensive rescue efforts were made to save her on Monday.

In a post to social media, CVFC said the pony, named Beach Baby, passed away early Tuesday morning after a Herculean rescue. In a boat tour on Monday morning, one of the Chincoteague cowboys spotted Beach Baby stuck in the mud far out in the marsh. He was able to free her legs with the assistance of another cowboy, but Beach Baby struggled to stand.

A group of nine cowboys reportedly made their way up to the pony by truck, trailer, and boat. At that point, officials say it became apparent her health was deteriorating to the point of no return. The cowboys were able to tarp and move her 100 yards by hand, lift her into a boat and take her up the service road to get her in a trailer.

Once at the medical barn, she was cleaned and given IV fluids and calcium to help with dehydration. However, she was able to be hoisted to her feet to no avail. Beach Baby was made warm under a blanket and passed peacefully on the morning of Apr. 7. This is the fourth pony death of 2026. Two Teague’s Golden Girl, also known as “Goldie,” passed in Jan., while 8-year-old Surfette and 18-year-old Hoppy passed in Feb.

Beach Baby, a descendent of Gidget, is survived by her 2023 colt with Hoppy; Triton, a future herd stallion who carries on her looks and both parent’s genetics. She also has a 2018 filly named Carlie Marie on the island.