A horse was rescued after slipping down a steep embankment in California.

The incident occurred on Tuesday afternoon, February 18, when Deuce, a strong and confident horse new to Orange County, lost his footing on a slope in San Juan Capistrano.

Deuce and his rider were not injured, but the animal was unable to climb back up the steep, brush-covered slope.

Firefighters from the Orange County Fire Authority responded and initially tried to clear a path up the slope to lead Deuce out on foot.

However, the horse, possibly unsettled by the unfamiliar surroundings, refused to cooperate.

As daylight faded, a helicopter and a veterinarian were called in to assist with the aerial rescue.

Footage shows Deuce secured and placed in the harness, being airlifted after sedation.

The aircraft then transported Deuce to The Shea Centre, a nearby equine facility where emergency responders are trained for such rescues.