Lindsay works with children and teens to support emotional regulation, resilience, and healing through creative, developmentally appropriate approaches. For children, she incorporates play therapy to create a safe, attuned space where they can express emotions and process experiences in a way that feels natural to them. With teens, she focuses on building a trusting relationship that allows for open dialogue about the challenges affecting their mood, behavior, and relationships. Together, they explore identity, emotional blocks, and personal growth. Lindsay has been EAGALA-certified since July 2023, allowing her to integrate equine-assisted therapy as a powerful, experiential tool in her work.

Laurie Watase-Bohn is the founder and owner of Team Horse Training in Clayton, California. She has had a lifelong passion for horses. She has trained across various disciplines, including natural horsemanship, eventing, dressage, and trail/ obstacles. Laurie emphasizes the importance of clear communication between horse and rider, believing it is essential for building lasting, successful partnerships. Her mission as a trainer is to continue learning and contributing to positive change within the equestrian community.

Ashley has joined Stardust Sanctuary as an Eagala-certified equine specialist in mental health. She brings five years of experience in leading groups and supporting inpatient youth who face mental health challenges and addiction. Additionally, Ashley has two decades of experience in animal care, including her work as a veterinary technician. She believes that horses have a unique awareness and sensitivity that can reflect unseen aspects of ourselves and foster meaningful change in our lives.

Hi, I’m Fiona
The Heartbeat of the Herd

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I’m the white pony with the gentle eyes and steady spirit. Around here, I’m known as the leader of the herd—not because I’m the loudest, but because I set the tone. My energy helps guide the others, whether it’s time to play, settle in, or simply breathe.

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People often tell me I’m beautiful and graceful. I don’t mind the compliments—I think what they’re really noticing is how at peace I try to be. I’m always paying attention to how others are feeling, and I do my best to bring comfort, calm, or a little spark of energy when it’s needed most.

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Being the leader isn’t just about guiding the herd—it’s about being present, and I take that seriously. I love the visitors who come by and take a moment to connect. I may be quiet, but I promise, I’m listening—and I always remember a kind soul.

Hi, I’m Peaches.
Sweet, Sensitive, and Always Snack-Ready!

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I’m a chestnut-colored pony with a big heart and an even bigger love for snacks. Out of all the ponies, I’m the most adventurous when it comes to food—if you’ve got something fresh from the garden (like celery!), I’ll be the first to try it.

I can be a little anxious when I’m on my own, but the presence of my herd—especially my best friend Fiona—helps me feel safe and grounded. Fiona is everything to me. She knows just how to calm my nerves with a look or a nuzzle.

Last year, I had a tough time—I broke my coffin bone and had to slow way down while I healed. Now, I wear special shoes on my front feet to give me the support I need. I’m still recovering, but I’m stronger every day.

I may be sensitive, but I’m also incredibly resilient—and I’ll never turn down a treat or a moment with a friend.

Hi, I’m Jackie

One-Eyed Wonder with a Heart for Kids

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I’m a small donkey with a big personality—and even bigger love for children. I only have one eye and I’ve got what some people call “zebra stripes” on my legs, so I definitely have a look all my own. But around here, I’m not just noticed—I’m loved.

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Sometimes big groups make me a little nervous, but you’d never know it by the way I welcome the littlest visitors. Kids walk right up, wrap their arms around me, and whisper “I love you” like we’ve known each other forever. I never mind the hugs—in fact, I love them too.

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Out in the pasture, I can be a bit of a goofball. I love to play, especially with my best buddy Daisy. I’ll nudge her, run in circles, and try to get her in on whatever silly plan I’ve cooked up.

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I may have just one eye, but I see the world with a whole lot of heart—and I’m always up for a cuddle or a bit of mischief.

Hi, I’m Daisy
Gentle Soul, Curious Heart

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I’m a standard-sized donkey with roots in the wild—born free on the open range in Nevada. When I was just 10 months old, I was adopted through the BLM and began my journey into human care. I came to the sanctuary in November to build new friendships with Jackie the donkey and the pony herd, and I’ve been growing ever since.

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Even though I come from the wild, my heart is wide open. I’m naturally curious and deeply affectionate. Within days of arriving here, I was already seeking out the Girl Scouts who visited the barn, gently watching them, drawn to their energy. I just love love—plain and simple.

Whether I’m soaking up scratches from visitors or relaxing with my herd in the pasture, I find joy in connection. I may have the wisdom of an old soul, but every day still feels like a new adventure.

If you ever need a moment of calm or kindness, I’m your girl. Come say hello—I’m probably already watching you with interest.

Hi, I’m Cha Cha
Stillness, Strength, and Spirit

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I’m a Native American Pony, and while I may not say much, I have a way of feeling everything. When I meet someone new, I don’t just see them—I sense them. I’ve been known to gently rest my head against a person’s chest, as if to say, You’re safe here. You can just be. That’s something I offer often: space to breathe, to soften, to feel seen.

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They say a horse’s electromagnetic field is five times larger than a human’s. I don’t know the science behind it, but I do know that sometimes, simply standing beside someone is enough to shift their energy. I carry calm, and I share it freely.

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I don’t need to be loud to be powerful. My strength is in my presence. If you stand with me long enough, you might just feel it too.