help us help others
STaRS depends on donations, grants and volunteer time. We exist both for the community, and because of the community. Our donors and volunteers are crucial to our success.
Our STaRS Equine Team
Our STaRS horses come in all shapes, colours and sizes. What they have in common, however, are their giant hearts, gentle dispositions and steady pace. This means that for each unique individual who rides, we are able to find the best equine match to attain whatever goals the rider has, and to maximize the additional benefits brought by bonding with a special horse.
Sprite
Having been a STaRS horse for many years now, Sprite is our most experienced, reliable and trusted pony. He is safe, kind, and well-trained. You can see just by his presence that he “gets the concept” and appears to love his role as a therapy horse. He is well-trained on the ramp and stands steady with even the most difficult mounts. This veteran Appaloosa boy is described by one of his favourite riders (and biggest fans) as “absolutely one-in-a-million and overall just the best pony”.
Austin
Austin has a strong voice and a kind and gentle demeanour. He has definitely become a fan favourite, especially with some of our more independent riders. He participated in his first equine facilitated therapy workshop this year. He was an engaged and present equine counsellor with a beautiful ability to connect. We feel very lucky to have him with us.
Pirate
Although this cute little pony is one of our youngest STaRS ponies, he is reliable, kind, and steady. He is learning to be patient with the “mounts”. Every child who comes to the barn wants to ride him. He is especially valuable for the more advanced riders who are able to “do more” with their riding.
Lexi
Lexi is a sweet mid-sized pony with the kindest disposition and easily the most beautiful tail of all the horses and ponies in Southlands. She is beloved by many of her riders, providing them with both a lot of fun and giving them great confidence. She shares her stall and paddock with an adorable little mini called Aubrey – it’s lovely to see their friendship and interaction.
Echo
Echo is truly a perfect therapy horse. She is one of the most well-mannered horses around – a dream to groom and tack up. She is solid and reliable, completely willing to do whatever is asked of her. She’s quite forward and needs very little encouragement to get her to go, to do a trot, etc. so is perfect for more advanced riders. She’s the largest of the horses we use so is also perfect for our older and / or taller riders.
Leo
Leo is the newest horse to join the STaRS team, and he lives at Shannon Stables. Leo is a 20-year-old quarter horse. He has done everything from drill team to jumping, games days and gymkhana but where he excels is on the trails. He has a very playful personality, and he is a barn favorite (with humans and horses!).
Our STaRS Equine Team members that are gone but still remembered
Elska, Haven, Taffy, Hank, Quincee, Kiwi, Sierra, Katana, Shanaz, Splash, Stormy, Pico, Briggs, Elska, Keoki.
In Memory of Teddy
(The STaR of our program)
2022
In Memory of Rebecca Bear
2021