Fall 2024

142 C A R M E L M A G A Z I N E • F A L L 2 0 2 4 When one of the equines passes on, staff and volunteers hold a celebration of life for them. They are cremated and the ashes are planted along with a new tree or plant on the property. Sea Star Horse Sanctuary seeks to improve the quality of life of the horses at its sanctuary by providing specialized nutrition, proper exercise and the highest standard of veterinary and holistic care. sense of vulnerability and of presence. It’s sim- ilar to what one might try to achieve in a mind- fulness practice or on a yoga mat but with a distinct and powerful sense of heart opening. The willingness of these majestic beings to trust and accept our humanness is overwhelm- ingly beautiful.” “We could not be successful without our vol- unteers,” Regan says.They groom, walk/exercise the horses, maintain the pastures, clean up manure and perform a myriad of essential serv- ices to the facility. “A typical sanctuary day starts with a 5am feeding, and the rest of the day is dynamic and dependent upon the daily schedule and how many volunteers are on hand,” Regan says. Throughout the week, activities can include exercising the horses, holistic care sessions, vet- erinarian and hoof care, scheduled community visits, equine-guided learning for youth pro- grams or hosting workshops. “We want visitors and children to experience the real essence of horses by being up close, feeling their warmth by touching and hugging them,” Regan explains. “These animals are pro- found teachers and have served and taught us without expectation for anything in return for many years. By being so connected to the earth and its rhythms they can show us how to be present and calm within ourselves.They deserve our love, respect and honor.” Pelosi-Harris adds, “Through our mission we promote the horse as innately valuable and worthy of lifetime care and love.” For more information, call 831/595-2185 or visit www.seastarhorsesanctuary.org.