Ashley and Dan Stamm, an active duty Navy submariner with 18 years of service, have dedicated their lives to rescuing and caring for older horses and dogs through their Back to the Bond Sanctuary Farm in North Kitsap.

What began as a dream has become a voice for animals that would otherwise face abandonment. Despite facing their own challenges, the couple continues to work tirelessly to provide a loving and safe environment for their animals.

The sanctuary was Ashley’s vision. “Ever since I was a little girl, we had horses and dogs. I still have two of my horses from my childhood, both now in their twenties,” Ashley shared. Over time, she witnessed how many horses were discarded due to age or injury. That inspired her to create a haven for these animals, a place where they could spend the rest of their days in peace.

In July, Stamm received a life-changing cancer diagnosis, forcing the family to adjust the operation of the sanctuary. Diagnosed with Stage 3 rectal cancer, he is undergoing chemotherapy after completing radiation treatment for a tumor. His treatment will continue through December, and if all goes well, they hope he will be cancer-free by the end of the year. If not, surgery may be the next step.

The diagnosis led to a transition from sea to shore duty, which resulted in a financial challenge. “The biggest challenge has been just keeping everything afloat, especially the senior horses, because they require special feed and care,” Stamm said.

With a long commute for cancer treatments and Stamm’s decreased physical ability to help around the sanctuary, maintaining it has been no easy task. “Ashley’s father, Mark, and our five kids have been instrumental in handling the feeding and care of the animals, especially on treatment days,” Stamm said.

Despite spending many late nights and early mornings caring for the animals, Ashley finds comfort in their companionship, wandering the farm in the dark with a cup of tea after long days.

The couple is grateful for the support they have received. Stamm’s Navy command organized a meal train on treatment days, which helped take off some of the daily pressures. Additionally, the sanctuary’s farrier has stepped in, donating time to care for the horses’ hoof needs during Stamm’s treatment.

As a dog trainer, Ashley had to step back to manage the sanctuary and care for her husband and children. “When Dan was diagnosed, I finished the clients I did have up with their training. I just couldn’t continue to add to my plate,” she said. That change impacted the sanctuary’s financial grounding, as she used her training income to support the animals.

Despite the challenges, the Stamms remain committed to the sanctuary’s mission. Their dream is to build a facility with a focus on senior and special needs animal care. They also hope to complete unfinished projects, such as building shelters, resolving drainage issues, and installing fencing around the property.

Despite the struggles, the family highlights the importance of faith and community support. “We are still very much in the midst of the storm, but we’re learning to trust the process and have faith that we will get through it with the love and support of those around us,” Ashley said.

The sanctuary could benefit from donations of hay, grain, lumber and other materials. Volunteering time is also appreciated. To donate funds, go to gofundme.com/f/help-support-a-military-familys-animal-sanctuary

Horses gather near a gate at the sanctuary farm.

Horses graze near a flag at the farm.