The Team

Let’s start with the co-founder of Oniya...

Cree is the cofounder of Oniya at Heart Brand Ranch. He is a highly intelligent flashy, black and white registered American Paint. One look into his brown and blue eyes and you will feel that everything is going to be alright. His beautifully sentient lifestyle as Kristi’s life-long spirit animal has allowed his energy to stay wild and intact. They are so connected and have both been deeply affected by the loss of Maya, his loving mate of 22 years in 2026. He is back leading the ranchers since her passing and finding his way into his next chapters, just like Kristi. Their connection is the dream of every little girl and her horse. He is the reason Oniya exists, and we are all grateful for his collaborative manifestations with Kristi.

In Loving memory...

The Canadians...

“The Canadians” have their collective herd name based on their Quebec, Canada Cirque roots during their famous careers. They have traveled the world stages and are globally known as being the best at what they do. They retired in 2020 from the world-renowned Cavalia equine liberty show and have been at Oniya ever since. Now they share their knowledge, beauty, sweetness, liberty-talent, and human healing qualities here with us. Our residents and guests love watching this magical troupe race across Montana’s green rolling hills under big blue skies with their fancy raised tails. When interacting with them as a herd, the magic is in their modeling of true collaboration, connection, and team building. They have supported business teams in communication, and individuals searching for connections. These guys are so loved around the world and especially by us right here at home. We are so honored to support them in their cushy retirement life.

Chief represents wisdom. He led the Canadian herd over the last 10 years in their high-profile productions around the world. Chief will give you strength and guide you to greatness in his calm, confident coaching style.

Chief is a Registered Arabian (AW Afire
Chief)

Silver represents the mystical. He is our true unicorn. He lives his life his way and operates in his own beautiful, magical world. He doesn’t live by anyone else’s rules, and he will push the boundaries that others set for him. He will teach you how to be you.

Silver is a Registered Arabian (Silver
Arrow Amiri)

Bravas represents overcoming fear. He knows fear, but he continually works on himself to trust and believe that everything is going to be okay. He is also one of the retired performers that loves the limelight. We make sure he is applauded regularly. It matters to him and all of us. Bravas will teach you to face your fears and how to be a star.

Bravas is a Registered Arabian (Juan
Miguel Bravas)

Frosty represents self-expression. Frosty is very fancy. He prances and keeps his tail high in all situations. He eats well, plays well and is the very best friend. Spending time with him is like having a new, flamboyant best friend that says all the right things.

Frosty is a Registered Arabian (Frosted Fire DH)

Pearl represents support. He always plays the role of backup to all the horses. In some circles he may be considered low man on the totem pole. However, if you really watch, you see a powerful and stunningly beautiful horse that knows exactly how to support leaders. Pearl will be there for you too. He knows your win is his win.

Pearl is a Registered Arabian (Psyting O Pearls)

Gus is the lieutenant. He will have your back and your heart. He represents loyalty within the herd. There are not too many more comforting experiences than spending time with Gus.

Gus is a Registered Arabian (Never Say Never RW)

The Ranchers…

The Ranchers are four completely connected quarter horse buddies that have been working and ranching most of their lives. Now that they live with us, they are our sturdy, peaceful partners that really are the sweetest, most connected guys.

Chocolate is the sweetest. He is in charge of the Ranchers and leads with clarity, but when it comes to humans he melts like fondue. He has a soft eye and a soft heart. He can be a little salty to ride, but that is just him entertaining himself. He is best friends with Hollywood.

Chocolate is a Registered Quarter Horse (Smooth Chocolate Cat)

Ben throws rhinoceros vibes. He is very large and is constantly rooting for food across the fence line and he thinks things must always be better on the other side. He is also extremely curious about everything. He is our steady eddy under the saddle.
He is best friends with Happy.

Ben is a Registered Quarter Horse
(JLG Chaparrito Okie – Benny)

Happy is just that. When we first met Happy, our main goal was to get him to live up to his name as he was pretty skeptical of people and their intentions. We won over his love and he is definitely now a happy camper. He was worked pretty hard in his previous life before Oniya, so we are letting him take life very easy.

Happy is a Registered Quarter Horse (Makin Freckles Happy)

Hollywood is what dreams are made of. He is handsome and rugged at the same time. He can play hard to get and have a bit of a resting angry face, but it is all a ruse. He is very loving and leans in on when he is in the mood for human time. It just needs to be on his time. We love his clear boundaries. He is sure-footed and a joy to ride.

Hollywood is a Registered Quarter Horse
(Hillside Lucky Hook)

Donkey Love...

And not to be upstaged by the horses, our comedic relief team of Donkeys, Daisy and Poppy, have the heart of every guest. They are two little flower children that love their food, their jokes, human social time, and singing for their dinner. Everyone loves a donkey.

Daisy represents character. You will see when you get here. She is sweet, funny and a little sneaky. Donkey was initially chosen to protect the Overgaard herd in Plentywood, Montana and she has fiercely lived up to her role against the coyote hooligans up North.

Poppy represents trust. You will have to earn hers, and she will teach you what trust feels like. This rescue donkey came over for a play date with Daisy and never went home. We are all so happy to see this animal living her best life with her new best friend.