Donkeys of Pahrump is a unique sanctuary providing a safe haven for rescued donkeys and other animals. Founded by Alina Quinata and her family, the nonprofit organization has quickly become an important part of the community, giving neglected and displaced animals a second chance at life. Officially recognized as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, Donkeys of Pahrump operates with full transparency, ensuring that every dollar raised goes toward the welfare of the animals.
Three years ago, Tim, Alina and their two kids Malina and KaiNoa Quinata opened Death Valley Marketplace, a local business. Although she had always admired donkeys, she never anticipated that she would one day be running a rescue for them. The idea took root after the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) conducted a roundup in the area, capturing nearly 20 wild horses and 116 donkeys. Many residents who had become familiar with the animals were upset by the sudden removal. A customer at Death Valley Marketplace store suggested that she use her available land to rescue some of the donkeys from BLM captivity.
That suggestion turned into action, and Donkeys of Pahrump was born. What started as a simple idea quickly became a mission, but not without its challenges. Before Alina could bring any animals to the property, she had to go through an extensive permitting process, requiring approvals from the planning department and the local community. What she initially thought would be a straightforward project turned into a costly and time-consuming effort. After investing over $15,000 in permits and infrastructure, Alina was finally able to bring in her first two donkeys—Daisy and Peaches—adopted from BLM for just $125 each.
With no prior experience in donkey care, Alina immersed herself in learning everything she could about their needs. She researched extensively and received hands-on training from a sanctuary in Oatman, Arizona. As she gained knowledge, the rescue expanded, attracting volunteers and community support. The sanctuary now has a dedicated group of about ten volunteers who help care for the animals daily.
The sanctuary’s mission soon grew beyond just housing donkeys. When a local woman approached Alina for help with her aging animals—a mini pony Faith, a Welsh pony Bo, and a mini donkey Jax — Alina knew she had to take them in. Unlike her first rescues, these animals required extensive veterinary care, putting additional strain on resources. Despite this, Alina remained determined to provide them with the best care possible, ensuring they received the medical attention they needed.
To support the growing number of rescues, Donkeys of Pahrump introduced creative fundraising initiatives. Their first Christmas fundraiser transformed the sanctuary into a festive space where visitors could take holiday photos with the animals. Over four days, they raised $1,700, which covered medical tests, dental work, and other treatments. The event was a great success and demonstrated the strong community support behind the sanctuary’s mission.
The sanctuary continued to grow, and just a few weeks ago, another family reached out about rehoming a horse and a donkey. Although space and resources were already stretched, the family’s offer to donate necessary equipment made it possible to take them in. Now, with seven animals on-site—one more than their permit allows—Alina is working with the planning department to secure an extension.
Funding remains the biggest challenge, as medical expenses far outweigh basic feeding costs. However, the sanctuary has implemented a unique way to raise funds. Visitors can purchase a cup of feed for $3, allowing them to interact with and nourish the donkeys while directly supporting their care. This simple yet effective method has helped sustain the sanctuary, but additional funding is always needed for unexpected veterinary costs.
To address financial needs, Donkeys of Pahrump has introduced new revenue streams, including a mini enclosure where visitors can have private interactions with the animals. Plans are also underway to make the space more accessible by adding a wheelchair ramp, allowing more people to enjoy the experience. Alina shared that she has received bookings for visits from retirement homes and individuals with disabilities, further emphasizing the sanctuary’s growing role in the community.
On March 1, the sanctuary will host a craft fair fundraiser organized by a local community member, Randi Case. Vendors will rent space, with rent proceeds going toward animal care. Additionally, volunteer Ray Sonnenberg has suggested enhancing the sanctuary’s appearance with a “Wild West” aesthetic to give the space an inviting and thematic look.
Beyond its own operations, Donkeys of Pahrump has become an accessible resource for the community. Being the first public animal viewing area in Pahrump, the sanctuary provides a space where anyone can visit, interact with the animals, and learn about rescue efforts. Unlike other rescues that operate in private backyards, Donkeys of Pahrump offers a welcoming environment where volunteers and visitors can engage with the animals freely.
Alina is deeply grateful for the support she has received from the planning department, especially Qiana Medici, who guided her through the permitting process. While the sanctuary technically exceeds its current permit, the planning department has granted a grace period while they evaluate options for expansion. If restrictions remain, Alina has already lined up willing adopters to provide loving homes for excess animals. However, she remains hopeful that the sanctuary can continue growing to accommodate more rescues in the future.
For those looking to help, donations can be made through PayPal, Venmo or in-store at Death Valley Marketplace, located at 3280 W Bell Vista Ave. The sanctuary is also in urgent need of a horse trailer, as their borrowed trailer from Oatman Sanctuary will soon need to be returned. Alina hopes that someone in the community might have a used trailer they are willing to donate or sell at a discounted price.
With the community’s support, Donkeys of Pahrump has become more than just a rescue—it’s a place where animals find safety and people find connection. Whether through feeding the donkeys, volunteering, donating, or simply spreading the word, every contribution helps ensure these animals receive the care they need. Alina encourages anyone who is interested in owning a donkey or horse in the future to volunteer at the sanctuary first, gaining hands-on experience before making a commitment. For updates, stories, and ways to get involved, follow Donkeys of Pahrump on Facebook.
*Photos provided by Donkeys of Pahrump
