06/13/2026
Buster was adopted by a family after being gelded.
Esther Hanna Sandoval was so kind to provide some information on the Island. Esther wrote:
I’m an Augusta native. This is Stallings Island that sits 8 miles upstream from Augusta, GA in the middle of the Savannah River. The Native Americans lived on this island, and it contains human skeletons so it is a archaeological site and protected. That means no trespassing without permission. Humans do not live on this island anymore, only donkeys. The Archaeological Conservancy purchased this island and placed goats and donkeys on the island to control vegetation. Many people kayak down the river to say hello to the donkeys, never setting foot on the property.
It is to my understanding that veterinarians and farriers see these donkeys when needed. People, the kayakers, often look out for them as well. Here is a post of Buster’s rescue and his story. https://www.facebook.com/101735069916493/posts/2960886154001356/?vh=e&d=n
Thank you Big Oaks Rescue Farm! We, the people of Augusta, can’t thank you enough for giving Buster a new home. Happy retirement, Buster!