Doreen started working at Golden Ridge Stables in July of 2000.  She started off cleaning out stalls and feed. Now, Doreen does inventory which includes everything from toilet paper to feed, supplements and medication. She does all the veterinarian work - making appointments, keeping records up to date and even giving shots. On top of everything else, she body clips the horses for shows.

Doreen has always loved working with animals. She really enjoys working with Ann, the owner of Golden Ridge. She gives Doreen the freedom to get her work done. Ann also has a vast knowledge of horses and is very conscientious about quality horse care.

Matahla is Doreen's handsome, 27 year old Black Arabian Stallion. She says he prefers to flirt with grey mares.  He won't even bat an eye at the chestnut mare trying to catch his attention.

After riding in the outdoor arena, Doreen likes to cool him down by walking around the Golden Ridge property. She and the barn cats love to take Matahla out to graze. They find it to be relaxing and peaceful.

She also enjoys working with Melody. Melody is a two years old Arabian and she has been a fun challenge for Doreen. Melody's love has been the best reward!

Doreen has always dreamed of owning a Black Arabian Stallion. Having Matahla by her side has built a strong and special bond between them. She likes to ride English because she feels closer to the horse. The saddle is very comfortable and is lighter then a Western saddle.

About three years ago Doreen noticed Matahla was breathing harder than normal when they cantered. She originally thought it was spring allergies. She had tried a product from Smart Pak called Smart Breathe which had worked for other horses but did nothing for Matahla. With no results, they headed to the clinic. At the clinic, they found that the left side of his larynx was 30% paralyzed. This is very common in race horses. His lungs are fine, but before every ride he now gets medicine which opens everything up for him and makes it easier to breathe.

If she could take Matahla anywhere in the world, she would take him to an exotic beach and ride through the water. That would be funny, she says, because he won't even step in puddles.  

Doreen bought Matahla in 2005. She started riding him in 2004, but after six months Matahla decided to keep her. After all, he had just trained her the way he wanted!