Meet the Moose Ridge Farm Family

Certified ARICP Dressage Instructor, USDF member, and passionate clicker trainer, Alexandra Mackenzie Doan has loved horses for as long as she can remember. Growing up in New York City, she didn’t have horses nearby—so her father nurtured her passion by sending her to summer riding camps in Maine and on riding holidays in England (at Ross Nye’s Longfrey Farm) and Ireland (at Iris Kellett’s jumping stable).

At Colby-Sawyer College, Alexandra studied studio art and education, and competed with the Intercollegiate Horse Show Association team. In 1992, she helped lead her team to a national championship—judged by George Morris—an unforgettable moment in the start of her riding career.

Alexandra began teaching riding at age 17, starting with lead line riders at Pok-O-MacCready summer camp in upstate New York foe 5 summers, and later spending ten summers teaching at Hidden Valley Camp in Maine. Her focus shifted to Dressage in 2002 when she began year-round instruction at Hunter Hill Farm under the mentorship of Willette Brown, a USEF ‘R’ Dressage judge. In 2005, she founded Moose Ridge Farm, where she continues to teach riders of all ages and abilities.

Alexandra has competed in Dressage with her horse Radu in Saratoga, NY and Connecticut, and enjoyed working with her horse Vaquero. While she occasionally steps into the show ring for fun, her true passion lies in building strong, joyful connections with her horses through everyday learning.

In 2001, Alexandra was introduced to clicker training through classes with her dog, and by 2002 began applying the method with her young paint horse, Pedro. After studying with clicker training pioneer Alexandra Kurland in 2008–2009, she integrated these techniques into her riding program. In 2016, she developed her own Click, Treat, Reward method—a calm, effective, and enjoyable training system for both horses and riders. In 2023 she brought her gelding Vaquero to an event to work with positive reinforcement guru Shawna Karrash.

Alexandra has trained with many outstanding Dressage professionals since moving to Maine : Willette Brown, Grand Prix rider Barton Patrick and Grand Prix rider Rebecca Waite. With Radu and Vaquero she has participated in clinics with S-level judge Kathy Connell. Alexandra continues her dedication to lifelong learning and compassionate horsemanship through her work with her personal horses, boarders horses, riding students and attending local clinics and a yearly visit to the Equine Affaire to inspire her.

“The wind of heaven is that which blows between a horse’s ears.”

— Arabian Proverb

Jackie

HEAD OF POSITIVE VIBES
Jackie is a 8-year-old Friesian cross with a kind heart and a steady soul. She arrived at MRF in 2023 and loves positive reinforcement and clicker training, and she catches on quickly! Jackie is available for lessons for intermediate riders. We adore her big, floaty trot! Her main duties? Spreading love, creating smooth rides, and being the ultimate feel-good mare on the farm.
Cricket

CUTENESS OVERLOAD COMPLIANCE OFFICER
Cricket may be tiny, but she’s got a big job: spreading joy and cuteness wherever she goes! A MRF resident since January 2022, her duties include melting hearts, napping with a smile, and munching on grass (and acorns, of course!). With her gentle nature and short, adorable legs, she’s the perfect companion for ground games and cart-pulling training. Whether she’s teaching us patience or simply being her adorable self, Cricket’s loveable presence makes every day brighter.
Athena

DRESSAGE DIVA & FASHION ICON
Athena may be the new gal on the farm in 2025, but she’s already making a big impression! Owned by Jillian and half-leased by Morgan, Athena is our occasional Dressage star, available for lessons when her moms aren’t riding her. This sweet mare is known for being a love bug – she’s all about cuddles and affection. And yes, she’s also a fashion icon who happily lets us dress her up in all kinds of adorable outfits! Athena’s charm and gentle spirit make her a true darling, and we can’t wait to see her continue to shine in the arena and beyond.
Pedro / Wet Paint

SENIOR SNACK DIRECTOR
Pedro may have just turned 30, but this spunky little guy still has plenty of energy and charisma! He's the natural leader of the minis and loves taking charge. Pedro has been the heart and soul of the farm, especially when it comes to Clicker Training. He's the horse that sparked Alexandra’s 20-year journey with positive reinforcement. Pedro was the very first "tester horse," and his success laid the foundation for using the clicker method with other horses, riding students, and boarders. Now, as he enjoys the lush grass, he continues to show that age is just a number when you're this full of spirit!
Ferris Mewler

FOUNDER OF “LIFE MOVES PRETTY FAST” FOUNDATION
Ferris Mewler is more than just a cat – he's a full-time companion and barn buddy! Known as the "cat dog," Ferris follows Alexandra everywhere, from the barn to the office. In the mornings, he's there for his “breakfast sandwich” at Lucy’s Dinner, where he and Lucy hang out together and get along surprisingly well. Using positive reinforcement, Ferris has learned to sit before eating his meals, a sweet routine everyone enjoys. Every day starts with Ferris leading the way to the barn at 7 AM, ensuring we never have to go anywhere alone!
Annie Sue

FESTIVAL STAR & CART-PULLING EXPERT
Annie-Sue, aka "Annie-versary Sue-prize," arrived as a soft peach fuzz baby on August 12, 2006, a surprise gift from Justin for their 6th anniversary. She quickly bonded with Lucky, who became her “mama.” Annie-Sue has been a festival favorite since she was a yearling, attending the Lincolnville United Church of Christ’s Strawberry Festival each year, dolled up with braids and ribbons. Trained with clicker methods, she even pulls the poop sled and once trotted Justin down the driveway. In winter, she’s as cute as a little Mongolian pony, always ready for fun!
Charlie Bear (aka Bearies)

HAPPINESS AMBASSADOR
Charlie Bear, affectionately known as Bearies, is the lovable Labradoodle who steals hearts wherever he goes. With his fluffy coat and playful personality, Bearies brings joy to everyone around him. Always up for a game or a cuddle, he’s the definition of a good boy and a loyal companion.
Lucy

BARN OFFICE MANAGER
Lucy Kitty, a wild cat from PAWS, has been with us since 2016. Though still shy and not fond of being pet, she loves her safe barn life and has slowly warmed up to us over time. Lucy now sits close to riding students while they get their gear on. She enjoys taking peaceful naps in the sunbeams. We’re always looking forward to the day she’ll let us snuggle her, but for now, we’re grateful for the quiet trust she shares with us!
The Doans

EASY RIDER CREW
Justin, though impossible to clicker train, is a beloved soul often found mending fences and lending a helping hand wherever needed. When he's not running his business, Justin Electric, pumping iron, or cruising in his sports car, he’s an indispensable part of the farm. Dolina is a talented rider who excels at bareback riding and has spent every summer at mom’s Pioneer Camp. She’s also a creative spirit with a love for dancing, art, dollmaking, and other handicrafts.