Matt Watkins- Co-Founder

Matt grew up in Colorado, where he spent time in his middle and high school years helping condition horses for his uncle’s pack outfit in the mountains. After graduating, he joined the U.S. Army and served two tours in Iraq.

His career brought him to North Carolina in 2014 and later to California in 2021. Always an animal lover, Matt’s interest in horses was rekindled when he met Karen—he often spent his evenings after work watching lessons and helping around the barn.

In 2024, Matt fulfilled a lifelong dream when he got his first horse, Texas Prime Sirloin, an American Mustang who had only recently come out of the wild. Living on a large property had always been part of Matt’s dream, and the farm has brought him immense joy (and plenty of hard work!).

Matt’s love for donkeys began with Tinkerbell—a shy, timid girl who blossomed with patience and care. Through her, he saw firsthand how consistency and kindness can transform even the most cautious of hearts.

Today, Matt continues his service as a civilian employee with the U.S. Army at Military Ocean Terminal Sunny Point in Southport, while helping to make Long Ears Landing a haven for the donkeys he and Karen hold so dear.