River Valley Ranch is owned and operated by Kim and Matt Samitore. Head of security is man's best friend (pictured above) "Indiana Jones".
Kim manages all aspects of riding instruction, equine massage therapy, leasing stalls, the feed program and horse questions of all kinds.
She is a skilled professional in the equine industry, with qualifications earned at The Northwest School of Animal Massage, as a Certified Large Animal Massage Practictioner, and a Certification in Artificial Insemination Equine Reproduction from Oregon State University. Kim is also a graduate from Dickinson State University with a degree in "Agriculture Sales & Service, with an Equine Option".
She is continuing her education through Richard Shrake's Resistance Free Accreditation Program to become a Certified Resistance Free® Trainer & Riding Instructor. She has already successfully completed Level 1 & 2 and appeared in a demo with Richard at the Josephine County Fairgrounds in 2007.
Kim feels there is always something new to learn and takes her job seriously, while adding a lot of fun and boosting confidence throughout the entire barn between horse and rider. Offering a safe and friendly environment for you and your horse is very important to her.
Husband, Matt, offers a friendly smile and a willing attitude to all. He is our early bird at the ranch, cleaning stalls in the wee hours of the morning, turning horses out and feeding them. He is on hand as our resident handyman as well. He is learning to trail ride and has taken possession of Kim's favorite horse, Flashy. You will often find Matt with treats in his pockets and singing to the horses. It's not to hard to believe that all the horses seem to enjoy having him around.
Indiana Jones "Indy" and "Dutch" (not pictured) are the ranch dogs and our resident security department. Two German Shepherds of sorts, they are always willing to catch a pet from anyone who will offer and do a good job at allerting us to horses that may need assistance.
Kim's philosophy on training or working with any animal is to build a trusting relationship first and foremost. Horses in our training program are worked with as if their loving owner is teaching them. They have a structured program designed specifically for the horse's need and level, but positive words, petting, treats and a horsey hug or two are all part of a days work. Kim finds that a willing attitude comes from a foundation of trust that will last. The horses are not "spoiled" animals, but they are never mistreated or abused either, Kim takes pride in the fact that the horses are exposed to a lot in a calm and friendly environment, which will lead them to be ready for recreation or show riding alike. She specializs in horses that are not only a pleasure to ride and show, but are also a pleasure to be around.
