Katariina Laukkanen & Rociero

Greetings from Finland! :) I bought my first Iberian horse from Dawn about two moths ago. The distance between us didn´t make things difficult att all, as a matter a fact it was difficult for me really to realize I was in Finland, Dawn was in England and Rocco, my horse, was in Spain! I could get touch to Dawn when ever I needed, at any point it was not a problem to deal with foreigner intermediant. I never travelled to Spain to look at my horse, I trusted on Dawn on her words of Rocco and I couldn´t be more satisfied! Rocco is everything and even more what Dawn told me, just unbelieveble little horse! :) My dream was to have my own creme coloured iberian horse, but what I got was so much more.. Thank You Dawn!! If I ever decite to buy another iberian horse, and I do believe I will, I will contact You on the first minute! ;)

Gill Denbeigh
03 Jun 2010
Just wanted to post a massive thank you! Strange isn’t it why you thank somebody when you’re the one departing with the cash but it’s like that when you’ve had so much help and guidance, its not really like doing business at all, its like a friend has helped you buy a horse. 

I approached Dawn and I was very sceptical about dealers but it was worth a phone call at least. After what felt like a few minutes but was probably an hour I realised Dawn was no ordinary horse dealer. She was down to earth and honest, without the fluff! Dawn knew an incredible amount about horses and from her own experiences of Spain and knowing Spanish people and their horses. 

I was looking for a hack really but with potential to do more in the future, long distance, a bit of jumping maybe, no set plans and so I wasn’t looking for a superstar dressage horse to compete with the price tag to match. At no time did Dawn try and sell me a horse of a higher value or ever push any horses on to me, which I appreciated. Dawn told me the facts about the horses that would be suitable and left it there. 

Dawn came up with several suggestions and followed up with pictures too. Then I saw Julio on the site and thought, wow! He was my idea of a dream horse! Dawn sent me more pictures and a video and knew his entire history, as she had sold his mum and sister in the UK. Above all else we wanted a horse that wanted to be around you and was easy and Dawn made the match well! 
Luckily Julio was already at Dawns so we went to see him and fell in love. He was everything Dawn had said he was, he is very special and stunning! The only problem was his age, three and I’m not an experienced horse person so I had to think about it quite hard and even had a look at some other horses there. But Dawn was right, he was the right horse and because of his nature, it didn’t matter how old he was. His Mum and sister are the same. I can’t thank Dawn enough for the conversations we had and advice we had about having a youngster and I somehow knew that if Dawn had thought a youngster was too much for me, she would have steered me towards another horse, but knowing temperament was the most important to us, he was the one. Dawn cares so much for her horses and this really became apparent in our purchase. I’d also like to thank Klara too for helping with the process and the schooling tips!

A few weeks on and I’m overwhelmed by how amazing Hooly is!!! He is everything and more now we have got to know him. He is an absolute dream, an angel horse and I’ve never known a horse so lovely.....and he’s only three!! He is so well mannered and sensitive, he is a joy to be around and he does love you being around him....he is gorgeous too which is the icing on the cake! 

I’ve realised Dawn isn’t a ‘horse dealer’ but a ‘horse finder’ or a ‘horse matcher’ and in my case a dream horse finder and without even knowing it.....some things are just meant to be!! If you want a Spanish horse that is exactly what Dawn tells you it is, please call Dawn and take advantage of her friendly, knowledgeable service, you won’t regret it, I've never stopped smiling since!

Mary Lightburn
20 May 2010
When I bought Castana from Dawn, I saw this gorgeous little foal called Casanova who had just arrived in the UK. After a few months I asked Dawn if Casanova was still available and to my delight he was. Dawn sent me lots of photos and videos of him and his parents, and I fell in love with him. I had him castrated before he came to me and Dawn arranged everything through her vets, and provided his aftercare. When he was better he made the long journey down South to me. He arrived at the yard after a very long journey and was such a good boy. He settled in so quickly and was 'the perfect' youngster. An absolute dream to look after and handle. Then my personal situation changed and it became apparent that I wouldn't be able to keep two horses. Dawn was very, very understanding and put her trust in me and allowed me to sell Casanova on her behalf. It was very upsetting to have to part with him but he went to a lovely new home in the Midlands and is now spending his time running around with other youngsters. I would recommend Dawn to anyone. She is a very knowledgeable lady and will always find you you're perfect horse. She goes out of her way to accommodate everyone’s individual circumstances. What is also so lovely is how she stays in touch with her clients and the horses she has sold, and is conscientious enough to ensure that both horse and owner are happy. This is a breath of fresh air after having seen how some dealers really couldn't care less what happens after they have been paid. Thanks for everything Dawn. Mary & Cas x

Paddy Bunn
17 May 2010
Well What can I say,if you are thinking of the daunting task of importing a horse from Spain look no further than Dawn.With her professional team behind her,she has supported me through bringing my beautiful mare and very young foal home. When ever I was worried about traveling them so far,Dawn soothed my troubled brow,and reasured me all would be well.How right she was,I have to day got my mare and foal,they arrived in very good condition,and quite happy.A sure sign of good handling,over five days travelling! You can't beat the experience,that Dawn has had over the years she has being importing Andalusian horses. I can't Thank her enouph.Paddy Bunn.

Yvonne
23 Mar 2010
Just an update Dawn on Ventura (Vinny). We are as in love now as we were when he first arrived on my yard! Seriously, he is an absolute star and I know I have said it many times but for you to source such a lovely horse for me was a dream come true. I look forward to the spring/summer when we can do so much more. He wants to please in everything he does and we have tackled woodland rides with fallen trees (some of which he has jumped) and reasonably steep banks to tackle. His stablemate Malagueno is coming on leaps and bounds - literally! What a handsome chap he is becoming. He is going to be an intersting project I am sure. Here I go again, but thanks for bringing these beautiful horses into my life Dawn.

Annette Dean
09 Mar 2010
Hi, I havent left a message since i got my 2 new girls Elektra in June and Marquesa in July (have a few now haha) couldnt ask for nicer mares they both stunning and very well behaved and ever better Marquesa made me the proud new serogate mother to a beautiful chestnut filly born 22nd Feb, very tall and strong. I have started looking out the shows that i will take her to haha. Dawn thanks again you know me, wont be long till im back on to you for another beautiful horse. Annette x

Diane 
03 Mar 2010
I have purchased a wonderful PRE gelding called Gentil from Dawn this is the fourth horse I have purchased from Dawn and I have to say she is a very fair and honest person to deal with I am so happy with my new horse and would reccommend anyone to buy from Dawn she does her job very well and really does care about the horses Thanks Dawn you got it right again x

Suzanne Evans
02 Jan 2010

I met Dawn when I sent my three year old pure bred colt to her for backing. It was very important to me that "George" (I had bought him as a foal and he is the most gentle of characters) went to the right place, and I liked Dawns friendly and down to earth attitude from the start.
I had a feeling that George would be too quiet for me and after much thought, and tears! and conversations with Dawn! decided to part with him, as I knew Dawn would be able to find him the right home.
Once the decision was made I started with Dawns help to find a horse more suited to me, she sent me lists of recommended horses and I picked four I really liked. After several changes of mind (I am a woman!) I chose an unregistered colt called "Romeo". Now renamed "Peludo", (hairy) "Ludo" to us have a look why!
He arrived safely at my home (arranged totally by Dawn) and is all I hoped for, beautiful, full of character and rather wild at times,that's what I wanted! He is "battered" daily by the Shetland, but other wise strides out like he owns the place. Despite all this he is well behaved and gentle with me and we will have a great future. I will continue his (and my own) training with Dawn and strive to produce exactly what I want, the thing that epitomizes the unique beauty of the Spanish horse that proud spirit that is so often bred out of other breeds. Thank you Dawn.
Suzanne Evans, George and Ludo

PS if you want a really kind, gentle well bred, youngster take a look at Gentil (George) whom Dawn is training and has for sale, you will not be disappointed when you meet him I promise.

Yvonne Grice
23 Dec 2009
I just want to say to anyone reading this that I am so happy with my two boys which I purchased through Dawn. Ventura (Dawn must get fed up of me going on about him) is an absolute star. I would not be without him for anything. I look forward to the springtime when I can do even more with him. Malagueno is now turning into quite the young man (and handsome with it, just like his sire). Dawn, you are brilliant and know how to place a horse to the client. I hope we have more horse contact in the future.

Yvonne Grice
07 Nov 2009
I would just like to say that if anyone is thinking that buying a horse unseen, then they should think again and speak with Dawn. If anyone goes the extra mile for you, it is Dawn. I have to admit, I have been quite fussy at times but Dawn has persevered with me and now I have another lovely, adorable and kind boy in Ventura. He is a very welcome addition to my Malagueno (who needs an adult figure to look up to)! I know that at some stage in the future, I will be looking to purchase a mare with a view for breeding and Dawn will be my first line of contact. My husband is certainly taking a back seat now but he knows it is a lost cause to try and tear me away from my beautiful boys. I will post some pics as soon as possible and keep up the good work Dawn. Thankyou again. 
Yvonne x

Sue Cranfield
23 Oct 2009
Who would buy a horse unseen from a person they hardly know???I did and have to say am delighted with my mare Cortijera and with the whole process of selecting her and her subsequent transfer to the UK from Spain...all thanks to the brilliant Dawn Birks.I had been looking for a suitable horse for the past year without success.I have always loved Andalusians but thought them a little too much for my budget.After yet another disappointment I decided to have a browse and was instantly impressed by the horses featured on Dawn's website I emailed her and to my surprise received a quick response followed by a friendly,informative phone conversation.I was impressed by the depth of Dawn's knowledge of the breed and how driven she seemed to find the right horse for the potential customer's needs and abilities.She loves each horse and their welfare is paramount,however I felt completely safe throughout the purchasing process all due to Dawn's no nonsense,honest client centered approach.If anyone is dithering about taking the plunge and buying from Dawn I would be delighted to discuss the process in depth just get my details from Dawn!

Sue Cranfield

Helen Jacques
23 Oct 2009
I had very specific requirements, being a fussy person and nervous rider, and have a cynical attitude, having been duped by a horse vendor in the past. Dawn was acting as an agent rather than a vendor for the mare I was interested in. Dawn arranged the viewing and gave directions, meeting me near the venue to make sure I didn’t get lost. She eased the negotiations. 
I loved the sweet nature of the horse and after a ride on the second viewing (Dawn attended again), I made an offer. Dawn recommended a vet for the vetting because mine would not travel that far. The vet was extremely objective, thorough and helpful.
Dawn offered to travel with me when bringing the mare home but that wasn’t necessary – it was a nice touch.
I now have a lovely calm mare for me to enjoy (and big sister figure for our silly filly!). 
Dawn knew what I wanted (small, bay, quiet Spanish mare) and helped me get her. She seems adept at matching horses and owners. I have enjoyed good communication with Dawn throughout the sale and since, by email, text and telephone, and would recommend her for anyone wishing to buy a horse, especially a Spanish horse, as this is obviously where her expertise lies.

Helen Jacques
Consultant Paediatrician

Bonnie Church
19 Oct 2009
I have just bought a beautiful mare from Dawn called Majestuosa. Maj is the kindest, sweetest girl & a pleasure to be around. I cannot wait to ride her again as soon as she fully settles at my yard but she has already fitted in well after two days!

I would not hesitate to recommend Dawn: she is honest, lovely to her horses & answered every single e mail & question (and they were endless!). Dawn carefully matches you to the 'right' horse - important for me after a break from riding & recovering from a back injury casued by a mad arab!I did not have a great big budget either, so I have managed to get a talented & stunning mare for my money.

I received movies of Maj being schooled by the lovely Klara, whilst waiting to sell my last horse & I felt that I knew Maj well by the time she arrived. Dawn was patient whilst I sold my unsuitable arab & supportive: she knew that I was serious about Maj & did not sell her to someone else in the meantime, though a lesser person would have. The service from Dawn is second to none, even the transportation from Dan was great & Maj arrived exactly on time & very calm after a long journey.

I am so happy with my lovely mare & looking forward to many happy years with her, working on my dressage skills & maybe a foal someday?! Oh and a second PRE perhaps, as I can see that I am now addicted to them!

Huge thanks Dawn, I will keep in touch & will send any friends looking for that perfect horse..

CAROL AUSTIN
17 Oct 2009
Where do I begin ! from the beginig I think lets go back 35yrs thats how long I have been riding and it has always been my dream to own a PRE and finally my dream has come true thanks to Dawn.I have been looking for nearly two yrs and not seen anything that caught my eye till I saw Charco on Dawns web site he just hit me, what a connection just by a photo. I was lucky enough to go to spain to see him my husband Steve agreed to come a long .We had a 1st class service Carola was a lovely lady who looked after us in spain she even arranged a riding lesson for me on a Pre 5yr old stallion Evento oh my god what a frill that was! couldnt stop smilling all week. Charco been here nearly 3wks and he is doing really well he is only 2yrs old and still a colt he has not had much handling but all my horses friends cant beleive how calm and how quickly he is learning. I am hoping to keep him entire and my dream is to do dressage on him .
Just like to thank Dawn, Carola and Robert the transporter for bringing Charco to me, oh yeah and my hubby Steve for putting up with me for 27yrs with all me ups and down with my horses he does put up with a lot at times!
Dawn I would just like to say thankyou from the bottom of my heart for all your help and support you have given me on this journey.Will keep you informed of Charcos progress Carolx

Mary Lightburn
15 Sep 2009
Having been let down by lots of dealers and private sellers, I thought it was becoming impossible to find my perfect horse. I saw Castana advertised and decided to contact Dawn to see if she was still available. To my delight she was. Dawn was very accommodating and as we were coming from far away Dawn promised me she'd keep hold of Castana until I'd had a chance to see her and she kept to her word. We were made to feel very welcome when we arrived and everyone at the yard was very friendly and knowledgeable. I have now had Castana for nearly a month and she has turned out to be the dream horse I was looking for. She's the perfect match for me and everyone on my yard loves her to bits already. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend Dawn and I would certainly buy from her again in the future.

Mary

Helen Tracey
06 Jun 2009
Reading through the rest of the testimonials on here one thing seems to stand out for me about Dawn and her horses, and that is the professional manner in which Dawn conducts herself and the temprements of the Horses she finds for us. It is a very strange experience to buy a horse unseen , apart form photos and videos from a stanger you have never met , and not for the faint hearted , however in Dawn you have somebody that is 100% trustworthy and the absolute guarantee that the horses will be everything she says they are. 
I took delivery of my stallion just over a week ago now and he has settled extreamly quickly , he is the sweetest ,quietest boy in the world . I am looking forward to spending many happy hours with my "fairytail " and I thank my fairygod mother (Dawn,sorry Dawn 4 making you sound old!) ) for making it all come true . I would have no hesitation in entrusting her again if ever I am lucky enough to purchase another Andalusian. Thankyou from me and my new Boy for putting us together. xx

Yvonne
04 Jun 2009
Hi Dawn, Just thought I would let you know that I have started some flat work with Majestuosa (Madge) and she is more than willing in anything that is asked of her. She is now a muscled up and a much more streamlined girl than when she came. Malagueno is quite the young man now and I very much look forward to the day when I will be breaking/riding him (I think) ha, ha. As I have said before, you found me the perfect two horses and your knowledge and expertise paid off. x

Andrea Handford
03 Jun 2009
I must of emailed several andalucian sellers, but Dawn was the only one who actually started looking for me. My budget was really terrible - even Dawn said I'd be lucky... but lucky I was and even though i only saw a few photo's and a video of Blanca, I knew she was the one for me. My decision was 100% based on Dawn's opinion, I also trust Dawns opinion 100%. She knows more about what you can get for your money - realistically - than any other horse broker i'd spoke to. she admitted Blanca was still green (age 7) and she'd had 2 foals, but the mare was trusting and kind - basic necessity really. Well, she's now with me, I've re-named her Plumaro (dove) as she is the prettiest most beautiful dabble grey horse with THE longest gun-metal tail i've seen. We're both having lessons (i'm green too!!) and together she and I are going to have some wonderful adventures. Thank you dawn for making making a miracle happen and for giving me a dream come true. When we win the 2012 dressage championships, i'll dedicate it to you!!! xx

Alexis Groves
25 May 2009
Just a quick update to say Califa celebrated his 4th birthday a month ago, and today he went out to his first ever competiton (dressage) and did me proud with a 3rd rosette! He got mainly 6's in his test. He went incredibly well considering it was his first time away from his england home!! Im hoping there will be more times like this to come!! 

Thanks, Alex and Califa x

Yvonne 
22 May 2009
Hello Dawn,
Just an update to say how well my two "lovelies" are doing. Malagueno is growing into a super boy (a bit like a hormonal teenager at the moment)!! Majestuosa is such a lady and looks out for me first thing every morning. They are truly a lovely pair and you couldn't have found me two nicer horses. I promise I will send you some pics. Thanks again.

Alexis Groves
15 Apr 2009
Dawn,
I must say a big thank you for helping me on my journey to buying my first Andalusian. Even though I didn't meet you, you spent a lot of time on the phone and emailing me, and managed to find me the perfect horse. Califa is doing brilliantly, he's a very good boy in every way. We started poles yesterday!! He loved it! Thanks ever so much for my perfect boy, I'd like to keep you updated on him! 

Hope to speak soon,
Alexis and Califa x

Yvonne
22 Mar 2009
Hi Dawn. What on earth can I say that hasn't already been said. You are a pleasure to deal with (which isn't always the case with people nowadays). Although I have had involvement with the PRE for a number of years and already owned my boy prior to coming across you,your help and perseverance in finding my two beautiful Majestuosa (Madge) and her son Malagueno has been second to none. I feel as though they have been a part of my family from the very beginning. In fact, I could never imagine them ever being anywhere else now. They are both the most willing and sweet horses I have ever come across. And as Arnold Swartzenegger (sp) said: "I will be back" I wouldn't hesitate in recommending you to anyone wanting a horse. Thanks again.

Rebecca Pacifici
15 Feb 2009
Hi Dawn,
Just a quick hello to tell you how mileno is doing,he has settled in really well with his friend sadie the donkey.
I have been having weekly lessons with him and its been great for both of us. He has been so funny in the snow rolling around every chance he gets ,although think we would all like spring to arrive soon.
Mileno is a very beautiful kind sweet boy who follows us around everywhere, i am looking forward to a nice spring /summer out hacking. will send some pictures soon. thanks Rebecca

Karen and Ian
27 Jan 2009
Hello Dawn Just to let you know that both our girls are wonderful. We had our first pre yearling "Requila" in August 2008 and have not looked back since with "Amaranta" joining us in October. Thank you for all your help and a wonderful service and wonderful horses. Will let you know as soon as Amaranta has her foal at the end of March!!! Karen and Ian xxx

Mandi
25 Jan 2009
Hi Dawn, as a new customer and future owner of Serano and Bombon Vap, i would just like to say how helpful you have been to me in the past couple of weeks. Not only have i made a good friend but your insight into these horses has been invaluable. I think its wonderful how you obviously love every horse you come into contact with and i cant wait to own my boys. I know they will be everything you have said they will be and im looking forward to owning my dream with many thanks to you. You are direct and honest and for that i owe you a great deal. Many thanks xx

Annette Dean
14 Jan 2009
Hi Dawn,
As i said in my last message it prob wouldnt be long until i bought another one of your beautifull horses, well it was only 4 months until you found me Lucera who is also half sister to my other gelding i bought from you in August, she looks so much like him and her personallity is great, she is PERFECT and i cant wait to start getting her in to shows as she so flashy. I look forward to you coming up in the Spring.

My empire growing so i will prob in touch again very soon lol

Lisa
24 Dec 2008
Earlier this year I visited Dawn's yard and tried out a few horses I had seen on the website. I fell in love with the stallion Mr M (Mejicano) but the yard where I was renting at the time said they did not want a stallion on site. I would just like to thank Dawn for the wonderful service she gave, enough though I was not a paying customer. Her horses are amazing, she definately has an eye for the andalusian. It has been my dream to own an andalusian stallion and one day it will happen and I know where I will be going x

Sophie
09 Dec 2008
There are not many honest people around like you I can not put in to words how I loved your peaceful yard and your ways no money in the world buys that and to me it means everything bless your heart Dawn for looking after Estrella my beautiful filly foal I would not sell her for the world I am still blown away by how much she has grown while in your care she looks 1000% thanks to you and I can not wait to get Estrella home but I will be sending her back when she is 3 for you to back and school for me I would not want anyone else to do this your knowledge is never ending anyone looking for a andalusian horse must contact Dawn she has a gift the horses love her Thank you Dawn I will keep in touch and send you pictures as Estrella grows take care X

Janine
08 Dec 2008
My name is Janine I owned a horse called Tarn for many happy years and unfortunatly lost him two years ago lucky for me I found Dawn and her beautiful spanish horses it began with Tosca and I am now the proud owner of four andalusian horses two of which I only saw on pictures and videos all thanks to Dawn not only have I had great pleasure with my horses but have found and exceptional friend in Dawn always willing to give advice and support any time night or day if you are looking for a spaanish horse then contact Dawn she is good at her job and can match people with horses and cares where her horses go Thank you Dawn for everything you are a very special person

Julie 
24 Nov 2008
Thanks Dawn for all your help with the lovable Quincero (Quin) through all the ups and downs we had trying to get him out to Kuwait. Eventually we made it!!He's been here just over a month now and settling in fine. Your description of him was spot on and he is a pleasure to own and eating like there's no tomorrow!! I would recommend Dawn to anyone who is looking to buy a horse. She genuinely cares about her horses and who they are going to. I wish you good luck and all the best Dawn and will stay in touch. Julie

Brian Dawson
18 Nov 2008
This summer my own mare of 26 had to be retired and I feared I'd never be able to find a horse to replace her.
In July I discovered Dawn's web site and a few weeks later I was the proud owner of the most wonderful Andalusian 7 year old. He is the perfect gentleman, a very fast learner and a delight to be around.
I can't recommend Dawn's Andalusians enough, dealing with you Dawn was a pleasure, THANK YOU, I will keep in touch.
Brian

Allison Murphy
14 Nov 2008
Allison Murphy. (France)
Sept 2008.
I am the proudest owner of a beautiful Andalusian Mare from Dawn, her name is Milagra. She is everything i wanted and more ! only 5 years old and incredibly well behaved, very willing to learn, has fitted in nicely with our childrens ponies, we all love her, a huge thankyou to Dawn, a lovely lady, Milagra is everything you said she would be, every time i look at her, i can't believe she is mine.
Thanks Dawn, will come and see you when in England.

Patricia Pearce
11 Nov 2008

Purchased Rosa th beginning of July to replace my retired horse Corrine. Dawn said Rosa was the ideal horse for my riding experience, but I was scepticle as I had not ridden for three years and Corrine had ring bone that bad she could stand still for England so when you obtain a horse that actually moves it is unnerving. Happily for me Dawn was right Rosa has very good manners and I could not beleive that I could find a horse anything like Corrine. Unfortunately, Corrine had to be put to sleep three weeks after I purchased Rosa due to Arthritus of the Spine so as you can imagine I was and still am very upset about losing her but Rosa does cheer me up and I still cannot beleive I can go out hacking and have lessons on this wonderful horse. As I am 55 years old it can be unnerving riding on roads but Rosa seems to take everything in her stride and gives me confidence to try new tests. Thanks to Dawn we are a very happy couple and my husband has now got in the saddle andloves her to bits.
Thanks Dawn for the introduction to this lovely willing animal