Melissa Coates

Melissa Coates, Percheron horse breeder in Albion, ME, is based in Kennebec County and central Maine near Augusta. She has been breeding Percheron horses for more than a decade, participates in national equine registries, and follows an annual health testing schedule for all breeding stock.

Her horses live in pasture-based settings with regular exercise and social interaction among the herd. The farm’s paddocks adjoin a riverbank for seasonal turnout, while stalls are bedded with straw and cleaned daily to ensure comfort. Foals are gently introduced to halter work and turnout at an early age to build confidence.

A local draft horse showcase highlighted the calm temperament and balanced build of her Percherons, earning favorable feedback from attending judges. She emphasizes gentle training methods, consistent care routines, and ongoing enrichment that deepens the bond between handler and horse. She also maintains detailed records of lineage and health history for every horse.