Dougal was born and raised on a farm in Cambridge with Dairy and Thoroughbreds as the main operations. The equine operation involved breeding, handling and breaking, both race horses and show-jumpers too. Dougal rode from a young age through to 19 years old, also working for some of the top racing stables and stud farms in the Cambridge area. This is where he learnt skills and horse management, adding to what had been passed on from his parents – very well respected horse people in their own right.

Dougal has been working in equine nutrition for over 19 years, also covering cattle, sheep and goats, mainly in the growing of healthy productive young stock. Outside of work he loves rugby, racing, fishing and travel, including the Cycle Trails of New Zealand. Dougal lives on 10 acres outside of Hamilton running beef cattle, pigs and a couple chickens.