Every horse and rider combination is different, and the program reflects that. Training plans are tailored to each partnership, with a high level of attention to detail and a clear understanding of each rider’s goals—whether that means building confidence and improving fundamentals, moving successfully through the levels, or pursuing ambitious competitive goals.
The program is intentionally personal. With an emphasis on quality over quantity, Emily Donaldson Dressage provides attentive training, individualized horse care, and hands-on support both at home and at competitions.
Full and short-term training packages
Training and competing horses
Lessons: haul-in or at your farm
Show preparation and coaching
Clinics
Horse shopping
Select horse sales
Mamet SSF and owner Rob Robillard at the 2021 GAIG Championships
The Sewickley Farm Partnership’s Supersonic at the Quakertown CDI in 2023
These services are offered at Sewickley Farm in Parkesburg, Pennsylvania, where Emily Donaldson Dressage provides a thoughtfully designed environment for both horse and rider. The farm features a large indoor arena with premium Arena Works Gold Plus dust-free footing, 18 spacious, airy stalls with Dutch windows, and generous grass pastures for turnout. Additional amenities include a heated tack room, grooming stall, dedicated wash stall, an outdoor meadow for riding when weather permits, and access to nearby hacking.
During the winter season, Emily Donaldson Dressage relocates to Persaud Legacy Farm in Reddick, Florida, allowing horses and riders to continue training and competing in a first-class environment year-round.
Off-Site Lessons & Clinics
Emily is available for off-site lessons and clinics at farms throughout the tri-state area. Known for her attention to detail, enthusiastic teaching style and ability to communicate clearly, Emily works with both professionals and dedicated amateurs. Her teaching is tailored to the individual horse-and-rider combination, with an emphasis on correct fundamentals, thoughtful progression and helping riders develop the skills and confidence to achieve their goals.
Knockout SSF at the USEF Festival of Champions 2019
Minkah owned by Darcy Gaines competing at Global in Wellington, FL 2021
Mr. Bates competing Grand Prix in 2020
Lucy Donaldson and Audi at the FEI NAYC in 2022
Megan Peterson and Amoretto Team Gold at the 2019 FEI NAYC
Horse Shopping
Emily also assists clients in the search for and selection of suitable dressage horses. She has successfully guided clients through the purchase process in both the United States and Europe, from identifying prospective horses and evaluating suitability to navigating trials, vettings and the final acquisition.
With an extensive network within the dressage community, a discerning eye, knowledge of bloodlines and a strong understanding of horse-and-rider compatibility, Emily approaches the process with each client’s individual goals, riding style and ambitions in mind. Her priority is not simply finding a talented horse, but finding the right partnership for the rider.
Contact
Please contact Emily to discuss training opportunities, lessons and clinics, competition coaching, or horse-shopping services. Short- and long-term training options are available and can be tailored to the needs and goals of each horse-and-rider combination.