Horsemanship

Dorothy W. Purdy

Mondays, 9:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
April 12, 19, & 26, 2004
D.O.C. House

This course is intended for those who are either totally without experience with horses or novices in the field of handling horses, riding, or observing equine activities and competitions. The only prerequisite is a love of the horse, man's majestic and graceful partner in work and sport through the ages. This course will provide a brief initiation into what becomes, for many people, a lifelong pursuit of the best ways to understand these beautiful, athletic creatures and how to form partnerships with them in fascinating activities.

Readings and portions of videos will be provided with which to build a foundation vocabulary to aid in discussions of activities with horses. A field trip to visit a working home stable and a professional equine facility can be arranged. Course topics will include: Horse Breeds and their Characteristics, Equine Anatomy, Costs of Purchase and Care, Requirements of Horse Care, Equipment for the Horse and Rider, and the Competition Disciplines — Dressage, Jumping, Eventing and Endurance. The essence of this course will be how to have fun in the fascinating world of horses.

Class is limited to 10 participants

Dorothy Whitfield Purdy grew up riding her own pony and horse on a large rural estate in Westchester County, New York. After studies at Chatham College in Pittsburgh and a BS from the University of Connecticut, she gained her Masters Degree in Science Education from Manhattanville College, Tarrytown, New York, while raising four sons. Her long cherished dream of having a horse farm was finally actualized after careers in secondary science education and botanical research education. Dorothy and her husband own and operate a horse farm for business and pleasure in Grantham, NH where they care for their own four horses and 3-5 boarders. They have both been enthusiastic competitors over more than 10 years in Dressage and Jumping. Dorothy teaches youth riding at their Whitfield Farm facility.