The Original Horse Bible, 2nd Edition: The Definitive Source for All Things Horse (CompanionHouse Books) 210 Breed Profiles, Training Tips, Riding Insights, Competitive Activities, Grooming and Health

Your definitive source for all things horse.

Comprehensive guide to everything you need to know about horses and our relationships with them
210 breed profiles arranged in alphabetical order and packed with interesting details
100 training and behavior tips; 50 riding, grooming, and health takeaways; 25 competitive activities, and more
Updated edition includes new information on medications, poisonous plants, natural horsemanship, and more
The most comprehensive volume dedicated to horses, Original Horse Bible is a celebration of the relationship between humans and horses, written by two highly regarded horsewomen, the late Moira C. Allen and Sharon Biggs.

480 pages cover topics that span the horse world, such as evolution, domestication, horseback riding, training, competing, breeding mares, raising foals, and more. Explore portraits of 210 breeds, from the Abaco Barb to the Welsh Pony, including rare breeds from around the world and favorites like the American Quarter Horse, Shetland Pony, and Thoroughbred. Alternative names, region of origin, history, and physical descriptions are included.

Detailed sections include the natural history of horses (adaption, migration, domestication), how horses became integral to human kind, the role of horses in society (war horses, law-enforcement horses, race horses), animal welfare, the plight of wild and feral horses, anatomy, physiology, bodily systems, structure, senses, gait/movement, coat, color patterns, life cycle, reproduction, intelligence, trainability, mentality, and natural instincts.

The authors trace the evolution of modern horses from ancient ancestors, describe their looks and uses (Baroque, Cob, Hack, Hunter, Polo Pony), and explain the differences between horse colors and what specific characteristics define them (buckskin, palomino, pinto). A complete overview of horse reproduction provides tips on choosing a stallion, live cover versus artificial insemination, pregnancy, delivery, and care, imprinting, and handling of the young.

The horse-riding section describes English, western, driving competition, rodeo, competitive trail riding, vaulting, polo, and other horse sports, as well as riding instructions, safety, fitness, and riding skills. The horse training section covers various training philosophies, early handling, lessons, and solving problems (leading, bolting, biting/nipping, rearing, buckling, shying).

Find important information about choosing the right horse for a novice, experienced rider, or family, purchasing the horse, proper equipment (saddles, bridles, boots, gear, gadgets), transporting horses, stabling, boarding, feeding, grooming, veterinary care, vaccines, recognizing the signs of a healthy animal, first aid, hoof care, winter wear, battling parasites and pests, avoiding danger in your horse's environment, and alternative care.

Information on horse shows and classes, show preparation for both horse and rider, and what to expect at a show is provided with priceless firsthand advice and pointers about how to succeed at events. A section on senior horses discusses a horse's golden years, signs of aging, nutrition and care, retirement from activities, and general care for aging animals. An appendix of symptoms and treatment for the most common equine ailments, resource section, and complete index are all provided.

This book belongs on the shelf of anyone interested in horse-keeping or who admires these magnificent creatures! This edition includes sections on advances in imaging technology and medications and updated information on saddles, bits, poisonous plants, deworming practices, and natural horsemanship.