USEF "S" and FEI 4* Dressage Judge Janet Foy issued an invitation to the dressage population: "Ask me your toughest dressage questions; ask me about the things about riding, training, and competing that you just don't understand; or, just ask me the questions you're always afraid to ask because you don't want to look like you don't know what you're doing!" The result was an outpouring of queries, from riders at every level, and from both those who just ride for fun as well as those who show. Foy has earned a dedicated following over many years teaching popular clinics alongside US Olympians Steffen Peters and Debbie McDonald, and her vast knowledge of the sport of dressage and trademark sense of humor propelled her first book Dressage for the Not-So-Perfect Horse to bestseller status. Now, for her eagerly awaited follow-up, she's responded to the hundreds of dressage questions she's received in an easy-to-engage-with Q-and-A format. Readers find no-nonsense answers to everything from understanding how horses learn the movements to really "getting" the importance of the outside rein to gaining coordination and achieving "throughness." As always, Foy's enthusiasm emanates from her words, and her drive to provide solid understanding is underscored by her insistence that riding dressage is, above all, fun.

ONE OF USA TODAY'S "20 SUMMER BOOKS YOU WON'T WANT TO MISS" In the bestselling tradition of works by such authors as Susan Orlean and Mary Roach, a New York Times reporter and Pulitzer Prize finalist explores why so many people-including herself-are obsessed with horses. It may surprise you to learn that there are over seven million horses in America-even more than when they were the only means of transportation-and nearly two million horse owners. Acclaimed journalist and avid equestrian Sarah Maslin Nir is one of them; she began riding horses when she was just two years old and hasn't stopped since. Horse Crazy is a fascinating, funny, and moving love letter to these graceful animals and the people who-like her-are obsessed with them. It is also a coming-of-age story of Nir growing up an outsider within the world's most elite inner circles, and finding her true north in horses. Nir takes readers into the lesser-known corners of the riding world and profiles some of its most captivating figures. We meet Monty Roberts, the California trainer whose prowess earned him the nickname "the man who listens to horses," and his pet deer; George and Ann Blair, who at their riding academy on a tiny island in Manhattan's Harlem River seek to resurrect the erased legacy of the African American cowboy; and Francesca Kelly, whose love for an Indian nobleman shaped her life's mission: to protect an endangered Indian breed of horse and bring them to America. Woven into these compelling character studies, Nir shares her own moving personal narrative. She details her father's harrowing tale of surviving the Holocaust, and describes an enchanted but deeply lonely upbringing in Manhattan, where horses became her family. She found them even in the middle of the city, in a stable disguised in an old townhouse and in Central Park, when she chased down truants as an auxiliary mounted patrol officer. And she speaks candidly of how horses have helped her overcome heartbreak and loss. Infused with heart and wit, and with each chapter named after a horse Nir has loved, Horse Crazy is an unforgettable blend of beautifully written memoir and first-rate reporting.

The Complete Guide to Polo is the perfect resource for anyone interested in finding out more about this exciting game, especially those new to the sport. It discusses the history and evolution of the sport that we know today and its migration from India to Asia to Europe, and finally the Americas. It describes in detail the equipment used by both horse and rider, and offers advice on choosing one kind of equipment over another. The Complete Guide to Polo covers the horsemanship skills needed to excel in the game, and breaks down the swing into bite-sized chunks for analysis. It looks at basic polo strategy, explains the finer aspects of the rules of the sport, and compares the differences between the US and UK rule books. All in all it offers a great foundation for the beginner or intermediate player, the patron, or the spectator.

Avoiding the Pitfalls, written by Richard E. Dennis, is a must for the first-time equine buyer or investor. The book instructs newcomers in the horse business and warns them about the pitfalls. Subjects such as making your love of horses a business or a hobby, selecting a horse, equine drug testing, selecting a horse boarding facility, selecting a trainer, the skinny on non-profit horse organizations, equipment and their applications, hiring a farrier and horse showing, the health and care of the horse and horse safety.

It is written by Richard E. “Rick” Dennis, whose background includes being a graduate of the Federal Bureau of Narcotics and Dangerous Drugs training school, a drug enforcement agent, working undercover for the Office of Drug Abuse and Law Enforcement, conducting forensic audits, K-9 instructor/trainer specializing in explosive, narcotics and law enforcement, a law enforcement officer, drug testing and combining law enforcement with private security.

However, later he learned the art of breaking, training and showing a horse “the right way” from legendary trainer, Greg Ward, of the Ward Ranch in California. He competed for three years in the West coast reined cow horse industry, producing multiple-event stock horses for work, pleasure or the show arena. With show earnings of over a half million dollars, he is also an instructor, with him or his students winning a remarkable 10 World Championships, two Reserve World Champions, an NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity finalist, three NRCHA Superiors, an NSHA Superior and an AQHA National Top 10 cow horse limited rider, among other titles.

From tiny ponies to heavy draught horses and rapid thoroughbreds, explore the history and variety of this noble animal that helped shape human history. A stunning celebration of the equine world, The Horse Encyclopedia is a fully illustrated book about horses and ponies, featuring over 150 breeds and types, including all those recognized by national horse societies. First domesticated around 6000 years ago, horses rapidly became invaluable to humans. They pulled chariots and ploughs, and became essential to transport and war. In this comprehensve volume, you will discover breeds from all over the world, from imposing Shires whose ancestors carried knights in chainmail into battle, to thoroughbreds bred to run like the wind, and Lipizzanas that can execute exquisite dressage moves such as the capriole where they jump with all four feet off the ground. The Horse Encyclopedia gives concise details of each breed, including its origins and anatomy, as well as famous individuals such as Secretariat, who is widely regarded as one of the greatest racehorses of all. This dazzling guide also includes expert advice on horse care, feeding and grooming, and horse health, making this a truly wonderful gift for all horse riders and equine enthusiasts.

This book is an invaluable guide to every aspect of horsemanship, with a fully illustrated directory of breeds of the world, step-by-step instructions on how to ride, and information about specialist equipment for both horse and rider. Over 60 breeds of horse and pony are covered, from the more familiar Thoroughbred and Shetland pony to the less well known Nonius and Caspian. Riding instructions cover tacking up for the first time to mastering the intricacies of dressage. The book also includes a directory of equipment, including the saddle, bridle and bit, training aids, horse clothing and protective equipment, and the rider's clothing.

This book describes 150 breeds of horses common in North America and Europe. From work horse to pony, and from lineage to key identifying features, this book is perfect for horse lovers or for the family road trip through the countryside.

Many if not most women have been locked in a battle with their bodies for as long as they can remember. And when it comes to riding horses, they drag their arsenal of self-doubt with them every time they step into the saddle. Some quit riding completely. Others ride, but are frustrated by their lack of progress as riders or what they see as poor performance. They succumb to silent self-torment as they wonder how they look, what others think, and whether they have any business on the back of a horse if their jeans feel a little too tight.
Regardless of seat size, riding discipline, or the degree -- or even truth -- of the body issues with which they struggle, the scars on female self-image in our society run deep and wide. So with the humor and big-sisterly swagger that readers and reviewers have come to love, Melinda Folse, author of bestseller "The Smart Woman's Guide to Midlife Horses," has decided to step in with a delightful, insightful, fulfilling new book. "Riding Through Thick and Thin" delves to the bottom of the issues that have long held women hostage, bringing together experts, research, resources, and stories to encourage, inspire, and empower. Readers will find some answers that may surprise them: Believe it or not, this is not about losing weight or getting fit (although if that's a point of interest, there's a section packed with helpful tools and ideas). This book is more about what's going on in every woman's mind -- and it taps new findings in neuroscience to reveal that permanent change to deeply ingrained body image issues is not only possible, but it may be much easier than we think.

Techniques to help riders fine-tune their communication and riding skills

This follow-up to "How Your Horse Wants You to Ride" helps intermediate to advanced riders improve their communication with their mounts and polish their overall riding skills. Readers get a complete tutorial-much of which can be found nowhere else-on taking their riding skills to the next level.

With a rugged yet romantic mystique, western riding is as American as the Old West, Roy Rogers, and John Wayne. Whether you're more at home on the range, exploring the trails, or competing in the show arena, The Classic Western Rider will help you hone your skills. From America's proud cowboy heritage to today's training methods and competitive events, it covers:
* ""Make or break"" information about equipment, especially the saddle
* A guide to training--cowboy style
* The subtle skill sets of winning western horsemanship, including six common rider faults and how to fix them
* Nurturing a partnership with your horse
* The ins and outs of western competitive sports and events such as reining, western speed contests, and team penning

With photos and drawings and advice from industry professionals Bret Brokcte, Nancy Cahill, Suzi Drnec, Linda Huck, and Linda Morse, this primer is ideal for the new riding enthusiast or the more experienced western rider who wants to fine-tune his or her skills. Happy trails to you

Learn to ride correctly, safely, and confidently
In this breakthrough guide, renowned riding expert Gincy Self Bucklin offers adult riders a unique, proven method for developing a good physical, mental, and emotional relationship with a horse. Whether you're a beginner, a more experienced rider looking to enhance your skills, or someone who used to ride but is reluctant to try again, Bucklin's step-by-step exercises-slowly and carefully practiced first on the ground and then on your horse-will have you riding with confidence and without fear. You'll build a safe and caring partnership with your horse as you:
* Understand how your actions affect your horse
* Improve your form, release tensions, and find balance
* Communicate with your horse to gain his trust
* Stay in charge without being controlling
* Observe your horse's responses and learn from them
* Increase your horse's comfort-both physically and psychologically

""If you' ve ever said to yourself, 'Why can' t I . . . ?, ' you' ll find the answer here to why you can' t, and exactly how to solve the problem. Whatever your level, you'll gain greater understanding and become a better rider and horseman from reading this book.""
-George H. Morris, internationally renowned clinician, USEF Show Jumping vice-president, ARIA master instructor, and member of the U. S. Equestrian Federation Board of Directors
""How Your Horse Wants You To Ride is chock full of innovative and practical tools presented in a thoroughly entertaining style. A delightful read for riders at all levels ""
-Jane Savoie, olympic alternate and author of That Winning Feeling , Cross Train Your Horse, More Cross Training, and It's Not Just About the Ribbons

Fired by a passion for running dogs, award-winning author Gary Paulsen entered the Iditarod, a gruelling 1180-mile race across Alaska, in dangerous ignorance and with fierce determination. After a spectacularly inept period of training and an even more spectacularly inept start to the race, Paulsen and his team of 15 dogs ran for 17 days through the beautiful, treacherous arctic terrain. They crossed the barren moon-like landscape of the Alaskan interior and witnessed sunrises that cast a golden blaze over the vast waters of the Bering Sea. Enduring blinding wind, snowstorms, dogfights, frostbite, moose attacks, sleep deprivation and hallucinations, he pushed on. This book recounts his adventure.

Listen to and communicate with your horse-successfully
""This is a book for everyone who has ever looked at the constantly increasing list of methods and systems marketed as 'horsemanship' and wondered which of the many possible approaches would be most suitable for a particular behavior problem. Gincy Bucklin has distilled her many years of experience with horses and riders into a very useful, step-by-step, hands-on book. Bucklin's writing is smooth and easy to read, and no matter where you open this book, you'll find that her deep respect and affection for both equines and humans shines through.""
-Dr. Jessica Jahiel, author of Riding for the Rest of Us
""Gincy Bucklin uses her decades-long experience with horses to answer that most frequently asked question: 'Why did my horse do that?' And she comes up with creative solutions that weave together traditional horse handling with the best of modern horse training, including my own personal favorite, clicker training.""
-Alexandra Kurland, author of Clicker Training for Your Horse and The Click That Teaches video lesson series
It takes time for a horse to learn everything we want him to know. If we don't make our intentions clear to him in ways that he can understand, or if we don't listen to what he wants, problems may result. Featuring easy-to-follow, step-by-step advice, What Your Horse Wants You to Know reveals how to communicate effectively with your horse to create an atmosphere of mutual cooperation.
What Your Horse Wants You to Know focuses on improving your horse's behavior on the ground, so you can develop relationship and communications skills without the more challenging problems that arise once you're on his back.
* Use your entire body to communicate with your horse
* Show your horse that you respect his needs and feelings
* Be patient and consistent with your horse while having fun
* Understand your horse's fears and overcome them
* Respond appropriately to physiological or nutritional problems
* Use praise to make your horse feel confident and successful

The USPC Guide to Bandaging Your Horse provides the kind of information all riders and horse owners need about leg care, bandaging, and keeping your horse's legs sound. It explains the many kinds of bandages and bandage materials, their purposes, and when to use them. Detailed drawings and step-by-step instructions teach you how to apply bandages for shipping, stable, exercise, and various treatment bandages safely and correctly. It also provides tips on the best types of bandage materials to use and making your own leg pads.
This guide will be helpful to Pony Clubbers and other horse owners and riders as well as instructors, trainers, and grooms who are interested in learning or teaching their students about bandaging and taking care of their horses' legs.

Knowing about horse conformation, movement and soundness is important to any horse owner, whether you are selecting a horse, judging horses, or evaluating a horse's strengths, weaknessess, and ultimate potential.
The USPC Guide to Conformation, Movement and Soundness clearly explains and illustrates good, functional conformation and movement, faulty movement, conformation defects, blemishes and unsoundnesses, their causes, and how they affect the horse. This guide will be helpful to Pony Club and 4-H members, instructors, horse owners, and anyone interested in learning about evalulating horses' conformation, soundness and way of moving.
The Howell Equestrian Library

Longeing and ground training are an important part of horsemanship, both in training the horse and in the education of the rider.
This book explains the principles of handling and training horses safely from the ground, including leading, teaching good ground manners, and preparation for longeing. It provides an introduction to longeing, equipment, techniques, and longeing for various purposes, including longeing to improve the horse's movement and longeing the rider. Because longeing is an activity that requires skill, knowledge, and safe techniques, The USPC Guide to Longeing and Ground Training is essential to understanding what you will need, what to do, and how long to do it safely for yourself and your horse.
This guide can be used by Pony Clubbers, instructors, and all horse owners who want to learn about longeing and how to use this technique safely to benefit their horses' training.
The Howell Equestrian Library

"Flyball Racing: The Dog Sport for Everyone"
Imagine four dogs, competing against each other side-by-side on two separate racing lanes. Then picture a packed crowd of spirited spectators waiting to hear "Get Your Ball" and the excited barking of the competitors at the cue to start the race. If you can envision racing lanes with four jumps, spaced ten feet apart, and a Flyball box at the end of each laneyou know the thrill of Flyball Racing. The anticipation of a great race is just one of the resaons that Flyball Racing has become such a popular sport for dog enthusiasts all over the world. The enthusiasm pervades this comprehensive book that includes all of the details about this fun and friendly competition.

"Flyball Racing: The Dog Sport for Everyone" is the perfect guide for everyone from the novice participant to the experienced competitor. You will be taught how Flyball Racing has developed from its humble beginnings in a wood shop to a sport that, due to its large number of participants, has become a more formalized competition. You'll find out that all breeds (including mixed breeds) are eligible for play, how to train your dog for the sport, the equipment you need and the rules and regulations that direct all facets of Flyball Racing.

Other chapters include teamwork and how to build your own team, the role of the North American Flyball Association, how to get into competition and how to host a tournament. There is even a special section that breaks down the individual parts of flyball training in a performance checklist. The text of Flyball Racing is enhanced by numerous photos of competition in action that illustrate the spirit of the sport. An indispensable guide toa thrilling relay race, Flyball Racing is the ideal book to own, learn from and refer back to as you enjoy the competition.
A Howell Dog Book of Distinction

German Olympian Isabell Werth is one of the most successful horsewomen in the world. With six Olympic gold medals and scores of championship titles to her name, there are few who equal her on paper. But an equestrian's success is wholly dependent on the relationship she has with her athletic partner-her horse-and Werth's astounding accomplishments would not have been possible without her unique approach to working with the animals she's loved since childhood. Even as a little girl, growing up on a farm on the Lower Rhine, it was clear that Werth possessed an extraordinary gift for empathizing with horses and foreseeing how they were likely to react in certain situations. This insight gave her a special ability as a rider and trainer. Here, Werth collaborates with accomplished sports journalist Evi Simeoni-someone who has witnessed and written about her career from the very beginning-to tell her life story. Readers will get the inside scoop when it comes to Werth's accomplishments-and her failures, too. They'll hear her personal thoughts regarding some of the biggest controversies to rock the dressage world: Rollkur and Totilas. Perhaps most importantly, they'll learn about each of the sensitive and talented horses that has impacted Werth's life, including Gigolo, Satchmo, and Bella Rose. For you see, there is a meme that is popular in the riding community that says, 'Two legs move our body, four legs move our soul'. And it is this sentiment that Werth feels perhaps best defines her.

The Faraway Horses, which was the inspiration for the Sundance Film Festival's award-winning documentary Buck in 2011, is Buck Brannaman's richly textured and stunning account of his life from an abusive childhood to his phenomenally successful approach to horses. A real-life 'horse-whisperer', Buck possesses near magical abilities as he dramatically transforms horses-and people-with his understanding, compassion, and respect. A truly American story about a cowboy and sage, The Faraway Horses tells the tale of the extraordinary life of an extraordinary man. At heart, this rich and rewarding memoir is a roadmap for living a harmonious and honourable existence among horses and humans. This updated edition features a new foreword and introduction. 'I've started horses since I was 12 years old and have been bit, kicked, bucked off and run over. I've tried every physical means to contain my horse in an effort to keep from getting myself killed. I started to realise that things would come much easier for me once I learned why a horse does what he does. This method works well for me because of the kinship that develops between horse and rider'. Buck Brannaman

Revised and updated with the most current USEF rules and tests, Judging Hunters and Hunter Seat Equitation is the world's favorite book on how to judge hunter show competitions, and understand exactly how they are judged. This must-have resource gives anyone competing in or judging hunter or equitation classes the edge, with professionally reviewed and approved sections that examine: - Conformation: structural composition; physical defects versus blemishes. - Hunters Under Saddle and Over Fences: length of stride, frame, and straightness; rhythm, transitions, impulsion, and bending; locomotion and form faults; honest and dishonest horses. - Equitation on the Flat and Over Fences: rider position; cadence, collection, and lengthening; approaching fences and in the air; USEF tests. Written with both the aspiring judge and the avid competitor in mind, the book offers invaluable explanations of what judges look for as well as the training methods necessary to accomplish the desired results. More than 100 color photographs with top equestrians in the tack demonstrate correct and incorrect positions in both horses and riders, sharpening the reader's eyes while also providing an unparalleled foundation of knowledge that makes self-correction in the saddle possible. In addition, readers will find a primer on both understanding and completing the Judge's Card, with explanations of numerical scoring, terminology, abbreviations, symbols, comments, and general impressions. This remarkably complete two-in-one reference can be the difference in your success, whether in the ring or in the judge's box.