This is a one-stop guide to training aids which outlines when they are useful and why they are an aid to training, not a substitute for it. Sound advice is offered on using training aids safely and their functions, pros and cons, and the aids discussed include martingales, the Market Harborough, the Chambon, elastic schooling reins, the de Gogue, draw reins, the Pessoa and Feeline systems, and more. The author also addresses training aids for riders. This handy book is an indispensable training aid in itself! * A concise guide to the training aids on the market, their uses and their pros and cons * From the traditional martingale to the most recent innovations, this handy book gives all the essential information on the subject * Clear, informative photographs illustrate throughout

Good stable management is at the heart of keeping a horse happy, healthy and sound, and anyone who is responsible for a horse's day-to-day care has a huge responsibility. In this book Katie Jerram offers advice that comes from years of private and commercial horse management and has been proven to work for horses and ponies of all shapes, sizes and roles. Whether you are a private owner wanting to do the best for your horse and get the most from him, a student looking forward to a career in the horse world or someone who already runs a yard, this book will show you ways to improve your horse management skills. It may require you to analyse why you follow practices you've carried out for years and perhaps change the way you operate. It may also reinforce some of the principles that have been the bedrock of horse management for many years, albeit by including new techniques. The methods discussed here have been applied to show horses, racehorses, eventers and youngsters starting out their careers and the result is a long and continuing roll call of happy, healthy and successful horses.

For a horse or pony to perform well - whether that be in eventing, endurance, show jumping, reining or any other of the myriad disciplines within the modern equestrian world - he has to be fit for the job. Fitness is vital whether you aim to compete at international level or local weekend competitions, because a fit horse will stand a better chance of staying sound, both physically and mentally, and will have a longer and more active life. The same criteria apply if you choose not to compete but to ride purely for pleasure. The happy hacker or trail mount is still a working animal and needs to be prepared and maintained accordingly. After all, a Formula One racing car and a weekend run-around both need correct fuel and to be kept in good working order. In "Getting Horses Fit", Carolyn Henderson, with the assistance of competitors, equine science experts and experienced owners, explains what fitness means and how to achieve it, enabling owners to work out an individual fitness programme suitable for their own horse, whatever their level of activity. The topics include: assessing your horse; health and condition; disciplines and their demands; feeding for fitness; environment management; building strength and suppleness; interval training; tack and equipment; travelling and competing; lungeing and long-reining; poles and gridwork; hands-on techniques; and diet and fitness for riders and the mental approach.

Grooming is an important part of horse care. It helps you assess and promote your horse's well-being, get to know him and present him at his best. This book explains grooming techniques for all types of horses and ponies - whatever their lifestyles - and how to carry them out effectively and safely. There are guidelines on everyday essential tasks and routines for every situation, from quartering to a full grooming session. You will also find advice on the equipment you need, both essentials and useful extras and ideas that can make life easier for you and your horse. Find out how and why to do everything from picking out a horse's feet to spot cleaning and bathing. Whether you are learning about horse care or already an experienced owner, this book will show you how to keep your horse looking and feeling good.