This superb book was initially published in 1998 and has been out of print for several years. This new edition has been updated to show the most recent developments in all areas relating to the heavy horse industry. The Working Horse Manual has been designed to act as bible for heavy horse enthusiasts. Diana Zeuner has collected articles from 24 leading heavy horse experts who, between them, have covered a wide array of topics including: o Choosing your breed o Harnesses and harnessing o Horses in forestry o Multiple hitches o Farriery o Ploughing o Plaiting o Horse-drawn machinery and equipment o Veterinary care o Transport law o Caring for horse-drawn vehicles o Road driving For this new edition the chapters about Training for Horsemen, Working Horses in Forestry and Transport and the Law have been completely updated to reflect recent changes. The rest of the book has also been amended accordingly. This new edition also has an increased section on cross-country driving and an improved 'useful addresses' section. The book is highly illustrated with photographs and diagrams. The Working Horse Manual is the only UK book of this type and is on the recommended reading list of the British Driving Society.

Heavy horses played a pivotal role in the development of western economies, toiling in mines and quarries, factories and docks, alongside canals and railways and on farms. But, following the introduction of motorized machinery their number plummeted and some breeds came close to extinction in the 1950s. Interest has been revived and today Shires, Clydesdales, Suffolks and British Percherons attract special attention wherever they are seen, their strength, endurance and magnificence ensuring them a place in the modern world.
This new edition examines the various breeds of heavy horse and their qualities, their historical role, the industry that built up around them and their modern revival, bringing the story up to date and celebrating the work of those whose determination has ensured that heavy horses have a bright future.