Exhibiting grace and poise as they master the intricate movements of dressage; galloping like the wind at more than thirty miles per hour; soaring over huge competition fences; running tirelessly across every type of terrain - horses are simply stunning athletes. Naturally fleet of foot, they have strength, stamina and intelligence to match. We ask a great deal of these amazing creatures when we ride them in competition, and our horses always deliver. The Sporting Horse is a glorious celebration of the athletic abilities of these beautiful animals, and the unique relationship that has evolved between horse and rider. Working side-by-side for centuries, horse and man have achieved a lasting synergy - and nowhere is that more evident than in the sporting arena. Taking each of the four key sporting characteristics - athleticism, speed, agility and endurance - veteran journalist Nicola Swinney explores how hundreds of years of selective breeding and careful training have developed and refined the horse's natural ability to perform a diverse range of sporting pursuits. From dressage to polo, snow sports to carriage driving, steeplechasing to barrel racing, the book reveals how horse and rider work as one to achieve sporting excellence.

Jodine Carruthers, Equine Behavior Specialist and a true lover of horses, delivers an illuminating and important gift to everyone who owns or spends time with horses. In If Your Horse Could Talk Carruthers takes us step by step through the process of knowing our horse...and knowing ourselves through a holistic approach to connecting with horses. Achieving this, we are more likely to connect successfully with our horse, becoming the herd leader while allowing our horse to express who he is. This is not about dominance, but authentic partnership. Every page of this conscientiously created guide leads us closer to that perfect relationship where human and horse are filled with joy. Where do we find such harmony? The answer lies in successful communication, awareness, trusting our intuition, and understanding our bodies and nervous system, as well as the horse's. As we learn all of this, we move that much closer to the joy and unconditional love that horses can bring.

A step-by-step guide on correct and comfortable tack fitting, with advice on common problems and how to avoid them. Chapters cover all aspects from headcollars and halters, bridles and bits, saddles, girths and numnahs to lungeing equipment and care of tack.

This edition, substantially revised, reflects recent developments and practical advice on how to cope with common equine injuries and ailments. It explains when to call the veterinarian, and what to do before the vet arrives. New ideas are explored on wound care and laminitis.

From an expert, all the tips involved in preparing horse and rider for the show ring are in this picture guide. Chapters range from choosing the right class and horse and rider preparation to arriving at the show and competing in the ring.

A step-by-step guide on the correct methods of fitting boots and bandages. Contents include over-reach and fetlock boots, travelling, knee cap and hock boots, the different types of bandage, and how to bandage a tail.

Revised to take account of recent developments in materials and practice, this illustrated guide describes the different types of rugs and sheets available for horses. It covers their measurement and fitting, their care and storage, accessories and problems.

A straightforward guide to identifying the various colours and markings of horses and ponies and recognising the distinguishing features of different breeds. Chapters include how to recognise ponies, head, leg and body markings, brands, freeze and hoof marks and how to register identity.