Horse Books: Reviews

The Essentials of Horsekeeping

I have read my share of horse books these past few years and I can tell you that most of them are quite dry, factual and sometimes hard to comprehend.

I received this book from my best friend when I told her that we wanted to buy a ranch. I enjoyed reading it and planning my new life to be. It is an informative book but nothing can give you the information you need like a year actually living with horses. So, yes it is a nice book to read but it is not a horsekeeping bible.

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Editorial Reviews From Booklist
When horse lovers first start riding, all they usually think about is being on the back of a horse, learning the intricacies and skills of horsemanship. But what about the care of the horse? Hairston, a newspaper and magazine writer on all things equine, provides a nice primer to taking care of a horse. Starting with the subject of housing, the author discusses what must be considered in barn design, including stall size and equipment, tack and feed rooms, and various types of bedding. The pros and cons of barns versus pastures are also touched on. What to feed a horse is covered, with an interesting description of determining a horse's weight and fitness. General horse behavior, manners, and training for catching and tying a horse are matched by information on general health (including first aid). Two sections cover grooming, and the final chapter looks at holistic and alternative therapies for horses, including herbal supplements. A good introduction. Nancy Bent

Book Description
A sound knowledge of horse care is as essential for owners as are riding and training. This manual, which covers everything from housing the animal to holistic healing, is the best horsekeeping teacher available. Packed with wise counsel and instructive photographs, it helps you to recognize when your horse isn’t behaving right or feeling well, understand what excites or scares him, and care for him properly in an emergency. This complete management program teaches all about barn structure and safety, stalls and feeders, fences, protecting pastures, and selecting equipment. You will master what constitutes a healthy equine diet and how to check for parasites, thrush, and other infectious diseases.