February Book Reviews (Competition)

February Book Reviews

Dressage Books

Dressage Unscrambled - Bill Woods

A dressage book that references Michael Jordan, ocean liners, magnetic bottles, juke boxes, cannibalism, crop circles, Babe the Blue Ox, Mitt Romney, Dilbert, Barbra Streisand's brother, green Jello, and a further cast of thousands---it's Dressage Unscrambled!
Author Bill Woods has put together dozens of stories and anecdotes that elucidate, illustrate, and demystify hoary dressage principles while managing to skewer the sacred bovines---both two and four legged---of our sport.
Read his slightly off center takes on perennially burdensome topics like attention, self carriage, and connection. Mix in the hits and near misses of insight that a lifetime of teaching brings. Add in 40 years of weirdness gleaned from scribes, riders, teachers, and unindicted dressage co-conspirators, and you get a book that will bring a pile of smiles, a bucket of chuckles, and even an occasional spasmodic rotflol episode.

Customer Reviews
Dressage Unscrambled Review
This is a rare dressage journey. It not only has clever ideas for schooling your horse but is so wonderfully entertaining it's impossible to put down. A must read!!

Hysterical and even useful
This book uses explanations that are both amusing and useful. Bill Woods uses interesting imagery to make his useful points and some of his explanations gave me a different way of viewing things with which I've been struggling . . . all while I was dying laughing. After I finished reading it, I read some of his stories to my dressage instructor (who has an International Horsemasters and started in Eventing like Bill) and I thought she was going to fall on the floor, she was laughing so hard! I also repeated some of his imaginative explanations to her and she found the imagery as interesting as I did (I'm sure some of his explanations will find their way into her arena in her students' lessons). For a sport that most people take soooo seriously, it was great fun to read such a funny book from such a respected rider/instructor/judge. I thoroughly enjoyed it, and plan to recommend it to the rest of the people at the barn. (and yes, there are some typo's in this book that could be eliminated, but no more than I see in most books - only someone in the obsessive compulsive realm of dressage would notice or be annoyed!)

A fun and useful read!
Hilarious
Really great,light hearted read. More in the line of James Herriot's stories than another dull,technical how-to book. Does have some really good training ideas scattered throughout. I thoroughly enjoyed the book.

The Athletic Development of the Dressage Horse - Charles de Kunffy

 The Athletic Development of the Dressage Horse is the first book devoted entirely to classical manege exercises that are ridden to supple, strengthen and, when necessary, correct. Internationally known instructor, coach and judge Charles de Kunffy details a program of exercises that will enable horses at all levels of dressage and combined training to improve their performance as equine athletes. Unlike other dressage books that explain how to exercise a horse in order to ride a standardized test, this book explains how such exercises can and should be used to increase performance ability, suspension, collection and changes of gaits through true patterns and counter patterns that are accompanied by diagrams and demonstration photographs. Those who have attended Charles de Kunffy's clinics know that horses inevitably and rapidly improve under his guidance and that riders themselves improve as well. And those encountering him for the first time will experience in this, his third dressage book, what others already know: Here is a horseman of uncommon intelligence and wit who expresses himself clearly, simply and elegantly.

Customer Reviews

A classic Dressage reference
This is one of the best dressage books available - although the schooling patterns are extremely useful and well-described, I actually enjoyed it more for the discussions of dressage/riding philosophy and "big picture" schooling issues

Practical book
of great usefulness for riders of any level and discipline. The author discusses manege patterns that help achieving correct athletic development of your horse and help remedies faults such as crookedness. Too often, riders resort to use of equipment, such as draw reins, to control their horse. After reading this book, these people will realize that that is completely unneccessary and, moreover, is inhumane and has adverse effects. This book is more to the point than some of the other books by the same author.

Excellent!
A 'keeper' and invaluable addition to any 'classical' dressage library!!! A complete list of patterns / exercises, yet still within the description of Classical Dressage. De Kunffy is certainly among the elite group of 'masters'!!!


Reining

Reining Essentials - Sandy Collier, Jennifer Forsberg Meyer

Brimming with expertise and insider information for one of the most popular competitions in Western riding, this definitive reining manual takes aspiring horseback riders through the initial steps—choosing a horse and perfecting the required maneuvers—all the way to becoming a confident competitor. What originated among cowboys working ranch cattle has clearly turned into one of the hottest disciplines in the Western tradition, with the National Reining Horse Association experiencing a dramatic 40 percent increase in membership over the past 10 years. From one of the top competitors and trainers in the sport, this essential guide contains the best methods for producing well-trained horses who can stop, spin, accelerate, and accept the rider's every cue. 

Customer Reviews

Thank You Notes
Sandy Collier has distilled this book down to the best. I am a better communicator (and therefore rider) with my horses because of her being able to teach me how to train my horse....simply. When things seem to "head south" whilst training my colts I can simply aim for another one of Sandy's exercises and with no fuss or bother we are back on course.

If my colts had opposable digits they would be writing Sandy Collier a thank you note for her REINING ESSENTIALS book!!!!
Great Read!
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and recommend it to anyone involved in performance horses. Sandy presents a lot of helpful hints that you can put to use right away!

Reining Essentials:How to Excel in Western's Hottest Sport
Being a first time horse owner I found this book very helpful in "everyday" exercises with my horse. The do's and don'ts of working the horse on the ground or in the saddle.I like this book very much.

Reining (Western Horseman Books) - By Al Dunning

 Through a need to fine-tune his methods and techniques of training in order to stay among the top competitors, Al Dunning presents a brand-new edition that reflects the changes made in his training programs. Includes updated copy and more than 300 new photos.

Customer Reviews

A thorough, yet simple guide to improving responsiveness.
I was pleasantly impressed with this edition of Dunning's book. There are so many important exercises this book reveals to achieve your finished, complete horse. Dunning shares detailed descriptions of each exercise including great photos to provide the reader with an all-around understanding of how to execute each move, and why. I would recommend this book for the horseman who is looking for complete control of his horse, and a detailed understanding of why his horse may respond in a certain way to current commands. The lessons included in Dunning's book, when applied, will create a well rounded animal who can execute not only all of the reining requirements for competition, but will be a better animal to own that can be enjoyed by the whole family.

Reining by Al Dunning
Excellent. Written in a clear, concise manner and easy to follow. Not for beginners at reining. If you are with a trainer, or have a pretty good background knowledge in dressage, this book can bring a lot of things together. Highly recommend this book.

Western Horseman Reining
I love this book. It is very informative and helped me to keep the whole picture in mind. It takes many steps and the right form to do these exercises properly. Great book!


WESTERN RIDING

Intermediate Western Exercises (Arena Pocket Guides) - By Cherry Hill

 Each easy-to-use - workbook includes complete, illustrated directions, an arena map, a list of exercise benefits, necessary precautions, and a "Test Your Skills" section.

Strengthen your Western riding skills with this read-and-ride guide. Perfect for quick reference in the ring!
Beginning Western Exercises features arena maps with patterns of exercises and gaits to help you:
-- Hone your balance
-- Perfect your use of aids
-- Continue transitions
-- Master bending
-- Start lateral work
-- Begin collection

Customer Reviews

I learned a western half halt!
I'm a dyed in the wool western rider and have heard trainers say "check your horse" but didn't realize until I bought this book that a western check is about the same thing as what dressage riders call a half halt. With just this one exercise from this book, I am now finally getting my horse collected. I like the handy size - I stuff it in the gullet of my saddle on top of the blanket. I bought the advanced western book too.

The Basics of Western Riding - By Charlene Strickland

Experience the thrills, challenges, and fun of Western riding!
Beginning riders and Western riders of all ages and skill levels will love this complete guide to the exciting world of Western riding. Veteran rider and trainer Charlene Strickland takes you step-by-step through the process of becoming an effective rider, from evaluating a horse to dressing for style and safety.

Choosing a Western Horse
* Quarter Horse
*Appaloosa
*Paint
*Palamino and more

Tacking up
* Fitting a saddle
* Choosing a bit
* Tack care
* Proper attire

Tips and Techniques
* Choosing an instuctor
* Conditioning
* Training
* Problem Solving

Competitive Events
* Trail riding
* Equitation
* Endurance riding
* Horse show

 Customer Reviews
Good and complete book for the beginning western rider
I loved this book! I have just bought my own quarter horse and read many interesting things in this book that helped gaining more knowledge about western riding, horses, tack and training. I think it is a very good book for people who are starting out with western riding and/or are thinking about buying their own horse.

January HorseLibray Book Reviews (Breeding)

Breeding horses can bring both almost inexplicable joy and sadness. The pure joy and pleasure experienced by observing the birth of a newborn foal is at times only matched in intensity by the sadness experienced by the tragic loss of this special creature or the loss of a treasured mare or stallion.

In this blog I feature books that provide valuable insight into the breeding processes and procedures that are both practical and enjoyable reading for those of us who choose to be involved in the breeding of these majestic animals.



Reviews:

 

Veterinary Guide to Horse Breeding - James M. Giffin MD and Kjersten Darling DVM

From the Back Cover:
A landmark breeding resource for new and seasoned horse owners alike.
With millions of recreational riders on the bridle paths today, breeding is becoming increasingly popular among horse owners at all experience levels. Whether you are already enjoying the rich rewards of equine breeding or need down-to-earth advice on whether breeding is right for you and your animal, the Veterinary Guide to Horse Breeding offers a thorough, up-to-date overview of the process.
From selecting the best horses to mating, pregnancy, birthing, and caring for a newborn foal, this is the authoritative resource you’ll want by your side at all stages of the breeding process to bring healthy, beautiful foals into your life. Features include:

• Guidance on evaluating mares and stallions from bloodline and performance record to overall health and appearance
• Key breeding techniques such as artificial insemination, pasture breeding, and hand breeding
• Pregnancy essentials including testing, gestation, care of pregnant mares, and dealing with complications
• Foaling fundamentals: signs of approaching labor, labor and delivery, care of the postpartum mare, and more
• A complete immunization schedule, physiological evaluation tables and procedures, and a thorough glossary of terms
• More than 100 photos and drawings illustrating anatomy, techniques, and procedures

Modern Horse Breeding: A Guide for Owners - Susan McBane

From the Back Cover:
With the aid of two expert consultants - equine veterinary surgeon Janet Eley and Barrie Hosie, stud groom to the Duke of Roxburgh - Susan McBane has written a book for novice breeders who are fairly experienced with horses and ponies. Modern Horse Breeding is unique in that it is presented in two parts. Part 1, Veterinary Considerations, includes chapters on: why you need a vet; reproductive function in mare and stallion; genetics and heredity; pregnancy; before, during, and after foaling; nutritional requirement of mare, foal, and young stock; diseases and abnormalities; artificial insemination and embryo transfer. Part 2, Practical Aspects, will help you understand: the right and wrong reasons for breeding a horse; financial matters; the foundation stock; sending the mare to stud; care of the pregnant mare; what happens after breeding. Easy-to-read, reliable, and up-to-date, Modern Horse Breeding includes warnings about when to call in expert help, points out the signs of impending problems, and details the foaling process starting a month beforehand.

Breeding Horses - Mina Davies-Morel

Written for students and all with a general interest in breeding horses, this book sets out to provide a basic understanding with sufficient practical information for beginners to get started.
Enough reproductive physiology of the mare and stallion is included to clarify the management techniques which are explained later in the book, but unnecessary details are avoided. Artificial insemination and embryo transfer are also explained, as are selecting the broodmare and stallion, management at covering and during pregnancy, and post-partum care of the mare and foal.

Horse Breeding - Peter Rossdale

Expert advice and practical information on horse breeding for all mare owners.
In this completely revised and updated reference, author Peter Rossdale explains in simple language the biological functions upon which horse reproduction is based, giving enough background to enable those working in stables and stud farms to cope with any problems that may arise. He never overwhelm readers with excessive detail and avoids being doctrinaire, arguing that there are many ways to the same end and that it is the duty of the vet to explain a breeder's options. His purpose throughout is to clarify and be a source of reference, advocating that the person on the spot should be in a position to make decisions based on background knowledge as well as experience - knowledge breeders will find inside this book.

About the Author:
Peter Rossdale is a senior partner in one of the top equine practices in England. He has help numerous lectureships and received many awards for his research, and has presented his work to professional audiences all over the world. He is the co-author, with Susan Wreford, of The Horse's Health Bible, also available from F&W Publications. Peter lives in Newmarket, England.

The Blood-Horse Authoritative Guide to Breeding Thoroughbreds - Blood-Horse Publications

A complex enterprise such as breeding Thoroughbreds needs a good handbook, especially for the novice. The Blood-Horse Authoritative Guide to Breeding Thoroughbreds is just such a tool. It lays a solid foundation for venturing into a complicated and risky undertaking. This comprehensive reference, compiled by the staff of The Blood-Horse, America's leading weekly Thoroughbred racing magazine, provides the overview any horse owner needs to enter the breeding business. Information covered ranges from finding a mare and choosing a stallion to formulating a business plan and negotiating breeding contracts.

Understanding Breeding Management - Christine M. Schweizer

This authoritative yet straightforward guide discusses the preparations required - and the challenges - of getting mares pregnant. Scweizer covers such topics as the mare's anatomy, the reproductive system, and the importance of teasing and veterinary monitoring. She also examines the different breeding methods, including artificial insemination. Schweizer discusses ways to optimize the chances of conception through various management techniques and how to deal with infertility.

About the Author:
Christine M. Schweizer, DVM, spent much of her youth working with Thoroughbred racehorses at Belmont, Aqueduct, and Saratoga racecourses. She recieved her bachelor's degree in animal science from Cornell University and her DVM from the New York State College of Veterinary Medicine at Cornell. She is currently on faculty at the New York State College of Veterinary Medicine, where she is a lecturer and participates in the Section of Theriogenology's (reproductive medicine) equine herd and clinical equine breeding services.

Your First Foal: Horse Breeding for Beginners - Karin Kattwinkel

Many horse owners dream of having a foal from their own mare. However, irrespective of the delights associated with this experience, the pregnancy of the mare and the growth of the foal demand a high degree of care, patience and knowledge. This practical manual provides a comprehensive guide on the subjects of breeding, feeding and husbandry of a mare and foal for the private horse owner. The reader will find all the necessary information about covering the mare, correct feeding during the late pregnancy and lactating period, the birth of the foal as well as the appropriate care of the foal.


About the Author:
Karin Kattwinkel owns an equine training and seminar institute and a teaching college for the holistic approach to equine health.


HorseLibraryStore

December HorseLibrary Book Reviews

My passion is horses, and running my own small Arabian horse stud (Marywood Arabians) is what I love the most. So in order to produce happy people friendly horses my search has led me to a philosophy depicted by the well known 'natural' horseman such as Pat Parelli, Tom and Bill Dorrance and Sid Gustafson.

This week I have provided brief reviews of books available on topics from basic natural horsemanship, starting young horses and imprinting foals.












An excellent resource and product store

This site provides free information on a number of horse issues and links to established on line store with significant discounts on almost any horse product. 

Building Your Dream Horse: Charles Wilhelm's Ultimate Foundation Training

"True horsemanship training is about people first."--Charles Wilhelm

Charles Wilhelm's Ultimate Foundation Training has transformed thousands of horses into more responsive, mannerly companions. In this book, Wilhelm trains you to use his tried and true principles in training your horse. Go inside the horse's mind to see how he thinks and learns, so you can communicate in a language your horse understands. Discover why and how foundation training works. Wilhelm's uniquely successful methods will help you build a relationship that's more rewarding for both you and your horse--one that lasts a lifetime.
* Discover why working with your horse should be fun--and why you should stop if it isn't
* Learn to identify your horse's emotional level and personality type
* Find out the ten secrets your horse wishes he could tell you
* Understand why consistency is essential in establishing desired behavior
* Communicate with your horse using the right combination of pressure and release, patience, persistence, and conscientious follow-through
* Recognize why it's never, ever the horse's fault

About the Author
Charles Wilhelm (Castro Valley, CA) is one of the top six general horse trainers in the country right now. After five decades, Charles Wilhelm's skill in communicating with horses and people has earned him praise. John Lyons, Richard Shrake, and Donna Snyder-Smith are but a few of the better-known clinicians who have commented on Charles' amazing abilities with horses.

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  He’s a featured trainer at all major horse expositions and holds clinics and demonstrations at his own facility in Castro Valley and throughout California
  
  
  
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  He has been featured in print and online magazines and authors monthly columns for four major equestrian magazines
  
  
  
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  He has appeared numerous times on television
  
  
  
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  He is known for his success in working with "problem" horses. Colt starting and eliminating performance issues comprise the majority of his work
  
  
  
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  His own diverse horsemanship education includes working with John Lyons, classical dressage trainer Major Miguel Tavora, Olympic Dressage Medallist Steffen Peters, and western pleasure expert Richard Shrake.
  
  
  

Customer Reviews

Compared to Downunder Horsemanship
This is a very solid new training book that came out shortly after Clinton Anderson's Downunder Horsemanship. There are a many similarities in the two trainers' approaches, including:
* every encounter with a horse includes training
* extensive groundwork is key to success under saddle
* exercises on the lunge line emphasized more than pure round pen work
* endless flexion exercises are important to condition a horse to respond to very light rein pressure
* one-rein stop is key to safe riding; how to train for it.

Wilhelm has good advice on buying a horse, complete with a sample sales agreement. There is some very good stuff in the pages he devotes to problem solving. He deals with the usual issues of bucking, rearing, trailer loading, etc. I especially appreciated his description of how to use a tie ring to cure horses from pulling back when tied, and the exercises to overcome buddy sour behavior.

One area where I can't fairly rate Wilhelm is his clarity and thoroughness in describing his foundation techniques. I bought Anderson's book after seeing him at a horse expo, so his book made sense to me immediately. Since then I've viewed Anderson's Riding with Confidence video series -- easily the most helpful and well-produced of any training series I've seen. So I recognize I'm handicapped in comparing the books fairly, but there were a number of times I didn't feel I was quite grasping Wilhem's approach, especially in applying the techniques over an extended period of time.

Certainly Anderson's book is a better bargain by the pound. Both list for $24.99, but Downunder Horsemanship is almost twice the size, and filled with huge beautiful color photographs.

Wilhelm has a three paragraph rant about trainers "selling the benefits of their magical equipment." I've never heard a trainer do that, and I was amused when I went to Wilhem's web site to see that he has his own large inventory of products for sale, including the tie ring that is essential to his technique for curing pullback. In my experience, most of the stuff these guys sell is good quality and fairly priced, and they don't need to be so defensive about it.

The bottom line for me is that Building Your Dream Horse is a fine book, but Downunder Horsemanship is better. Either one would be more useful in combination with seeing the authors in person or viewing their videos.

Clinton Anderson's Downunder Horsemanship: Establishing Respect and Control for English and Western Riders

“This is an enjoyable book to read, with a lot of useful information to offer.” -- American Quarter Horse Journal

From the Publisher
Native Australian Clinton Anderson offers his training methodology for “real life” horses and their owners. Beginning by stressing the importance of a fundamental understanding of horse psychology and “why they do what they do,” the author introduces readers to safe and specific ways to approach training or behavioral problems, then guides them through basic groundwork and under–saddle exercises. Throughout, the book features two “real horses” with “real riders” and “real problems,” their experiences with Downunder Horsemanship, and how it improved confidence, established respect, and provided “real solutions” for all involved. Clinton Anderson trains, tours, and conducts clinics across the United States. He stars in a weekly satellite television program called “Downunder Horsemanship TV,” where he works with untrained and “problem” horses. He is based in Sterling, Illinois.

Customer Reviews

Best of it's type
The first book I bought on horse training was "There Are No Problem Horses, Only Problem Riders" by Mary Twelveponies. Then I bought "Lyons On Horses" by John Lyons. Then I subscribed to Lyons' "Perfect Horse" magazine. Then I attended a community ed horse training class. Then I bought "You Can Train Your Horse to Do Anything!: "On Target" Training -- Clicker Training and Beyond" by Shawna Karrasch. I've skimmed Pat Parelli's stuff. I've seen Monty Roberts on DVD and in person. I've seen John Lyons' video series. Just so you know where I'm coming from.

The only purchase I regret is the Mary Twelveponies book. I can't think of a single solution in her book that isn't better solved by the others, and some of her advice is questionable. Lyons is great, but spend your money on his magazine instead of his book. Clicker training is very useful (I solved a bridling problem in one day after reading the book) but Karrasch wastes many pages prattling on about the science of operant conditioning. I read B.F. Skinner is college; I didn't need the history lesson. She does the same thing in the related video -- exceedingly disappointing. Monty Roberts can do anything as long as he has enough panels and mechanical contraptions and a big strong gentle well-trained saddle horse to work alongside the horse he is training. If his ego and use of terms like "Join-Up" and "Language of Equus" doesn't put you off, you can learn a lot from Roberts. Parelli always seems to be having more fun with his horses than anybody else, but I can't figure out what he's doing half the time. (see update on Parelli, bottom)

Which brings us to Clinton Anderson. What I especially appreciate about his approach is its effectiveness. Anderson excels in two areas: his techniques give rapid results and he is an exceptional communicator. Most of his clinics are not the standard get-a-green-horse-in-the-round-pen-and-be-on-him-by-the-end-of-the-day. Instead, he works with riders who are having problems with their horses, and teaches the riders to be trainers rather than doing the work for them. That approach has helped him refine his techniques and appreciate all the ways we are likely to apply them incorrectly.

For the book, Anderson recruited two riders with problem horses and put them through his program. Each chapter describes the technique, its purpose, how to apply it, how to deal with bad reactions from the horse and mistakes from the rider. It was especially helpful to read the comments from the two women on how their horses reacted and how they had to overcome their own mistakes.

I've only done one session with my horse and the results were dramatic enough to make a believer out of me.

For a sample of his techniques go to his web site, scroll down to the bottom, and click on articles. There's some good stuff there that isn't in the book.

If you have a horse that doesn't always know what you want or won't always do it, or you're a little afraid of it, this is the best book I've found. I highly recommend it.

Clinton Anderson's Lessons Well Learned: Why My Method Works for Any Horse

Through personal insights and dynamic color photographs, this engaging handbook examines the unparalleled effectiveness of the Downunder Horsemanship® method of horse training. Influenced by lessons learned from the horses themselves, this guide explains how the training process developed and entertains as it educates. Written in basic, practical language, this manual clearly demonstrates how to apply the knowledge to everyday equestrian activities and shows how Downunder Horsemanship® works for any horse.

Customer Reviews

Clinton Anderson's Best Book Yet:
It's an easy read for those of us time-challenged multi-taskers who rarely have time to finish an entire "conventional" horse-training book.

It's a GREAT guide to the progression of Clinton's training method and covers what Downunder Horsemanship MATERIALS (videos in particular) one should study at each step of the way. I like it a lot more than his first book - this one should be called "DownUnder Horsemanship for Dummies" (or "The Ten-Minute DUH Manager") - it is so well-organized and will make a terrific reference manual for those of us who want to go back and fill in the "holes" in our horses' educations. Maybe they will come out with a small-format paperback we can keep in our pocket at all times.

It lists 20 lessons horses have taught him and that you will need to understand in order to teach YOUR horses. For those of us who are Mark Rashid fans, Clinton's new book strikes a chord; each lesson kicks off with a story about a particular horse whose particular "issue" or "issues" added another building block to Clinton's education.

Plus, though I've read the story of Clinton's evolution from "just a normal kid" to the leading trainer of SEVERAL generations, somehow this book clarifies that progression in a very entertaining and illuminating manner. I am ever so much more in awe of his talent than I was before, and yet the book isn't written in a bragging manner. In fact I'm not sure even CLINTON realizes how remarkable he is.

What I love about it is that at times you actually believe that if YOU apply yourself to the study of horsemanship as assiduously as did Clinton, you might grow up to be famous. Me, I'd happily settle for being able to train TWO horses to a decent degree of accomplishment - MY two. This book will help a LOT. And I'm only halfway through it.

I love the title of the last chapter - truer words were never spoken - something about most people who hope to turn the corner in their horsemanship quit before they ever get to the corner.

In my estimation this book will definitely take you AT LEAST to the corner. Read it, keep it handy as a reference tool, apply its lessons to your own horse and you can, like Clinton, go wherever your dreams may take you.


Finally a book that encourages trainers too!!!
I try to keep an open mind and use various horse training methods as a professional horse trainer. Clinton Anderson has the easiest program by far for me to show my clients how I work with their horses, thus they can continue learning and teaching their horse when they leave. His first book showed each exercise, word for word as well as photos, which is excellent for the beginner horseman and professionals alike.
This second book I feel helped me to keep on track as a professional, and how to communicate training to my clients in a better, more productive way. And also to help clients wishing to purchase a horse when the client just doesn't get that even if they pay $50,000 for a horse, the horse's training still has to be maintained, or the horse isn't going to continue to perform at the level they expect. And, if they have a bad minded horse, 'rescue' etc, do they have the time, knowledge, and experience to train the horse? He makes the reader ask themselves a lot of hard questions that many horse owners don't want to know the answers to.
The ideas and suggestions he gives will keep me motivated to keep trying to help newbies in the horse industry by giving them this book to helping them to understand their questions, ideas, and thoughts once they have left our farm with either a training horse or a newly purchased horse. Great product Clinton! Thank you for not going over the same boring thing like other authors! Any professional in the business, or any new horse owner will be able to use your concepts, and get a better working communication with their horse as well as the horse industry as a whole! I highly suggest both books!

The Faraway Horses: The Adventures and Wisdom of One of America's Most Renowned Horsemen

"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 realize 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. Horses and life, it's all the same to me."
--Buck Brannaman

Buck Brannaman's method of training focuses on communicating with horses, reading their body language, and making them feel safe so that horse and rider can achieve a true union. He considers himself a horse gentler, not a horse breaker, and in THE FARAWAY HORSES, he shares the knowledge he has cultivated over a lifetime. And he provides a fascinating behind-the-scenes glimpse of Robert Redford's movie The Horse Whisperer, for which he was the technical advisor.
This moving, inspiring, and often humorous book tells the story of Buck's life, and gives horse owners the keys to understanding their animals.

From the Back Cover
Nearly every week of the year, Buck Brannaman is on the road, conducting horsemanship clinics in which he teaches horse owners how to better understand and work with their animals, creating a relationship based on trust and respect rather than force. Buck's skills have become legendary in fact, the main character in Robert Redford's film The Horse Whisperer was based largely on him, and he served as the director's technical adviser during the shoot.
"These principles are really about life - about living your life so you're not at war with the horse, or with other people," Buck writes. At heart, this rich and rewarding autobiography is ultimately a prescription for living a harmonious existence - whether it involves horses or not.

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Customer Reviews

Of Horses and Humans
This book is not only on how to help horses but on character,from begining to end it gives us lessons on how to help not only the troubled horse ,but on our own troubles as well .
We see from early on what shaped and formed the man of today,the abuse he and his brother suffered as children,the long road to true unity with the horse,the faliures along the way ,the tragedy of his first marriage and how as we say in the horse world he got back up and got on again ,all along we can see were many people would have thrown in the towel and quit ,Buck did not and in so doing showed strength and character .This is all written in a unvarnished way that I find refreshing
I found myself near tears at times and laughing at others ,some of what has happened in his life hits close to home for myself,as a lifelong horseman I have struggled to find unity and peace with the horse ,I have lost loved ones and struggled on,in reading his book I found new ways to deal with some of lifes problems and with my own love of the horse.
To say I enjoyed the book is an understatement,it will be something I will go back to time after time and I hope others will also.You do not have to own horse or be from the horse world to find something in this book that will help you either with your family or life its self.

The gentle art of people and horses
Distance is everything to Buck Brannaman.
Time and space have made all the difference. Whether it's the 30 years since his harrowing childhood, or the nearly imperceptible space that constitutes trust between a horse and its rider, it's all been important to the horse-whisperer whose life and work helped breathe vitality into a gentle method of training animals. Now he's telling his own story in "The Faraway Horses."
Brannaman recounts his sometimes horrifying, occasionally funny adventures. He describes his training technique, built on trust and respect, not force. He writes about horses he's learned from, including Bif, the rank outlaw who became one of Buck's most trusted mounts. And he tells of owners he's taught, including the trainer who abused her show Arabians to make them look "spirited."
But the roots of his special connection with troubled and wild horses lie in his own childhood.
"I want people to be entertained, but there are some real stark realities out there," Brannaman says. "I hope it just doesn't go away after they close the book and put it on their shelf, but that the book's with them, maybe for the rest of their lives."

An amazing & real illustration of life and horsemanship.
The story of Buck Brannaman's life is truly phenomenal. From surviving childhood abuse to becoming one of the foremost experts on natural horsemanship, this is a compelling story of survival and lessons learned. His simple lesson of working with the horse by offering him/her a "better option" is really common sense, and he offers examples from his own experiences to illustrate his knowledge. While this is not a book full of techniques and advice from Buck, it is an excellent read for how he came to be where he is today.

The Ultimate Horse Behavior and Training Book: Enlightened and Revolutionary Solutions for the 21st Century

 A superbly illustrated instructional manual offering groundbreaking, step-by-step solutions for hundreds of horse behavior, health, and training problems.

Drawing from her decades of working with horses and studying their physical, mental, and emotional characteristics, and with the warmth and humor that has gained her a devoted international audience, Linda Tellington-Jones demonstrates how her famous Tellington Method of healing, training, and communicating can influence and alter equine behavior. In many ways a compendium of the scores of "Tellington TTouches" and exercises that Tellington-Jones has discovered and proven effective over the years, this book promises that a new generation of readers can learn to avoid or solve the problems that so commonly interfere with progressive training and the horse-human relationship. Linda Tellington-Jones is an internationally recognized animal behaviorist and equine expert. She has authored six books and produced numerous video programs. Tellington-Jones lives in Hawaii.

Customer Reviews

if you love your horse(s) as much as we do, get this book!!!
Even if you have a whole shelf filled with books on horses,and you're lucky enough to have at least one of these magnificent creatures to care for, this book is a must have. we are still practicing a few of the technics currently on our mare.She loves the contact(and touching).
and the author also covers the issues of horses who do not like to be handled or touched due to accidents, abuse,etc. and how to gain their trust.And most importantly,it makes you more attuned to their needs in general.

Great reference and training tool
I have several of Linda Tellington-Jones other books, but this one is going to be my 1st choice as a go to reference. I love the A-Z Problem section. Covers most anything you can think of and refers you to the section with tools/exercises needed to overcome the problems. I love how her methods result in a relaxed, eager to please horse.

Wonderful Training Guide
Excellent teaching aids and easily follwed directions. Even experienced horse trainers will find tips in this book to make training horses a less stressful experience on all concerned.

 

HorseLibrary Book Reviews (2)

My passion is horses, and running my own small Arabian horse stud (Marywood Arabians) is what I love the most. So in order to produce happy people friendly horses my search has led me to a philosophy depicted by the well known 'natural' horseman such as Pat Parelli, Tom and Bill Dorrance and Sid Gustafson.

This week I have provided brief reviews of books available on topics from basic natural horsemanship, starting young horses and imprinting foals.







Reviews:

Imprint Training of the Newborn Foal: A Swift Effective Method for Permanently Shaping a Horse's Lifetime Behavior - Robert M. Miller DVM
An easy to follow, step-by-step approach to handling and training reborn foals. This book also provides a number of techniques and exercises to aid in halter training which assist in future performance training of your young horse. Imprinting is the process where a foal bonds with whatever large objects are present at the time of birth. Dr. Millers methods educate the foal with the skills it will need to become a useful lifelong companion. This early imprint training, taking a very brief period of time, enables bonding between horse and human whilst desensitizing the young horse to everyday frightening stinuli.

From the back Cover
Probably one of the most exciting and beneficial breakthroughs in equine psychology and training in the last decade has been the procedure the author calls "imprint training," the behavior-shaping learning process that occurs immediately after a foal's birth. Renowned veterinarian, clinician and lecturer Dr. Robert M. Miller researched, developed and presented these techniques to a world full of horsemen and - women eager to bond with their horses, understand them better and help them to live more comfortably and willingly in a world full of humans.

Dr. Miller, like most of us, was taught the conventional wisdom that excessive handling of newborn foals would result in spoiled foals and the risk of rejection by the mare. However, in over 30 years of veterinary practice, he found just the opposite. Foals he was forced to handle because of obstetrical emergencies turned out to be gentle and unafraid of him later on, and they recognized him. Horses, like deer, cattle, sheep and certain fowl, are a "precocial" species and are imprinted by what they see moving around them after they're born.
Dr. Miller experimented with his own foals, maximizing their handling at the time of birth to imprint them. He added desensitizing procedures and later conditioned responses to create "imprint training," a technique that’s now in use all over the world, with all breeds and other precocial species, as well.

This book contains Dr. Miller's theories and techniques, including step-by-step procedures involving bonding, habituation and sensitization. He discusses how to properly handle the mare before, during and after imprinting. There are subsequent sessions detailing how to tie and halter-break the foal, and the added bonus of teaching performance basics that ultimately aid in under-saddle training. Dr. Miller also addresses problems and their prevention, plus the handling of special cases, such as race horses and mules.

About the Author
ROBERT MILLER, D.V.M. is a world-renowned veterinarian, animal behaviorist, author, and lecturer. Since 1965, he's been a much sought-after speaker at universities and veterinary and horsemen's groups on various aspects of veterinary science and horsemanship. His lectures and seminars have been presented all over America, Europe, Australia, and Africa. He's also appeared as an expert witness in many court cases. His other books include Health Problems of the Horse, Revised Health Problems of the Horse, and Most of My Patients Are Animals, plus the video titles Influencing the Horse's Mind and Imprint Training of the Foal.



Starting Colts: Catching / Sacking Out / Driving / First Ride / First 30 Days / Loading - Mike Kevil

Mike Kevil has been desribe as a 'horse whisperer', psychologist, magician and animal behaviorist, however he describes himself as just a plain old 'horse trainer'. He doesn't follow fashion or trend and plainly states that all he really does is train horses. He feels anyone can do what he does if they obtain the knowledge and practice the methods and skills. A few basic skills and a good work ethic are all that is needed to get started. In this practical guide Kevil provides the reader with these basic skills and much more, as the book is ideal for both the beginner and expert horse-person.

Based on a simple philosophy of Stimulus-Reward, then Repeat Kevil's method is ideal for horse people wishing to develop a better relationship with their horse. He describes the process of applying the stimulus until the desired response is achieved and immediately reward the horse to reinforce the desired behavior. Emphasizing safety, Kevil offers the reader an understanding of how to apply and cease the stimuli in a humane and beneficial manner. Safety and easy progress are emphasized along with a patient and steady approach in order to build confidence in both horse and handler/trainer.

From the Back Cover

You can use different words to describe Mike Kevil - horse whisperer, psychologist, magician, behaviorist--but he prefers just plain old horse trainer. "Whatever the current fad," he says, "all we're really doing is training a horse. It isn't magical, mystical, secretive, or even difficult for the most part. Most anyone can do it; but to do it well takes knowledge and practice. A few basic skills and a good work ethic are all you need to get started."

Kevil gives the reader all that and more in this practical guide to mastering horse-training skills aimed at both the expert and novice horseman and -woman. His philosophy is simple: Stimulus-Response-Reward, then Repeat. You apply a stimulus until you get the desired response, then you stop the stimulus and reward the horse. In the pages of Starting Colts, Kevil offers readers an understanding of how to apply and cease the stimulus in the best and most humane way possible. He emphasizes safety and going slowly with young horses. Patience and a steady approach build confidence in both the horse and trainer. Chapters include facilities, equipment, catching and leading, tying up, longeing, sacking out, first saddling, introduction to the bit, driving, first ride, first thirty days, developing the mouth, thirty to ninety days, and trailer loading.

About the Author
MIKE KEVIL has over thirty years' experience starting colts and changing the behavior of older horses. He's traveled all over the United States and Europe working with all breeds of horses and disciplines. He works with clubs, associations, schools, and horseman's groups. The countless colts Kevil has started have gone on to become champions in a variety of disciplines, but perhaps what's most important to him is that The horses have become winners in the hearts of their owners. When asked why he does what he does, he replied: "Two reasons. I like helping people learn, and I find the horse's mind fascinating. After all these years and all the horses I've worked with, I still get a kick every time a horse makes an improvement. My job is to teach the horse something so he's better than when I started with him."



A Horseman's Notes - Erik Herbermann

From the author of best seller "Dressage Formula" this book presents further insight into classical riding methods and techniques which can assist every rider discover harmony and joy in their relationship with their horse. Based upon his notes scribed from answering student questions during his many years of teaching, this book offers expert advice not only to those who rider without professional instruction, also to those expert riders looking for that elusive 'something'. This beautifully presented volume is destined to become a collector's item.
About the Author
Erik Herbermann was born in Amsterdam in 1945. His initial equestrian training was with Patricia Salt FBHS, a pupil herself of the Spanish Riding School. Subsequently, he studied under the celebrated classical riding teacher, Egon von Neindorff. Now residing in the USA, Erik Herbermann devotes much of his time to lecturing, teaching and conducting clinics internationally. As well as producing three editions of his enduring classic, Dressage Formula, and narrating an audio version of its third edition, he has also written numerous articles for equestrian publications in the United States, Holland and Canada. Erik Herbermann is a staunch advocate of classical ideals. His ideology is based on an objective study of the horse's nature, which seeks the depth of understanding and quality of work perceived in the greatest of Renaissance Masters. In common with these luminaries he views equitation as a self-improving art, rooted in the utmost affections and respect for the horse.



Believe: A Horseman's Journey - Buck Brannaman and William Reynolds
Review

"Others have falsely claimed to be the inspiration for Tom Booker in The Horse Whisperer. The one who truly inspired me was Buck Brannaman. His skill, understanding and his gentle, loving heart have parted the clouds for countless troubled creatures. Buck is the Zen master of the horse world."--Nicholas Evans, author of The Horse Whisperer

"There's a point in horsemanship when horse and horseman know enough about each other that a third thing, another dimension, begins to be part of the relationship. It's upon this element that the real ride takes place and in Believe we can see the markers along the journey."
--Tom McGuane

"Buck Brannaman is a remarkable person. Remarkable in that he can communicate on a variety of levels--with people as well as horses--all with one desire, to help free the spirit in everyone involved."--Jill Rappaport, Entertainment correspondent on NBC's "Today Show" and co-author of People We Know, Horses They Love

"Each of the 13 stories here offers a variation on the central lesson. One of the most engaging things is that these are not all wealthy horse people with great means at their disposal: often the people represented here simply enoy a long-standing love affair with horses and the pleassures they bring."--Santa Barbara News-Press

Believe continues the on from Brannaman's best selling The Faraway Horses, and portrays the journey of twelve people with whom he has worked and in their words and Brannaman's perspective this book present s essays of firsthand experience hope and confidence Brannama is able to instill not only in these people but also their horses and their unique relationship.

• Sherry learnt to replace fear with a knowledge of reality
• Theresa acquired patience and a sense of timing in teaching her horse to accept saddle and bridle
• Sissy credits her new found ability to dealwith life threatening illness to Brannaman's inspirational words and actions
• Shane experienced the ability of horse to rebuild and strengthen a bond between him and his son.

From the Back Cover

In his best-selling The Faraway Horses, Buck Brannaman, extraordinary trainer and acknowledged inspiration for The Horse Whisperer, described how he found his calling and honed his art and craft. Following the book’s widespread acclaim, the universal application of Brannaman’s approach to interpersonal relationships has struck a responsive chord in the equestrian community and with the public at large.
Believe continues to chronicle the man’s efforts as catalyst and mentor as we meet thirteen people with whom he has worked. Through their words and through Brannaman’s perceptive introductions to each essay, we experience first-hand the hope and confidence that he has instilled in them and their horses.
You will discover through these stories how many untapped dreams and abilities you, too, possess, and how you can bring them to fruition. So journey with Buck Brannaman, learn from him, and profit from the voyage.

About the Author
Buck Brannaman is the widely respected horse gentler whose approach has inspired and revolutionized the equestrian world. He lives with his wife Mary and their three daughters in Sheridan, Wyoming.
William Reynolds, associate publisher of Cowboys & Indians magazine, lives with his family in California’s Santa Ynez Valley.



Natural Horsemanship - Pat Parelli, Kathy Kadash and Karen Parelli

Pat Parelli needs no introduction and this classic book on natural horsemanship is seen as the horse and rider training handbook.

From the Back Cover
Internationally known and respected as a horseman and clinician, Pat Parelli has helped thousands of riders understand and communicate with their horses through his Parelli Natural Horse-Man-Ship program. PNH offers riders achievable goals and measurable standards, no matter the discipline - English or western - or the activity - competitive or recreational. Pat's philosophies and concepts are based on a language of trust, leadership and respect, and a special bond between horse and human.



Problem Solving Volume 1: Preventing and Solving Horse Problems - Marty Marten
This volume provides time tested horse handling techniques for dealing with common behavioral issues associated with horses. Presented in an simple and easy to follow format for all horse lovers.

From the Back Cover

A horse-handling clinician's time-tested techniques for effectively preventing and solving common horse problems. Develop a willing partnership between horse and human.
This book includes the most common problems people consistently seem to have with their horses including: groundwork, riding foundation, trailer-loading, barn-sour, spooking, crossing water and bridges, herd-bound, pulling back when tied and much, much more.

About the Author
Marty Marten has devoted his life to helping people solve problems, start colts, and trailer-load horses by giving public and private horsemanship clinics. His career as a horsemanship clinician started in 1988, and since then he's added trail riding, cow working, and working ranch clinics to help people advance and apply their horsemanship principles to real life situations. In addition, Marty has given horsemanship safety clinics for feed-yard cowboys in Texas, Colorado, Idaho, Oregon, and Kansas, and private clinics for owners and wranglers at Colorado guest ranches.



Reining: The Art of Performance in Horses - Bob Loomis and Kathy Kadash

Given 5 out of 5 stars by purchasers as a instructional book on western riding.


A tremendous resources for both the beginner and expert trainer with wonderful photographs and diagrams, in which Loomis present s a clear and methodical training program. Beginning with his philosophy on horsemanship (think not intimidate) Loomis commences with ground work and basic conditioning training and progresses to suppling exercises emphasizing the importance of circles and advantaged maneuvers. Loomis teaches the reader to think, about how the horse thinks and how the horseman t thinks. Trainer or rider, with this book the reader will never stop learning how to improve from whatever level he is at. A tremendous resource! A must read for any western discipline, with well organized information for all levels.


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