The Life of Horses (Howell reference books) - Hardcover

This is the ultimate book on horses-a truly comprehensive, imaginative, forward-looking, and international reference work about all aspects of the life of horses and the people involved. It provides detailed information on all major horse breeds, sports and leisure activities, and ceremonial and working horses.
* Compares and contrasts breeds from around the world and covers their history and relevance to modern uses.
* Includes special feature articles written by top international breeders, trainers, jockeys, and other horse people that give an insight as to what it is like to be involved with horses on a day-to-day basis.
* Reveals the latest thinking on understanding horses.
* Takes an in-depth look at all modern uses of the horse in work and leisure.

The Life of Horses Horses have been important to humans throughout history, whether as a means of transport, as a vital part of sporting activities, or even as respected companions. The diverse lives of these magnificent animals are celebrated in this forward-looking and accessible book. The Life of Horses tells you all you ever wanted to know about horses, beginning with their anatomy, physiology, and psychology. The world's major breeds are then covered in detail, each with a timeline showing key events in the breed's development. This section demonstrates the international differences in breeding, training, and styles of riding horses. Finally, all types of horse use, from competitive sports to leisure activities and working horses, are discussed in an informative and accessible way. Exciting double-page features, written by key people in the horse world about their personal experiences, are spread throughout the book. These give the reader a unique insight into the various types of relationship humans have with horses, and what particular jobs involve. For example, one article explains what a physiotherapist does, another what it is like being an event rider, and yet another shows what it is like to be a groom. Specially commissioned, full-colour and black-and-white photographs and lively, fact-packed text by leading experts breathe life into this internationally popular subject.