Go the Distance: The Complete Resource for Endurance Horses Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)Written by a veterinarian, this book could be so techincal in nature that only another scientist or veterinarian would be able to comprehend everything. But it's not. This book is written in such a way as to make the information perfect accessible to anyone. Dr. Loving goes into appropriate detail about every aspect of endurance riding. Most importantly, she writes in such a clear and concise manner as to make even the more difficult subjects to comprehend, such as the finer points of conformation and the metabolic health of your horse. Well worth the money, this book goes into greater depth in the care of your horse, without confusing the reader. Photos throughout the pages, taken by the author, illustrate major points and drawings go into detail about the inner workings of your horse. If you are interested in starting endurance riding, or take it very seriously and want to do everything right ... either way, this book should be read and re-read as often as needed.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Go the Distance: The Complete Resource for Endurance Horses

The definitive guide to long distance riding, written by a leading equine veterinarian and endurance ride official.Featuring 100 photos. No other equestrian sports demand such a continuous training effort as do endurance and competitive distance riding. To reach the highest level of the sports--competing in a 100-mile ride--requires years of careful conditioning. In Go the Distance, Dr. Nancy Loving--a top veterinarian, endurance rider, and judge--clearly explains everything a rider needs to know, from selecting a horse to evaluating fitness and nutrition. Chapters include: Intelligent Nutrition, Conditioning Principles and Training Philosophy, Evaluating Fitness, Conditioning for Specific Terrain and Climatic Factors, Cooling Strategies, and Evaluation of Metabolic Health and Soundness. If you are an experienced distance rider, this is essential reading to improve your training and competitive skills. If you are just beginning, Go the Distance will safely guide you and your horse along the miles. Nancy Loving lives in Boulder, Colorado. 264 pp 6 x 9 100 b/w photos, 22 drawings and charts

Click here for more information about Go the Distance: The Complete Resource for Endurance Horses

Read More...

Life Lessons from a Ranch Horse Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)This is simply a great book, whether you are a horse person or not. In fact, so far I have given it to all my friends and employees, none of which are "horsey", and they all love it! It's hard to put into words what I have learned from it and what I continue to learn each time I read it. (4 times so far) Suffice it to say that it is the best book I've read in the last two years, and maybe longer. However, I must also say if you buy this because you are looking for a horse training book per si, then you will most certainly be disappointed. It isn't a training book in the literal sense. Rather it opens doors to possibilities that are available to us all not just with horses, but more importantly, in our overall daily lives. If you are looking to find better ways to help your horse through understanding and communication, or simply to help improve your life in general, then this one is for you. The lessons to be gleaned from this book are simple but very powerful. Right up there with another one of my favorites, The Tao of Pooh. I HIGHLY recomend this book.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Life Lessons from a Ranch Horse

Internationally renowned horse trainer Mark Rashid pays tribute to the horse that became his teacher.In Mark Rashid's fourth book, Life Lessons from a Ranch Horse, the teacher becomes the student when a nondescript, seven-year-old horse steps into his life. A famous horse trainer, known for listening to horses and working with them in a non-confrontational manner, Mark is faced with odd behavior from this horse, and he must reevaluate everything he understands about horses and about himself, as a trainer and as a person.Beginning with an untimely balk from Buck, who never falters, Mark tried to find out why it happened. Drawing on experiences as far reaching as the Navajo way and Japanese martial arts, Mark begins to piece together the workings of the mind of his horse. That process and the conclusions he reaches are the heart of this very personal story.What he finds challenges him to become a better horse trainer, but it also challenges him to become a better person. His argument that Buck, an everyday horse, has the ability to plan ahead and make choices in a consistent manner will challenge the reader to rethink his or her relationships with animals and way of dealing with life.In separate chapters, Mark describes the six life lessons he learned while working with Buck. Later in the book, he puts these lessons into practice, with topics such as blending, balance, and communication. Throughout the book, a philosophy of dealing with horses and of living life itself emerges.Mark's inimitable storytelling skills illuminate what Buck has to teach. Heart warming but gritty, Life Lessons From a Ranch Horse is not a conventional horse book. But, then again, Buck is not a conventional horse, nor is his owner a conventional horse trainer.

Click here for more information about Life Lessons from a Ranch Horse

Read More...

Luck of the Draw Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)Lucky, (Luck of the Draw), had some pretty bad luck. It's a wonderful story for children & adults. I hate spoiler reviews so all I will say is it will not disappoint you & yours.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Luck of the Draw

Click here for more information about Luck of the Draw

Read More...

Sam Saddlebags Horse Detective: Book 1: Movie Madness Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)A very creative and well-written story! My kids and I all enjoyed this book. This is an interesting story about a horse that solves a mystery and learns about others in the process. We hope to see more from this talented young writer!

Click Here to see more reviews about: Sam Saddlebags Horse Detective: Book 1: Movie Madness

Children's book about a horse who solves a mystery.

Click here for more information about Sam Saddlebags Horse Detective: Book 1: Movie Madness

Read More...

Considering the Horse: Tales of Problems Solved and Lessons Learned Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I have lots of books on horse behavior, horse psychology, etc., but this book is better than all the rest put together. I have a young mare who is my first horse at the age of 40plus, she is quite nervous at times which doesn`t do my nerves any good either! This book has been a great help in my ways of dealing with her & we now seem to have a closer partnership. If one thing wasn`t working with her, then I`d approach the problem in a different way as Mark suggests, & we`d finally sort the conflict out. The one thing that struck me after reading this book, was how much calmer I was if she started playing up. I just had to think how Mark, or the old man, would deal with the situation & immediately became calm & resolute in my actions. My mare obviously sensed this & became calm herself. I have just read the book again & am about to order his other one. If you want to solve your horses problems then this book is a must. It is not a book saying you must do this or that, but is a book saying this may work, or because all horses are different then this other way may work, or you may have to find a solution yourself. After reading this book the solution to your problem will be easy to see. If I had to part with all my horse books apart from one, this would be the one left on the shelf

Click Here to see more reviews about: Considering the Horse: Tales of Problems Solved and Lessons Learned

Mark Rashid's entertaining stories will introduce you toquiet solutions for resolving training problems from the horse's pointof view. Topics include ground manners, picking up feet, headshyness,trailer loading, mounting problems, balking, and head tossing. If youare about to buy a horse and definitely if you are about to sell yourhorse because of problems, or even if you only wish you owned a horse,this book will give you a whole new perspective into the horse's pointof view.

Click here for more information about Considering the Horse: Tales of Problems Solved and Lessons Learned

Read More...

Return to Manitou Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)A true story that all family members can read and hard to put down. Mixed up with some comedy, sadness but most of all. a pure determination of the spirit of the author. Takes you to a place she knows and makes you feel you've been there. I fell in love with Clifford too.Ms. Nancy Bailey is unafraid to put her all into this- Inspiring Recommend this one highly.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Return to Manitou

Did you know a horse can teach you what true moxie is?A yearling whitetail buck encounters a hunter and then wrestles for his life. A boy falls through the ice and finds an ingenious way to save himself. A German shepherd chases away an apparition. All are episodes of the courage displayed in Return to Manitou. In this poignant and inspiring sequel to Clifford of Drummond Island, two Morgan horses live by example, showing their owner how to survive injury, tragedy and grief. A true story and an unforgettable read.Praise for Clifford of Drummond Island:"Author Bailey has come up with a winning true story about Clifford the Morgan Horse that is witty, engaging, and at times, laugh out loud funny. Best of all, Bailey admits to her equine shortcomings with hilarious results."—Hallie McEvoy, Horseman's Yankee Pedlar"An entertaining and heartwarming read."—Jill Lowe Brumwell, author, Drummond Island History, Folklore and Early People

Click here for more information about Return to Manitou

Read More...

Western Horse Behavior and Training Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I have bought several different training books but this is the only one that really explains in detail everything you need to know. I live in Europe and there is no way I'll find a western trainer in my area, so I really needed advice, and this book gives it. Very helpful, from what you need in bits, bridles, saddles, spurs, and why, and how to best select it all for you and your horses. Then light handed horsemanship from the very beginning, from the first the minutes of meeting a colt at birth, all the way to how to teaching him to side step, it is all in there. Excellent!

Click Here to see more reviews about: Western Horse Behavior and Training

An expert shares his insights and applies them to the handling of young horses and their early training--from first bridling to turning on the rearhand--an essential reference for every Western-style rider.

Click here for more information about Western Horse Behavior and Training

Read More...

Understanding the Ancient Secrets of the Horse's Mind Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)Having heard Dr. Miller speak about imprinting a foal, I've been a big fan of his work. He's done a lot in the field of horsemanship, helping to educate horse owners. His work is aimed at the amateur horse owner, someone who might not have a background in horses, or who only has one or two in their care. With that said, do I agree with everything he says? No, I do not. However, I did find this book to be a thought provoking collection of essays.
The "ancient secrets" to which Dr. Miller refers is simply the natural way in which a horse is hardwired. Those who work around horses know that they are prey creatures. Their instincts tell them to flee from danger, and barring that, fight to get free. Therefore, many of things that owners and trainers do to them run counter to that instinct. Dr. Miller's book helps the owner and/or trainer to understand a bit more the details in a horse's mind, and understand why a horse may be performing a certain action.
From the title of this book it sounds like it might be the "be-all-end-all" to horsemanship tomes. Certainly "Understanding the Ancient Secrets of the Horse's Mind" sounds weighty and important. I'm not saying this book isn't important, but the book cannot, especially in such a slim volume, be the complete handbook to getting inside a horse's psyche. No, this is a title to read, to ponder, and to learn from, and then use as a way to branch out into other books on equine psychology.
With that said, however, I do feel that this book is a worthwhile addition to any horseman's library, and certainly should be on the "must read" list of any serious horse owner.


Click Here to see more reviews about: Understanding the Ancient Secrets of the Horse's Mind

Successful horsepeople know the secrets of the horse's mind. All horses share 10 common character traits that affect every move they make. These traits are embedded deep within the horse's DNA and are shared by every horse. Dr. Miller explains how to predict what your horse will do, get the proper response and fix unwanted behavior. He shows how you can unknowingly teach your horse how to misbehave.

Click here for more information about Understanding the Ancient Secrets of the Horse's Mind

Read More...

How To Raise Horses: Everything You Need To Know Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I loved this book. Very informative for a beginner like myself.
Defiantly would recommend this book for beginners.
Thank you much

Click Here to see more reviews about: How To Raise Horses: Everything You Need To Know

The show horse or the racing steed, the friendly mount or the breeding stallion, the draft horse or the companion: Whatever sort of horse you're raising—or even thinking about raising—this book provides all the information you'll need, such as basic health care, housing, feed, and raising foals. An essential primer for the newcomer to horse care as well as an invaluable resource for the veteran, this clearly and amply illustrated guide covers the basics and the finer points of breeding and health care, housing and exercising, feed and nutrition requirements. It should find a place in every horse lover's library.

Click here for more information about How To Raise Horses: Everything You Need To Know

Read More...

Trickster (Wild at Heart, No 3) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)If you want to read this book go for it. This book is one of my favorit books. If you like books about horses this is a book for you. this is an exiting book. once you read this book and you love it look for other wild at heart books such as Masks, fight for life, teachers pet,homeless and lots more! if you think you might like it I say go for it!

Click Here to see more reviews about: Trickster (Wild at Heart, No 3)

When he and the other volunteers at Dr. Mac's veterinary clinic go to help out at Quinn's Stables, David makes several serious mistakes and must prove he can be trusted before Mr. Quinn will let him even be around the spirited horse that David wants to ride.

Click here for more information about Trickster (Wild at Heart, No 3)

Read More...

Getting Your First Horse (Horse-Wise Guides Series) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I am a horse owner and I found this book to be not only informative but enjoyable to read. With so many other books on the subject of owning horses they are so dry that they do not hold your interest long enough to impart their information. Ms Dutson not only informs you but makes reading about things you think you know fun. Sometimes along the way you realize you learned something new.
I think everyone who is thinking of buying a horse needs to read this book before they jump into the horse ownership boat. We all have known people that think that buying the horse is the most expensive part of owning a horse, whereas we know that it is not even close to the most expensive part of being a horse owner.
I applaud Ms Dutson for her thorough inspection of all aspects of buying your first horse. For someone who has already purchased my first horse I wish that someone had given me this book before hand so that I could have made a more informed choice. Thank you, Miss Dutson

Click Here to see more reviews about: Getting Your First Horse (Horse-Wise Guides Series)

Get 25% OFF

Click here for more information about Getting Your First Horse (Horse-Wise Guides Series)

Read More...

True Horsemanship Through Feel Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)True Horsemanship Through Feel could not be any more appropriately titled. As others have stated, there are no quick fixes here, only the door to a new relationship with your horse for those willing to pay attention to the little things that make all the difference.
I have trained two horses since purchasing this book and reading it over and over. Neither horse carried a rider until they were four. Both come down out of their lush pasture if they THINK we might go riding. I take care of them, to include trimming their feet and saddling them in the pasture, without putting a rope on them. I'm very happy with the way they turned out. My horses want to be with me and look to me for reassurance. They are a pleasure to be around and are just as "broken" after a three month layoff as they were the day the snow started flying.
This book is a great addition to the horsemanship library. Don't be put off by the price--most horse books may be cheaper, but they only get read once. This one will be read over and over. Take the time to study "True Horsemanship Through Feel" and you will find new depth in your other videos, tapes, and books on round-penning and non-threatening horse-training. It doesn't replace the others--it adds value to them. The understanding you will gain will allow you to find and stand on common ground and to help develop your own style that works for both you and your horses. It is all about communicating in terms the horse can understand. The understanding and communication will set you free.

Click Here to see more reviews about: True Horsemanship Through Feel

A refreshingly straightforward and commonsensical approach to better communication with your mount-and therefore, better horsemanship

Click here for more information about True Horsemanship Through Feel

Read More...

Horses of the Storm: The Incredible Rescue of Katrina's Horses Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)This is a heartfelt story of heroes and the will to survive under the most tragic circumstances.
In the aftermath of the August 29, 2005, devastating destruction of Katrina, the untold suffering was not just felt by vast numbers of residents in the Gulf Coast area.
The book chronicles the tireless work by Louisiana State University's Equine Rescue Team to rescue the animals in oftentimes very dangerous circumstances.
Becoming the riders after the storm, this is an incredible chronicle of individuals and the heart & soul that only comes from a strong desire to live.



Click Here to see more reviews about: Horses of the Storm: The Incredible Rescue of Katrina's Horses

On August 29, 2005, the United States suffered one of the worst disasters ever when Hurricane Katrina slammed into southern Louisiana and the Gulf Coast. In the midst of uncertainty and chaos was born the largest equine rescue ever. Horses of the Storm is a collection of grippingand ultimately inspiringfirst-hand accounts of how the Louisiana State Universitys Equine Rescue Team spearheaded a dedicated group of heroic staff and volunteers that saved hundreds of horses. In addition, Horses of the Storm will also contain a take-away of tips to prepare horse owners before, during, and after a disaster.

Get 25% OFF

Click here for more information about Horses of the Storm: The Incredible Rescue of Katrina's Horses

Read More...

Clifford of Drummond Island (Volume 2) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I was enchanted with this story of nature, magic, and the love between horse and human. There is humor, heartbreak, and so much in between. If you have ever had the honor and pleasure of an extra special, once in a lifetime animal companion you will revel in this wonderful story. And if you haven't just read Ms. Bailey's book and hope to be so blessed one day.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Clifford of Drummond Island (Volume 2)

Click here for more information about Clifford of Drummond Island (Volume 2)

Read More...

Equiknowlogy 101... Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I have read and reread this book. I highly suggest that all persons considering buying a horse should read this before they buy and reread it before they put their $$ down and take the horse home. I would have prevented an injury if I had followed Smokies' advise. Very straight forward and common sense advise. Fun to read. I also suggest his other book "Whisper This". Thanks Smokie for your wonderful books.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Equiknowlogy 101...

The follow up to Smokies internationally read book Whisper This..., Equiknowlogy 101... takes a tongue in cheek approach and humorous look at obtaining your degrees in Equiknowlogy...The study of everything horse, (In one easy lifetime lesson)! This study guide....Ok, it's not really a study guide. It's just a bit of drivel about horses, owners and stories that will perhaps make you think, laugh and hopefully better enjoy your horse experience..It will take the reader through virtually, (well just about) everything you can think of when it comes to owning horses, the knowledge required, and some of the bad things that can happen when you are not prepared for it. Working your way up from the PHD, (Pre-horse degree) program, and on to your FHD (First Horse Degree), with step by step help from our staff, you will hopefully learn your lessons from other students of the Equiknowlogy program enrolled in one of the other degree programs. Moving on to your BOH we will take the reader through the realities of horse ownership and hopefully not getting acquainted with the class graduating from Buck Off U. (University), and the You Can't Ride Pretty school for first time horse buyers. The home school study program for hard knocks and reality, and making a lot of contributions to the Foundation for Clinicitis, and the home for unwanted horses and uneducated owners. This study guide is based on true life stories, questions and lessons learned from real people just like you and me. Just everyday folks who have made the ill-advised attempt to get a horse, ride, or do just about anything else you can think of in the equine world, before completing, (or at least getting an good handle on) their studies at Whisper This... College of Equiknowlogy... These lessons are sometimes funny, and sometimes not, but I think you will find them interesting and not something that you will read in your run of the mill horse book! But hopefully what happened to these folks in these studies won't happen you if you take a little time now to do your homework! Now, if your thinking, I all ready know this stuff, so I won't buy it... That's ok! I'm not out to change to horse world or your way of thinking. Just give a little off the cuff advise to folks that might not have $650 bucks to have me help fix their horse after things have gotten out of control. Or the price to pay for that 1200 pound lawn ornament you are about to buy... Or the medical bills and insurance you pay for in the future. Take a read if you like, or not... It's up you. But you just might get a little something from the not so famous folks that know a little something about horses too! Here's hoping you have a great equine experience! Your friend, Smokie. A portion of the proceeds from Smokies books and educational products are donated to the Wisconsin Horse Council Equine Foundation Scholarship fund and the Horsemans Services Scholarship Project.

Click here for more information about Equiknowlogy 101...

Read More...

The Soul of a Horse Blogged - The Journey Continues: Live the Moments - Inspiring New Stories - Compelling New Discoveries Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I bought this book because I enjoyed Joe Camp's first book: The Soul of a Horse. His decriptions are vivid, heartwarming and at times downright hilarious. I felt as if I was right there with him and Kathleen on their journey. If every horse could be treated with the care Joe Camp gives his herd, they'd be lucky indeed. The only "problem" I had with Joe's books is I couldn't put them down! He just smoothly leads you from one Chapter to the next and leaves you wishing there were more pages to read.
Be sure to also read The Soul of a Horse.

Click Here to see more reviews about: The Soul of a Horse Blogged - The Journey Continues: Live the Moments - Inspiring New Stories - Compelling New Discoveries


LOOK INTO THE HEART AND SOUL OF A HORSE

Critical and reader acclaim from more than 150,000 readers of Joe Camp's best selling The Soul of a Horse - Life Lessons from the Herd has generated a profound impact on the way horses are being trained, kept, and cared for all across the planet. It is with that same passionate spirit that Joe has written The Soul of a Horse Blogged - The Journey Continues.

This book follows the lead of its predecessor once again engagingly navigating uncharted and often controversial territory while forging a change in traditional thinking about horses forever. Engaging, emotional, and often humorous, The Soul of a Horse Blogged deftly lures readers into the heart and soul of a horse, unlocking the mystery of a majestic creature who has survived on earth without humans for more than 52 million years.

Live the moments with Joe and Kathleen as they adopt a wild pregnant mustang and move their herd from the dry rocky hillsides of southern California to the wet grassy hillsides of their new middle Tennessee home. This book is full of inspiring new stories and compelling new discoveries as the horses continue to teach their life lessons from the herd. Plus an exclusive preview: the first three chapters of Joe's next book Born to be Wild - The Soul of a Horse Riding the Winds of Change.

Praise for the Works of Joe Camp

'Joe Camp is a master storyteller." - The New York Times

'Joe Camp is a gifted storyteller and the results are magical. Joe entertains, educates and empowers, baring his own soul while articulating keystone principles of a modern revolution in horsemanship." - Rick Lamb, Author and TV/Radio host 'The Horse Show"

'Joe Camp is a natural when it comes to understanding how animals tick and a genius at telling us their story. This book is a must-read for those who love animals of any species." - Monty Roberts, Author of New York Times Best-seller The Man Who Listens to Horses

'One cannot help but be touched by Camp's love and sympathy for animals and by his eloquence on the subject." - Michael Korda, The Washington Post

"I loved The Soul of a Horse, but this book is even better! It captured me from page one! Joe Camp is a master storyteller and I am so fascinated by his amazingly short journey to the truth about the horse. This book is more about the soul of a man who is not only committed to the horses he loves, but to sharing what he has learned and continues to learn for the benefit of all horses with elegance, style, truth and transparency! Kathleen Camp's photography brings this whole equine-man journey to life as it woos you through the pages. I am so loving it!! Read it, you will not regret it!" - Dr. Kim Bloomer, Animal Talk Naturally Radio Show

'The Soul of a Horse Blogged--The Journey Continues has a feel, a heart, a sense of perception that compels the reader to see the relationship between man and animal, between the physical and emotional forces that compete with each other to make life rewarding and motivating. Camp has become something of a master at telling us what can be learned from animals, in this case specifically horses, without making us realize we have been educated, and, that is, perhaps, the mark of a real teacher." - Jack L. Kennedy - The Joplin Independent

'This book is absolutely fabulous! An amazing, amazing book. You're going to love it." Janet Parshall's America

"Joe speaks a clear and simple truth that grabs hold of your heart." Yvonne Welz, Editor, The Horses Hoof Magazine

"I wish you could hear my excitement for Joe Camp's new book. It is unique, powerful, needed."Dr. Marty Becker Best-Selling Author of numerous Chicken Soup for the Soul books, regular contributor to Good Morning America

Get 22% OFF

Click here for more information about The Soul of a Horse Blogged - The Journey Continues: Live the Moments - Inspiring New Stories - Compelling New Discoveries

Read More...

Almost a Whisper: A Holistic Approach to Working with Your Horse Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I bought this book based on Amazon customers' effusive recommendations, and I tried very hard to like it. I did -sometimes-but I just don't think it worked for me overall. All of the previous customer reviews that address the book's content are pretty much accurate, including the reviewer who noted that the contents are wordy and repetitive; they are. So, to give additional information to the prospective buyer, this review focuses on what I would have appreciated knowing.
First, a good portion of the book is devoted to the authors' efforts to convince the reader to abandon the stereotypical "cowboy school" of horse breaking/training. It was as if they assumed their audience consisted of cowboys of decades ago. This is understandable given Sam's background, but if that's the target audience, I'm not sure the book's title is going to attract those people. The problem I had with the authors writing so much extolling the wisdom of the "horse whisperer" philosophy is that I was already there. That's why I bought the book.
Second, while they rightly criticize abusive horse breaking methods in favor of theirs, several passages come across like they're proselytizing. This tone wasn't completely off-putting. Neither entirely was the fact that they occasionally digress to opine on society's ills. Other readers may not be so charitable about these musings. (While other readers may high five them for it.)
Third, the book was generally well organized, but many points - mostly on why one should choose horse whispering - were repeated. Repetition does aid memory, but I would have appreciated more content on various situations involving the mature horse. Why is it that these sorts of books generally focus on the "starting the colts" stage? Don't many riders own older horses that know how to get away with a lot, are spoiled, domineering, etc.? From what Sam says in the book, it sounds like many of the attendees at his clinics are those riders or novice horse owners. If so, I don't suspect many of these people are into the starting the colts phase. Even if they are, examples on dealing with older horses other than trailer loading and spooking would help. For instance, I found it frustrating that the authors incompletely tell about horse owners who didn't think their horses had problems because the owners didn't ask the horses to do anything they didn't want to do. They relate the example of the horse that would not cross water or the filly that exploded when the owners tried to get her to move under saddle. Too bad the book didn't apply the horse whisperer method to these examples. Rather, they are mentioned only to illustrate why these owners need to readjust their attitude. I wholeheartedly agree that the rider's attitude is more than half of the problem, but finishing off these examples by employing the horse whisperer method would have been far more instructive, effective, and valuable.
Fourth, there are a few instances that really stick out as strange or incongruous. I was taken aback by the several references to misbehaving horses "going to dog food," even though these comments are always made by a hypothetical owner exasperated with his "misbehaving" horse. I similarly gave pause when Sam bluntly admits to laying horses down. (He does candidly explain the limited circumstances under which he does this, and emphasizes that he does not train others to do it.) I also looked askance when the authors unequivocally say that horses have a form of mental telepathy. I guess this added to the holistic part of the book? More of a petty irritation, probably better levied on the editor, is the fact that the index is not carefully compiled. Page references are not always correct (e.g., in my edition, Buck Branaman is mentioned on page 138, but is indexed as appearing on page 137).
In sum, the book is a readable amalgamation of biography, journal of one's journey in search of personal enlightenment, how to start colts, philosophy (life in general and life with horses), training manual, and "The World According To Sam and Lane." There is much in "Almost a Whisper" to learn, particularly to those who haven't read any natural horsemanship books, and especially to those who haven't broken out of the breaking method. The approach these authors take may not fit everyone, but it is the message that's important. Unfortunately, I found many aspects of the book distracting from the worthy points. Now forewarned, I'll hopefully be able to focus on those points when I reread this. This book may have been three stars for me, but if Sam and Lane's style effectively reaches others, and it appears it has, the book is worthy of five stars for them.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Almost a Whisper: A Holistic Approach to Working with Your Horse

Want to develop a solid partnership with your horse?Teach him practical skills like loading in a trailer without fuss?The author teaches you how to really understand your horse and handle him safely.*Three keys to maintaining a horse's respect*How to tell if your horse has a physical problem that's causing him to act up

Click here for more information about Almost a Whisper: A Holistic Approach to Working with Your Horse

Read More...