4-H Guide to Training Horses: (4-H Guide)

Training a horse is one of the biggest challenges a 4-H’r (or any animal lover, for that matter) can take on, and one of the most rewarding.  This step-by-step illustrated guide offers the first-time horse trainer straightforward instructions for getting started with a foal, a yearling, or an older horse.  With expert advice on safety and equine care, the guide covers the basics of establishing trust and authority, training with a bit, training to drive, training to allow riders, achieving different gaits, reaching definite goals, and breaking an old horse of bad habits.  Whether you’re a 4-H’r taking up the project of a lifetime, or someone simply interested in training a horse, this book provides all the information you need to get started--and to succeed.

About the Author :
Nathan Bowers has been training horses for the public for the past twelve years. He got his start learning how to train difficult horses from his dad. He lives on a ranch near Fort Collins, Colorado, and travels around the world teaching other people how to get along with their horses. www.bowersfarm.comNathan Bowers has been training horses for the public for the past twelve years. He got his start learning how to train difficult horses from his dad. He lives on a ranch near Fort Collins, Colorado, and travels around the world teaching other people how to get along with their horses.Katie Bowers Reiff has been photographing in the western United States for the past ten years while learning about horses from her dad and brother. She lives in northern Colorado with her husband. Together they run a vehicle graphic design company.http://bowersfarm.com/

Review :
Both of these guides provide sound and comprehensive information. Horses covers basic training techniques and riding skills such as mounting, saddling, reining, stopping and starting, and posture among other topics. The training techniques offer insight into equine behavior based on their history as prey animals. The authors also emphasize that horse owners’ success will be determined by how much effort they are willing to expend on their relationship with their animals. The many color photographs clearly depict the methods and activities that are taking place, and the accompanying images further clarify what is happening and its significance. Colored boxes highlight core concepts. The illustrations feature only Western riding, but the information is pertinent to all riders. A strong emphasis is put on safety and common sense. Digital Photography also features numerous excellent photos that support the text. It explores types of digital cameras, how to take good photos, the complexities of lighting, managing images (including clear definitions of file types), and the importance of just enjoying this activity. Types of photography such as landscape and macro are explained. The author does an excellent job of discussing the importance of both technological details and artistic creativity. With their appealing, well-organized format, these two manuals offer thorough and pertinent information for novices and for those who are already enthusiasts and are looking to improve their skills.–Carol Schene, formerly at Taunton Public Schools, MA