My book, "Trail Training for the Horse and Rider" started out as an e-book back in 2001. That is when it got this review. Please note that the book is now 162 pages with lots of photos and some illustrations. Judi
Here's a new twist for "Bunkhouse Reviews"--an e-book ordered via the Web site and received via e-mail. Download the text to your computer and read it on-screen or print it out to put in a three-ring binder and read it at you convenience, and for a fraction of conventional book cost.
When author Judi Daly began trail riding years ago, there were few resources for a trail rider who needed help, so she "muddled through" her problems. Even now, Daly notes, although there are a few books for endurance riders, there is "nothing for the average person who wants to enjoy the country on a Sunday afternoon."
So Daly wrote "Trail Training for the Horse and Rider" to help better prepare horses and people to hit the trail successfully. She begins with practical tips for horse selection, appropriate gear and clothing, and riding alone or in a group. Another section addresses common trail obstacles such as difficult footing, water-crossings, dogs, bikes and such. Full sections are devoted to preparing a foal from the start for a trail riding career and to retraining older horses for the trail. Final chapters address trail health care considerations--excessive heat or cold, conditioning, first aid and more.
"A good trail horse," Daly writes, "is made, not born." In "Trail Training for the Horse and Rider," hers is a methodical approach to make the most of a horse's potential. She tackles trail considerations and problems in do-able increments with savvy suggestions about picking the time and place to make a point with a horse. Throughout, she recommends a bit more time and patience in training, rather than horse and rider butting heads in outright confrontations.
Along the way, Daly provides anecdotal evidence from her many years' experience as a trail rider. Perhaps most impressive is Daly's overall common-sense style and matter-of-fact manner. She stresses safety in an inherently hazardous sport--without sounding like an alarmist and without losing perspective that riding should be fun.
My book, "Trail Training for the Horse and Rider" started out as an e-book back in 2001. That is when it got this review. Please note that the book is now 162 pages with lots of photos and some illustrations.