Summary

A clearly illustrated manual that shows equestrians how to prepare their horses for the unexpected, turning them into safer, more pleasurable mounts.

Every horse, from the pampered show-hunter to the family pet, is faced at one time or another with an object or situation that is either overwhelmingly terrifying or just downright confusing. Riders, trainers, and owners often simply wait for these situations—and the resulting bolt, balk, or buck—in fear or ignorance, rationalizing such behavior as just "a horse being a horse." With his systematic approach to "bombproofing," Sergeant Rick Pelicano of the Maryland National Capitol Park Police demonstrates how to be proactive rather than reactive when it comes to training a horse, whether one is crossing a stream or riding in city traffic. Rick Pelicano is accredited by the American Riding Instructor Certification Program; in 1995, he was named Instructor of the Year. He lives in Frederick, Maryland.

An Equestrian Edge Book Club Main Selection