The Horse Conformation Handbook – Heather Smith Thomas

Detailní popis produktu

Good conformation is not simply about how a horse looks. It influences how the body functions, how efficiently the horse moves and how well it may cope with the physical demands placed upon it.

In The Horse Conformation Handbook, Heather Smith Thomas provides a detailed yet accessible guide to understanding and evaluating the structure of the horse. Beginning with equine anatomy and the fundamental principles of balance and proportion, she explains how individual features contribute to the function of the body as a whole.

The book examines body proportions, height, angles and the structure of the limbs, helping readers recognise both desirable characteristics and conformational features that may influence movement, durability or soundness. Rather than judging horses purely against an ideal appearance, the emphasis is on understanding what a particular structure may mean for the individual horse.

Numerous photographs and illustrations train the reader’s eye to identify important details and understand their practical significance. The relationship between conformation and athletic ability is explored throughout, including how particular characteristics may make a horse better suited to certain types of work or equestrian disciplines.

The book also considers conformation when selecting a horse, choosing breeding stock and evaluating an ageing horse, making the information relevant well beyond competition or performance.

With its combination of anatomy, practical assessment and real-world application, The Horse Conformation Handbook is a valuable reference for horse owners, riders, breeders, trainers and students who want to develop a more informed eye for the equine body.

Parameters

Author: Heather Smith Thomas
Language: English
ISBN: 9781580175586
Binding: Paperback
Pages: 400
Publication year: 2005
Publication date: 15 March 2005
Publisher: Storey Publishing