This reference is a testament to Sue Allen’s long experience with pleasure horses. Her writing style is clear and easily understood, as would be expected of a professional journalist published in several respected equine journals. Her practical experience is well-founded through teaching at her own and other riding schools as well as the clinics in leg care that she continues to present at riding academies.
The book is a nice novice guide, amply sown with illustrative black-and-white photographs and diagrams. The opening chapter covers horse selection, including a comprehensive explanation of the veterinarian’s soundness examination. The focus throughout the text remains centered on this important aspect of equine health. Detailed descriptions of various types of wraps for pleasure, sport, and working horses include materials, objectives, practical tips, and precautions. A short bibliography follows, along with a glossary of terms useful in soundness support.
While not specifically oriented to the veterinary medical field, the book is useful to anyone applying equine wraps. Its precautionary tips are particularly helpful to aspiring caretakers who don’t have the benefit of an experienced mentor or formal education to guide their training. It should be considered a go-to reference in any riding academy’s library, and a nice adjunct in equine practices. Veterinary technicians interested in making a transition into the equine field will find it a welcome resource. Technical staff will find this text useful in learning how and why to wrap and in communicating with clients. Segments could be photocopied and used as client handout sheets, if the author would give permission. The book is rated with a three star rating as it is more applicable to lay personnel than to veterinary technicians or veterinarians and may not be utilized on a daily basis.
Publisher: Loveland CO: Alpine Publications, Inc. (1995)
ISBN-10: 0-931866-72-3
VIN Store: Currently unavailable