The purpose of training the 'rational way' is to produce a versatile riding horse - a rounded individual well able to take part creditably in competitive events at a good middle-of-the-road level, whose preparation allows him to enjoy his working life, while contributing materially to his rider's enjoyment of the relationship. Topics covered include:
- grooming and handling
- diet and routine
- long-reining and transitions in-hand
- work on the lunge
- backing
- communication
- riding out
- schooling
- jumping
- turning out
- saddlery and equipment.
Making the Young Horse the Rational Way is a comprehensive, practical book, presenting a logical sequence of training that is within the competence of the average horse owner.
The objective is to produce an all-round horse who is a pleasure to ride and own as a result of training, handling and conditioning that prepares him physically and mentally (in equal measure) for a long, happy and useful life. As the author is quick ot emphasize, we want a thinking horse, able to use his initative and express his personality, not a press-button automaton, nor, of course, its opposite, an undisciplined hooligan.
The training content, after notes on the NURSERY stage as a foal, is divided into PRIMARY schooling in the horse's third year and the subsequent SECONDARY schooling as a four-year-old. Both are examined in detail and sub-divided into distinct stages. The author defines the basis of training as involving preparation of the phsyical structure; the teaching of acceptance of the rider's presence and the development of the body so that it is able to carry weight. Finally, there is the development of communication between horse and rider involving the language of riding.
Earlier chapters are devoted to studies of the essential anatomy of the horse, to nature and characteristics and to facilities, saddlery and equipment.
The author acknowledges that there are other methods of training that achieve their results in a shorter space of time, but holds that the proven, 'rational way' described here, while taking longer, also lasts longer. It is more relevant to the modern requirment and more conducive to the production of the happy horse, balanced in mind and body.
Hardback.