For the first time, horse lovers will have access to cutting-edge research on topics of interest including new information on horse vision, horse biology and movement. Introducing the latest archeological findings, Budiansky presents a fascinating discussion of how the horse evolved as well as a dramatic and provocative history of man's use and abuse of the horse from prehistoric times to today. In a revealing chapter on horse intelligence, he debunks the commonly held belief that horses are stupid and also presents compelling new scientific information on horse language which will greatly benefit the horse rider and trainer. Finally, drawing together the latest research on horse physiology, genetics and biomechanics, Budiansky asks the million dollar question — what makes for a winning racehorse? Anyone who loves horses will find this an invaluable resource as well as a fascinating read.

Unversity of Chicago Horse Trainer, Member — Cornwall Hounds

This is a wonderful book, of the greatest value for the imaginative understanding of the horse on the part of those of us who train and use it, and the far greater number of those who love and admire.

Jockey, Author — Riding for My Life

Dedicated and devoted horse lovers have waited for a book that gives thorough, authoritative information on the horse. Detailed, yet understandable, this book tells you why horses do what they do and provides fascinating insights on how horses think. If a horse came with a translator, this book would be it.

Dean of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University

A marvelously informative book. I know of no more complete source on the newest scientific findings than The Nature of Horses. The reader who invests in this book will be amply rewarded by an unsurpassed understanding — in modem terms — of the horse.

President, International Arabian Horse Association

An entertaining, provocative and educational view of the evolution and domestication of "the horse".

Foreword by Franklin M. Loew, D.V.M.

Introduction

Chapter 1 The Improbability of the Horse

Chapter 2 From the Brink of Oblivion

Chapter 3 Equine Nature, Human Nature

Chapter 4 Socioecology

Chapter 5 Seeing and Perceiving

Chapter 6 Horse Talk

Chapter 7 Horse Sense

Chapter 8 The Mechanics of Movement

Chapter 9 Assume a Spherical Horse

Chapter 10 Nature or Nurture?

Conclusion The Fate of the Horse

Further Reading

Acknowledgments

Index

Illustration Credits