EQUINE FITNESS: THE CARE AND TRAINING OF THE ATHLETIC HORSE. D.H. Snow and C3. Vogel 1987 David and Charles, Inc., North Pomfret, VT. $24.50.

The last two years have seen a spate of books, mono- graphs and magazine articles addressing the subject of "equine sports physiology." Many of these have been loosely-organized, choppy collections of papers presented at professional meetings, much concerned with accumulating data relevant to equine exercise physiology. As valuable as these compendia are to research scientists and, in a few cases, veterinarians, they are usually not much help to the profes- sional or paraprofessional looking for "how to" information. On the other hand, it would be easy to fill a bookcase with diffuse, vague "philosophies of training," lacking the back- ground information and specific details that would allow the reader to intelligently evaluate the programs being suggested.

Equine Fitness attempts to fill the gap between these extremes. It begins with descriptions of the basic anatomic systems that generate motion. Especially useful is the empha- sis on the roles played by various muscle systems, in contrast to the typical focus on the skeleton. Similarly, a chapter on "Understanding Energy" provides a fairly accessable insight into the huge concept, "ENERGY," in the working horse.

Functional chapters present the physiology of the muscu- lar, cardiovascular, respiratory and thermoregulatory systems in observations of horses; rather than argue by analogy with humans or rats, the authors have relied on primary equine data. Unfortunately, this strength is also a major weakness of the book. In a number of instances the authors have drawn conclu- sions without allowing the reader to evaluate the supporting data. Worse, none of their sources are cited, frustrating any attempts to pursue any topic further, particularly in a field where primary sources are often extremely obscure.

The latter third that the book exhibits its real value. Theories and philosophies of athletic training and feeding are a dime a dozen; specific programs clearly explained with a rational physiologic context are rare. Even should the reader disagree with specifics, as many are likely to do in such a confused profession, the discussion is presented in such a manner that successful rebuttal requires logical thought. Any publication encouraging a rational approach to the manage- ment of the equine athlete deserves commendation; in that regard, Equine Fitness is to be applauded. MG

The BOOK STALL Reference Material for the Equine Practitioner

NUTRITION FOR THE EQUINE ATHLETE

Edited by Willam E. Jones, DVM, PhD

A compilation of articles on nutrition and feed- ing from Equine Sportsmedicine News, Equine Veterinary Data, and the Journal of Equine Vet- erinary Science plus some exciting new material.Includes information on MSM, DMSO, DMG,dietary fat and the racehorse, probiotics for young horses and much more. 97 pages, $19.95 US.

Available from Veterinary Data

PO Box 1 209 Wildomar, CA 92395

LIMBS OF THE EQUINE By LeRoy Amos

This unique book on the anatomy of the horse's legs is different from any previ- ous publication on the subject. Series of colored overlays drawn on translucent sheets depict the bones, muscles, ten- dons, and ligaments of the forelimb, hind limb and hoof. Not only are the flip chart and illustrations easily interpreted; the text is written in a comprehensive un- complicated style. 22 pages $23.95 US.

Available from Ashberry Acres Publications

P.O. Box 184 Navarre, OH 446623

EQUINE SPORTS MEDICINE Edited and Contributions by

William E. Jones, D.V.M., PhD

This is a brand new book for a brand new discipline. It introduces equine sports medi- cine, skillfully integrating elements of equine physiology, diagnosis and treat- ment of equine sports injuries, and scientific training techniques. About 329 pages, $49.50 US

Available from Veterinary Data

PO Box 1209 Wildomar, CA 92395

1-678-1889

100 EQUINE VETERINARY SCIENCE