If you’re at all interested in alternative or natural therapies for horses these are some books you don’t want your library to be without.
Equine Acupressure A Working Manual by Nancy Zidonis, Amy Snow, and Marie Soderberg
If you’re looking for a guide to acupressure, this is the book you want. This book gives a good overview on what is acupressure, its history, the equine meridian systems, acupressure points, how to give a treatment, stretches that compliment the acupressure treatments, and suggested points for common ailments. The book includes charts showing the meridians and acupressure points. I have found it an invaluable resource.
Natural Horse Care by Pat Coleby
This book provides a look on equine nutrition very different from most. The adage you are what you eat is proved time and again as the author shows how nutritional deficiencies, especially mineral deficiencies, effect and cause health problems in our horses.
A Modern Horse Herbal by Hilary Self Page
One of the best books to have on hand as an herbal reference. There are many books out there on herbs, but one must be aware that often herbs that are okay in the treatment of humans are not always okay for horses. The author, Hilary Self Page, owns Hilton Herbs in England. This book not only discusses herbs themselves but also dosages, how to use them, and different ways of preparing them such as dry or fresh or as a tea. It also contains a section on common ailments and suggested herbs.
A Healthy Horse the Natural Way by Catherine Bird
One of the best books I have found on natural therapies for horses. This book covers herbs, aromatherapy, massage, homeopathy, tissue salts, and Bach Flower Remedies. The section on common ailments contains a wealth of information and different ways to help your horse. Probably the most fascinating part of this book is the section on emotions and thoughts. I have never found another book on horses addressing these particular issues on how our emotions, thoughts, and even our own physical illnesses can be reflected by our horses.
Complete Holistic Care and Healing for Horses by Mary L. Brennan, DVM
Written by a veterinarian, this book provides an abundance of information that keeps you reading it again and again. It discusses alternative therapies such as acupressure, aromatherapy, Bach Remedies, herbs, and homeopathics. It also contains information on the care and management of horses such as dietary considerations, proper fitting of tack, stretching exercises, travel tips, and caring for an elderly horse. Conventional medicine like antibiotics, vaccinations, sedatives, muscle relaxants, steroids, and more are also discussed. The section on common ailments contains excellent advice that is easy to follow and understand. While medical type language is often used, it is broken down into simple English for those of us who don’t understand medical terms. Whether an experienced horse person or a new one, this book is a must have for your shelves.
