Book Review

From Birth to Backing

by Richard Maxwell with Johanna Sharples.

Published by David & Charles

Price £17.99

Richard Maxwell probably needs little or no introduction to many horse owners in the UK. He has built a reputation for being a skilful and knowledgeable horseman who also happens to use the join - up method first made well known by Mowly Roberts. Richard has developed his own way of training young horses and making them confident of their handlers and riders and therefore more willing and able to do what is asked of them.

This book follows all stages of training and bonding with the young horse literally from the moment of birth to the time when he is ridden out alone on that all important first hack.

The various stages in the development of the relationship between horse and handler are dealt with clearly and logically with excellent photographs and captions which clearly illustrate the point being made. Throughout the book Richard Maxwell stresses how horses are still very instinctive animals - their natural reaction to any situation which they do not understand or which cause them fear is fight or flight. We can all too often forget that a horse s instinct would cause him to perceive us as predators rather than friends and that this simple fact must be borne in mind throughout every stage of his development and training.

With each successive chapter Richard Maxwell explains how he teaches young foals to accept being touched on any part of their bodies to allow their feet to be lifted (thus denying them the possibility of escape); to accept the halter and to being led. He takes us through the adolescent years when the young horse may rebel against handling and emphasises that it is essential to gain and keep the horse s respect at all times, but with fairness not force, and, above all, that horses are naturally obliging, providing they have trust in us.

The problems that are likely to arise at any stage are discussed and Richard offers his personal solutions to them. The whole training process is seen as a series of stages and each stage has an invaluable list of checkpoints and practical suggestions.

This book is clear, concise and well laid out both visually and with regard to the text. The author makes it clear that he believes it is essential that any horse owner must take responsibility for his horse s mental well-being as much as his physical needs, and we must ensure that he is prepared for the job we expect him to do in ways that are enjoyable.

I think this book will be of immense benefit to anyone bringing up a young horse and I totally agree with the author that a well mannered horse is essentially a happy horse and likely to have a better future than one that isn t. A good start in life is important to us all and I am sure will help create a better future for any horses whose owners are prepared to study it.

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