Understanding Horse Behavior

I did like this book very much as a quick read with lots of information on multiple topics! If you are interested in breeding or own a stallion or mare, this also has some interesting information. However, I was aghast at the recommendation to basically make a horse “fast” in order for it to approach you for positive reward - food. As the author is a doctor & equine researcher, to me this is a highly unethical recommendation as it directly conflicts with equine welfare. She specifically says in the book equines in the wild can graze up to 80% of the day. You risk ulcers, developing stereotypies, etc. with fasting. There is a way to use food as positive reinforcement for encouraging the horse to approach, but not in the way described. Despite this and a couple other smaller recommendations, I would still recommend every horse owner to have this book in their library as there is very important information we should all be aware of. I do realize my copy of the book is from 1999 and 20 years can make a big difference in science and research.