TSB was pleased to read the following new review of HORSE PROFILING by Kerry Thomas and Calvin Carter:
“Basic instinct can never be removed or altered entirely as it represents the horse’s survival mechanism.”
As a pioneer in the field of Equine Athletic Psychology, Kerry Thomas—aided by Calvin L. Carter, a pedigree analyst and freelance writer— sets forth his theories and training programs in Horse Profiling: The Secret to Motivating Equine Athletes. The work will benefit horse owners, trainers, and equine teams in their goals of bringing out the best in their already talented horses.
The informative book begins with the author’s introduction to his philosophies. He then lays out each section with specific techniques and how to implement them. This includes setting up an Emotional Conformation Profile of the horse. When problematic behavior is found, the author explains how to nurture a frightened or depressed horse, or one with a deep-rooted negative memory association. Thomas relates stories and case book studies that keep the text interesting. Interspersed throughout are Q and A sections called “Kerry’s Corner” which provide solutions for particular cases.
Over 100 candid, color photos of beautiful horseflesh tell their own stories. We learn about a racehorse who was an expert in “managing outside stimuli…to target and release opponents”—Barbaro, 2006 Kentucky Derby winner. It’s inspiring to find out which horses had physical defects but were aided with a champion’s heart and the will to win: Real Quiet, Looking at Lucky, Sunday Silence, Seattle Slew and Northern Dancer. The last story in this well-written, technical and yet entertaining volume is about Seabiscuit, the 1938 Horse of the Year.
Along with vital information for professional horse handlers, this beautiful over-sized teaching guide will equally appeal to all lovers of horses. The book will stimulate interest in young people who will thrill to the adventures and pictures. They just may identify and follow through with a lifetime focus on a fulfilling career.
Mary Popham is a writer and book reviewer who lives in Louisville. She holds an MFA from Spalding University.
HORSE PROFILING is available from the TSB online bookstore.