To a horse lover, there is no more appealing sight than horses standing or moving around a pasture or more appealing sound than the soft nickering as you approach the horse's stall. And then there's riding, whether competitively or for pleasure. And what could be more satisfying than to enjoy such sights, sounds, and activities on your very own property?

As the expense of commercial stabling and training increases, a growing number of property owners throughout the country have taken to acquiring and maintaining "backyard" facilities. To that goal, horse owner and keeper Jessie Shiers provides a clear and comprehensive, profusely illustrated, user-friendly guide for first-timers. Among the subjects covered are:

• Searching for a farm that's right for you
• Barns, equipment, paddocks, and arenas
• Finding a horse
• Horse care, feeding, and nutrition
• Handling and riding
• And much more