Book excerpt: Relating to horse and donkey ownership, The Handbook of Horses and Donkeys is an introductory guide providing expert advice on current ethical management practices. The history, evolution, and domestication of equids is covered, along with equine anatomy, physiology, nutrition, behaviour, learning and cognition, communication, health and disease, hoof care, first aid, parasitic infections, preventive measures, pregnancy, and foal management. Functional topics are also covered, including: body condition scoring; estimating body weight; calculating dietary rations; stabling; management of abnormal behaviours; and stereotypes. The information presented is expert-led but designed to be applicable to the novice or experienced owner in the stable yard. (5m Books)