In this informative book, veterinarian Eleanor Kellon takes a look at what aging is and what causes it. Then she applies this knowledge to a plan for forestalling those aspects of aging that are within our power to influence. She explains the importance of a healthy basic diet, grains, hay, supplements and high-quality commercial feeds formulated especially for older horses. She discusses the possible dangers of environmental toxins such as the chemicals Dioxin and Atrazine found in pesticides and herbicides. Throughout the book, Dr. Kellon offers positive, healthful ways to combat many of the age-related ailments that plague older horses. One such strategy she explains is developing a program for exercising the older horse safely. Dr. Kellon also familiarizes the reader to diseases such as arthritis offering ways to build a therapy program. Great care is taken to explain in very practical terms what to look for in purchasing an older horse and when to make the decision to euthanize. Aging may be inevitable, but according to Dr. Kellon, there's plenty of room for improving both the length and quality of our horses' lives. Putting Kellon's suggestions into practice will undoubtedly result in utilizing some of the same information to improve your own health and the health of your loved ones, two footed or four footed. (T.B.) HIGHLIGHTS - What is aging? - Pinpointing the preventable causes of aging - The basic diet - Supplements - Dealing with environmental toxins - Exercise - Routine health care - The scourge of arthritis - Hormonal function - Health problems of the older horse - Managing the very old horse - Purchasing an older horse - The changing role of alternative/complementary medicine - Management of the older broodmare and stallion - Tips for seasonal care - Saying goodbye The Older Horse Young: In it veterinarian and author Eleanor Kellon gives her views on how and why your horse ages, and how you can intervene. Topics range from a back-to basics approach to feeding and management to a not-so-basic nutritional supplement program which, she asserts, will help prevent and treat the ailments for which older horses are at greatest risk, such as arthritis, pituitary disease, and poor circulation. Dr Kellon puts her well-recognized and solid credentials to use in an unapologetic attempt to switch our focus from treating disease to creating and preserving wellness. The chapter on exercise alone is worth the price of the book. -- Horse & Rider. 282pgs, H, 1999