Or an alternative title; ‘everything you ever wanted to know about equine reproduction but were afraid to ask'.  Recommended by The Journal of Equine Veterinary Science for everyone from diploma/degree course students to vets, this third edition of Morel's comprehensive textbook breaks down piece-by-piece the science of breeding, with new updates.

Comprised of 21 chapters, each stands alone covering subjects such as reproductive anatomy, endocrine function, management, lactation, weaning and the big bugbear of the breeding industry, infertility. This is not designed to be read from front to back, but rather dipped into according to subject (confusingly, the chapter on parturition (birth) appears before chapters on mating and how to select your mare and stallion).  However, whilst not aimed at the one horse owner and a purely scientific work, Morel's clear explanations and relevant use of line drawings, black and white photos and tables allow anybody to follow her discussions and explanations. All this is backed up for those seeking follow up reading with a bibliography and reference section running to 51 of the book's 378 pages.

Each chapter finishes with a short conclusion on the state of the industry and in some cases points the direction for areas of new research. On this subject, a mention must also go to the new embryo transfer and technology chapter, covering collection and storage and IVF procedures, followed by a brief coda on cloning.

For the serious student this is essential.

Pat Delaney

BHS SM/IT (Reg'd), BSc Equine, The Open College of Equine Studies