"This long awaited book will be a great resource to the thousands of equestrians of New Jersey and will in no doubt lead to greater awareness of, and usage on, the beautiful and rustic trails found in the Garden State."¾ Craig Della Penna, author of 24 Great Rail-Trails of New Jersey

Arline Zatz has written the first guidebook to everything equine in the Garden State: Horsing Around in New Jersey. This accessible, easy-to-use volume is essential reading for the novice who yearns to go horseback riding but doesn't know how or where to begin; for the experienced equestrian seeking new trails and campsites; for anyone wishing to attend an equestrian event; and for those seeking a job in the equestrian field, which already employs nearly 6,000 New Jerseyans. The industry generates more than 650 million dollars in annual revenue. Millions of people attend equine events in New Jersey each year. The U.S. Equestrian team makes its home there, and New Jersey's state animal is the horse.

Zatz tells readers¾ including those with disabilities¾ where they can take lessons, rent a horse, and prepare for riding. She includes safety and first aid tips. Horse history and breeds common to New Jersey are discussed, as are health concerns, including diseases, preventative medicine, and emergency care. The book showcases New Jersey's eighty-five equestrian trails and covers information on where to obtain riding permits and their accompanying rules and regulations. There is advice for both new horse owners and renters, including recommendations on tack and clothing, stable management, and horse adoption.

The book acquaints readers with year-round equine entertainment opportunities, and offers dozens of suggestions on where to watch or participate in sports on horseback. Zatz lists equine education programs for all ages, and outlines numerous employment opportunities within the equine industry. The book concludes with a glossary of common horse industry terminology, a listing of national equine associations and breed registries, equipment sources, and equine publications for further reading.

Arline Zatz is an award-winning journalist and photographer, and author of New Jersey's Special Places, 30 Bicycle Tours of New Jersey, Best Hikes with Children in New Jersey, and New Jersey's Great Gardens and Arboretums.