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IH Magazine Spring Summer 2024

Explore Your Spring & Summer 2024 IH Magazine!

Hello to all our wonderful IH Members and horse-loving friends! I couldn’t be more excited to present your Spring & Summer 2024 issue of Intelligent Horsemanship Magazine. These pages are bursting with fresh insights, hands-on advice, and truly uplifting stories from throughout our incredible IH community. As the sunshine returns and our horsey activities ramp up, this edition brings you exactly what you need for a brilliant season ahead.

What’s Inside?

This time around, I’ve shared some personal reflections on my decades of working with challenging horses (including some hilarious mishaps with Pie that taught me so much!), and we’re featuring a captivating interview with Professor Daniel Mills about his groundbreaking research into equine cognition.

Our training section is absolutely packed with gems this issue:

  • Michael Peace offers brilliant solutions for trailer-loading problems
  • Rachel Bedingfield reveals transformative groundwork exercises for better connection
  • Helen Spence shares her revolutionary approach to working with sensitive horses
  • Lucy Rees explains her fascinating observations on how horses naturally communicate (Blondie has been my greatest teacher in this area!)

I’ve explored the fascinating world of equine facial expressions and what they tell us, while Emily Hadfield has written an eye-opening piece on creating harmonious herd dynamics at home (something that’s transformed my own yard management).

You’ll be introduced to our inspiring member Janet Thompson (who’s accomplished incredible things with her previously “unrideable” horse), discover some brilliant new publications, and see firsthand how our remarkable IH Trainers are changing equine lives nationwide.

Why You’ll Love This Issue

The longer days and drier ground make this the perfect time to refresh your approach with your equine partner. This magazine arrives just when you need it most to make the most of the season!

The trailer-loading section has been an absolute revelation – Michael’s systematic approach tackles this common problem brilliantly. I’ve seen these methods transform even the most stubborn refusers (Pie once took three hours to load until we applied these principles, and now he practically self-loads!).

Rachel’s groundwork exercises have become a staple in my daily routine with both Pie and Blondie. These simple yet powerful techniques create such profound shifts in how horses respond and connect with us – you’ll notice the difference immediately.

With summer shows and events on the horizon, Helen’s insights on managing sensitive horses in busy environments couldn’t come at a better time. Her practical strategies will help your horse stay calm and focused even in chaotic surroundings.

Whether you’re facing specific challenges or simply wanting to enhance your partnership, this magazine offers practical wisdom that will make every moment with your horse more rewarding this season.

Our members enjoy this magazine as part of their subscription, alongside our extensive archive and exclusive online resources. Not yet part of our community? We’d be delighted to welcome you!

Complete Contents with Article Descriptions

04 Kelly Marks – The Learning Curve: “Lessons from Challenging Horses”
I share some candid stories about particularly challenging horses I’ve worked with over the years, including what Pie has taught me about patience and persistence during our most testing moments.

07 IH Members’ Photos
A gorgeous collection of seasonal photographs sent in by our talented members – the quality of these images never ceases to amaze me!

08 Letters and Cartoon by Nat Herman
Your brilliant experiences using IH methods, featuring a moving Star Letter about an ex-racehorse’s transformation, alongside Nat’s always witty seasonal cartoon.

10 IH News and Membership updates
All the latest happenings from IH HQ, including our expanded summer demonstration schedule and exciting new member resources.

12 Meet a Member: Janet Thompson
Janet recounts her remarkable journey with her “unrideable” mare and how IH techniques created a breakthrough when all else had failed – truly inspiring!

16 Book Review & Extract: The Language of Horses
My review of this enlightening guide to better understanding equine communication, with practical extracts on reading subtle signs most humans miss.

18 The Big Interview: Professor Daniel Mills
A captivating discussion with this world-renowned researcher about his latest findings in equine cognition and learning – he’s truly revolutionising our understanding.

22 Trailer Loading: Solutions for Every Horse
Michael Peace presents his systematic approach to solving loading problems, with step-by-step instructions that work even with the most determined refusers.

24 IH Training: Groundwork for Enhanced Connection
Rachel Bedingfield shares transformative exercises that deepen the bond between horse and handler, creating more responsive partnerships.

27 IH Training: Summer Feeding Strategies
Catherine Scott explores optimal nutrition during grass-rich months, with practical advice on managing weight and energy levels as pastures flourish.

29 IH Training: Working with Sensitive Horses
Helen Spence’s brilliant insights into helping highly sensitive equines navigate our human world with confidence and calmness.

33 IH Training: Creating Herd Harmony at Home
Emily Hadfield offers practical strategies for managing multiple horses to create peaceful yard dynamics that respect natural herd behaviour.

35 IH Training: Natural Horse Communication
Lucy Rees explains the fascinating language horses use among themselves and how we can incorporate these signals into our training approach.

39 Equine Facial Expressions: What They’re Really Telling Us
I explore the subtle world of equine expressions and what they reveal about your horse’s emotional state – understanding these has transformed my work with Blondie.

41 Managing Horses in Busy Environments
Richard Maxwell provides invaluable techniques for keeping horses calm and focused in challenging situations like shows and busy yards.

44 Spotlight on IH Trainer Rebecca Howard
Meet our wonderful Rebecca Howard, whose journey from nervous rider to confident IH Trainer demonstrates the power of these methods firsthand.

46 Talking Points: Balancing Technology and Tradition
An engaging discussion on integrating modern innovations with time-tested horsemanship principles – I’d be fascinated to hear your perspectives!

48 Book Extract: The Balanced Rider
Matthew Lawrence’s fantastic guide to improving your seat and influence, with exercises I’ve found immensely helpful in my own riding (even after all these years!).

51 IH Trainer Client Feedback
Heart-warming success stories from clients whose horses have been transformed by our dedicated IH Trainers – reading these always brightens my day.

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communication, competition & competition prep, equine cognition, equine facial expressions, equine nutrition, equitation science, ex-racehorses, groundwork, horse psychology, horse-human relationship, Join-Up, loading, natural horsemanship, paddock management, positive reinforcement, rehabilitation, rider positioning, summer, travelling, yard management

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IH Magazine Spring 2023 Cover

Explore Your Spring 2023 IH Magazine!

Hello IH Members and friends! As the wildflowers begin to bloom and the sun peeks out from winter hibernation, it’s the perfect time to refresh, reset and refocus. This Spring issue is full of inspiring stories, training advice, and thoughtful guidance to help you and your horse step into the season with confidence.

Whether you’re preparing for your first fun ride of the year, reflecting on your long-term horse care goals, or just need a motivational boost, we’ve packed this edition with practical help and heartfelt insight. From the weekend rider wisdom of William Steinkraus to strategies for lifelong soundness, this issue is about growing together — mind, body and hoof!

What’s Inside?

I’ve written about one of the biggest influences on my early riding life — William Steinkraus — and how even as a “weekend rider”, you can accomplish remarkable things with the right mindset and intention.

Our training section is a true spring standout:

  • Our mega-feature explores how to help your horse stay sound for life — with insights from Dr Sue Dyson, Gillian Higgins, Sandra Williams and more
  • Jim Goddard continues his brilliant series on building confidence in the saddle
  • Gillian Higgins shows us how horses develop in their early years — a must-read if you’re working with youngsters

We’ve also got a brilliant chat with legendary show producer Jayne Ross, stunning stories from our members (including an inspiring journey into endurance riding!), and a reminder that every one of us — whether weekend rider or professional — is part of this wonderful IH community.

Why You’ll Love This Issue

This one’s all about long-term care, thoughtful training, and personal growth — for both horse and human.

If you’ve ever worried about keeping your horse sound and happy for the long haul (and who hasn’t?), you’ll love our comprehensive feature on maintaining soundness — from saddle fit to nutrition to emotional wellbeing. Pie and Blondie are both benefiting already from these wise and practical suggestions.

Jayne Ross’ interview is full of gold for anyone who wants their riding to feel more harmonious and joyful. I found myself nodding along with so many of her thoughtful, grounded insights. And if you’ve been dreaming of taking on a writing challenge, don’t miss the details of our Short Story competition!

Spring is such a wonderful time to set intentions for the year ahead — and this magazine is the perfect place to start.

Complete Contents with Article Descriptions

04 – Kelly Marks – My World: The Wisdom of a Weekend Rider
I reflect on the riding philosophy of William Steinkraus, and what we can learn from his subtle, thoughtful, and truly inspiring approach to horsemanship — no matter how much time we spend in the saddle.

06 – Your Horse Live 2022
From clippers to trailers to emotional breakthroughs — we recap our amazing Your Horse Live demos with real case studies and practical takeaways.

08 – Letters and Feedback
Stories and reflections from our brilliant IH community — including some powerful thoughts on “Social Licence to Ride”.

09 – Members’ Photos
A celebration of your horses and ponies — from foals to veterans, beach rides to liberty work. Beautiful, as always.

10 – Meet a Member: Dominic Smith – An Enduring Horsemanship Journey
Dominic shares his inspiring route into horses, barefoot endurance riding, and finding his perfect partner in George — with a Dually® and a dream.

12 – IH Short Story Writer of the Year 2023
Feeling creative? Enter our annual short story competition for a chance to win £500 and be published in the magazine.

14 – The Big Interview: Jayne Ross
Legendary showing producer Jayne Ross talks to Zoë Smith about patience, personality, and the secrets to those iconic gallops.

18 – IH Training: How to Keep Your Horse Sound for Life
Kelly Marks, Sandra Williams, Sue Palmer, Clare MacLeod and Dr Sue Dyson join forces to share practical steps for lifelong horse health.

28 – IH Training: From the Ground to the Saddle – Part 3
Jim Goddard helps riders bring confidence and connection from the ground into the saddle with practical riding exercises.

32 – IH Training: The Early Years – How the Horse Develops with Gillian Higgins
Gillian explains how your horse’s body and mind develop from birth — and how to support them through every stage.

36 – IH Debate: Are Horses a Hobby for the Rich?
An open, honest look at access, affordability, and how we keep equestrianism inclusive for the future.

38 – Book Extract: For the Love of the Horse by Mark Rashid
A thoughtful extract from Mark Rashid’s latest book — always a voice of calm, empathy and understanding.

40 – Spotlight On: IH Trainer Sarah Todd
Meet Sarah Todd, an IH Trainer whose journey is full of heart, purpose and commitment to the horses she helps.

43 – IH Trainer Client Feedback
Real stories of transformation from those who’ve worked with IH Trainers — always a joy to read.

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soundness, hoof care, saddle fit, endurance, barefoot, showing, young horse, groundwork,  rider positioning and biomechanics, body language, horse psychology, behaviour, spring, welfare, social licence, ridden work, writing competition,

 

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Explore Your Autumn 2020 IH Magazine!

Hello IH Members and friends!

This issue is one of our most thought-provoking yet. We’ve delved deep into the challenges riders face, shared science-led breakthroughs that could change your horse’s life, and we’ve got more than a few uplifting stories to warm your heart on those darker evenings.


What’s Inside?

“My World” by Kelly Marks – Shylo the Shoemaker teaches a masterclass in Horse Psychology (p4)
IH Debate – Are we driving our horses round the bend? A no-holds-barred look at the use of circles and dressage (p12)
The Big Interview with Dr. Sue Dyson – Insightful and packed with must-know tips on spotting subtle signs of pain (p14)
IH Training with Dr. Veronica Fowler – Impressive findings on aural plaques and how to treat them (p18)
Leanne Roger’s “The Trust Pot” – Building a true bond with your horse through trust and consistency (p21)
Reducing Your Carbon Hoofprint – Sarah Kingsley’s brilliant guide to making your yard more eco-friendly (p24)
Ride Leader Course Review – IH meets BHS as Jessica Pryor shares her safety-first tips for happy hacking (p28)
Surprising Poisons – Ele Milwright reveals everyday dangers hiding in plain sight (p34)
Success Files – Emma and Harvey’s journey from heartbreak to harmony (p38)
• Plus: Members’ stories, pony training tales, uplifting photos, IH Trainer feedback, and much more!


Why You’ll Love This Issue

This issue is all about perspective—seeing our horses, our routines, and even ourselves through a fresh lens. Our debate on the ethics of endless circles (p12) will definitely get you thinking, while Dr. Dyson’s feature (p14) provides invaluable clarity on how to spot discomfort before it becomes a bigger issue.

You’ll find practical, real-world training tools—like Leanne Roger’s approach to trust (p21) and Jessica Pryor’s hacking guidance (p28)—alongside deep, heartfelt stories that remind us all why we do what we do. From Shylo’s prascend-pill escapades to brave decisions made in our Members’ Letters, this is an edition that celebrates learning, growing, and looking after our horses with compassion.


Complete Contents with Article Descriptions

4 – My World: Lessons in Horse Psychology
Kelly shares what Shylo taught her about “teaching your horse to be bad”—and then undoing it! A brilliantly honest piece about mistakes, learning, and tiny ponies with big personalities.

6 – Letters & Feedback
Honest, heartfelt stories from IH members—including one brave owner’s decision to sell her horse and start fresh.

7 – In Other News
Shy Lowen’s rescue centre success, a hat-trick win, and a tribute to top IH-trained stallion Fascinating Rock.

9 – Members’ Photos
From newborn foals to brave bareback hacks—our members share inspiring snapshots and training journeys.

10 – Member Story: Hugo
Amy Craske’s touching, funny, and beautifully written journey with a complicated pony and what he taught her about horsemanship, pressure, and humility.

12 – IH Debate: Are We Driving Our Horses Round the Bend?
Is schooling in circles doing more harm than good? Both sides of this passionate debate laid out with honesty and insight.

14 – The Big Interview: Dr. Sue Dyson
An in-depth chat with the veterinary pioneer on saddle fit, subtle lameness, rider responsibility, and what to watch for in our own horses.

18 – IH Training: Dr. Veronica Fowler on Aural Plaques
New results show how simple changes can make a big difference in treating stubborn ear issues.

21 – IH Training: The Trust Pot
Leanne Roger shares her proven method for building (and rebuilding) trust with even the most wary horse.

24 – Reducing Your Carbon Hoofprint
Simple, do-able ideas to make your horsey life that little bit greener. A must-read for every yard.

28 – IH Meets BHS: Ride Leader Course
Trainer Jessica Pryor explains how her BHS training boosted her confidence for hacking out—and how it can help you too.

32 – Recipes for Good Horsemanship
Quick tips and kind thinking to help you create calm, consistent training environments for your horse.

34 – Surprising Poisons
You’ll be shocked by what might be lurking in your paddocks! Essential reading for all horse owners.

38 – Success Files: Emma and Harvey
A moving story of resilience and rediscovery as one rider finds joy again through IH methods.

40 – Spotlight On: Kelly Brotherhood
Get to know this rising IH Trainer star and what inspires her.

43 – Trainer Feedback
Real testimonials from IH clients—heartening stories of transformation, patience, and partnership.


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Autumn 2019

Explore Your Autumn 2019 IH Magazine!

What’s Inside?

• Kelly Marks reconnects with one of IH’s original students, Irene French, for a moving life story packed with wisdom and horse-sense.
Daisy Smith shares how IH principles can boost your marks in the show ring – practical tips with proven results!
Russell Guire, biomechanics specialist and Centaur Biomechanics founder, joins us for an exclusive interview exploring saddle fit, Olympic success and rider influence.
Heidi Maxwell takes us through her polework bootcamp – clever exercises for any horse and rider.
• Dr Veronica Fowler returns with another myth-busting “Intelligent Science” – are zebra fly rugs really all they’re cracked up to be?
• Our Intelligent Debate tackles a big one: is “natural” always best in horse training?
• Hands-on feature: Teach your horse to accept injections calmly and confidently.
• Don’t miss the launch of our exciting IH Writer of the Year competition – your chance to be published and win £500!
• Warm success stories and your brilliant member photos, plus a special shout-out to our long-standing demo supporters Oliver & Julia.


Why You’ll Love This Issue

This season’s edition is all about renewal, reflection and confidence – just what we often need as the seasons shift. Whether you’re rethinking how you handle your horse’s training, navigating a personal change, or simply curious to understand more, there’s something here for you.

I especially loved catching up with Irene French (p4) – her story is brave, funny, moving, and absolutely packed with life lessons. You’ll find practical know-how too, like Daisy’s guide to impressing in the ring (p20), or the step-by-step guide to needle training (p28). Plus, for the scientifically-minded among you, Dr Fowler’s fly rug investigation is a fascinating deep dive into how easy it is to be led astray by “bad science”.

Most of all, this issue is a celebration of our members – your stories, your photos, your journey with your horses. You’ll see that Intelligent Horsemanship continues to be a place where everyone is welcome, whether you’re just beginning or rediscovering your confidence.


Complete Contents with Article Descriptions

4 – Life Lessons with Irene French
Kelly shares an emotional reunion and inspiring interview with Irene, one of IH’s earliest students, whose story reminds us it’s never too late to reclaim your confidence – and your love of horses.

6 – Letters & Feedback
Heartfelt updates from IH members – from life-changing Join-Up® sessions to bold new starts and breakthroughs in confidence. Real stories, real change.

7 – In Other News
Equestrian world updates, including lunging vs long-lining, low-emission zones for horseboxes, and keeping young riders safe through NSPCC’s Sports Parent Promise.

8 – Members’ Photos
Fourteen wonderful member stories and snapshots, from first foals to dressage dreams. This season’s canvas wall art winner: Vicky & Bella!

11 – Meet a Member: Oliver & Julia
Two of our most loyal demo helpers reflect on their 70+ tours with IH, their horses, and the power of a perfect Join-Up®.

12 – IH Writer of the Year Competition
A brand-new writing competition inviting YOU to share your horse stories. Open to members and friends, with a £500 prize and a place in the magazine!

14 – Intelligent Science: Horses in Striped Pyjamas
Dr Veronica Fowler unpacks the hype around zebra-print fly rugs. Do they work? Possibly – but it’s more complicated than you might think…

16 – The Big Interview: Russell Guire
Russell talks biomechanics, how he helped design Olympic-winning girths, and how science can improve both horse performance and welfare.

20 – IH Training: Gain Marks in the Show Ring
Daisy Smith shares how applying IH techniques helped her achieve success and get noticed by the judges – practical and encouraging.

24 – Polework Exercises for Every Horse
Join IH student Heidi Maxwell on a 5-day polework bootcamp with exercises suitable for all levels. Great variety and thoughtful progressions.

28 – Training: Teaching Your Horse to Accept Needles
Step-by-step guidance to help your horse become comfortable with injections using positive, trust-based methods.

33 – Kelly Marks’ Book Review: Know Better to Do Better
Kelly reviews Monty Roberts’ latest book, reflecting on what learning better really means – for us and our horses.

36 – Intelligent Debate: Is Natural Best?
A spirited discussion on whether “natural” horse care and training is always the ideal – thought-provoking and open-ended.

38 – Success Story: Willing to Change
A member shares their transformation story – from fear and frustration to freedom and flow with their horse.

40 – Spotlight On: Paddy Gracey
An in-depth look at one of IH’s own – his work, his outlook, and his horse life journey.

42 – IHRT Client Feedback
Real feedback from people working with IH Recommended Trainers – proof of positive change and problem-solving.

44 – IH Courses
Dates, descriptions and how to book for our latest courses – your next adventure starts here.


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groundwork, confidence, biomechanics, horse psychology, training aids, vaccinations, polework, showing, writing competition, rugging, fly rugs

Summer 2018
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Summer 2018

Explore Your Spring 2018 IH Magazine!

What’s Inside?

• Kelly Marks reflects on fear, Costa Rica and ethical one-upmanship in “My World”
• Roly Owers, CEO of World Horse Welfare, in this issue’s inspiring Big Interview
• Training double-act: Pilates for riders with Julie Driver and for horses with Sue Palmer
• A practical how-to on Riding and Leading two horses at once by Joanna O’Neill
• Can Thoroughbreds really go barefoot? We investigate with expert insight
• Rosie Jones McVey explores whether ‘feel’ in horsemanship is science or faith
• Kelly and contributors debate training “shortcuts” — helpful or harmful?
• Behind the scenes of Monty’s most “fantastic tour ever”
• Meet IH member Stuart Miles — proof that feeling the fear and doing it anyway works!
• Letters, feedback, member success stories, and community inspiration throughout


Why You’ll Love This Issue

Whether it’s Pilates for your core (p17) or for your pony’s (p20), or learning how to ride and lead at the same time (p23), we’ve focused on practical steps to help you and your horse grow stronger together. If you’ve ever felt stuck, you’ll find comfort in the honest reflections from Kelly and other contributors who’ve walked through fear and come out smiling.

And don’t miss Rosie’s thoughtful exploration of “feel” in horsemanship (p34), or our deep-dive on barefoot Thoroughbreds (p37). This issue champions kind, considered horsemanship, and proves we’re always learning — whether you’re a trainer, a member, or even the CEO of World Horse Welfare (p13).


Complete Contents with Article Descriptions

4 – My World
Kelly Marks shares her Costa Rica adventures, overcoming fear of heights, and reflects on applying IH techniques in real life — all with her usual humour and insight.

6 – Letters and Feedback
Our members share stories and thoughts on demos, past issues, and why kindness still matters most.

7 – Members’ Photos
Celebrating the wonderful horses and humans who make up the IH community — canvas-winning smiles and stories included.

8 – In Other News
Updates on fireworks and sky lantern bans, equine welfare science, and Deborah Meaden’s horsey transformation after meeting Monty.

9 – Meet a Member: Stuart Miles
From doubting beginner to passionate IH student — Stuart’s inspiring journey shows how confidence grows with kindness and good company.

10 – Monty’s Autumn Tour Report
Declared Monty’s “best ever tour”, this report highlights transformational horse stories and the power of teamwork.

13 – The Big Interview: Roly Owers
The WHW CEO speaks candidly about horse welfare, rehoming, the equine obesity crisis, and what needs to change — and how we can help.

17 – IH Training: Pilates for Equestrians
Top instructor Julie Driver shares five key exercises to build rider strength and posture — ideal for spring tune-ups!

20 – IH Training: Pilates for Ponies
Sue Palmer and Lizzie Hopkinson offer targeted groundwork exercises to build your horse’s core and prevent injury.

23 – IH Training: Riding and Leading
Joanna O’Neill explains the safest, kindest way to exercise two horses at once — with plenty of IH wisdom built in.

26 – Dually Q&A with Kelly Marks
Kelly answers common questions about the Dually halter and how to use it with feel and fairness.

28 – Can There Be Shortcuts to Good Training?
A thoughtful look at fast fixes in horse training — when they help, when they hinder, and how to choose wisely.

34 – Feel and Faith
Rosie Jones McVey explores the idea of “feel” in horsemanship — is it instinct, science, or something in between?

37 – Can Thoroughbreds Go Barefoot?
A surprising and encouraging answer to a common question — backed by expert case studies and practical tips.

41 – Spotlight on: Ann-Marie Marek
Meet IHRT Ann-Marie Marek and discover what makes her one of IH’s trusted Recommended Trainers.

42 – IHRT Client Feedback
Real-life success stories from clients and trainers — proof of what kind, intelligent horsemanship can achieve.

43 – IH Courses
Your next steps — all the upcoming IH courses and how to book your place.

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rider fitness, pilates, groundwork, barefoot, horse psychology, confidence, riding and leading, feel, veteran horses, welfare, rehoming, ex-racehorse,

Summer 2017
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Summer 2017

Explore Your Summer 2017 IH Magazine!

What’s Inside?

• A deeply inspiring Big Interview with Professor Derek Knottenbelt on a life of equine veterinary passion and his Vets With Horsepower charity.
• Sue Palmer shares practical tips for hacking out with more confidence – a must-read for anxious riders.
• A powerful piece from Rosie Jones McVey on the stories we tell about our horses and what they reveal about us.
• Insights from Nicola Tyler (TopSpec) on feeding and meal size – when less really is more.
• Training highlights from Kelly and Monty’s March Demos, including trailer loading, clipping fears, and breakthrough moments.
• Joanna Lowes shares her international journey with Monty Roberts and working with horses in Brazil.
• Forage analysis and bespoke feeding plans – why it matters and how to do it.
• Real-life success stories from IH Members, including “Joe’s road to recovery” and Marmite’s transformation.
• Important update: IH Recommended Associates are now “IH Recommended Trainers” – clearer and just as committed!


Why You’ll Love This Issue

This issue is all about building confidence – in our horses, in ourselves, and in the choices we make. Whether you’re tackling hacking nerves (see Sue Palmer’s practical, confidence-boosting guide), or wondering when to seek help with a tricky problem (page 28), you’ll find encouragement here.

There’s also celebration: of knowledge and kindness through Professor Knottenbelt’s incredible veterinary journey, of connection through member stories, and of summer itself – those golden hours spent out with our horses.

This edition reminds us that learning never stops. Even familiar ground – like feeding or groundwork – offers something new when explored with curiosity and compassion. And if you’re ready to be inspired by people who truly walk the talk, don’t miss Jo’s international adventures with Monty and the unforgettable veterans’ clinic in California.


Complete Contents with Article Descriptions

4 – My World: Horses for Courses
Kelly shares her reflections on March courses, inspirational students, and a surprising Royal engagement. A warm welcome to summer, straight from the heart.

6 – Letters and Feedback
Real stories from IH Members – from rescued ponies to life-saving long lines, and everything in between.

7 – In Other News…
Name change alert: IH Recommended Associates are now IHRTs – plus updates on Sarah Weston, Exmoor ponies, and more.

8 – Buckham Fair
A peek into one of Dorset’s most-loved horse and dog charity events, thanks to Martin Clunes and family.

9 – Members’ Photos
Your beautiful, funny, and moving moments with your horses – captured and shared.

10 – In the News: Under the Skin – Donkeys at Risk
The Donkey Sanctuary exposes the harsh global trade in donkey skins for traditional Chinese medicine. Eye-opening and important.

12 – The Big Interview: Professor Derek Knottenbelt
A brilliant vet, biker, and charity champion – Derek talks sarcoids, passion projects, and the power of education.

16 – March Demos: What We Learned
From side-loaders to Zen-style clipping breakthroughs, Kelly reflects on memorable demo moments.

19 – IH Training: On the Road with Jo
Joanna Lowes updates us on Motto, her time with Monty Roberts in California, and the magic of Join-Up® for people, not just horses.

21 – IH Training: Carefree Hacking
Sue Palmer’s essential guide to building hacking confidence, step by step.

25 – IH Training: Forage Analysis and Feed Plans
Why what grows underfoot matters more than you think – and how to tailor feed to your horse’s needs.

28 – IH Training: Dealing with Problems – Home or Away?
When to handle it yourself – and when to call in a pro. A smart guide to assessing what your horse really needs.

31 – Feeding Myths Busted: Big Meals, Big Mistake?
Nicola Tyler explains why large meals can do more harm than good.

32 – IH Success Story: Working with Joe
A touching account of patience, progress, and partnership.

34 – Narrative Mind Reading
Rosie Jones McVey explores how the stories we tell about our horses reflect who we are.

38 – From the Case Files: My Mate, Marmite
A quirky but moving case study – showing that understanding can transform even the most marmite-like of horses!

41 – IHRT Client Feedback
Straight from the field – feedback that shows the real-life difference IH makes.

42 – Spotlight on Suzanne Halsey
Get to know one of IH’s quietly brilliant trainers.

44 – IH Courses
Thinking of joining a course? Everything you need to know to take the next step.


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groundwork, hacking, confidence, nutrition, clipping, loading, sarcoids, rescue horses, horse psychology, behaviour, donkeys

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