Winter 2018
What’s Inside?
• Kelly Marks reflects on life, learning, and standing up to bullying in her personal “My World” column.
• The Young Equestrian Photographer of the Year competition winners revealed – meet Sophie Gellender and 10 incredible finalists!
• Dr Veronica Fowler investigates the science behind the claim “Snorting = Happiness” – is it fact or fiction?
• Big Interview: Independent nutritionist Clare MacLeod gives straight-talking advice on feeding, supplements, and decoding marketing hype.
• Dr Rosie Jones McVey returns with “Old Heroes and Bold Heroes” – a powerful look at tradition, bravery, and mental health in horsemanship.
• Training special: bonding with a new horse, jumping confidence, rugging realities, and working through winter.
• Intelligent Debate: Is a horse really for life? Members share their heartfelt stories and views.
• Don’t miss Sue Griffin’s inspiring journey with The Donkey Sanctuary, and a touching holiday success story in “A Horsey Holiday of a Lifetime”.
• Cosy up with thoughtful Christmas gift ideas for horse lovers (and maybe yourself too!).
Why You’ll Love This Issue
Clare MacLeod’s no-nonsense take on supplements will save you time, money, and confusion (p18). Rosie Jones McVey makes a stirring case for compassion in “Old Heroes and Bold Heroes” (p34), while Veronica Fowler gives us the honest low-down on “happy snorting horses” (p16). And the photography competition? Just stunning – young talent that reminds us all how powerful and emotional a connection with horses can be (p10). As always, the Training Section is packed with practical advice to help you grow more confident, thoughtful, and connected with your horse.
Complete Contents with Article Descriptions
4 – If Not Now, When?
Kelly Marks shares personal insights on learning, responsibility, and stepping out of comfort zones – with Pie, of course, leading the way.
6 – Letters and Feedback
Heartfelt messages from IH members, including one from a reader in New Zealand inspired by Perfect Confidence.
7 – Members’ Photos
A celebration of your photos – meet Chloe and her sleepy thoroughbred Razz, plus many more.
8 – In Other News
Updates from IH trainers, charity events, and congratulations to Dr Rosie Jones McVey on her academic milestone.
9 – Meet a Member: Sue Griffin
A chat with Sue about her work with The Donkey Sanctuary and how IH helped her deepen her understanding of equines.
10 – Young Equestrian Photographer of the Year
Winner Sophie Gellender’s stunning portrait of Rohan, a working Shire, plus 10 highly commended entries full of emotion, creativity, and skill.
16 – Intelligent Science: Is Snorting a Sign of Happiness?
Dr Veronica Fowler offers a clear-eyed look at the recent buzz about “snorting horses” and whether the science actually holds up.
18 – The Big Interview: Clare MacLeod
Independent nutritionist Clare MacLeod tackles myths, marketing, and the truth about grass, buckets, and balanced diets.
22 – Bonding with Your New Horse: Part 3
Practical advice on deepening trust and connection, especially after initial challenges.
27 – Improve Your Jumping Position
Helpful tips to boost your confidence and form over fences, especially after time out of the saddle.
30 – Do You Need to Rug Your Horse?
Looking at when rugs help – and when they may be unnecessary or even harmful.
32 – Intelligent Debate: Is a Horse for Life?
Thoughtful stories and perspectives on long-term horse ownership and ethical responsibility.
34 – Old Heroes and Bold Heroes
Rosie Jones McVey explores bravery, tradition, and the cost of “toughness” in horse culture – a must-read.
37 – Spotlight on: Demelza Franssen
IH Trainer in focus – her journey and training tips.
38 – Success Story: A Horsey Holiday of a Lifetime
A feel-good feature about one member’s transformative trip with horses.
41 – IHRT Client Feedback
Real stories of progress and breakthroughs with IH Recommended Trainers.
42 – IH Christmas Shopping
Gift ideas for the Intelligent equestrian in your life (including yourself!).
44 – IH Courses
Plan your 2019 with upcoming courses to expand your horsemanship journey.
Navigation Tags
jumping, nutrition, supplements, winter, confidence, connecting, horse psychology, the brain & senses,

