2008 Spring

Explore Your Spring 2008 IH Magazine!

What’s Inside?

• Back to Form – Jess Harkness introduces a new course helping horse owners spot physical discomfort before it becomes a behavioural issue.
• Dealing with a Problem Kicker – Nicole Golding challenges the way we use our legs when riding, asking whether kicking has any place in good horsemanship.
• Your Letters – Real-life success stories from IH members, including trailer loading triumphs and gentle solutions to head shaking.
• New Expert Q&A Section – Veterinary advice from Donna Blinman, bitting tips from Hilary Vernon, and thoughtful input from Jackie JA Taylor and Dr Veronica Fowler.
• Learning to Listen – Helen Wynyard-Wright shares her heartfelt journey with a challenging pony and how Sandra Williams helped them both find trust.
• My Mother is a Wheelbarrow – Sarah Weston’s moving update on two orphaned New Forest foals, and the power of community and compassionate handling.
• Kelly in South Africa – A behind-the-scenes look at Kelly’s whirlwind tour – complete with trolleys, horses, and unforgettable moments.
• March Madness Sale – Great book and DVD offers from the IH office – don’t miss the savings!

Why You’ll Love This Issue

This Spring issue is all about fresh starts and second chances – whether that’s helping a “problem horse” feel heard, or discovering new ways to approach old challenges. The new Q&A section brings in expert voices to guide you through topics like colic, bitting, and nutrition – essential support when you're unsure where to turn. You’ll also find honest, uplifting stories from fellow IH members who’ve faced the same struggles many of us know all too well. Whether it's backing off from using force, listening more intently, or finding trust again, this issue is packed with inspiration and grounded advice.

Complete Contents with Article Descriptions

Page 2 – Sarah Weston
Kelly Marks recognises the outstanding work of RA Sarah Weston with young, untouched horses.

Page 3 – Letter from the Editor
Sandra O’Halloran welcomes new members and introduces exciting changes, including a new Q&A section and details of a fantastic March book sale.

Page 4 – Back to Form
Jess Harkness discusses the new course designed to help owners detect musculoskeletal issues in horses before they escalate.

Page 5 – Your Letters
Touching and triumphant letters from members on everything from loading breakthroughs to pony partnerships.

Pages 6–7 – Dealing with a Problem Kicker (of the human kind)
Nicole Golding explores the impact of leg aids and questions how riders can better communicate without force.

Page 8 – Q&A with Donna Blinman (Veterinary)
From sesamoid fractures to splints and jumping hesitations – common concerns answered with clarity and compassion.

Page 9 – Q&A with Hilary Vernon (Bitting)
A thoughtful look at transitioning from a Dually to a snaffle, plus key advice on bit types and fitting.

Page 10 – Q&A with Dr Veronica Fowler (Colic)
A thorough, educational piece on understanding and preventing colic – a must-read for every horse owner.

Page 11 – Q&A with Jackie JA Taylor (Feeding & Supplements)
Practical insights into assessing nutrition and understanding vitamin and mineral needs – without the guesswork.

Pages 12–13 – Learning to Listen
Helen Wynyard-Wright shares how Sandra Williams helped transform her pony, Del, from a nightmare to a trusted partner.

Page 14 – My Mother is a Wheelbarrow
Sarah Weston follows the progress of orphaned foals Sterling and Freddie, and the kindness of IH members who stepped in.

Page 14 – IH Courses
Upcoming course dates for 2008, from Foundation Courses to massage, psychology, and loading clinics.

Page 15 – March Madness Sale
Brilliant offers on books and DVDs – get your IH library stocked for spring training.

Pages 16–19 – South Africa with Kelly Marks
An adventure-packed report from Kelly’s tour of South Africa – complete with humour, heart, and horsemanship.

Page 20 – Perfect Reading
A roundup of recommended reads to keep your training and understanding evolving.

Page 21 – Reviews and Bulletins
News and updates from IH HQ and the wider horsemanship world.

Page 22 – Have Your Cake and Eat It
A look at a promising new business with an IH heart.

Page 23 – Caesur – A Little Star
Meet the charming horse from the February tour – looking for a new home and a new start.

Page 23 – Scholarship News
Three ways to earn a sponsored place on the 5-Day Foundation Course – don’t miss out.

Navigation Tags

groundwork, bitting, horse psychology, horse health, veterinary, colic, nutrition, foals, loading, behaviour, pain, communication, spring