Explore Your Spring 2014 IH Magazine!

What’s Inside?

• Kelly Marks reflects on tough decisions and how we can make better ones – for ourselves and our horses.
• An inspiring Big Interview with para dressage star Sophie Wells MBE on partnership, empathy and achieving greatness without force.
• IHRA Julia Fisher shares insight on knowing when not to ride – a brave and empowering read for anyone working through confidence challenges.
• Monty Roberts’ pioneering work with war veterans shows how Join-Up is changing lives far beyond the round pen.
• Groundbreaking look at teaching horses to respect personal space – a must-read training pull-out from p21.
• Real-world rehab: George’s diary charts his journey back to fitness with Sam and Lou Austin.
• Members share heartfelt stories, from confidence lost and rebuilt to finding that once-in-a-lifetime horse.
• IH Kids Special: the magical story of “Horse Boy” and the healing power of horses in autism therapy.
• Honest discussion around the hard topic of when to say goodbye – with practical support and kind perspective.

Why You’ll Love This Issue

This issue is thoughtful, honest and full of practical support – the kind that makes you feel a little more grounded, a little more hopeful. Whether it’s Knowing When Not to Ride (p19), learning to listen to your gut and your horse, or reading Sophie Wells' wise and humbling take on communication without force (p12), there’s so much here to encourage you forward.

For anyone facing big decisions or looking for direction, Kelly’s article Buying Your 'Life-Time' Horse (p25) is not only practical, it’s deeply relatable. We’re also honoured to share Monty’s powerful work helping veterans with PTSI – a moving reminder of the healing horses can bring (p10).

You’ll come away from this issue reassured that there’s no “one right way”, only your way – and IH is here to walk alongside you.

Complete Contents with Article Descriptions

p4 – Kelly Marks: My World – ‘Decisions, decisions…’
Kelly dives into the art of making wise choices – not just about horses, but life. Personal, practical, and filled with warmth and wit.

p10 – Horse Sense for Warriors
Ele Milwright reports on Monty’s Join-Up with war veterans suffering from PTSI. Powerful proof of the deep connection between horses and healing.

p12 – The Big Interview: Sophie Wells MBE
Sophie shares how working without force – and with fierce kindness – helped her become one of the top riders in the world. An absolute must-read.

p16 – Tough Choices: Making the Right Decision for Your Horse
A brave and honest look at what to do when things aren’t working out. Kelly unpacks the options and urges readers to act with clarity and compassion.

p19 – IH Training: Knowing When Not to Ride
IHRA Julia Fisher explores how groundwork and self-awareness can help us rebuild confidence and connection, one step at a time.

p21 – IH Training: Understanding Personal Space
This practical pull-out gives step-by-step guidance on teaching your horse to respect your space – essential reading for everyday safety and trust.

p25 – IH Training: Buying Your ‘Life-Time’ Horse – the Intelligent Way
Kelly shares her hard-won wisdom on horse-buying. A thoughtful, educational piece that helps you match head with heart.

p28 – IH Training: George’s Rehab Diary
Sam and Lou Austin reflect on George’s journey back to health and strength – a testament to time, teamwork and trust.

p34 – IH Kids Special: Horse Boy Goes to High School
A heartfelt look at how therapeutic riding is helping children with autism. Inspiring, touching, and beautifully written.

p33 – The Horse I Would Clone
An affectionate tribute to a truly unforgettable horse – one we all wish we could meet again.

Navigation Tags

buying a horse, groundwork, confidence, personal space, rehabilitation, dressage, horse psychology