Dr. Sue Dyson is a world-renowned expert in equine lameness, combining veterinary science with advanced diagnostic techniques to improve horse welfare. Her extensive research and clinical work have significantly advanced the understanding of lameness causes, diagnosis, and treatment, making her a leading authority in equine health and performance.
Continue learning lameness with Dr. Sue Dyson. Get insights on vet vs. physio, saddle fit, pain interpretation, sports horse issues, training aids, and pain behavior.
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Enhance equine welfare with Sue Palmer’s RHP webinar. Learn to identify pain behaviors, improve performance, and understand the social license to operate in equestrianism.
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Gain expert insights into equine lameness with Dr. Sue Dyson. Learn about diagnosis, training influences, ultrasonography, rehabilitation, and dressage biomechanics.
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This time, I’m sharing Hugo’s rehab story – yes, the so-called “One Pound Pony”! It’s been a journey full of lessons, love and a few laughs too, and I hope it’ll be useful to anyone navigating the ups and downs of recovery and decision-making.
We’ve brought together another brilliant line-up of contributors this issue:
Plus, we’ve got heartfelt member stories, some very handy seasonal tips, and wonderful book reviews – from classical riding to staying strong after fifty.
If you’ve ever questioned whether your horse’s saddle is quite right, Sue Dyson’s article gives you the tools to spot discomfort early. And if you’re feeling rusty after winter, Abi’s groundwork reminders are a gentle, effective way to re-engage your horse’s body and mind.
Hugo’s journey meant a complete reassessment of how we manage allergies, bitting, ulcers, saddle fit and more. I’ve included every detail in the hope it helps others – especially if you’ve got a horse with mysterious niggles.
We’ve also included fabulous pieces on emotional and physical rehab, pasture management for laminitics, and one of my favourites – a story from Heather Lee, whose lifelong devotion to horses is both moving and inspiring.
All our members can access this magazine for free, along with our full archive and loads of exclusive videos, webinars and resources. Not a member yet? Come and join our friendly community – we’d love to have you!
04 Kelly Marks – My World: The Story of Hugo aka The One Pound Pony
I share Hugo’s remarkable rehab journey – from unsound to sounder – and all the lessons we’ve learnt along the way about welfare, diagnostics and doing the right thing.
10 Letters and Cartoon by Nat Herman
Your feedback, your wins and Nat’s cartoon brilliance – including a letter on nutrition and hoof health that really got me thinking.
12 IH News and Updates
Everything new in the world of IH, from competitions and webinars to our newest IH Trainers.
15 IH Members’ Photos
More beautiful moments captured between horses and their people – I always enjoy looking through these!
16 Meet a Member: Heather Lee
Heather’s moving account of a life shaped by horses – from Pony Club to prison rehabilitation, and everything in between.
18 IH Training: A Decade of Learning – Abi Pass
Abi Pass shares five essential groundwork exercises for all horses – ideal for building strength, suppleness and connection this spring.
24 IH Training: The Balanced Horse – Kate Sandel
Kate explores why balance matters so much in training – and how you can help your horse find it.
26 IH Training: Riding with Feel – Peggy Cummings
Peggy shows how you can develop a lighter, more aware seat and deepen your communication under saddle.
28 IH Training: TEAM A Exploration-Based Exercise – Gillian Bradley
Part 2 of Gillian’s emotional and physical agility training – a brilliant way to help horses feel safe while learning.
31 IH Training: Training Horses and Humans
Exploring the mutual learning between horse and handler – something we’re all familiar with in IH!
32 IH Training: Seven Tips for Horse Confidence – Olympic Medallist Sharon Hunt
Sharon Hunt shares golden advice for creating calm, brave horses – clear, concise and very effective.
34 IH Training: What Does Comfortable Look Like? – Dr Sue Dyson
An invaluable guide to recognising true comfort (or lack of it!) in your horse’s way of going.
36 IH Training: Learn From My Mistakes – IH Trainer Jo Powell
Jo bravely shares the lessons she learnt the hard way so you don’t have to – including saddle fit and behavioural misinterpretation.
38 Can Our Horses Choose Good Welfare? – Dr Rosie Jones-McVey
Rosie brings her usual thoughtful lens to this challenging question – what role does choice play in equine care?
42 A Seed Solution for Laminitic Horses & Ponies
Practical pasture advice to support horses prone to laminitis – timely and essential reading for the growing season.
44 Spotlight on IH Trainer Hannah Wells
A closer look at Hannah’s work helping horses and humans through Inspired Equine.
46 Book Review: Packing My Bags – Julie Ulrich
A lovely read full of classical wisdom and witty insight from Julie Ulrich.
51 Book Review: Riding in Release – Kate Sandel
Kate’s book bridges classical French and Western riding – and offers a fresh take on how we connect in the saddle.
53 Book Review: Thriving Beyond 50 – Will Harlow
A practical guide for riders looking to stay strong and supple – I found the shoulder advice very helpful!
55 IH Trainer Client Feedback
Real-life success stories from our brilliant IH Trainers – uplifting and encouraging as always.
groundwork, confidence, behaviour, rider positioning & biomechanics, saddle fitting, rehabilitation, laminitis, pasture management, trust building, welfare, Join-Up, horse psychology, book reviews
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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!
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:
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.
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.
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.
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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Hello IH Members and friends!
This issue is especially close to my heart, as it’s brimming with stories of resilience, learning, and connection—even if many of us were spending more time mucking out than going out! Whether you’re after festive joy, a bit of training inspiration, or some thoughtful debate to chew over by the fire, this Winter edition is here to bring you comfort, knowledge and encouragement.
• “My World” with Kelly Marks – Reflecting on 2020 and planning for the winter ahead (with a bit of polework for Pie!).
• IH Diploma Success – Inspiring psychology projects from our determined students—horse travel preferences, obesity management, and even veterans with PTSD.
• The 12 Mindful Days of Christmas – Sandra Williams’ seasonal self-care for you and your horse.
• Training Feature: Mounting Success – Kelly’s tips on teaching your horse to stand still to be mounted.
• Spotlight on Land Management – Dr Lisa Schofield shares essential winter advice for horse-friendly pastures.
• IH Debate: Zoopharmacognosy – Can horses really self-medicate? A lively and thought-provoking discussion.
• Book Extract: Tik Maynard’s “In the Middle Are the Horsemen” – A glimpse into thoughtful horsemanship.
• Success Stories & Member Feedback – Real-life transformations, heart-warming letters, and community wins.
• Meet a Member – Polo-player Laura Elliott shares her journey retraining ex-racers the IH way.
Winter is a time for reflection, reset, and sometimes just surviving the mud! This issue encourages all three. Whether you’re inspired by Sandra’s calming Christmas countdown or captivated by the heartfelt Member Story “Speaking Without Words”, there’s something here to lift your spirits and fuel your goals for 2021. The horse psychology projects alone are worth curling up with—ranging from umbrella desensitisation to whether horses can choose how they want to travel. It’s reassuring, fascinating, and a real tribute to how far IH Members will go to understand and support their horses. Plus, there’s lots of festive cheer to enjoy—without any tinsel-induced panic!
4 – My World: What Do YOU Have in Mind?
Kelly Marks shares reflections from the year, goals for winter (polework with Pie!), and celebrates our students’ incredible course achievements despite a tough year.
8 – Letters and Feedback
From hospital recoveries to confidence in the saddle, members share how IH has supported their journeys—even through lockdown.
11 – Meet a Member: Laura Elliott
Polo-player and retrainer of ex-racehorses Laura talks career shifts, confidence, and why she’s passionate about becoming an IH Trainer.
12 – IH Members’ Stories: Speaking Without Words
Irena Szirtes pens a moving reflection on her bond with her horse Tilly, blending stillness, liberty work, and the memory of her grandfather.
14 – IH Debate: Zoopharmacognosy
Do horses really know what they need to eat? We explore both sides of this fascinating (and controversial) practice.
17 – Equine Sports Science Summit
Sue Palmer reports from the Centaur Biomechanics Summit, packed with insights from leading researchers into movement, pain, and performance.
20 – IH on Tour: Northington Demo
A look back at the IH team’s Northington demo—plus the impact on a young rider named Caden and his rescue pony, Moon.
26 – 12 Mindful Days of Christmas
Sandra Williams brings warmth and wisdom to this seasonal countdown for horse lovers seeking balance and joy.
28 – Training a Horse to Stand Still to Mount
A practical and powerful guide from Kelly to one of the most underrated skills—mounting block manners!
32 – Land Management for Horses
Dr Lisa Schofield explores practical winter pasture advice, from poaching to planning for spring growth.
36 – In the Middle Are the Horsemen (Book Extract)
A special sneak peek into Tik Maynard’s celebrated memoir—deep, insightful, and very IH in spirit.
39 – Success Files: Shimmer’s Story
A heartfelt transformation tale about Shimmer’s journey from fearful to trusting—with help from IH methods.
40 – Spotlight On: Leanne Roger
Discover the story behind another IH star who’s helping horses and humans with her unique, thoughtful approach.
43 – Trainer Client Feedback
Kind words and success stories from those who’ve worked with IH Trainers—proof that gentle, informed training really works.
mounting, travelling, winter, zoopharmacognosy, pasture management
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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.
• “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!
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.
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.
horse psychology, groundwork, aural plaque, saddle fitting, rider weight, hacking, trust building, dressage, poisons, behaviour
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Note – Members you can find this article in the Autumn 2015 magazine in the magazine library of the members area.