Before arriving at the IHP rescue centre I had no inkling of the emotions I would experienced. To be honest, I was a little wary about meeting these horses for real, knowing what abuse they had suffered before coming to the centre. My fears were unfounded. I was quite literally captivated by the tranquility and happiness that radiated from the horses. To be able to see them both free and happy was the most wonderful sensation. Every single horse expressed its gratitude in its own way, and it was quite simply amazing. I was really sad when the day came for me to leave at the end of my volunteer period, I was overwhelmed by many unexpected emotions. So I was concerned at the beginning about how I would react, whereas there I was concerned about leaving. For me personally it was a unique and very significant experience. I admire all the staff of IHP for the work they do day after day, and thank them for being the guardian angels of these magnificent animals.