The Heart Behind “The Adventures of Bella & Emily”
In the picturesque town of Brighton, Michelle Holland is a beacon of hope for neglected and mistreated animals. Her journey into the world of animal rescue began 33 years ago with a neglected New Forest pony named Bella. The transformation of Bella from a frightened, unhealthy pony to a trusting and healthy companion was a turning point for Michelle, igniting a lifelong passion for rescuing and rehabilitating animals in need.
In 1995, Michelle took a bold step by opening her own sanctuary dedicated to saving New Forest ponies from slaughter. Over a five-year period, she successfully rescued and rehomed over 57 ponies, raising more than £80,000 annually to sustain her voluntary efforts. Among these rescues was Chelsea, a six-month-old pony who arrived at the sanctuary in dire condition. With patience and tender loving care, Michelle formed a special bond with Chelsea, who went on to compete at Burghley, a proud moment for Michelle and a testament to her dedication.
Michelle’s commitment to animal welfare extends beyond ponies. She is a fully qualified Canine Behaviourist Practitioner, having completed her Canine Psychology & Behaviour course with The International School for Canine Psychology & Behaviour. Her expertise in canine behaviour complements her work as the owner of ‘Time For You Domestic Cleaning Brighton & Sussex,’ a business she has successfully run for 20 years.
Despite her busy schedule, Michelle finds time to write. Inspired by Chelsea, she authored a series of six books titled “The Adventures of Bella & Emily.” Through these stories, Michelle hopes to inspire readers to believe in the power of hard work and the possibility of dreams coming true. Her ultimate dream is to sell one million copies of her books, with half of the proceeds going to her five chosen rescue organizations: The Brooke, Helping Paws, Leinster Horse and Pony Rescue, Horse World, and Retreat Animal Rescue. To date, she has donated £4,273.47 to these organizations, with a goal to contribute even more.
Michelle’s dedication to animal welfare has not gone unnoticed. She received an award from the Mayor of Eastbourne for her contributions to the community. Her story is one of resilience, compassion, and unwavering commitment to making the world a better place for animals. As she continues to balance her work, writing, and animal care, Michelle remains driven by her passion and the joy of seeing the animals in her care thrive.
For those inspired by Michelle’s story, she encourages support for her chosen rescue organizations. Every donation, no matter how small, can make a significant difference in the lives of animals in need. With the collective effort of compassionate individuals, Michelle believes that a brighter future for these animals is within reach.
