MISSION & PROGRAMS

Mission:
OUR MISSION:
     To provide veterans first responders, young people and others in high-stress environments with essential tools to expand their capacity for healthy, authentic relationships through purposeful engagement with horses.
     
     OUR VISION:
     A country where men and women in uniform and others who work in high stress environments have the opportunity to enjoy the physical, mental and emotional freedom they dedicate their lives to protect for our country and our communities.
     
     All of our programs entail groundwork with horses, resilience tools derived from somatic practices and psycho-education material we call Emotional Agility. Not only is our work important to humans — but the programming with our equine partners is highly beneficial for them.

Our organization conducts Equine Assisted Services in accordance with the EQUUS Foundation Guidelines on Qualifications of Organizations Conducting Equine Assisted Services (EAS).
Our organization provides community outreach and/or public education programs involving horses.
Our organization is directly responsible for the care and shelter of some of the equines involved in our programs and some of the equines in our programs are cared for and sheltered by other organization(s).
100% of our total programs and services are equine-related.

Our organization does not CURRENTLY use satellite, overflow, foster, and/or outreach facilities.


Summary of organization's recent accomplishments, goals, strategies to achieve the goals, and capabilities to meet the goals, including its long-term plans to sustain its programs:
Our Mission:
     To provide veterans, first responders and others in transition with essential tools to build healthy, authentic relationships through purposeful engagement with horses.
     
     Proven and Growing Success:
     We have seen well over 1000 veterans, first responders, crime victims, health workers, and many others in high stress situations.
     
     2023 Milestones:
     The research team at the VA and Yale completed the pilot research study on our curriculum in May 2023. Findings will be published this summer of 2024.
     
     We have begun working with Guardian Revival, chartered to revive and preserve the mental health and well being of veterans and first responders — our guardians — at no cost to them.
     
     We are also working with The Sierra Club CT chapter to arrange sessions in 2024 through their Military Outdoors Program.
     
     Also, we hosted 26 veterans from all over the country through-hiking 2,190 miles on the Appalachian Trail. They stay in our cottage and each year we'll continue this rich and rewarding opportunity to help warriors ‘walk off the war’ and renew themselves with our horses in Sharon.
     
     This year, we’re expanding our relationships with folks from the Westchester Vet Center, Guardian Revival, Warrior Expeditions, Housatonic Youth Services Bureau, Project SAGE and The Sharon Playhouse.
     
     We are engaging more veterans, first responders, young people and women who need to ‘move on’ in their lives – all of whom can benefit from what we and the horses teach about building healthy, authentic relationships. Thanks to your generosity, we’re reaching into this community and beyond to offer profound and practical tools for young people and adults to help ensure a brighter future.
     
     We’ll share some of what we’re doing and what participants have to say about how The Equus Effect reaches into their lives. Because of you, we’re able to impact their courage and capacity to show up with clear minds, better communication skills and more ability to handle situations both at home and work. For each person we see, many more enjoy the benefits of our program.
     
     We already provide resilience tools to veterans and first responders who are distracted and exhausted by past events that keep them from being present.
     
     By reaching more young people and others in this community, we also believe we can impact those in transition from one phase of life to another.
     
     All of this is possible because of your tremendous support and our ability to reach folks who come with many stories of stress and distress.

Please describe what steps your organization takes to ensure that:
1) the interactions between your equines and people are mutually beneficial and conducted in accordance with the Guidelines for Human-Equine Interactions stated below;
2) all equines in the care of our organization and/or equines that participate in the organization's program have access to clean drinking water at all times; nutritious food in sufficient quantity, including natural forage such as pasture grass and/or hay; appropriate veterinary, farrier, and dental care; shelter and protection from the weather; sufficient safe space to move around comfortably on a daily basis; and daily opportunity to freely interact and have contact with other equines.
     1)
     To ensure that our equines and people are mutually beneficial and conducted in accordance with the Guidelines for Human-Equne Interactions — we have we highly skilled Facilitators and Facilitators-in-Training who are knowledgeable and trained to our specific way to teach about horses. Our training is an intensive year-long endeavor.
     
     To echo your Guidelines above:
     
     
     Programs and activities involving all human-equine interactions should always consider the comfort and dignity of the equine as paramount and promote the utmost respect for the equine as a sentient partner and not as a commodity or inanimate object.
     
     The programs and activities are designed to not cause distress, to not force an equine to exhibit unnatural behavior, and to be safe for both the equines and the humans.
     
     The programs and activities respect and protect all aspects of the individual welfare of the equines involved, including the appropriate portrayal and involvement of the equines depending on temperament.
     
     Our Facilitators oversee programs and activities that are conducted in a careful manner that minimizes the impact on the equines and their environment and have the authority to remove an equine from participation upon signs of stress.
     
     We have a contingency and first aid plan should be in place in the event of an unforeseen emergency.
     
     We have a written policy: The Equus Effect Code of Ethics which is signed by all Facilitators and Facilitators-in-Training who are in charge of how the equines are selected for participation, how each equine in each program is continuously monitored for stress and well-being, what mechanisms are in place to allow the equines to 'opt out' of the activity, how safety is managed and maintained, and how each program is consistent with the organizations' mission.
     
     Our Values:
     Horses let us know EXACTLY how they feel about how we act with them. Their perception of who is safe and who isn’t – is based on how honest, present and congruent we are with them.
     
     If we allow them to express themselves, they will. They are delightfully un-self conscious and never hide behind the kind of masks that we humans have come to view as ‘normal’. As powerful, non-predatory animals — they do not manipulate or strategize, nor do they ever take advantage of fear.
     
     In addition — if we do not constrain them and allow them to express themselves, they will. They are delightfully un-self conscious and never hide behind the kind of masks that we humans have come to view as ‘normal’. Unlike many predators — as prey — they do not manipulate or strategize, nor do they ever take advantage of fear.
     
     Horses don’t care where you live or where you come from, they care about how you are with them right now. They teach presence, honesty and cooperation.


Equine Assisted Services (EAS):
Our organization provides the following Equine Assisted Services (EAS):
    Equine-Assisted Learning involving Personal and/or Professional Development

1: Total number of Equine Assisted Service Providers at The Equus Effect

     1. David Sonatore, LCSW

         FACILITY PARTICIPATION:

         The Equus Effect

         RELATIONSHIP: Other

         SERVICES PROVIDED:

         Equine-Assisted Learning involving Personal and/or Professional Development

         DEGREES, LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS

         David is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, an Eponaquest Equine Experiential Learning instructor, a Somatic Experiencing® advanced training graduate and a certified Martha Beck Coach.

David combines the academic and experiential training necessary to empower clients with what they need to move beyond trauma. He combines this with his keen intuition around horses and helps veterans, first responders and others in transition from one phase of ife to another realize that they can become whole again.

Overview of our programs involved with providing EAS to individuals with special needs:
     We provide Equine-Assisted Learning to veterans, military family members, first responders, frontline health workers and others who have experienced shock or trauma in one form or another. Our program is trauma-sensitive in that we understand and respect both the external and internal manifestations of those whose nervous systems have been flooded with too much adrenaline, cortisol or pain either all at once or over a period of time. We use body-based practices along with ground-based natural horsemanship skills and didactic material to empower veterans and other adults to move beyond self-limiting patterns of thought and behavior that keep them from enjoying success and fulfillment in their lives.
     
     We believe that healthy relationships are foundational to meaning and satisfaction in life — and our primary purpose is to give men, women and young people the tools they need to return to their lives with renewed capacity for self management, energy and presence.
     
     We also believe that horses accelerate this process by helping participants see the ways in which unprocessed anger, depression, grief and agitation can hinder their ability to move forward in life. Gaining the trust and willingness to collaborate from a horse is not easy. We believe however, that by carefully breaking down that process through the horsemanship skills we teach and the didactic material we present, we can give clients a renewed sense of competence, confidence and optimism. They frequently report feeling that they have built the capacity to handle situations that trigger them, de-escalate situations that might have gotten out of hand and in general, bring out the best in themselves.
     
     Trauma takes people out of the present and into fight, flight or freeze reactions to non-threatening situations. Their world is one of memories, reactivity, aggression or isolation. Trauma sufferers often put up barriers instead of healthy boundaries. They also lack the capacity to respond appropriately to others in their lives ... at home, work or school. So, while they may live with others, have jobs or go to school, trauma survivors often have a very difficult time maintaining the relationships that give meaning and purpose to life.
     
     Horses are amazing teachers and models of what is needed for an individual to build and maintain healthy relationships. Since how they feel is what they do, their trust is transparent and their willingness to cooperate (given the choice) is based on their honest assessment of any given person or situation. As is the case with most people, horses prefer honesty, fairness, respect and finesse over force.
     
     Also, we provide a rigorous academic training curriculum to men and women from the coaching, horsemanship and healing arts who wish to become professional facilitators of The Equus Effect Program at our location — or at their own facilities. So, The Equus Effect is both a location (Sharon, CT) and a program that is hosted by trained facilitators at other locations with horses that belong either to the individuals or to the facilities where our curriculum is delivered.

Overview of our programs involved with providing community outreach and/or public education programs involving horses:
     As many folks know, the mental health crisis in our country is very real. We saw a lot of people from our community during Covid, which was understandable. What's happening now and what we're doing about it — is offering this work to clinicians who are also experiencing compassion fatigue from client overload and just from the fragmentation, polarization and general anxiety that is so prevalent in our culture right now. We have offered afternoon workshops for clinicians and for their clients whose needs are not actually being met by talk therapy alone.
     
     PEOPLE OF COLOR - We have added one person of color to our Board of Directors and expect that our offerings for veterans of color will increase since has been offering programs with her husband, who is a veteran himself, for veterans that use the arts as a means of supporting their journeys home. We hope that the addition of this talent on our team will add to our ability to reach more deeply into this community with programs that are relevant, meaningful and timely.
     
     
     FIRST RESPONDERS - We have added to our initial offering for groups of law enforcement professionals who are at risk of taking their own lives. We have also established a partnership arrangement with an organization called Guardian Revival that serves both veterans, fire fighters, law enforcement personnel, EMT’s and Dispatchers in order to promote their health and wellbeing through outdoor activities, music and family gatherings. We are so pleased to offer our curriculum in conjunction with theirs and look forward to conducting weekend and week-long retreats for this broader range of people who serve our country and communities. We are very excited about the prospect of using our somatic-based tools to help them settle down and make better decisions at home and on the job. The basic principles of our curriculum remain the same.
     
     OTHER APPLICATIONS - Our curriculum is consistent and repeatable. We also know that there are many applications and will continue to use our approach with those who are grieving, young people struggling with anxiety and depression and those who need support as they prepare to meet future challenges.

Research/Medical Use of Equines:
Our organization has never made, and would not ever consider making, equines available for research studies or medical training that involves invasive procedures and/or that which may cause pain or suffering to the equine. 

Religious Affiliation:
Our organization does not promote religious education, religious purposes, or a specific religious faith or use donations for religious education or religious purposes; require participants to be of a certain faith; require participation in religious, instruction, activities or services; or require participation in prayer, worship, religious instruction or other religious activities as a condition of receiving social or secular services offered. 

Auction Donation:
Our organization has never allowed, or would not consider allowing, an equine to be sold, transferred, released, or otherwise placed into possession of any person or organization that would cause or allow the equine to be sold at auction for slaughter. 

EQUINE ASSISTED SERVICES CENSUS

The Equus Effect

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Equine Assisted Services (EAS)

2023 EAS Operations - EAS Providers: 1	Mounted Only	Unmounted Only	Both Mounted & Unmounted	Total
Horses/Equines participating in EAS programs at this facility
Number of horses/equines aged under 3	0	0	0	0
Number of horses/equines aged 3-8	0	0	0	0
Number of horses/equines aged 9-14	0	1	0	1
Number of horses/equines aged 15-20	0	0	0	0
Number of horses/equines Over 20	0	3	0	3
Total number of horses/equines participating in EAS programs at this facility	0	4	0	4
	Mounted	Unmounted
Number of hours per day each horse works		2
Number of days per week each horse works		3
Clients participating in EAS programs at this facility	Mounted Only	Unmounted Only	Both Mounted & Unmounted	Total
Total number of individual clients (not lessons) served annually	0	540	0	540
Average number of clients (not lessons) participating in activities per week	0	18	0	18
	Mounted	Unmounted
Number of days per week programs are conducted at this facility		3
Number of weeks per year programs are conducted at this facility		30
	Mounted	Unmounted
Average wait list time for a client		3 Weeks

Additional explanation: The number of sessions per week is 3 days with 6 participants. The horses work 2 hours per session and totals 6 hours per week.

EQUINE CENSUS SUMMARY

Total Facilities: 1


4 Total number of horses involved with your programs on January 1, 2023
PLUS: Horse Intake during 2023
0 Donated
0 Lease
0 Purchase from Owner
0 Auction
0 Kill Pen/Feedlot
0 Surrendered
0 Seized
0 Abandoned
0 Returned
0 Transfer
0 Born at facility
0 Adoption from Rescue
0 Owner Owned
0 Total intakes
LESS: Horse Departure during 2023
0 Horses adopted/sold:
0 Horses transferred/returned
0 Horses deceased
0 Horses euthanized
0 Total departures
4 Number of horses involved with your programs on December 31, 2023
4 Total number of active horses (not retired) including
horses undergoing rehabilitation and/or retraining.
0 Total number of horses permanently retired.

Summary: 4 on 1/1/2023+ 0 Intakes - Departures = 4 on 12/31/2023

POLICIES: ACQUISITION

Our organization acquires horses/equines from the following source(s):
    Donation  

Our organization does not acquire horses/equines from the following source(s):
    Lease  
    Purchase from Owner  
    Auction  
    Kill pen/Feedlot  
    Return  
    Surrender  
    Seizure  
    Abandonment  

Our organization will accept the following:
    Geldings
    Mares

Not Checked:
    Pregnant Mares
    Foals
    Stallions
    Only Stallions to be castrated

POLICIES: INTAKE, ASSESSMENT & TRAININING

Prior to a horse being accepted and/or arriving at the facility, the organization requires the following with respect to the health status of the horse:
    A current Coggins
    Vaccination records that have been administered within the last 12 months
    If health records are not available or are out-of-date, the owner is responsible for having vaccinations administered.
    If health records are not available or are out-of-date, our veterinarian will administer appropriate vaccinations

Not Checked:
    A health certificate signed by a veterinarian and dated no more than seven days prior to arrival is provided to our organization either prior to or upon arrival of the equine attesting to the health status of the equine

Prior to a horse being accepted and/or arriving at the facility, the organization has the following policies in place:
    The owner of a potential equine is interviewed over the phone or in person prior to seeing the equine
    The equine is evaluated at its place of residence
    The owner completes an application/contract which constitutes the agreement between the owner and our organization
    The owner is financially responsible for the shipping of the equine to and from the organization
    Equines are not taken on trial

Not Checked:

Following arrival of the equine at the facility, the following is performed:
    A Henneke Body Conditioning Score or other body conditioning score is assigned
    Physical examination by trained barn staff
    Photographs are taken of each equine upon arrival at the facility and kept with the equine's health records
    Physical examination by a farrier
    Physical examination by a dentist
    Coggins test
    Vaccinations
    De-worming

Not Checked:
    Physical examination by a veterinarian upon arrival
    Blood work other than Coggins
    Fecal test
    The equine is scanned to check for a microchip
    The equine is microchipped if the scan indicates that there is no microchip

Upon intake, the organization has the following quarantine policy in place:
    The equine is confined to a designated and separate area for isolation and quarantine at the facility for a prescribed period of time

Not Checked:
    The equine is confined to a designated and separate area for isolation and quarantine off-site for a prescribed period of time
    The equine is not quarantined

The typical length of quarantine is:   Up to 10 days

Horses are assessed for following skills and behaviors:
    Retrieval from a pasture/paddock
    Leading with a halter and lead rope
    Temperament, disposition and attitude, such as rated from very calm to very high spirited
    Saddling
    Bridling
    Lunging
    Loading onto and unloading off a trailer
    Mounting and dismounting
    Riding at the walk
    Riding at the trot
    Tolerance to unusual objects and loud noises
    Known vices, i.e., cribbing, biting, kicking, weaving, stall walking, etc
    Grooming
    Bathing
    Tolerance to multiple handlers at the same time

Not Checked:
    Riding at the canter
    Riding by a beginner and/or unbalanced rider
    Jumping
    Driving (Pulling a carriage)
    Clipping

Our organization has the following policies and procedures in place pertaining to the ongoing assessment of horses in its care:
    Physical examination by a veterinarian at least annually
    Equines at our facility may be treated by an equine chiropractor
    Equines at our facility may be treated by an equine acupuncturist
    Equines at our facility may be treated by an equine massage therapist
    Equines at our facility may be treated by an equine nutritionist

Not Checked:
    The Henneke Body Condition score or other body conditioning score is updated at least annually
    Photographs are taken of each equine monthly and kept with the equine's health records
    Photographs are taken of each equine annually and kept with the equine's health records
    
    

Our organization has the following policies and procedures in place pertaining to the weight-carrying or workload capabilities of horses/equines that are ridden in our care:
    No equines are ridden; not applicable
    Our organization does not evaluate the weight-carrying and workload limitations for each equine that is ridden

Not Checked:
    Our organization evaluates at least annually and maintains a written record of the weight-carrying and workload limitations for each equine that is ridden

The following variables are considered in determining the weight-carrying and workload limitations for each equine that is ridden:
    Our organization does not evaluate the weight-carrying and workload limitations for each equine that is ridden
    No equines are ridden; not applicable

Not Checked:
    Equine age, weight, breed, body condition, fitness, balance, health and soundness
    Equine conformation to include the top line, length of back, strength and width of loin, bone density (measured by the circumference of the cannon bone just below the knee)
    Size, shape, condition and angle of the hooves
    Participant weight, height, body proportions, balance, fitness and riding skills as well as behavioral issues and safety concerns
    Weight and proper fit of the saddle and other equipment
    Terrain and footing in the working environment
    Duration and frequency of working sessions, as the frequency with which an equine is subjected to maximum weight carrying and/or workload
    Nature and pace of work, repetitive or varied, radius of turns, degree of incline and regularity of footing when equine is subject to maximum weight-carrying capacity
    Temperature and/or weather conditions
    Seasonal impact on the equines' workload and weight-carrying capabilities and limitations

Horses provided formal training (groundwork or riding):   2-3 times per week

Additional information about our intake, assessment & training policies and practices:
Since our program is based on groundwork, our primary concern is social in nature. Our horses have to be safe to work with for staff, volunteers and for the participants, most of whom are beginners.
     
     We would hope that horses are donated with an honest assessment of their abilities and limitations. We are not averse to most, but would want to know up front what we are facing.
     
     Were we to take in a new horse, we have two places to quarantine for 10 or more days: the open and covered round pen - depending upon the weather and the covered pen is 25' from the nearest pasture and the open round pen is at least 150' from the nearest pasture.
     
     Also, although our program is unmounted, separate from our program, the horses are ridden for training and recreational purposes.

POLICIES: BREEDING

The organization has the following policies related to breeding and stallions:
    Our main facility where our organization conducts its programs does NOT breed equines.

Not Checked:
    One or more of the facilities where our organization conducts its programs, including foster facilities, breeds equines
    One or more of the facilities where our organization conducts its programs, including foster facilities, are permitted to house stallions

POLICIES: EUTHANASIA

The organization has the following policies related to euthanasia:
    Our organization will never have an equine euthanized for space
    Our organization will have an equine euthanized upon the recommendation of the veterinarian if the equine is a threat to itself, other equines, or people
    Our organization will have an equine euthanized upon the recommendation of the veterinarian after all reasonable treatment options have been explored
    Euthanasia is done on site when possible to decrease trauma from transport
    Disposal of the carcass is handled within 24 hours

Not Checked:
    Our organization will never have an equine euthanized under any circumstances
    Euthanasia is done at the veterinarian's facility

The following are authorized to administer the procedure for your organization in accordance with state laws:
    Veterinarian

Not Checked:
    A certified euthanasia technician
    Senior staff with appropriate training
    Employee of animal control shelter or humane society with appropriate training
    Veterinary student under the supervision of a licensed veterinarian
    Not applicable. Our organization prohibits euthanasia under any circumstances

POLICIES: RE-HOMING

Re-homing Agreement not applicable.
Our organization has the following re-homing (adoption/purchase) policies and procedures in place:
    The organization does not re-home equines under any circumstances; our organization retains custody of our equines and ensures care of the equines for their lifetimes.

Our organization has the following policies and procedures related to horses that need to be retired, are no longer able to contribute to the mission of the organization, and/or are no longer manageable:
    The organization does not re-home equines under any circumstances; our organization retains custody of our equines and ensures care of the equines for their lifetimes.
    Equines may remain at our organization for their lifetimes
    In the case an equine is unmanageable and demonstrates repeated dangerous behaviors, the equine may be euthanized upon the recommendation of the veterinarian
    In the case an equine is unsound and/or unhealthy and cannot be treated to relieve suffering, the equine may be euthanized upon the recommendation of the veterinarian

Not Checked:
    Equines may be found suitable homes by our organization
    Equines may be returned to their owners
    Equines may be sent to auction
    If a suitable home cannot be located within 12 months, the equine may be euthanized
    The organization will accept financial responsibility for equines in the current care of the organization that need to be retired or are no longer able to contribute to the mission of the organization if all alternatives have been explored to find the equine an appropriate placement and space is not available for the equine to remain at the organization.

Additional information about our rehoming policies and practices:
NA

EQUINE CARE & SHELTER/FACILITY INFORMATION

Total facilities at which our organization cares for and shelters horses used in our programs: 1
Our organization does not CURRENTLY use satellite, overflow, foster, and/or outreach facilities.

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The Equus Effect
Contact: Jane Strong
Contact's Phone: 203-803-9507
Contact's Email: janeastrong@gmail.com
Currently operational
Total number of horses/equines currently involved with your programs, under your care, and/or owned by your organization at this facility: 4
Total number of horses at this facility INCLUDING those counted above: 4
Maximum capacity of horses at this facility: 5

Does your organization own, lease or use a part of this facility? Own

Provide the contact information for the individual or organization responsible for investigating abuse in the county where the facility is located, including mailing address, email address, and phone information.
     Sharon Animal Control 57 Main Street Sharon, CT 860-364-0504

Does your organization conduct Equine Assisted Services (EAS) at this facility in accordance with the EQUUS Foundation Guidelines on Qualifications of Organizations Conducting Equine Assisted Services (EAS)? Yes

Total number of Equine Assisted Service Providers AT THIS FACILITY, including instructors, specialists, therapists, counselors, coaches and/or facilitators (full-time, part-time, volunteer, independent contractors, and/or providers accompanying clients) that conduct Equine Assisted Services (EAS) in accordance with the EQUUS Foundation Guidelines on Qualifications of Organizations Conducting Equine Assisted Services (EAS) AT THIS FACILITY:  1

Equine Assisted Service Providers Assigned to this Facility: (see Equine Assisted Service Provider Section below for details)

     1. David Sonatore, LCSW

Additional information about this facility:
All of our fences are wood with three slats of white oak with 6" posts.
Timber Frame Run-In Sheds and 4 stall Barn

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The Equus Effect

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Veterinarian Information
Veterinarian: Dr. Angell
Clinic Name: Bentley Veterinary Practice
2826 Church Street Ste. A
Pine Plains   NY   12567
Phone: 518-398-5353

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Overview: The Equus Effect (*Main)
Total acreage dedicated specifically to the horses: 8
Our organization has use of the following at this facility:
Structures/Barns: 1  Run-in sheds: 2
Pastures: 2  Paddocks/Pens/Turnout Areas: 1
Uncovered Outdoor Rings: 1  Covered Outdoor Rings: 1  Indoor Rings: 1

Regarding structures at this facility where horses are stalled:
Do horses have assigned stalls in the structure(s)?    Yes    
Do all stalls/enclosures allow horses to lie down, stand up and turn around?    Yes    
Is there adequate ceiling & beam height (a minimum of 12 feet above the tip of the horse's ear) when standing in all stalls/enclosures?    Yes    
How often are the stalls/enclosures cleaned? 6-7 Days a Week
Are floors constructed and maintained for both good drainage and traction?    Yes    
Is there a ventilation and circulation system in place to control temperature and prevent buildup of toxic gases?    Yes    
Is wiring inaccessible to horses and maintained for safety?    Yes    
Are fire prevention/protection measures (fire alarms, extinguishers and sprinkler systems) maintained and in good working order?     Yes    
Is there adequate lighting to ensure safety in all areas of facility?     Yes    
Are emergency contacts, including veterinarian contact information, conspicuously posted in easily accessible locations?    Yes    
Are human and equine first aid kits easily accessible?     Yes    

How many hours per day, on average, are horses stalled? 4-8
How many hours per day, on average, are horses turned out:
    Equines are out 9 to 15 hours per day

The following describes the pastures at this facility:
    A dedicated staff person(s) is responsible for pasture management
    All pastures are fenced to prevent escape or injury
    Fencing checks, such as broken or missing planks, loose fence posts, exposed or loose nails, detached wires, etc., are done regularly
    Pastures are rotated
    Pastures have man-made protection for equines (i.e., shelters)

Not Checked:
    This facility does not have pastures where equines can graze on pasture grass
    This facility has a written plan in place for pasture management, which includes guidelines for seeding, fertilizing, irrigation, mowing, dragging, harrowing, manure removal, removal of debris, the control of poisonous plants, and a schedule for cleaning
    Barbed wire is used for fencing
    Electric fencing is used; electric wires or tape fence are visibly marked
    Pastures have natural protection for equines (i.e., trees)

The following describes the turnout areas other than pastures at this facility:
    This facility has a written plan in place for the maintenance of turnout areas, which includes a schedule for cleaning, manure removal, and dragging
    A dedicated staff person(s) is responsible for the maintenance of turnout areas
    All turnout areas are fenced to prevent escape or injury
    Turnout areas have man-made protection for equines (i.e., shelters)
    Fencing checks, such as broken or missing planks, loose fence posts, exposed or loose nails, detached wires, etc., are done regularly

Not Checked:
    This facility does not have turnout areas
    Barbed wire is used for fencing
    Electric fencing is used; electric wires or tape fence are visibly marked

The following policies and procedures are in place at the facility to restrict public access and to keep horses safe:
    The property owner, staff member or caretaker lives on the premises and ensures that public access is restricted and is responsible for the security of the facility and equines
    Equines are checked overnight
    By Appointment Only signs are posted.
    Visitors are only permitted at specific times
    Visitors are only permitted in specific areas

Not Checked:
    A security guard is present at night
    No Trespassing signs are posted
    Hold Harmless signs are posted
    Authorized Personnel Only signs are posted
    Entrance gates are locked at night
    The property is fitted with motion lights
    The property is fitted with a security system monitored by police or a professional service
    The property is fitted with a security system that is monitored internally by staff (or the property owner)
    The perimeter of the property is fully fenced

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Equine Care/Emergency Preparedness: The Equus Effect (*Main) 2024 and 2023 This section is required.

Horse Health Care/Barn Management Records: What system is used to collect and store health/horse care records?
    Notebook or equivalent (technology not utilized)
    The organization utilizes its own system to maintain records

The following items are consistent with our feed management plan and practices:
    Equines are provided with individualized feeding plans, including supplements, according to age and any health issues
    Feed plans are determined in consultation with a veterinarian
    Supplement plans are determined in consultation with a veterinarian
    Equines are fed in individual stalls
    Staff and volunteers are trained in proper feed measurements and protocols and observed periodically to ensure they are feeding correctly
    The feed chart is centrally located and updated as needed
    The area(s) where hay, feed, grain, and supplements are stored are kept clean, free of debris and chemicals, and protected from weather and other animals in rodent-proof and mold-proof containers and grain bins
    Feed, supplements and hay types are clearly labeled
    Water sources, i.e., buckets, troughs, automatic waterers, etc. are kept clean, free of debris and chemicals, and protected from weather and other animals
    Medications are kept in a locked, climate-controlled area

Not Checked:
    Equines are fed in groups

Do horses have access to clean drinking water at all times?     Yes    

Hoof Care: How often is hoof care provided for each equine? Every 4-8 weeks and when an issue arises

Dental Care: How often is dental care provided for each equine? Annually and when an issue arises

Horse checks: How often are equines visually and physically checked by personnel at the facility? Every day or 6 days a week


Parasite Control: Our organization has the following worming protocols in place: (Check all that apply
    The protocol for each equine is determined in consultation with a veterinarian
    A de-wormer is used without fecal testing

Fly/Insect Control: What remedies are used to control flies and insects?
    Fly Spray Repellent
    Fly Masks
    Fans

The following represent the biosecurity practices in place at facility:
    Our organization follows the AAEP's Biosecurity Guidelines and/or the UC Davis Biosecurity Guidelines
    Our organization follows the biosecurity guidelines of our veterinarian
    Sick, affected and/or quarantined equines do not have contact with other equines or other animals
    The organization has a written biosecurity plan
    All staff are trained in best practices related to biosecurity
    All volunteers are trained in best practices related to biosecurity
    A specific individual is assigned to care for sick, affected and/or quarantined equines
    Sick, affected and/or quarantined equines are cared for last if the caretaker must also care for healthy equines
    Restricted access signs are posted at primary points of access to sick, affected and/or quarantined equines
    Hand sanitizers and footbaths are available at all primary points of access to sick, affected and/or quarantined equines
    Manure and bedding from sick, affected and/or quarantined equines is disposed of in specific areas designated for infectious materials - not put in open air piles, and not spread on pastures
    Stalls, aisle ways, and common areas are disinfected after conclusion of the quarantine
    Trailers/vans used by sick, affected and/or quarantined equines are cleaned and disinfected after each use and cleaning takes place away from where equines are sheltered
    Equipment used by sick, affected and/or quarantined equines is not shared and is clearly labeled
    Equipment used by sick, affected and/or quarantined equines is cleaned of organic debris and disinfected after each use
    Latex gloves are worn when working with sick, affected and/or quarantined equines
    Personnel are required to leave the facility (or shower and change clothing) after working with quarantined equines

Not Checked:
    Equines are not quarantined on arrival.

The following represent the manure removal practices in place at facility:
    Manure piles are composted or spread on pastures
    Our organization adheres to the manure management guidelines set by state and/or local authorities

Not Checked:
    Manure is stored in dumpster(s)
    Manure is piled in an area where equines are not located
    Manure piles are covered
    Manure is hauled, sold or given away

The following steps are taken to help staff and volunteers readily identify each horse on the property:
    Equines are assigned the same stall/location each day
    Name plates are located on the stall
    Staff/volunteers are provided training on conformation, markings, colors, and breeds
    Team leaders work with new staff/volunteers until they are able to identify the equines

Not Checked:
    Photos are located on the stall
    Equines wear halters with nametags
    A notebook or binder with photos and information on each equine is easily accessible
    A map/diagram is posted showing the location of each equine with equine names and photos
    Equine photos and profiles are available on the website
    Staff and volunteers are provided with an information packet with equine profiles, including photos and detailed descriptions

Our organization has the following policies and procedures in place pertaining to tack, apparel and equipment:
    Saddles are shared
    Saddle pads are shared
    Blankets, sheets and turn out apparel are fitted and utilized for each equine appropriate to the equine's needs and the weather conditions
    Blankets, sheets and turn out apparel are cleaned regularly as needed
    Tack is cleaned weekly
    Tack is assessed for fit before each use by trained personnel
    Assigned tack is clearly labeled
    Tack is stored in a climate-controlled location
    Helmets are replaced after a fall
    No equines are ridden; not applicable.

Not Checked:
     All equines have specifically assigned tack, apparel and equipment that is not shared
    Bridles are shared
    Bits are shared
    Blankets are shared
    Sheets are shared
    Turnout apparel is shared
     Halters are shared
    Tack is cleaned after each use
    Tack is cleaned only when needed
    Tack is inspected for overall working condition before each use by trained personnel
    Tack is assessed for fit by trained personnel when an equine's body condition changes
    Tack is assessed for fit by trained personnel when an equine's disposition changes
    This facility enlists the services of a professional saddle fitter at least once a year
    Helmets are shared
    Helmets are cleaned/disinfected after each use
    Helmets are replaced at least every five years.

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Emergency Preparedness: The Equus Effect: *Main This section is required.
The following plans, policies, and procedures are in place at the facility to handle emergencies and address weather related issues, fire safety procedures, and/or any additional hazardous scenarios the facility could potentially experience:
    Emergency procedures are posted prominently
    Emergency phone numbers are posted prominently
    The facility owns or has access to a generator
    The facility maintains at least two weeks of hay, feed, shavings and medications
    The facility maintains appropriate liability and/or workers' compensation insurance
    All staff/volunteers are briefed regularly on emergency preparedness/safety procedures
    The organization has a written emergency preparedness/safety plan (EPP)

Not Checked:
    The facility collects and maintains medical information from staff, volunteers, and clients

The written EPP addresses the following areas:
    Local fire department and/or the state's emergency planning department procedures
    Medical emergencies for clients, staff, and volunteers
    Medical emergencies for equines
    Protocols to notify emergency personnel
    Building/facility exit plans

Not Checked:
    Evacuation plans
    Power outages
    Fire
    Natural Disasters - thunderstorm, hurricanes, earthquakes, tornados, etc
    Terrorist attacks

The facility follows the specific procedures to help PREVENT emergency situations:
    Smoking is strictly prohibited
    NO SMOKING signs are posted prominently
    Hay is stored away from permanent or temporary structures where equines are stalled
    Permanent or temporary structures where equines are stalled are kept free of dust, cobwebs, trash, cleaning rags, and other flammable items
    Aisles and doorways are kept clear
    Heaters with automatic shutoff settings are used

Not Checked:

How often are the following checked or performed?
Fire Extinguishers are checked: Monthly
Smoke detectors are checked: Annually
Electrical Systems are checked: Semi-annually
Fence lines are checked: Weekly
Turnout Areas are checked: Weekly
Sprinkler systems are checked: Not at all/NA
Fire drills are conducted: Not at all/NA
Review of safety protocols with staff are conducted: Semi-annually
Review of safety protocols with volunteers are conducted: Quarterly
The Emergency Preparedness Plan is reviewed and updated: Annually

Equine Transportation
2-horse van/trailer with truck:
    0 Owned onsite  0 Access onsite but not owned  1 Access offsite;
3-horse van/trailer with truck:
    0 Owned onsite  0 Access onsite but not owned  0 Access offsite;
4-horse van/trailer with truck:
    0 Owned onsite  0 Access onsite but not owned  1 Access offsite;
6-horse van/trailer with truck:
    0 Owned onsite  0 Access onsite but not owned  0 Access offsite;
8-horse van/trailer with truck:
    0 Owned onsite  0 Access onsite but not owned  1 Access offsite;
10-horse van/trailer with truck:
    0 Owned onsite  0 Access onsite but not owned  0 Access offsite;

GOVERNANCE, MANAGEMENT & FINANCIAL REPORTING

Financial Reporting
Budget:  $100K to $500K
Equine Budget:   $35K to $50K
Month Fiscal Year Ends: 12
Type of Financial Reporting (Audit, Review, Compilation): Compilation
Type of IRS Filing (990, 990-EZ, 990-N): 990

Does the uploaded Pro Forma 990/990 represent ? No
View The IRS Form 990/Pro Forma 990


Governing Body:
Board meetings per year:  9
Number of Board Members:  8  Number of Voting Board Members:  6

Board Compensation:
Is the Board Chair compensated?  Yes  Is the Treasurer compensated?  No
Are there any other Voting Board Members that are compensated?  No
If yes, provide the name, title and responsibility of each VOTING Board member who is compensated:
The President is compensated as the coach of The Equus Effect Training program.


Board/Staff Relationships:
Are any members of the Board, Staff or Program Participants related to each other through family or business relationships? No

Board Affiliations:
Are any Board members providing services to your organization or compensated by your organization, or are any Board members or staff members associated with and/or compensated by another organization with a relationship or business affiliation to your organization? Yes
If yes, provide the name, title, responsibility and family/business relationship of each Board and/or Staff member, and the name of the related organization.
Patty Ganey - facilitator at her own property (not compensated by The Equus Effect) and coach for The Equus Effect training program for which she is paid a per diem or hourly rate. She abstains from any financial decisions for the organization and Conflict of Interest issue has been addressed and voted on by the board.
     
     The partner of the Executive Director/Founders owns the facility where programs are conducted.
     
     The two non-voting members are the Executive Director and the Program Director.

Conflict of Interest:
Does your organization have a written conflict of interest policy that ensures that any compensated board member is a NON-VOTING (Independent) board member or that any compensated board member or any board member related to a compensated staff member, independent contractor, or any related board members, or any individual or organization that might benefit from a board decision, abstains from voting on issues impacting such compensation and requires officers, directors or trustees, and key employees to disclose at least annually in writing interests that could give rise to conflicts?  Yes


Compliance:
Below is a list all local, state and federal licenses held by the organization, and/or accreditations or compliances with the published standards of an accrediting organization, if applicable:  We are compliant and current with the state, registered with the IRS and the town of Sharon, CT as a non-profit.

Organization documents available on our website:
    None

Organization documents available on request:
    Most recent Financials
    Most recent IRS Form 990
    Volunteer Handbook
    Staff Handbook
    Bylaws


Staff & Volunteers:
Chief Staff Officer (CSO):  Jane A. Strong, Co-founder, Executive Director
Employees/Independent Contractors:   Full-Time:  2  Part-Time:  5  Volunteers:  20
Staff Recruitment, Screening and Training processes including employees and independent contractors:
    Prospective staff/independent contractors complete a written application/agreement
    Staff and/or contractors are required to complete a Liability Release/Hold Harmless Agreement
    Staff and/or contractors are required to provide Emergency Medical Information
    Staff and/or contractors are required to sign a Photo Release
    Staff and/or contractors provide parent/guardian information if applicable
    Staff and/or contractors are evaluated on an annual and as needed basis or with any change in their job description
    Staff and/or contractors are updated on all the organization's policies and procedures on an annual and as needed basis or with any change in policy or procedure
    Staff and/or contractors receive training that includes safety guidelines, confidentiality, equine handling, equine identification, and emergency procedures; additional training is job specific
    Staff and/or contractors have a supervisor and is responsible for keeping their supervisor up to date on work related activities
    One or more staff members or contractors are trained in CPR and human first aid
    One or more staff members or contractors are trained in equine first aid

Not Checked:
    Our organization has a practice in place to ensure that the organization has sufficient knowledge of the background of prospective staff and independent contractors that may impact the safety of your clients and your horses, such as whether prospective staff/independent contractors serving in the capacity as staff have been convicted of a sexual offense or convicted for animal cruelty or neglect. Such practices must comply with local, state, and federal mandates.
    Prospective staff/independent contractors are required to undergo a Background Check
    Staff and/or contractors carry current health insurance
    Staff and/or contractors have a written job description
    The organization provides a handbook to every member of the staff, including employees and/or independent contractors serving in staff positions;
    The handbook includes information, such as hours of work, vacation, sick leave, dress code, cell phone usage, and the protocol for dismissal
    The handbook is reviewed annually and updated
    Staff and/or contractors are subject to Random Drug Screening

Volunteer Recruitment, Screening and Training processes:
    Every volunteer is required to complete a Liability Release/Hold Harmless Agreement
    Every volunteer is required to provide Emergency Medical Information
    Every volunteer is required to sign a Photo Release
    Every volunteer provides parent/guardian information if applicable
    Every volunteer is evaluated on an annual and as needed basis or with any change in their job description
    Every volunteer is updated on all the organization's policies and procedures on an annual and as needed basis or with any change in policy or procedure
    Every volunteer receives training that includes safety guidelines, confidentiality, equine handling, equine identification, and emergency procedures; additional training is job specific
    Every volunteer is assigned a supervisor (staff member and/or senior volunteer) and is responsible for keeping their supervisor up to date on work related activities
    The supervisor assesses the volunteer's abilities and assigns specific duties to the volunteer based on their skills
    The organization records and maintains written attendance information and hours on every volunteer
    The organization provides a Volunteer Handbook to every volunteer
    The Volunteer Handbook is reviewed annually and updated
    The organization holds regular orientation sessions for volunteers and prospective volunteers that includes an overview of the organization, its mission, activities, volunteer responsibilities and expectations, safety guidelines, and a tour of the facility

Not Checked:
    Prospective volunteers complete a written application/agreement
    Our organization has a practice in place to ensure that the organization has sufficient knowledge of the background of prospective volunteers that may impact the safety of your clients and your horses, such as whether prospective volunteers have been convicted of a sexual offense or convicted for animal cruelty or neglect. Such practices must comply with local, state, and federal mandates.
    Prospective volunteers are required to undergo a Background Check
    Every volunteer carries current health insurance
    Every volunteer has a written job description
    The Volunteer Handbook includes volunteer-related information, such as hours of work, dress code, cell phone usage, and the protocol for dismissal
    Every volunteer is subject to Random Drug Screening

Additional explanation regarding governance, staffing and volunteer practices or further explanation of the answers above.
Of the 7 employees, listed on our website, are full-time employees Jane Strong, Executive Director and Kelly Hitt, Communications Director and part-time employees, David Sonatore, Program Director, Donna LaRocque, Database Manager, Donnaldson Brown, Facilitator, and Patty Ganey, facilitator. Not listed is Lisa Brennan, Bookkeeper
     
     The Equus Effect, Inc. purchased the 7-acre property in September, 2020 from the partner of the co-founder, Jane Strong.
     
     We are small and are very thorough in our orientation and training with volunteers here at our own facility. We also assess and recommend people who we believe will be a good fit for our program at other facilities with The Equus Effect certified facilitators. We are very clear about this and insist that all volunteers have a level of emotional maturity...not age specific...that we believe will be a good fit for veterans, military families, first responders and people in recovery.