EQUUS Foundation

MISSION & PROGRAMS

Mission:
The mission of Misty Meadows Equine Learning Center is to provide a nurturing environment where horses and humans work together to transform lives.

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 equines involved in our programs.
100% of our total programs and services are equine-related.

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

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

5: Total number of Equine Assisted Service Providers at Misty Meadows Equine Learning Center

     1. Liz Adams

FACILITY PARTICIPATION:

Misty Meadows Equine Learning Center

RELATIONSHIP: Employee

SERVICES PROVIDED:

Therapeutic Mounted Services

Therapeutic Vaulting Services

Therapeutic Unmounted Services

DEGREES, LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS

PATH Intl. CTRI and Master Riding Instructor
PATH Intl. Interactive Vaulting Instructor
State of Massachusetts Licensed Riding Instructor

2. Martha's Vineyard Community Services

FACILITY PARTICIPATION:

Misty Meadows Equine Learning Center

RELATIONSHIP: Accompany Clients

SERVICES PROVIDED:

Equine-Assisted Learning involving Personal and/or Professional Development

DEGREES, LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS

Martha's Vineyard Community Services has several divisions that Misty Meadows Equine Learning Center partners with in different ways. The collaboration is based on the model of Misty Meadows providing the equine expertise and Community Services providing supporting clinical professionals. Specific Areas of Partnership Include: Veterans Services, Disability Services, Youth and Family Services, Red House (substance abuse recovery)

3. Martha's Vineyard Public Schools

FACILITY PARTICIPATION:

Misty Meadows Equine Learning Center

RELATIONSHIP: Accompany Clients

SERVICES PROVIDED:

Equine-Assisted Learning involving Academic Learning

Equine-Assisted Learning involving Personal and/or Professional Development

DEGREES, LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS

Martha's Vineyard Public Schools have several ways they partner with Misty Meadows Equine Learning Center across grade levels. The collaboration is based on the model of Misty Meadows providing the equine expertise and school system providing supporting educational or clinical professionals. Specific Areas of Partnership Include: Guidance Counselor Referrals, Special Education Referrals, English Language Learner Program, Volunteerism and Community Service, Field trips

4. Sarah McKay

FACILITY PARTICIPATION:

Misty Meadows Equine Learning Center

RELATIONSHIP: Employee

SERVICES PROVIDED:

Therapeutic Mounted Services

Therapeutic Unmounted Services

DEGREES, LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS

PATH Intl. CTRI
State of Massachusetts Licensed Riding Instructor

5. Susie Buck

FACILITY PARTICIPATION:

Misty Meadows Equine Learning Center

RELATIONSHIP: Employee

SERVICES PROVIDED:

Therapeutic Mounted Services

Therapeutic Unmounted Services

DEGREES, LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS

PATH Intl. CTRI
State of Massachusetts Licensed Riding Instructor

Overview of our programs involved with providing EAS to individuals with special needs:
     Misty Meadows offers unique, equine-assisted, programs for participants of all ages that awaken personal potential and provide the tools to face life’s challenges. Programs are available year-round.

     Therapeutic Horsemanship

     Therapeutic Horsemanship Programs are designed for people with special needs, ages four years and up, who may require additional support to participate safely and effectively in activities. Misty Meadows is a Premier Accredited Center through the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International (PATH International). To attain this status, Misty Meadows programs and our PATH International certified instructors comply with over 100 quality and safety standards, representing best practices. Misty Meadows’ certified instructors apply the PATH Intl. standards to all programs, including the therapeutic horsemanship program.
     Therapeutic horsemanship classes encompass many activities that partner the horse with students. Based on input from therapists, teachers, doctors, and parents, the client's individual goals are designed to complement other therapeutic modalities and Individualized Education Plans.


     Equine Assisted Learning (EAL)

     Equine Assisted Learning (EAL) is an experiential learning approach that promotes the development of life skills for educational, professional and personal goals through equine-assisted activities. In the EAL Programs, the participants journey with the herd, engaging in unmounted, horse-related, group-based skill building activities and discussions. Horses are sensitive, herd animals with their own social rules and group dynamics. Through learning the language of, and establishing bonds with horses, participants are able to gain confidence and insights.

Community Outreach and/or Public Education:

Overview of our programs involved with providing community outreach and/or public education programs involving horses:
     Youth Horsemanship Programs
     Misty Meadows’ horsemanship programs are designed to provide students with the opportunity to learn about how to interact with and take care of horses.

     After School Programs
     Misty Meadows’ horsemanship programs are more than just riding. Our programs are specifically designed to provide school students with the opportunity to learn about how to interact with and take care of horses, building confidence, self-esteem, and relationships. Students learn foundational riding skills, general horse care (including grooming and how to tack up and lead a horse), horse body language, horse communication skills, and stable management.
     Offered in a semester format, four times per year for ages 7 to 18, classes are organized into small groups based on age, skill level and goals. Classes are offered at regular weekly times, after school, and on weekends. Through our weekly themes and activities, students connect with horses, and each other. Together, the groups strengthen skills such as communication and collaboration. Classes incorporate both mounted, and unmounted activities.

     Adult Horsemanship Programs
     Misty Meadows’ adult horsemanship classes are designed to boost health and wellness for individuals looking to improve their overall well-being. Our mounted and unmounted horsemanship programs for adults are offered in a small group, semester-based format. Classes may be tailored to beginner or more experienced students based on interest and availability. Adult students learn things such as riding skills, general horse care (including grooming and how to tack up a horse), horse body language, horse communication skills, and stable management.

     Mounted Archery
     Beginning mounted archery focuses on building a unique partnership between horse and rider and a solid foundation of archery skills, starting with archery on the ground. Initially, students are unmounted and work on form, accuracy and speed. In the last few classes, students experience shooting while mounted.

     Advanced mounted archery is an exciting interaction in which riders experience the thrill of navigating a horse, without reins, through a course, while loading and shooting arrows at a target. This is a class for more experienced riders (age 12 and up) who have attended at least one of Misty’s horsemanship sessions before.

     Journey with the Herd
     With a group of family, friends or colleagues, enjoy our picturesque horse farm and connect with our beautiful herd of horses in a safe environment. This unmounted experience can be custom designed for you with a focus on themes from fun and stress relief to being present, and practicing mindfulness to developing teamwork and leadership skills.
     Journey with the Herd lends itself to corporate retreats because of its customizable format and unique effectiveness. Professional coaches are available to partner with the Misty Meadows equine professionals to customize the experience for your team’s goals. The farm property offers a variety of indoor and outdoor meeting spaces as well as on site overnight accommodations. Locally sourced catering and incorporation of other wellness activities such as yoga, drumming, art and massage are available.

     Mini Camps for Youth and Adults
     On occasion, Misty Meadows offers immersive horsemanship experiences for students. These are a shortened version of semester long classes often centered around a specific theme. Misty Meadows camps provide a combined experience of connecting with horses through mounted and unmounted activities.

     Special Events Both at Misty and Traveling to You!
     Field trips to Misty Meadows are an exciting and educational introduction to the world of horses, horse care and riding. We offer opportunities for all types of organizations including day care facilities, elementary and home school groups, girl scouts & boy scouts, church youth groups and many others. Come see the barn, meet the horses, ride in our arena while playing games, learn about grooming and tacking, complete a horsey craft to take home, or even help feed the herd! We'll customize a field trip to meet your group’s needs and even travel to you.
     Martha’s Vineyard is a beautiful destination for a special event such as a family reunion or ladies get away. Are you looking for a fun activity to bring your destination wedding guests together? Let us help you plan an exciting and entertaining outing! No horse experience? No problem! We offer a variety of programs from riding to unmounted experiences all in a beautiful, tranquil rural setting in the heart of Martha's Vineyard. Our Journey with the Herd offering may be just what you are looking for!


     Arena Rentals
     Misty Meadows is excited to provide access to our magical grounds to individuals and groups looking to come and enjoy an immersive experience outside of our programs. Misty Meadows’ Indoor Arena is open to the island horse community, providing locals with the opportunity to bring their horses in and utilize the arena space. Misty Meadows Equine Learning Center allows up to four horses per hour. This beautiful, large, lighted, indoor space is well suited to a variety of non-horse related activities as well.

     Training and Education Programs
     Misty Meadows is proud of its top-of-the-line facility, innovative approach to programming, unique holistic herd management model and its diversely credentialed staff. We want to share our knowledge with you; from day visits to weekly working students to weekend immersions to monts long internships and hosting clinicians.
     All offerings are completely customizable to individual learning styles and professional goals, we offer training and education in the following areas:
     - Holistic Herd Management
     Nutrition
     Hoof care
     Fitness
     Mental wellness
     Animal Communication
     - Mentored Teaching Hours
     Massachusetts Riding Instructor License
     PATH International Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor
     PATH International Advanced or Master Riding Instructor
     PATH International Equine Specialist in Mental Health and Learning
     - Inclusive Programming Models
     - Equine Assisted Learning Models
     - Biomechanical approach to riding
     - PATH International Accreditation Coaching

     Volunteer Programs
     We are always looking for friendly, dedicated people to help with our programs. Many positions are available and no horse experience is necessary! Volunteers help us fulfill our mission — to connect all individuals with the powerful benefits of therapeutic and equine activities. It's a fulfilling, fun, weekly 'horse fix' and great exercise!

     Our staff and volunteers work together, forming a vital team that is essential to our ongoing success. Individual reasons for volunteering may differ, but the special connections formed with people and horses create a common bond with everyone involved in our program. Whether your experience with horses is life-long or minimal, your willingness to give yourself and your time is what we need.

     Volunteer opportunities include...

     Program Assistance — Horse Handlers and Sidewalkers

     Horse Care — Grooming, Exercising our Herd, Feeding

     Property Maintenance & Barn Chores

     Special Events

     Marketing and Communications

     Fundraising

     Board of Directors Position

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.

POLICIES: ACQUISITION

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

Our organization does not acquire horses/equines from the following source(s):
    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

Additional information about our acquisition policies and practices:
Misty Meadows Equine Learning Center is a PATH International Premier Accredited Center and as such follows all standards related to Equine Management. Our policy related to herd member acquisition:

     Horses selected for the Misty Meadows Equine Learning Center programs are selected by a staff team comprised of the Executive Director, Program Manager, Head Instructor and Equine Manager.

     Initial screening criteria include:

     - Even temperament as a result of diversity of work experience
     - Currently in work
     - 12 to 20 years of age
     - No larger than 16 hands
     - Serviceably sound at the walk, trot and canter
     - Mares and geldings will be considered
     - Able to live out in a herd setting
     - Owner willing to allow minimum 30-day trial period

     Additional information is gathered about the horse from the owner utilizing the Prospective Horse Training and Health Information forms.

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 on trial for up to 30 days
    Equines are on trial up to 60 days
    Equines are on trial for 60 or more days
    The trial period may be reduced based on the equine's progress
    During the trial period, the organization accepts financial responsibility for the care of the equine, including board, feed, shoeing and any necessary veterinary care, up to a fixed amount agreed upon by the organization and the owner
    The trial period may be terminated by either the organization or the owner for any reason

Not Checked:
    Equines are not taken on trial
    During the trial period, the organization accepts total financial responsibility for the care of the equine, including board, feed, shoeing and any necessary veterinary care
    During the trial period, the owner/donor is financially responsible for the care of the equine, including board, feed, shoeing and any necessary veterinary care

Following arrival of the equine at the facility, the following is performed:
    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

Not Checked:
    Physical examination by a veterinarian upon arrival
    A Henneke Body Conditioning Score or other body conditioning score is assigned
    Physical examination by a dentist
    Coggins test
    Blood work other than Coggins
    Fecal test
    Vaccinations
    De-worming
    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:   10 to 20 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
    Riding at the canter
    Riding by a beginner and/or unbalanced rider
    Tolerance to unusual objects and loud noises
    Known vices, i.e., cribbing, biting, kicking, weaving, stall walking, etc
    Grooming
    Bathing
    Clipping
    Tolerance to multiple handlers at the same time

Not Checked:
Jumping
Driving (Pulling a carriage)

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
    The Henneke Body Condition score or other body conditioning score is updated 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

Not Checked:
    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
    Equines at our facility may be treated by an equine nutritionist

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:
Our organization evaluates at least annually and maintains a written record of the weight-carrying and workload limitations for each equine that is ridden

Not Checked:
Our organization does not evaluate the weight-carrying and workload limitations for each equine that is ridden
No equines are ridden; not applicable

The following variables are considered in determining the weight-carrying and workload limitations for each equine that is ridden:
    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

Not Checked:
Our organization does not evaluate the weight-carrying and workload limitations for each equine that is ridden
No equines are ridden; not applicable

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

Additional information about our intake, assessment & training policies and practices:
Misty Meadows Equine Learning Center is a PATH International Premier Accredited Center and as such follows all standards related to Equine Management.

     Our policy regarding equine intake and assessment is as follows:

     The prospective horse trial process is over seen by the Equine Manger. Utilizing the Equipment Exposure Checklist and the 4-week Trial Horse Training Checklist, all Misty Meadows staff is involved in working with any trial horses.

     Prospective horses on trial must demonstrate the following levels of proficiency to be accepted as a therapeutic horsemanship equine at Misty Meadows:

     - Comfortable with a minimum 17 out of 20 items on the Equipment Exposure Checklist
     - “Acceptable” behavior with all items on the Trial Horse Training Checklist

     Exceptions to these proficiencies may be made on a case by case basis by the staff team comprised of the Executive Director, Program Manager, Head Instructor and Equine Manager based on overall programmatic needs and current herd status.

     Final acceptance is reliant on a comprehensive veterinary examination.

     Ability of horses to work in Misty Meadows programs is evaluated frequently. When horses are no longer suitable for mounted work they may be incorporated in an unmounted capacity or utilized solely in the recreational programs. If soundness or behavior prohibit an equine’s safe use in any of Misty Meadow’s programs, the horse may be rehomed or, if necessary for the equine’s safety and comfort, humanely euthanized. The final decision regarding removal of an equine from service is the responsibility of the Executive Director and Program Manager.

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

View Re-homing Agreement
Our organization has the following re-homing (adoption/purchase) policies and procedures in place:
    All potential adopters/purchasers complete a written contract which constitutes the agreement between our organization and the new owner
    Potential adopters/purchasers must visit our organization and be observed with the equine on site
    The distance of a potential adopter/purchaser's home from our facility is a consideration for when re-homing an equine
    Our organization conducts a site visit of the adopter/purchaser's facility before the transfer of the equine to the adopter/purchaser's facility
    Potential adopters/purchasers are encouraged to do a short-term, on-site foster with the equine

Not Checked:
    Our organization does NOT re-home an equine to first time equine owners
    Our organization will only re-home an equine to a location where another equine resides
    Adopters/purchasers are NOT required to provide updates

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:
    Equines may remain at our organization for their lifetimes
    Equines may be found suitable homes by our organization
    Equines may be returned to their owners
    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
    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.

Not Checked:
Equines may be sent to auction
If a suitable home cannot be located within 12 months, the equine may be euthanized

The uploaded Re-homing agreement includes the following re-homing (adoption/purchase) statements:
    The agreement reflects that any individual or organization in possession of the equine as of the date of the agreement and any time thereafter is bound to not sell the equine at auction for slaughter or allow the equine to be sold, transferred, released, or otherwise placed into possession of any person or organization that will cause or allow the equine to be sold at auction for slaughter.
    The agreement states that should the adopter decide to re-home the equine, our organization must be notified of the name, address, and telephone number of any individual or organization intending to take possession of the equine for any reason prior to the equine being placed into the possession of such individual or organization.
    The agreement states that should the adopter decide to re-home the equine, our organization must grant approval of any individual or organization intending to take possession of the equine for any reason prior to the equine being placed into the possession of such individual or organization, including being provided written notification of the name, address, and telephone number of any individual or organization intending to take possession of the equine for any reason.
    The agreement states that our organization reserves the right to make scheduled visits
    The agreement states that adopters/purchasers can return an equine to our organization free of charge

Not Checked:
    The agreement states that the re-homed equine CANNOT be sold, adopted, transferred, auctioned, released, given away, or otherwise placed into the possession of another individual or organization under any circumstances and must be returned to our organization should the adopter decide that he/she is no longer able, or no longer wishes, to care for the equine.
    The agreement states that the terms of our organization's agreement will be binding on any future individual or organization taking and/or in possession of the equine for any reason.
    The agreement states that re-homed equines cannot be bred
    The agreement states that if there is any breach of contract the equine must be returned to our organization
    The agreement states that our organization reserves the right to make unannounced visits
    The agreement states that adopters/purchasers can return an equine to our organization for a fee
    The agreement states that adopters/purchasers are required to provide updates (photos, vet records) for one year
    The agreement states that adopters/purchasers are required to provide updates (photos, vet records) for two years
    The agreement states that adopters/purchasers are required to provide updates (photos, vet records) for three or more years
    None of the statements are included.
    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 does not have the authority to transfer ownership and/or does not own any of the equines involved with our programs.

Our organization requires references from the following:
Veterinarian
Personal/Other

Not Checked:
Farrier
Not applicable or no references required.

Transfer of ownership occurs: Immediately (at the time of adoption/purchase) or less than one year

The average equine re-homing (adoption/purchase) fee received by your organization:
Not applicable; None received

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.

Misty Meadows Equine Learning Center
55 Misty Meadows Lane Vineyard Haven MA 02568
Contact: Sarah McKay
Contact's Phone: 508-338-7198
Contact's Email: info@mistymeadowsmv.org
Currently operational
Total number of horses/equines currently involved with your programs, under your care, and/or owned by your organization at this facility: 10
Total number of horses at this facility INCLUDING those counted above: 10
Maximum capacity of horses at this facility: 15

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

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.
     Animal Control West Tisbury, MA Anthony Cordray 508-684-8201 1059 State Rd., PO Box 278 West Tisbury, MA 02575 khoffman@tisburyma.gov

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: 5

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

     1. Liz Adams
     2. Martha's Vineyard Community Services
     3. Martha's Vineyard Public Schools
     4. Sarah McKay
     5. Susie Buck

Additional information about this facility:
There is occupied staff housing adjacent to the property.

Misty Meadows Equine Learning Center

Veterinarian Information
Veterinarian: Dr. Linda Cimetti
Clinic Name: South Shore Equine Clinic
151 Palmer Rd.
Plympton MA 02367
Phone: 781-585-2611

Overview: Misty Meadows Equine Learning Center (*Main)
Total number of horses/equines currently involved with your programs, under your care, and/or owned by your organization at this facility: 10
Total number of horses at this facility INCLUDING those counted above: 10
Maximum capacity of horses at this facility: 15
Total acreage dedicated specifically to the horses: 4

Our organization has use of the following at this facility:
Structures/Barns: 1  Run-in sheds: 6
Pastures: 4  Paddocks/Pens/Turnout Areas: 1
Uncovered Outdoor Rings: 1  Covered Outdoor Rings: 0  Indoor Rings: 1

Regarding structures at this facility where horses are stalled:
Do horses have assigned stalls in the structure(s)?    No
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? 0-3;
How many hours per day, on average, are horses turned out:
    Equines are out 24/7
    Equines are out 24/7 except they are brought in if there is inclement weather
    Equines are out 24/7 except when they are used for the conduct of the organization's programs

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
    Electric fencing is used; electric wires or tape fence are visibly marked
    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 natural protection for equines (i.e., trees)
    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

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
    Electric fencing is used; electric wires or tape fence are visibly marked
    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

The following policies and procedures are in place at the facility to restrict public access and to keep horses safe:
    Hold Harmless signs are posted
    Authorized Personnel Only signs are posted
    Visitors are only permitted at specific times
    Visitors are only permitted in specific areas
    The property is fitted with motion lights
    The property is fitted with a security system monitored by police or a professional service

Not Checked:
    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
    A security guard is present at night
    Equines are checked overnight
    By Appointment Only signs are posted.
    No Trespassing signs are posted
    Entrance gates are locked at night
    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

Equine Care/Emergency Preparedness: Misty Meadows Equine Learning Center (*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)
    Onsite computer with onsite backup storage system
    Onsite computer with cloud-based backup storage system
    Our organization utilizes a software application 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 groups
    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

Not Checked:
Equines are fed in individual stalls
Medications are kept in a locked, climate-controlled area

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
    Fecal testing is performed prior to the use of a de-wormer.

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

The following represent the biosecurity practices in place at facility:
    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
    Sick, affected and/or quarantined equines are cared for last if the caretaker must also care for healthy 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
    Shared 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:
    Our organization follows the AAEP's Biosecurity Guidelines and/or the UC Davis Biosecurity Guidelines
    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
    Restricted access signs are posted at primary points of access to sick, affected and/or quarantined equines
    Equines are not quarantined on arrival.

The following represent the manure removal practices in place at facility:
Manure is piled in an area where equines are not located
Manure is hauled, sold or given away

Not Checked:
    Manure is stored in dumpster(s)
    Manure piles are covered
    Manure piles are composted or spread on pastures
    Our organization adheres to the manure management guidelines set by state and/or local authorities

The following steps are taken to help staff and volunteers readily identify each horse on the property:
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:
    Equines are assigned the same stall/location each day
    Name plates are located on the stall
    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:
     All equines have specifically assigned tack, apparel and equipment that is not 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
     Halters are shared
    Tack is cleaned weekly
    Tack is inspected for overall working condition before each use by trained personnel
    Tack is assessed for fit 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
    Assigned tack is clearly labeled
    Tack is stored in a climate-controlled location
    Helmets are shared
    Helmets are cleaned/disinfected after each use
    Helmets are replaced after a fall

Not Checked:
    Saddles are shared
    Bridles are shared
    Bits are shared
    Blankets are shared
    Sheets are shared
    Turnout apparel is shared
    Tack is cleaned after each use
    Tack is cleaned only when needed
    Helmets are replaced at least every five years.
    No equines are ridden; not applicable.

Emergency Preparedness: Misty Meadows Equine Learning Center: *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 phone numbers are posted prominently
    The facility owns or has access to a generator
    The facility collects and maintains medical information from staff, volunteers, and clients
    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:
Emergency procedures are posted prominently
The facility maintains at least two weeks of hay, feed, shavings and medications

The written EPP addresses the following areas:
    Medical emergencies for clients, staff, and volunteers
    Medical emergencies for equines
    Evacuation plans
    Power outages
    Fire
    Natural Disasters - thunderstorm, hurricanes, earthquakes, tornados, etc
    Protocols to notify emergency personnel
    Building/facility exit plans

Not Checked:
Local fire department and/or the state's emergency planning department procedures
Terrorist attacks

The facility follows the specific procedures to help PREVENT emergency situations:
    Smoking is strictly prohibited
    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:
NO SMOKING signs are posted prominently
Hay is stored away from permanent or temporary structures where equines are stalled

How often are the following checked or performed?
Fire Extinguishers are checked: Annually
Smoke detectors are checked: Annually
Electrical Systems are checked: Annually
Fence lines are checked: Daily
Turnout Areas are checked: Daily
Sprinkler systems are checked: Not at all/NA
Fire drills are conducted: Semi-annually
Review of safety protocols with staff are conducted: Semi-annually
Review of safety protocols with volunteers are conducted: Semi-annually
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  0 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  0 Access offsite;
10-horse van/trailer with truck:
    0 Owned onsite  0 Access onsite but not owned  0 Access offsite;