MISSION & PROGRAMS
Mission:The mission of Little Britches is to enrich the lives of people with disabilities through therapeutic riding and equine-assisted activities. Little Britches improves physical strength, facilitates sensory integration, and provides recreation for a lifetime.
Our organization conducts Equine Assisted Services in accordance with the
EQUUS Foundation Guidelines on Qualifications of Organizations Conducting Equine Assisted Services (EAS).
Our organization does not provide 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.
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:Little Britches Therapeutic Riding is proud to be celebrating our 45th Anniversary. What started as a small program has grown exponentially, serving 99 riders from 32 surrounding towns. The program began with lessons one day each week; we currently provide lessons 6 days a week with morning and afternoon sessions. As we look to the future, our Board is updating our strategic plan to include a capital campaign for the purchase of a larger farm which would include indoor and outdoor arenas, while also ensuring we continue to be sustainable.
Our Fundraising and Marketing Committees have worked hard on new branding. This includes an entirely new look for Little Britches' social media and printed materials as well as an updated website. All for the purpose of expanding our audience outreach as the world becomes more digital.
Sustainability will always be our goal, ensuring we will continue to serve our riders for years to come. Several of our riders have been riding with us for more than 20 years. Our mission is to continue to offer a group of individuals with limited access to therapeutic and recreational activities a sport that meets these needs. Continuity is important to us and we strive to offer recreation for a lifetime for this marginalized community. Along with our PATH Intl. certified instructors, we have both physical and occupational therapists on staff allowing us to serve more physically involved riders. Our para-equestrian/adaptive program continues, in addition, Little Britches has piloted a Senior Program, providing a safe and enjoyable activity for older equestrians.
At Little Britches we strive to raise awareness and educate the general population about the benefits of equine-assisted activities and therapeutic riding. We continue to have University of Scranton Occupational Therapy Students completing their Level 1 Fieldwork at Little Britches. Our continued partnership with Shepaug High School’s Agriscience Academy allows for 12 additional weeks of programming, with many vocational agriculture students volunteering to meet their student agricultural experience (SAE) requirements. We also have student volunteers from two other local high school agricultural programs, Region 20 and Nonnewaug High School. In addition, we are fortunate to have high school volunteers from several other local high schools both public and private. All of these student volunteers are exposed to the benefits of therapeutic riding and equine-assisted activities. The knowledge they can take with them into their future careers.
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.
Our equines are the bedrock of our program, therefore we are vigilant about their care and well-being. No rider or volunteer is allowed to interact with our horses unless a Little Britches staff person is present. This ensures the safety of both horses and people. We have strong relationships with our horse care providers including our veterinarian, farrier, dentist, and saddle fitter. As many of our horses are older, some require regular chiropractic adjustments to keep them comfortable.
Little Britches equines have regularly scheduled vacations in addition to regular turnout. For the benefit of both horses and riders, we have a cancellation policy when a heat advisory is in effect. Our equine team continually assesses our horses to ensure they are happy, healthy, and ready to work. This includes monitoring dietary needs, we feed Triple Crown and Purina grain and good quality locally grown hay. All horses have proper shelter with access to clean fresh water.
Equine Assisted Services (EAS):Our organization provides the following Equine Assisted Services (EAS):
Therapeutic Mounted Services
Therapeutic Unmounted Services
Equine-Assisted Occupational Therapy/Physical Therapy/Speech-Language Pathology
6: Total number of Equine Assisted Service Providers at Tophet Road Farm
1. Alice Daly
FACILITY PARTICIPATION:
Tophet Road Farm
RELATIONSHIP: Employee
SERVICES PROVIDED:
Therapeutic Mounted Services
DEGREES, LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS
PATH Intl. registered level riding instructor
2. Emily Ciesielski
FACILITY PARTICIPATION:
Tophet Road Farm
RELATIONSHIP: Employee
SERVICES PROVIDED:
Therapeutic Mounted Services
DEGREES, LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS
PATH Intl. Registered Level Riding Instructor
3. Linda Tutolo
FACILITY PARTICIPATION:
Tophet Road Farm
RELATIONSHIP: Independent Contractor
SERVICES PROVIDED:
Equine-Assisted Occupational Therapy/Physical Therapy/Speech-Language Pathology
DEGREES, LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS
Occupational therapist
4. Paola Styron
FACILITY PARTICIPATION:
Tophet Road Farm
RELATIONSHIP: Employee
SERVICES PROVIDED:
Therapeutic Mounted Services
DEGREES, LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS
PATH Intl. Registered level riding instructor
5. Samantha Sola
FACILITY PARTICIPATION:
Tophet Road Farm
RELATIONSHIP: Employee
SERVICES PROVIDED:
Therapeutic Mounted Services
Therapeutic Unmounted Services
DEGREES, LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS
PATH Intl. registered level riding instructor
6. Stuart Daly
FACILITY PARTICIPATION:
Tophet Road Farm
RELATIONSHIP: Volunteer
SERVICES PROVIDED:
Therapeutic Mounted Services
DEGREES, LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS
PATH Intl. Registered Level Riding Instructor
Overview of our programs involved with providing EAS to individuals with special needs:
Presently, we operate at Tophet Road Farm located in Roxbury. We provide equine-assisted activities and therapies, 98% are mounted and 2% are ground activities. Our program is in session from March through December. We serve an average of 80 individuals per week, from 32 of the surrounding towns. All of our instructors are PATH Intl. certified and Little Britches is a PATH Intl. member center. Our riders have a variety of disabilities, including but not limited to: attention deficit disorder, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, dyspraxia, oppositional defiance, visual impairment, auditory impairment, and autism. Our riders range in age from 3-70 years old, but the majority of our riders are under eighteen. There are between 9-12 riders a week that require either an occupational or physical therapist to participate.
There are an average of 60 volunteers a week, from retirees to high school students. We work with 2 local high school agriscience programs, Shepaug High School's Agriscience Academy and Nonnewaug High School’s Ellis Clark Regional Agriscience & Technology Program. Students can fulfill their student agricultural experience (SAE) requirements and they have provided Little Britches with some dedicated volunteers. In addition, we have volunteers from other public and private high schools that have used Little Britches to fulfill the students’ community service requirements.
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
Tophet Road Farm
Equine Assisted Services (EAS)
|
|
|
|
|
2023 EAS Operations - EAS Providers: 6 |
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 |
1 |
0 |
0 |
1 |
Number of horses/equines aged 15-20 |
2 |
0 |
1 |
3 |
Number of horses/equines Over 20 |
3 |
0 |
1 |
4 |
Total number of horses/equines participating in EAS programs at this facility |
6 |
0 |
2 |
8 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Mounted |
Unmounted |
|
|
Number of hours per day each horse works |
3 |
1 |
|
Number of days per week each horse works |
5 |
1 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
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 |
98 |
1 |
0 |
99 |
Average number of clients (not lessons) participating in activities per week |
76 |
1 |
0 |
77 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Mounted |
Unmounted |
|
|
Number of days per week programs are conducted at this facility |
6 |
1 |
|
Number of weeks per year programs are conducted at this facility |
24 |
16 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Mounted |
Unmounted |
|
|
Average wait list time for a client |
2 Months |
0 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Additional explanation: The Tophet Road Farm does not have an indoor, program is offered at this location for 3 (8-week) sessions: spring, summer, and fall. We ship horses to Shepaug High School Agriscience Academy's indoor arena for an additional 12 weeks, in early spring and late fall. Our equines are on vacation in January and most of February.
EQUINE CENSUS SUMMARY
Total Facilities: 1
Total days that equines were in the care of Little Britches Therapeutic Riding during 2023: 3011
Average length of stay for an equine based on equines under the care of the organization during 2023: 335 days (3011/9)
Average number of equines during 2023: 8 (3011/365)
9 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:
1 Horses transferred/returned
0 Horses deceased
0 Horses euthanized
1 Total departures
8 Number of horses involved with your programs on December 31, 2023
8 Total number of active horses (not retired) including
horses undergoing rehabilitation and/or retraining.
0 Total number of horses permanently retired.
Summary: 9 on 1/1/2023+ 0 Intakes - Departures = 8 on 12/31/2023
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
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, our veterinarian will administer appropriate vaccinations
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
Not Checked:
If health records are not available or are out-of-date, the owner is responsible for having vaccinations administered.
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
Equines are on trial for up to 30 days
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:
The owner is financially responsible for the shipping of the equine to and from the organization
Equines are not taken on trial
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 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:
A Henneke Body Conditioning Score or other body conditioning score is assigned
Physical examination by trained barn staff
De-worming
Not Checked:
Physical examination by a veterinarian upon arrival
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
Blood work other than Coggins
Fecal test
Vaccinations
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 off-site for a prescribed period of time
Not Checked:
The equine is confined to a designated and separate area for isolation and quarantine at the facility 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
Loading onto and unloading off a trailer
Mounting and dismounting
Riding at the walk
Riding at the trot
Riding at the canter
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:
Lunging
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:
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 nutritionist
Not Checked:
Physical examination by a veterinarian 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
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
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
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
Not Checked:
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
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
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):
As needed; no set schedule
Additional information about our intake, assessment & training policies and practices:
We have a small herd and our equines have very limited exposure to other horses. We rarely get a new horse unless one of the existing horses needs to be retired. If a horse does not have health records we do quarantine them off property for two weeks before we bring them onto our property.
If there was an issue with a highly contagious pathogen we would follow the protocols given to us by our veterinarian and the AAEP's Biosecurity Guidelines. If we had a sick animal, volunteers would not be working with it and all staff members would know the protocols.
POLICIES: BREEDING
The organization has the following policies related to breeding and stallions:
Our organization does not conduct breeding of equines owned or under the care of our organization.
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
Additional information about our euthanasia policies and practices:
The veterinarian chooses which drugs will be used when an animal is euthanized.
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
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
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
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 be found suitable homes by our organization
Equines may be returned to their owners
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 remain at our organization for their lifetimes
Equines may be sent to auction
In the case an equine is unmanageable and demonstrates repeated dangerous behaviors, the equine may be euthanized upon the recommendation of the veterinarian
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.
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 our organization reserves the right to make scheduled visits
Not Checked:
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 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 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 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 free of charge
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
Farrier
Not Checked:
Personal/Other
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:
In the last 15+ years, we have only re-homed two horses. All other horses were either returned to their owners for retirement or we retained ownership during their retirement. Our re-homing agreement does request the first right of refusal should the adopter decide to sell or give away the horse.
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.
Tophet Road Farm
Contact: Stuart Daly
Contact's Phone: 8603505050
Contact's Email: stuartdaly@aol.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: 8
Total number of horses at this facility INCLUDING those counted above: 10
Maximum capacity of horses at this facility: 11
Does your organization own, lease or use a part of this facility? Use
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 Officer Woodbury CT
Judy Umstead
281 Main St. South
Woodbury, CT. 0679
cell: 203-910-3228
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:
6
Equine Assisted Service Providers Assigned to this Facility: (see Equine Assisted Service Provider Section below for details)
1. Alice Daly
2. Emily Ciesielski
3. Linda Tutolo
4. Paola Styron
5. Samantha Sola
6. Stuart Daly
Tophet Road Farm
Veterinarian Information
Veterinarian: Dr. Krista Zahn
Clinic Name: Dunbarton Equine
PO Box 599
Brookfield CT 06804
Phone: 203-775-5561
Overview: Tophet Road Farm (*Main)
Total acreage dedicated specifically to the horses: 8
Our organization has use of the following at this facility:
Structures/Barns: 2 Run-in sheds: 1
Pastures: 1 Paddocks/Pens/Turnout Areas: 6
Uncovered Outdoor Rings: 2 Covered Outdoor Rings: 0 Indoor Rings: 0
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? 0-3;
How many hours per day, on average, are horses turned out:
Equines are out 9 to 15 hours per day
Equines are out 24/7
The following describes the pastures at this facility:
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
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
A dedicated staff person(s) is responsible for pasture management
Barbed wire is used for fencing
Electric fencing is used; electric wires or tape fence are visibly marked
Pastures are rotated
Pastures have natural protection for equines (i.e., trees)
Pastures have man-made protection for equines (i.e., shelters)
The following describes the turnout areas other than pastures at this facility:
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
This facility has a written plan in place for the maintenance of turnout areas, which includes a schedule for cleaning, manure removal, and dragging
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:
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
Visitors are only permitted at specific times
Visitors are only permitted in specific areas
Not Checked:
A security guard is present at night
Equines are checked overnight
By Appointment Only signs are posted.
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
Equine Care/Emergency Preparedness: Tophet Road Farm (*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 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
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:
Feed plans are determined in consultation with a veterinarian
Supplement plans are determined in consultation with a veterinarian
Equines are fed in individual stalls
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
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 Masks
Fly Sheets
Fans
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
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
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, or equivalent 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
Equines are not quarantined on arrival.
The following represent the manure removal practices in place at facility:
Manure is stored in dumpster(s)
Manure is hauled, sold or given away
Not Checked:
Manure is piled in an area where equines are not located
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:
Equines are assigned the same exclusive stall each day
Not Checked:
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
Staff/volunteers are provided training on conformation, markings, colors, and breeds
Equines are assigned the same exclusive stall each day
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
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 only when needed
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
Assigned tack is clearly labeled
Tack is stored in a climate-controlled location
Helmets are shared
Helmets are replaced after a fall
Helmets are replaced at least every five years.
Not Checked:
Saddles are shared
Saddle pads are 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 weekly
This facility enlists the services of a professional saddle fitter at least once a year
Helmets are cleaned/disinfected after each use
No equines are ridden; not applicable.
Emergency Preparedness: Tophet Road Farm: *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 maintains at least two weeks of hay, feed, shavings and medications
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
Not Checked:
Emergency procedures are posted prominently
The organization has a written emergency preparedness/safety plan (EPP)
The facility follows the specific procedures to help PREVENT emergency situations:
Smoking is strictly prohibited
NO SMOKING signs are posted prominently
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
Not Checked:
Hay is stored away from permanent or temporary structures where equines are stalled
Heaters with automatic shutoff settings are used
How often are the following checked or performed?
Fire Extinguishers are checked: Annually
Smoke detectors are checked: Not at all/NA
Electrical Systems are checked: Not at all/NA
Fence lines are checked: Daily
Turnout Areas are checked: Daily
Sprinkler systems are checked: Not at all/NA
Fire drills are conducted: Not at all/NA
Review of safety protocols with staff are conducted: Quarterly
Review of safety protocols with volunteers are conducted: Quarterly
The Emergency Preparedness Plan is reviewed and updated: Not at all/NA
Equine Transportation
2-horse van/trailer with truck:
1 Owned onsite 0 Access onsite but not owned 0 Access offsite;
3-horse van/trailer with truck:
0 Owned onsite 1 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;
GOVERNANCE, MANAGEMENT & FINANCIAL REPORTING
Financial Reporting
Budget: $100K to $500K
Equine Budget: $50K to $100K
Month Fiscal Year Ends: 06
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 ? Yes
View The IRS Form 990/Pro Forma 990
Governing Body:
Board meetings per year: 6
Number of Board Members: 10 Number of Voting Board Members: 10
Board Compensation:
Is the Board Chair compensated? No Is the Treasurer compensated? No
Are there any other Voting Board Members that are compensated? No
Board/Staff Relationships:
Are any members of the Board, Staff or Program Participants related to each other through family or business relationships? Yes
If yes, provide the name, title, responsibility and family/business relationship of each Board, Staff member and/or Program Participant.
Stuart Daly (Vice President) is the aunt of Alice Daly (Executive Director).
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.
Vice President owns the facility where programs are conducted.
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: Little Britches is a Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International Center Member.
Organization documents available on our website:
None
Organization documents available on request:
Most recent Financials
Most recent IRS Form 990
Most recent Annual Report
Adoption/Foster Agreement
Volunteer Handbook
Bylaws
Staff & Volunteers:
Chief Staff Officer (CSO): Alice Daly, Executive Director
Employees/Independent Contractors: Full-Time: 1 Part-Time: 10 Volunteers: 60
Staff Recruitment, Screening and Training processes including employees and independent contractors:
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 have a written 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
Not Checked:
Prospective staff/independent contractors 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 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 are evaluated on an annual and as needed basis or with any change in their 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
One or more staff members or contractors are trained in equine first aid
Staff and/or contractors are subject to Random Drug Screening
Volunteer Recruitment, Screening and Training processes:
Prospective volunteers complete a written application/agreement
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 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 includes volunteer-related information, such as hours of work, dress code, cell phone usage, and the protocol for dismissal
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:
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
Every volunteer is evaluated on an annual and as needed basis or with any change in their job description
Every volunteer is subject to Random Drug Screening
Additional explanation regarding governance, staffing and volunteer practices or further explanation of the answers above.
There is a maximum of 11 board members on our board. Presently, we have one opening that we actively trying to fill.