EQUUS Foundation

MISSION & PROGRAMS

Mission:
Great Oak provides equine-assisted activities that promote the physical, emotional, and psychological health of individuals with disabilities. Our programs change lives and foster unbridled personal growth, independence, and confidence for our students. We share our knowledge to empower those of all ages with disabilities through learning and engagement for lifelong impact.

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 outreach and/or public education programs involving horses.
100% of our total programs and services are equine-related.
Our organization is directly responsible for the care and shelter of equines involved in our programs.
Our organization does not CURRENTLY use satellite, overflow, foster, and/or outreach facilities.

Please describe what steps your organization takes to ensure that:
1) all 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:

The physical and mental wellbeing of our 12 equine partners is paramount to Great Oak. To ensure the equines' physical wellbeing during program activities, Great Oak adheres strictly to - and goes beyond - PATH Intl.’s Equine Welfare and Management standards, which emphasize a regular conditioning and training program for each equine, appropriate workload and weight-carrying limits, nutrition, and regular veterinary, hoof, and dental care tailored to each horse’s individual needs.

     Great Oak is fortunate to have a team of equine professional partners in the community that support its horses' health and wellbeing through a variety of services including:

     -Veterinarian
     -Chiropractor
     -Farrier
     -Aiken Veterinary Acupuncture
     -Saddle Fitter
     -Dentist
     -Body worker for massage therapy
     -Body worker for PEMPF modality

     Great Oak’s facility is located on a 45-acre parcel of land just outside downtown Aiken, SC. This facility is well equipped with a 6 stall center aisle barn, wash rack, tack room, and feed room. There are 7 fenced paddocks that offer substantial grazing on over 10 acres of land. The 80x200 indoor arena has blended synthetic footing and the large outdoor arena offers sand footing. Each 12x12 stall has wall to wall rubber mats, two water buckets to ensure an adequate water supply and a window that allows for fresh air flow.

     Each of Great Oak’s 7 paddocks contains a hydrant and water trough to supply fresh clean water when needed. Within each paddock is a 24x12 run-in shed with a roof that offers shelter in inclement weather. Paddocks are rotated to maintain good quality forage throughout the warmer months. Each paddock is aerated and fertilized each year. Overseeding with Bahia and Bermuda grasses occurs in the Spring. In the Fall the paddocks are overseeded with winter Rye grass.

     Each horse has at least one paddock mate. No paddock has more than 3-4 horses at a time to ensure proper grazing capacity. The paddocks are picked daily to help keep pasture palatable as well as reducing weeds and the worm burden of any horses grazing in the field.

     Forage is the base of Great Oak’s feeding program. Each horse receives 1.5- 2% of their body weight in high quality forage. This includes pasture grass in the warmer months, soaked alfalfa cubes, and a high quality timothy/orchard hay that is fed in intervals throughout the day.

     With cold weather maintenance feed levels increase and decrease to normal requirements as weather conditions become warmer.

     For grain, each of Great Oaks horses has a customized feeding plan based on nutritionally balanced Seminole Feed. Their wide range of products makes it easy to maintain many breeds and types of horses with different needs. The Equine Manager has worked with their nutritionist to develop a plan for each horse at Great Oak.

     In addition to physical care, the mental and emotional wellbeing of the horses is equally prioritized. Great Oak staff are committed to fostering a respectful and empathetic environment by educating students on equine behavior, body language, and communication. By teaching participants how to recognize and respond to the horses' subtle cues, the program promotes mutual trust, understanding, and confidence. This foundation not only enhances the quality of the horse-human relationship, but also ensures that each interaction is conducted with safety at the forefront—for both the student and the horse. Through this approach, Great Oak creates a learning environment where the emotional, physical, and psychological needs of all participants—equine and human—are honored and protected.

     Great Oak follows strict guidelines for how horses are selected for participation, taking into account their height, weight, physical abilities, and temperament. Each equine is continuously monitored to ensure that their involvement in program activities remains appropriate, safe, and sustainable. Should any concern arise indicating that a horse may be experiencing stress or discomfort, they are removed from the program for further evaluation and care.

     Lastly, in addition to Great Oak’s internal protocols, each participant and volunteer receives a handbook outlining safety guidelines related to equipment, appropriate apparel, and expected behavior while on-site.

Equine Assisted Services (EAS):
Our organization provides the following Equine Assisted Services (EAS):
    Therapeutic/Adaptive Riding
    Therapeutic/Adaptive Unmounted Horsemanship

2: Total number of Equine Assisted Service Providers at Great Oak Equine Assisted Programs

     1 Eva Finnan

FACILITY PARTICIPATION:

Great Oak Equine Assisted Programs

RELATIONSHIP: Employee

SERVICES PROVIDED:

Therapeutic/Adaptive Riding

Therapeutic/Adaptive Unmounted Horsemanship

DEGREES, LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS

PATH Intl. Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor (CTRI)

2 Grace Flanders

FACILITY PARTICIPATION:

Great Oak Equine Assisted Programs

RELATIONSHIP: Employee

SERVICES PROVIDED:

Therapeutic/Adaptive Riding

Therapeutic/Adaptive Unmounted Horsemanship

DEGREES, LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS

PATH Intl. Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor (CTRI)

Overview of our programs involved with providing EAS to individuals with special needs:
     Great Oak’s Adaptive Horsemanship program currently serves 70 students ranging in age from 4 to 94, representing a wide range of challenges including autism spectrum disorders, intellectual disabilities, stroke recovery, post-traumatic stress disorder, and cerebral palsy. Due to its ongoing success and impact, the program consistently operates at full capacity and maintains a year-round waitlist. As the cornerstone of Great Oak’s offerings, Adaptive Horsemanship provides physical, cognitive, and emotional benefits—from increased flexibility, balance, and muscle strength to enhanced communication, confidence, and social well-being. Led by PATH Intl. Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructors, lessons are tailored to support participants’ individual goals through mounted and unmounted activities. Mounted sessions are designed to teach riding skills, with the therapeutic benefits of improved core strength, balance, coordination, and increased confidence developing naturally through purposeful, engaging instruction. Participants may practice steering through obstacle courses, maintaining posture at different gaits, or completing patterned riding exercises that enhance focus and control. Unmounted groundwork emphasizes communication, boundary-setting, and leadership through guided interaction with equines, including grooming and leading activities that promote self-awareness and connection.

     Great Oak is also home to the Special Olympics South Carolina Area-15 Equestrian team. This team provides Adaptive Horsemanship participants the chance to engage in athletic competitions, and share their talents, skills, and friendships with family members, fellow Special Olympics athletes, and the wider community. Great Oak’s team consists of 8 athletes, 3 certified Special Olympics Coaches and 12 Special Olympic Certified Volunteers.

Outreach and/or Public Education:

Overview of our programs involved with providing outreach and/or public education programs involving horses:
     Great Oak's equine-assisted activities are designed to educate the public on the significance of the horse-human bond, promote understanding of equine communication and welfare, and provide experiential opportunities through which participants gain insight into the meaningful ways horses enhance human lives. From educational field trips to corporate team-building and community-based instruction, Great Oak welcomes a wide variety of groups to our farm each year.

     At the heart of these learning experiences is our groundwork curriculum, which guides participants through a series of structured activities with equines and PATH-certified instructors that emphasize boundaries, communication, self-awareness, and leadership. While the core curriculum focuses on developing the horse-human bond and essential life skills through grooming, leading, and mirroring exercises, experiences can be tailored to the specific age, goals, and intentions of each group to ensure meaningful and engaging participation.

     Additionally, Great Oak hosts an inclusive Summer Camp in June and July. Each one-week session introduces campers to the world of horses. Participants learn to groom, bathe, and care for the horses, explore the property both on horseback and on foot, and gain knowledge about horse care—including their diet, daily routines, and how they communicate.

Research/Medical Use of Equines:
Our organization has made equines available for research studies or medical training.
Please explain where and for what purpose equines are/were provided to use in research or medical training.
     Great Oak would consider making equines available for research related to the benefits of horse-human connection and therapies that consider both equine welfare and human health and wellbeing. This type of participation would be non-invasive or harmful to the equines involved. Great Oak would never make equine available for research studies or medical training that involves invasive procedures and/or that which may cause pay 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: INTAKE, ASSESSMENT & TRAINING

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 when the equine is acquired from the equine's owner other than by purchase from an auction or kill pen, or by seizure or by abandonment
    The owner is financially responsible for the shipping of the equine to and from the organization
    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, our veterinarian will administer appropriate vaccinations

Trial Period: Check all that apply:
    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
    The trial period may be terminated by either the organization or the owner for any reason

Not Checked:
    Equines are on trial for up to 30 days
    Equines are on trial up to 60 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
    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

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

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

The typical length of quarantine is:   Up to 10 days

Following arrival of the equine at the facility, the following is performed:
    Physical examination to include temperature, pulse and respiration by a trained staff member upon arrival
    A Henneke Body Conditioning Score or other body conditioning score is assigned by a trained staff member upon arrival
    Photographs are taken of each equine upon arrival at the facility and kept with the equine's health records

Not Checked:
    Physical examination to include temperature, pulse and respiration by a veterinarian upon arrival
    A Henneke Body Conditioning Score or other body conditioning score is assigned by a veterinarian upon arrival
    Physical examination by a farrier
    Physical examination by a dentist
    The equine is scanned to check for a microchip
    The equine is microchipped if the equine has not been microchipped

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 by the veterinarian
    Vaccinations are administered at least annually
    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
    Equines at our facility may be treated by an equine nutritionist

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

Our organization has the following policies and procedures in place pertaining to the weight-carrying or workload capabilities of horses/equines that are ridden in our care:
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): Daily

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/temporary care facilities, breeds equines
One or more of the facilities where our organization conducts its programs, including foster/temporary care facilities, are permitted to house stallions

POLICIES: EUTHANASIA

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

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

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

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

POLICIES: RE-HOMING

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

Our organization has the following policies and procedures related to horses that need to be retired, are no longer able to contribute to the mission of the organization, and/or are no longer manageable:
    The organization does not re-home equines under any circumstances; our organization retains custody of our equines and ensures care of the equines for their lifetimes.
    Equines may remain at our organization for their lifetimes
    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

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

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.

Great Oak Equine Assisted Programs
1123 Edgefield Hwy AIKEN SC 29801
Currently operational
Total number of horses/equines currently involved with your programs, under your care, and/or owned by your organization at this facility: 12

Maximum capacity of horses at this facility: 15

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

Provide the contact information for the individual or organization responsible for investigating abuse in the county where the facility is located, including mailing address, email address, and phone information.
     Aiken County Government Animal Control/County 803-502-9000 ext. 3704 Animal Enforcement Division enforcement@aikencountysc.gov Government Center 1930 University Pkwy Aiken, SC 29801

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: 2

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

     1. Eva Finnan
     2. Grace Flanders

Great Oak Equine Assisted Programs

Veterinarian Information
Veterinarian: Dr. Jamie Carter
Clinic Name: Southern Equine Services
1258 Banks Mill Rd SE
Aiken SC 29803
Phone: 803-644-1544

Overview: Great Oak Equine Assisted Programs (*Main) Currently operational
Total acreage dedicated specifically to the horses: 15
Our organization has use of the following at this facility:
Structures/Barns: 1  Run-in sheds: 5
Pastures: 7  Paddocks/Pens/Turnout Areas: 0
Uncovered Outdoor Rings: 1  Covered Outdoor Rings: 0  Indoor Rings: 1

Are the organization's rules, restrictions and warnings (signage) conspicuously posted in easily accessible locations?    Yes
Are the organization's emergency contacts, including veterinarian contact information, conspicuously posted in easily accessible locations?    Yes
Are human and equine first aid kits easily accessible?     Yes

Regarding all shelters where horses are housed including run-in sheds:
Do horses have assigned stalls in the barn/structure(s) or exclusively assigned shelter locations where they are separated from other horses with a barrier?    Yes
How many hours per day, on average, are horses stalled or restricted to these sheltered exclusive shelter locations? 0-3;
How often are the stalls/shelters cleaned, i.e., kept in good repair and free of standing water, accumulated waste, sharp objects and debris? 6-7 Days a Week
Do all stalls/shelters allow horses to lie down, stand up and turn around and provide protection from inclement weather (wind, sleet, rain, snow and extreme temperatures)?    Yes
Are stalls/shelters kept in good repair, with adequate ceiling height, and free of standing water, accumulated waste, sharp objects and debris?    Yes
Are floors constructed and maintained for both good drainage and traction?    Yes
Is there a ventilation and circulation system in place to allow free flow of air to control temperature, and humidity, and to prevent air stagnation?    Yes
Is wiring inaccessible to horses and maintained for safety in all areas of facility?    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
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 being trained
    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:
    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
    All pastures are fenced to prevent escape or injury
    Fencing checks, such as broken or missing planks, loose fence posts, exposed or loose nails, detached wires, etc., are done regularly
    Pastures are rotated
    Pastures have 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
    Barbed wire is used for fencing
    Electric fencing is used; electric wires or tape fence are visibly marked

The following describes the turnout areas other than pastures at this facility:
This facility does not have turnout areas

Not Checked:
    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
    Barbed wire is used for fencing
    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

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
    Entrance gates are locked at night
    Visitors are only permitted at specific times
    Visitors are only permitted in specific areas
    The property is fitted with motion lights
    The perimeter of the property is fully fenced

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
    There is a practice in place to monitor equines overnight
    By Appointment Only signs are posted.
    No Trespassing signs are posted
    Authorized Personnel Only signs are posted
    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)

Equine Care/Emergency Preparedness: Great Oak Equine Assisted Programs (*Main) 2025 and 2024 This section is required.

Horse Health Care/Barn Management Records: What system is used to collect and store health/horse care records?
    Onsite computer with onsite backup storage system
    Onsite computer with cloud-based backup storage system
    Our organization utilizes a software application to maintain records
    Our organization would use free cloud-based barn management software if available

The following items are consistent with our feed management plan and practices:
    Equines are provided with individualized feeding plans, including supplements, according to the equine's age, breed/type, condition, size, work level and any health issues, consisting of nutritious food provided in sufficient quantity and access to adequate natural forage, or be fed daily, or as recommended by the organization's veterinarian
    Equines are fed grain in individual stalls
    Equines are fed grain in groups
    Staff and/or 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 contaminants, debris and chemicals, protected from weather and other animals, and be positioned or affixed to minimize spillage.
    Medications are kept in a secure area

Not Checked:
Feed plans are determined in consultation with a veterinarian
Supplement plans are determined in consultation with a veterinarian

Is clean, potable water available at all times for all equines, or if not at all times, at least twice daily?     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

Our organization has the following parasite and fly/insect control protocols in place, including remedies used to control flies and insects:
    Our organization follows the parasite control guidelines of our veterinarian, including fecal testing and de-worming
    Fly/Insect Control Remedies:
    Fly parasites
    Fly Traps and Tapes
    Fly Spray Repellent
    Fly Masks
    Fly Sheets
    Fans

Not Checked:

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
    The organization has a written biosecurity plan
    Staff are trained in best practices related to biosecurity
    Volunteers are trained in best practices related to biosecurity
    A specific individual is trained and assigned to care for sick, affected and/or quarantined equines
    Sick, affected and/or quarantined equines are cared for last if the caretaker must also care for healthy equines
    Restricted access signs are posted at primary points of access to sick, affected and/or quarantined equines
    Hand sanitizers are available at all primary points of access to sick, affected and/or quarantined equines
    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 removed from the facility - not put in open air piles, and not spread on pastures
    Quarantine areas, such as stalls, aisle ways, paddocks, and common areas, are cleaned (and needed, 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
    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

Not Checked:
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 piles are composted or spread on pastures
    Our organization adheres to the manure management guidelines set by the state, local authorities, and/or our organization's veterinarian

Not Checked:
    Manure is stored in dumpster(s)
    Manure piles are covered
    Manure is hauled, sold or given away

The following steps are taken to help staff and volunteers readily identify each horse on the property:
    Name plates are located on the stall/shelter location
    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
    Team leaders work with new staff/volunteers until they are able to identify the equines

Not Checked:
Equines are assigned the same exclusive stall/shelter location each day
Photos are located on the stall/shelter location

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 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
    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 only when needed
    No equines are ridden; not applicable.

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

Not Checked:

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

Not Checked:
Terrorist attacks

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

Not Checked:
Heaters with automatic shutoff settings are used

How often are the following checked or performed?
Fire Extinguishers are checked: Semi-annually
Smoke detectors 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: 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: Semi-annually

Equine Transportation: 3= Onsite: 1 (1 + 0) + Offsite: 2
2-horse van/trailer with truck:
    1 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  1 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;