MISSION & PROGRAMS
Mission:Empowering Veterans and First Responders on California’s central coast through equine-assisted programs and vocational horsemanship training, while actively supporting the retraining and rehoming of retired racehorses. We believe in mutual transformation — where horses and heroes heal and build new futures together.
Our organization provides programs involved with equine rescue & adoption
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:
Healing Heroes Through Horsemanship ensures that all human–equine interactions are safe, respectful, and aligned with the EQUUS Foundation Guidelines for Human–Equine Interactions. Horses are treated as sentient partners, never commodities, and are only asked to engage in activities consistent with their temperament and readiness. Our trauma-informed approach emphasizes trust-building, natural behaviors, and the authority of trained staff to remove a horse from participation if stress is observed. Written policies guide equine selection, continuous monitoring, safety, and contingency planning.
     
     Equine care is overseen by our hands-on Board President, a practicing veterinarian specializing in equine podiatry, with professional affiliations including the Society for Veterinary Medical Ethics and the Human-Animal Bond Association. All horses receive individualized diets tailored to age, body condition, and workload. They have continuous access to hay through slow-feeder nets, plus 2–3 daily meals with varied hay and alfalfa (according to individual needs), customized concentrates, and supplements as needed. Automatic waterers ensure a constant supply of fresh, clean water. Horses are housed in large stalls with walkouts, enjoy daily paired or group turnout, and rotate through larger herd pastures – balancing individualized care with natural socialization.
Equine Transition Services:Overview of our programs involved with rescue, rehabilitation, retraining, re-homing and/or retirement: 
		     Our New Horizons program provides a new beginning for retired racehorses and other horses in transition through retraining and re-homing. We are dedicated to preparing Thoroughbreds off the track (OTTBs) and other equines for safe, lasting adoptive homes.
     
     Each horse receives a comprehensive veterinary and behavioral evaluation and is placed into one of three individualized training paths: our Accelerated Training Program for those ready for quick adoption; our Standard Training Program for horses needing a longer adjustment; and our Companion Program for those best suited for non-riding homes. All horses begin with groundwork focused on handling, desensitization, and confidence. For those appropriate for ridden careers, professional trainers advance them under saddle through flatwork, trail, and discipline-specific exposure, always progressing according to readiness, not timeline.
     
     When adoption is not possible, we pursue retirement or permanent sanctuary placement. In rare cases where an equine’s quality of life cannot be preserved, we make the difficult but humane decision to pursue euthanasia in alignment with AAEP guidelines, ensuring dignity and freedom from suffering.
     
     On our website and in our outreach, we describe ourselves as a retraining and re-homing organization. We carefully screen adopters and provide post-adoption follow-up to ensure safe, lasting placements and use national adoption platform(s) to list our available horses.
Outreach and/or Public Education:
Overview of our programs involved with providing outreach and/or public education programs involving horses: 
		     Healing Heroes Through Horsemanship provides public education and outreach programs designed to share the horse–human bond and increase awareness of equine welfare. Members of the community are invited to our ranch for tours, volunteer opportunities, and service projects, where they learn firsthand about the care and retraining of retired racehorses.
     
     In addition, Healing Heroes Through Horsemanship provides its Elite Vocations, a comprehensive ten-week (210-hour) vocational horsemanship program, for at-risk American Veterans. Participants engage in progressive unmounted instruction, beginning with grooming, safe handling, desensitization, and barn management, and advancing into equine health care, conditioning, and ground training. Elite Vocations follows a structured curriculum with defined competencies and assessments. We are licensed to deliver the Groom Elite curriculum (est. 2001), a nationally recognized horsemanship education program taught at racetracks, training centers, and farms across the country. Outcomes include improved confidence, social connection, reduced PTSD symptoms, and restored sense of purpose through consistent, respectful horse–human interaction. The program also prepares Veterans for equine industry employment (e.g., groom, barn assistant/manager, assistant trainer) and apprenticeships in farriery, equine massage, and veterinary technology.
          
     We serve Veterans experiencing homelessness or risk of homelessness, substance use recovery, and/or service-connected disabilities. All sessions are supervised by experienced equine professionals, with continuous monitoring of horse welfare and participant safety. We do not provide clinical therapy services.
     
     We also participate in local outreach events such as Veterans Stand Downs and community gatherings, where we highlight the role of horses in Veteran healing and the importance of safe retirement and adoption pathways for equines in transition. All of our adoptable horses are listed on the MyRightHorse website, which broadens public access and understanding of the adoption process. In 2024, we released a 40-minute documentary now shared at community events and online to further educate the public about the transformative impact of horse–human partnerships.
     
     We have begun expanding our outreach, with plans underway to significantly grow equine education and public engagement initiatives in 2026.
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: 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 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 seizure or by abandonment
    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:
    The equine is evaluated at its place of residence
    The owner is financially responsible for the shipping of the equine to and from the organization
Trial Period: Check all that apply: 
    Equines are not taken on trial
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 veterinarian upon arrival
    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 veterinarian 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
    Physical examination by a farrier
    Physical examination by a dentist
    The equine is microchipped if the equine has not been microchipped
Not Checked:
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
    Jumping
    Tolerance to unusual objects and loud noises
    Known vices, i.e., cribbing, biting, kicking, weaving, stall walking, etc
    Grooming
    Bathing
    Tolerance to multiple handlers at the same time
Not Checked:
    Riding by a beginner and/or unbalanced rider
    Driving (Pulling a carriage)
    Clipping
Our organization has the following policies and procedures in place pertaining to the ongoing assessment of horses in its care: 
	    Physical examination by a veterinarian at least annually
    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 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
    Equines at our facility may be treated by an equine acupuncturist
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 the weight-carrying and workload limitations  for each equine that is ridden at least annually
Not Checked:
    Our organization maintains a written record of the weight-carrying and workload limitations for each equine that is ridden
    Our organization does not evaluate the weight-carrying and workload limitations for each equine that is ridden
    No equines are ridden; not applicable
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:
The majority of our intakes come directly from racehorse owners, breeders, and trainers. We have also begun accepting owner surrenders and are moving into law enforcement impounds. Because these horses arrive in need, we would never return a horse. If a horse is not a good fit for our own programs, we collaborate with our partners to secure an appropriate alternative placement.
     
     Quarantine
     The majority of our horses are retired Thoroughbred racehorses (OTTBs). Upon arrival, they enter our designated quarantine pen for staff and veterinary assessment. If health records are available, vaccinations are current, and no signs of illness are present, horses typically move into our regular stalls after assessment. Horses lacking vaccinations are held until brought current, and any horse showing signs of illness remains in quarantine until cleared. 
     
     Ongoing Health Assessment
     While our horses are generally adopted well before a year, they receive frequent veterinary evaluations from our veteriarian, and their body condition scores are regularly updated. Additionally, as part of our Veterans Vocational Horsemanship curriculum, participants are trained to monitor equine body condition, so horses are assessed daily for health, and every few weeks for body condition, as a standard part of handling and training.
     
     Training & Daily Care
     Horses in our program receive structured groundwork and ridden training three days per week, led by professional trainers and supported by Veterans in training. On two additional days, volunteers continue handling and exercise routines. All horses have daily turnout, routine grooming, and seasonal care such as fly spray, ensuring both their health and comfort are prioritized.
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
			Additional information about our breeding policies and practices:
Our organization does not breed and does not allow breeding of any equine in our care. In addition, our adoption contracts include a strict no-breeding clause for all mares. Any stallions that come into our program are gelded upon intake or prior to adoption. These safeguards ensure that horses placed through our program will not contribute to overbreeding and are adopted solely as companions, riding, or therapy partners.
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:
Our euthanasia and body disposal policies strictly follow the guidelines of the American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP) and all applicable California state laws. Euthanasia is considered only in cases of untreatable illness, injury, or severe quality-of-life concerns, and always performed by a licensed veterinarian.
POLICIES: RE-HOMING
View Re-homing AgreementOur 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
    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
Not Checked:
    Our organization does NOT re-home an equine to first time equine owners
    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 remain at our organization for their lifetimes
    Equines may be found suitable homes by our organization
    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 returned to their owners
    Equines may be sent to auction
    If a suitable home cannot be located within 12 months, the equine may be euthanized
The 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 re-homed equines cannot be bred
    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 should the adopter decide to re-home the equine, the adopter must grant the organization first right of refusal prior to the equine being placed into the possession of any individual or organization intending to take possession of the equine for any reason.
    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 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 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 our organization reserves the right to make scheduled 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
    Our organization microchips all equines that are not already microchipped before the adoption and/or transfer of the equine if the organization has the authority to microchip the equine.
    The agreement includes the microchip number of the equine.
    The agreement states that adopters/purchasers are required to provide updates (photos, vet records) for as long as the adopter/purchaser is responsible for the care of the equine
    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
    Personal/Other
Not Checked:
    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:
	Over $1,500
Additional information about our rehoming policies and practices:
Our current agreement prohibits breeding, sale for slaughter, and neglect, while emphasizing trust in adopters who have been thoroughly vetted through reference checks, home checks, and interviews. We request ongoing updates and notification of any change in ownership, and we provide adopters with a lifetime safety net—our horses are always welcome back if circumstances change.
     
     To further safeguard our equines, all horses are implanted with LifeTrac microchips, which allow us to be notified if a horse ever enters an at-risk situation. In practice, our adopters remain in close contact, and we maintain strong, positive relationships that extend well beyond the adoption itself.            
 	
	 
	         
EQUINE CARE & SHELTER/FACILITY INFORMATION
Our organization does not 
CURRENTLY use satellite, overflow, foster, and/or outreach facilities.
Total facilities at which our organization cares for and shelters horses used in our programs: 
1
Healing Heroes Through Horsemanship
315 Jenner Way ARROYO GRANDE CA 93420
 Currently operational
Total number of horses/equines currently involved with your programs, under your care, and/or owned by your organization at this facility:  7
Total number of horses at this facility NOT INCLUDING those counted above:  0
Maximum capacity of horses at this facility:  20 
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. 
				     San Luis Obispo County Animal Services – Animal Welfare & Abuse Investigations
Address: 865 Oklahoma Avenue, San Luis Obispo, CA 93405  
Phone: (805) 781-4400  
Eric Anderson, DVM
Animal Services Manager
https://www.slocounty.ca.gov/departments/health-agency/animal-services
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)? No
Grounds: Healing Heroes Through Horsemanship (*Main)  Currently operational This section is required.Total acreage dedicated specifically to the horses:  5
Our organization has use of the following at this facility: 
Structures/Barns:  1  Run-in sheds:  6
Pastures:  0  Paddocks/Pens/Turnout Areas:  2
Uncovered Outdoor Rings:  3  Covered Outdoor Rings:  0  Indoor Rings:  0
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? 4-8How 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 WeekDo 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 9 to 15 hours per day
The following describes the pastures at this facility: 
    This facility does not have pastures where equines can graze on pasture grass
Not Checked:
    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
    Barbed wire is used for fencing
    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)
The following describes the turnout areas other than pastures at this facility: 
    This facility has a written plan in place for the maintenance of turnout areas, which includes a schedule for cleaning, manure removal, and dragging
    A dedicated staff person(s) is responsible for the maintenance of turnout areas
    All turnout areas are fenced to prevent escape or injury
    Turnout areas have man-made protection for equines (i.e., shelters)
    Fencing checks, such as broken or missing planks, loose fence posts, exposed or loose nails, detached wires,  etc., are done regularly
Not Checked:
    This facility does not have turnout areas
    Barbed wire is used for fencing
    Electric fencing is used; electric wires or tape fence are visibly marked
The following policies and procedures are in place at the facility to restrict public access and to keep horses safe: 
    The property owner, staff member or caretaker lives on the premises and ensures that public access is restricted and is responsible for the security of the facility and equines
    There is a practice in place to monitor equines 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
    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:
    A security guard is present at night
    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: Healing Heroes Through Horsemanship (*Main) 2025 only 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 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 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 
    Feed plans are determined in consultation with a veterinarian
    Supplement plans are determined in consultation with a veterinarian
    Equines are fed grain in individual stalls
    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:
    Equines are fed grain in groups
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 Traps and Tapes
    Premise Sprays/Insecticides
    Fly Spray Repellent
    Fly Masks
    Fly Sheets
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
    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:
    Footbaths are available at all 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 hauled, sold or given away
    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 is piled in an area where equines are not located
    Manure piles are covered
    Manure piles are composted or spread on pastures
The following steps are taken to help staff and volunteers readily identify each horse on the property: 
    Equines are assigned the same exclusive stall/shelter location each day
    Name plates are located on the stall/shelter location
    Photos are located on the stall/shelter location
    A notebook or binder with photos and information on each equine is easily accessible
    Equine photos and profiles are available on the website
    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 wear halters with nametags
    A map/diagram is posted showing the location of each equine with equine names and photos
    Staff and volunteers are provided with an information packet with equine profiles, including photos and detailed descriptions
Our organization has the following policies and procedures in place pertaining to tack, apparel and equipment: 
    Saddles are shared
    Bridles 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 after each use
    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
    Helmets are replaced after a fall
Not Checked:
     All equines have specifically assigned tack, apparel and equipment that is not shared
    Saddle pads are shared
    Bits are shared
    Blankets are shared
    Sheets are shared
    Turnout apparel is shared
    Tack is cleaned weekly
    Tack is cleaned only when needed
    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 at least every five years. 
    No equines are ridden; not applicable. 
Emergency Preparedness: Healing Heroes Through Horsemanship: *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
    Terrorist attacks
    Protocols to notify emergency personnel
    Building/facility exit plans
Not Checked:
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:  QuarterlySmoke detectors are checked:  WeeklyFence lines are checked:  DailyTurnout Areas are checked:  DailySprinkler systems are checked:  Not at all/NAFire drills are conducted:  QuarterlyReview of safety protocols with staff are conducted:  QuarterlyReview of safety protocols with volunteers are conducted:  QuarterlyThe Emergency Preparedness Plan is reviewed and updated:  QuarterlyEquine Transportation: 7=  Onsite: 1 (1 + 0) + Offsite: 6
2-horse van/trailer with truck: 
    1 Owned onsite  2 Access offsite;
3-horse van/trailer with truck: 
    1 Access offsite;
4-horse van/trailer with truck: 
    2 Access offsite;
6-horse van/trailer with truck:     
8-horse van/trailer with truck:     
10-horse van/trailer with truck: 
    1 Access offsite;