EQUUS Foundation

MISSION & PROGRAMS

Mission:
Hope Meadows is dedicated to transforming lives through equine assisted mental health services and life skills programs; body, mind and spirit.

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 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:

1) Ensuring all human-equine interactions are mutually beneficial and follow the Guidelines for Human-Equine Interactions:
     At Hope Meadows Foundation, all equine-assisted therapy and wellness sessions are conducted by trained and certified professionals who prioritize the physical and emotional well-being of both the clients and the horses. All of our equine specialists are certified in EAGALA, and our mental health professionals are certified in either EAGALA, Natural Lifemanship, or both. Our team is trained to read and respond to equine body language, recognizing signs of stress or discomfort to ensure the horse’s needs are respected at all times. Sessions are designed to be collaborative experiences, allowing horses to engage voluntarily and at liberty whenever possible. Activities are adapted to match each horse’s temperament, energy level, and current health, ensuring every interaction is positive and mutually beneficial. We maintain detailed records of each herd member’s participation in sessions to balance engagement with adequate rest and free turnout time. Volunteers are utilized for essential barn operations such as stall cleaning, feeding, and general equine care, but do not participate in client sessions.

     2) Ensuring proper care, nutrition, health, and living conditions for all equines:
     All horses in our care have continuous access to clean, fresh drinking water. They receive high-quality hay and/or pasture forage, supplemented with grain and minerals as needed for their individual health needs. We maintain a regular schedule of veterinary wellness checks, dental exams, and farrier visits, with prompt medical attention provided for any injuries or illnesses. Horses have safe, well-maintained indoor stalls to protect them from inclement weather, as well as spacious pastures for daily turnout where they can move freely, graze, and interact with other herd members. Herd dynamics are monitored to ensure positive social interaction. Individual care logs are maintained for each horse, tracking things such as turnout, healthcare, and participation in programs, allowing us to tailor care to each horse’s physical and emotional well-being.

Equine Assisted Services (EAS):
Our organization provides the following Equine Assisted Services (EAS):
    Psychotherapy/Counseling
    Personal Development Learning
    Professional Development Learning

5: Total number of Equine Assisted Service Providers at Hope Meadows

     1 Esther Miller, MSW, LISW-S

FACILITY PARTICIPATION:

Hope Meadows

RELATIONSHIP: Independent Contractor

SERVICES PROVIDED:

Psychotherapy/Counseling

Personal Development Learning

Professional Development Learning

DEGREES, LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS

MSW, LISW-S
Eagala certified

2 Michaela Jackson-Smith, MSW, LSW

FACILITY PARTICIPATION:

Hope Meadows

RELATIONSHIP: Independent Contractor

SERVICES PROVIDED:

Psychotherapy/Counseling

Personal Development Learning

Professional Development Learning

DEGREES, LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS

MSW, LSW
Fundamentals, Natural Lifemanship

3 Rebecca Quella, MSW, LISW-S

FACILITY PARTICIPATION:

Hope Meadows

RELATIONSHIP: Independent Contractor

SERVICES PROVIDED:

Psychotherapy/Counseling

Personal Development Learning

Professional Development Learning

DEGREES, LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS

MSW, LISW-S
Eagala Certified

4 Rob Plisken, LSW

FACILITY PARTICIPATION:

Hope Meadows

RELATIONSHIP: Independent Contractor

SERVICES PROVIDED:

Psychotherapy/Counseling

Personal Development Learning

DEGREES, LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS

Rob Plisken, LSW
Eagala certified

5 Sarah Swiger, LPCC-S, APRN-PMHNP

FACILITY PARTICIPATION:

Hope Meadows

RELATIONSHIP: Independent Contractor

SERVICES PROVIDED:

Psychotherapy/Counseling

Personal Development Learning

Professional Development Learning

DEGREES, LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS

LPCC-S, APRN-PMHNP
Post Master's certificate in Equine Assisted Mental Health and Natural Lifemanship trained

Overview of our programs involved with providing EAS to individuals with special needs:
     Hope Meadows Foundation provides trauma-informed mental health counseling and wellness programs through equine-assisted services (EAS), offering a safe, non-riding, ground-based approach. All services are facilitated by an equine specialist and a licensed mental health professional, certified in EAGALA, Natural Lifemanship, or both. Our programs are designed to foster healing, build resilience, and strengthen coping skills by engaging clients in hands-on, experiential interactions with our therapy herd.

     1) Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP)
     Our EAP program integrates evidence-based psychotherapy with equine interaction to address trauma, anxiety, depression, PTSD, and other mental health challenges. Sessions are fully ground-based, allowing clients to work with horses in activities such as grooming, leading, and observing herd behavior, which naturally prompt reflection, emotional regulation, and problem-solving. We serve children, teens, and adults, including:

     Police officers and first responders (approved by the Ohio Peace Officer Training Academy for continuing education credits)

     Survivors of human trafficking

     Adjudicated youth and individuals involved in juvenile justice programs

     Clients referred through Akron Children’s Hospital’s behavioral health programs

     Individuals in addiction recovery

     2) Equine-Assisted Learning (EAL) and Life Skills Development
     EAL focuses on building communication, teamwork, leadership, and problem-solving skills through structured equine activities. We partner with organizations such as the Urban League of Greater Cleveland and My Brother’s Keeper to provide underserved teens with opportunities for personal growth and self-confidence. These sessions help participants translate lessons learned in the arena—such as boundary-setting and cooperation—into everyday life.

     3) Equine-Assisted Wellness Sessions
     Our wellness programs provide restorative experiences that promote self-care, stress reduction, and emotional balance. These sessions are tailored for groups such as healthcare teams, nonprofit staff, and community organizations. Participants engage in activities that encourage mindfulness, relaxation, and connection, both with the horses and with one another. These programs are not therapy but offer therapeutic benefits by creating space to recharge mentally and emotionally.

     Across all programs, our approach is grounded in respect for the horse as a sentient partner in the process. Horses are free to engage voluntarily, and sessions are adapted to align with each animal’s temperament and current well-being.

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 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 seizure or by abandonment
    The owner is financially responsible for the shipping of the equine to and from the organization
    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:

Trial Period: Check all that apply:
    Equines are on trial for up to 30 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 up to 60 days
    Equines are on trial for 60 or more 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
The equine is not quarantined

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 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 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:
    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 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
    Lunging
    Loading onto and unloading off a trailer
    Mounting and dismounting
    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:
    Saddling
    Bridling
    Riding at the walk
    Riding at the trot
    Riding at the canter
    Riding by a beginner and/or unbalanced rider
    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 a trained staff member
    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

Not Checked:
    The Henneke Body Condition score or other body conditioning score is updated at least annually by the veterinarian
    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
    Equines at our facility may be treated by an equine massage therapist
    Equines at our facility may be treated by an equine nutritionist

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

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

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

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

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

Additional information about our intake, assessment & training policies and practices:
In lieu of a veterinary health certificate, an equine may be admitted under quarantine.

     Quarantine will last a minimum of seven (7) days if the equine is arriving from a facility with minimal perceived risk.

     Quarantine will last a minimum of twenty-one (21) days if the equine is arriving from a
     facility of unknown or higher risk.

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

Additional information about our euthanasia policies and practices:
Any of the above is done under care and recommendation by our vet.

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
    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

Not Checked:

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 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 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 our organization reserves the right to make scheduled visits

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, 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 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
    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

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

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

Hope Meadows
4820 Ridge Road WADSWORTH OH 44281
Currently operational
Total number of horses/equines currently involved with your programs, under your care, and/or owned by your organization at this facility: 14
Total number of horses at this facility NOT INCLUDING those counted above: 0
Maximum capacity of horses at this facility: 14

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.
     Medina County SPCA — Humane Officer (Local Enforcement) Phone: (330) 723-7722 or (330) 441-4624 8790 Guilford Rd., Seville, OH 44273 info@medinacountyspca.com Ohio Department of Agriculture – Division of Animal Health (State-Level) Phone: (614) 728-6220 Email: animal@agri.ohio.gov 8995 East Main Street, Reynoldsburg, OH 43068-3399

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

Total number of Equine Assisted Service Providers AT THIS FACILITY, including instructors, specialists, therapists, counselors, coaches and/or facilitators (full-time, part-time, volunteer, independent contractors, and/or providers accompanying clients) that conduct Equine Assisted Services (EAS) in accordance with the EQUUS Foundation Guidelines on Qualifications of Organizations Conducting Equine Assisted Services (EAS) AT THIS FACILITY: 5

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

     1. Esther Miller, MSW, LISW-S
     2. Michaela Jackson-Smith, MSW, LSW
     3. Rebecca Quella, MSW, LISW-S
     4. Rob Plisken, LSW
     5. Sarah Swiger, LPCC-S, APRN-PMHNP

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ABOUT THIS FACILITY:

Water buckets are scrubbed and cleaned once a day and refilled twice a day or more in warmer weather.

Grounds: Hope Meadows (*Main) Currently operational This section is required.
Total acreage dedicated specifically to the horses: 20
Our organization has use of the following at this facility:
Structures/Barns: 1  Run-in sheds: 3
Pastures: 5  Paddocks/Pens/Turnout Areas: 1
Uncovered Outdoor Rings: 1  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? 9-12
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 4 to 8 hours per day
    Equines are out 9 to 15 hours per day

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 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
    Pastures have natural protection for equines (i.e., trees)

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
    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
    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:
    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 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

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
    The property is fitted with a security system monitored by police or a professional service

Equine Care/Emergency Preparedness: Hope Meadows (*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 cloud-based backup storage system
    Our organization utilizes a software application to maintain records
    The organization utilizes its own system 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
    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 parasites
    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
    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.
    Equipment used by sick, affected and/or quarantined equines is not shared
    Latex gloves, or equivalent gloves, are worn when working with sick, affected and/or quarantined equines
    Equines are not quarantined on arrival.

Not Checked:
    Sick, affected and/or quarantined equines are cared for last if the caretaker must also care for healthy equines
    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 cleaned of organic debris and disinfected after each use

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

The following steps are taken to help staff and volunteers readily identify each horse on the property:
    Equines are assigned the same exclusive stall/shelter location each day
    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
    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:
Photos are located on the stall/shelter location
A map/diagram is posted showing the location of each equine with equine names and photos

Our organization has the following policies and procedures in place pertaining to tack, apparel and equipment:
    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
    No equines are ridden; not applicable.

Not Checked:
     All equines have specifically assigned tack, apparel and equipment that is not shared
    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
    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
    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.

Emergency Preparedness: Hope Meadows: *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 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 facility owns or has access to a generator

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: Annually
Smoke detectors are checked: Annually
Fence lines are checked: Weekly
Turnout Areas are checked: Weekly
Sprinkler systems are checked: Not at all/NA
Fire drills are conducted: Annually
Review of safety protocols with staff are conducted: Annually
Review of safety protocols with volunteers are conducted: Annually
The Emergency Preparedness Plan is reviewed and updated: Annually

Equine Transportation: 4= Onsite: 2 (0 + 2) + Offsite: 2
2-horse van/trailer with truck:
    2 Access onsite but not owned  2 Access offsite;
3-horse van/trailer with truck:

4-horse van/trailer with truck:

6-horse van/trailer with truck:

8-horse van/trailer with truck:

10-horse van/trailer with truck: