MISSION & PROGRAMS
Mission:Animals as Natural Therapy's mission is to improve mental and behavioral health through equine-assisted and animal-guided programs and mentorship with special attention to youth and veterans in Northwest Washington.
Our organization conducts Equine Assisted Services in accordance with the
EQUUS Foundation Guidelines on Qualifications of Organizations Conducting Equine Assisted Services (EAS).
Our organization provides community outreach and/or public education programs involving horses.
Our organization is directly responsible for the care and shelter of equines involved in our programs.
Over 75% of our total programs and services are equine-related.
Our organization does not
CURRENTLY use satellite, overflow, foster, and/or outreach facilities.
Equine Assisted Services (EAS):Our organization provides the following Equine Assisted Services (EAS):
Therapeutic Mounted Services
Therapeutic Unmounted Services
Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy/Counseling (Mental Health)
Equine-Assisted Learning involving Academic Learning
Equine-Assisted Learning involving Personal and/or Professional Development
3: Total number of Equine Assisted Service Providers at Animals as Natural Therapy
1. Amanda Martin
FACILITY PARTICIPATION:
RELATIONSHIP:
SERVICES PROVIDED:
Therapeutic Mounted Services
Therapeutic Unmounted Services
Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy/Counseling (Mental Health)
Equine-Assisted Learning involving Academic Learning
Equine-Assisted Learning involving Personal and/or Professional Development
DEGREES, LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS
Amanda Martin is a PATH International Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor and Equine Specialist in Mental Health and Learning. She has a Master's Degree in English and currently teaches English composition, literature, and humanities at Whatcom Community College. Amanda continues to develop professionally by attending conferences and workshops, presenting to peers and researching in the areas of mental health, child development, and student-centered pedagogies. She has worked with children and teens since 2001 as mentor and teacher, facilitating experiential learning with animals.
Overview of our programs involved with providing EAS to individuals with special needs:
Our Equine Assisted Experiential Growth and Learning (EAGAL) programming utilizes horses and directly serves over 400 youth per year, 70% of whom are low income. ANT offers eight-week weekly sessions in the fall, winter, and spring, as well as six separate week-long summer day camps. Some children, youth, and veterans also meet with our mental health counselors individually or with their families throughout the year in equine-facilitated mental health work.
Many of the youth that ANT serves, due to their limited resources, will not have access to or seek traditional counseling on their own. This means that ANT's Animal-Assisted Experiential Learning programs (some of which involve a mental health counselor) are often the only mental health support these youth will ever receive or accept. ANT has a growing waiting list of vulnerable children, teens, and veterans that are desperately in need of ANT's services but are unable to pay for them. A number of these individuals are being raised by grandparents, extended family, foster or adoptive parents due to parental instability, addiction, and incarceration. ANT's highly effective and innovative programs are a way to ensure these young people are provided a place where they develop inner strength, self-confidence, healthy relationship skills and tools they need for the extra life challenges they face. These youth need hope and a new way of doing life to break family cycles.
At the farm, young people practice honest, respectful methods of communication and challenge themselves in multiple ways. They learn to face their fears. This empowers them to make healthy choices. To affect such life-altering changes, ANT works in tandem with horses. These sensitive, thousand pound animals are great mirrors for reflecting human emotions. They demand healthy boundaries, clear communication, and trust in order for people to build successful relationships with them. Horses teach essential life skills, in a fun and lasting way, that are inaccessible by way of traditional methods.
ANT utilizes innovative activities and group processing to develop powerful metaphors and life parallels. Through this work, the young people gain self-confidence and self-worth. They develop leadership, communication, problem solving, and teamwork skills. In a safe and supportive environment they can push the envelope of their fears and learn ways to overcome those fears. They learn to set boundaries, to feel, to identify and communicate their needs, and to express their appreciation of others.
The SAFETY NET PROGRAM specifically serves youth and teens in need of support for their mental and behavioral health. These youth are referred by collaborating local and tribal schools, community organizations, professionals, and families. This program is ANT's main project and includes year-round weekly sessions for groups or individuals, summer camps, and also family sessions.
ANT's programming is set up to provide unique challenges and the horses play an integral part. Horses have a way of letting us know which of our strategies are effective and which are not. They give us a chance to try out new skills without any judgment, only direct, honest feedback. Creating a healthy relationship with an animal can guide us to more successful relationships at home, school, and in the community.
ANT strives to help young people develop lifelong skills that will help them to live self-sufficient, fulfilled lives. ANT has constructed a plan to track the success of this program. Variables include increased confidence, GPA improvement, less incidences requiring disciplinary action, positive peer interaction, and the ability to set boundaries. This tracking will be long term and the data will hopefully be mutually beneficial to ANT's efforts and the efforts of all the partners who support the idea of providing a "Safety Net" to catch any young person before they fall.
The LEARNING LIFE PROGRAM serves youth through a variety of school partnerships ranging from farm-based weekly school groups to mobile programming at the schools. Students have the opportunity to come to the farm to learn from animals, caring people, and the natural world. Here, the learning is truly 'hands-on' and experiential--learning how to convince a 1100 pound horse to move away from the grass, working with classmates to move horses through an obstacle without touching them, or noticing how calming it is to just be outside holding a soft bunny in their arms.
Animals as Natural Therapy partners with 5 school districts and to provide our Learning Life programs, which include:
• Middle and High School youth taking small animals (including miniature horses) to visit elders in residential care facilities for their service learning projects.
• School counselors referring struggling students for sessions. While they may get the message that they are 'not okay' in the classroom, youth can rediscover their worth on the farm.
• Teachers coming for "Teach the Teacher" events and other specialized trainings.
• Crisis response to assist young people after school threats (shooting, etc) and other unplanned emergencies, such as the death of a fellow student or teacher.
The EAGLE PROJECT assists veterans returning from military efforts to face the challenges of depression, PTSD, addictions, and anger. Veterans may meet work in groups, individually or with family members. Using equine-assisted activities, ANT provides a means to release troubling emotions and increase coping skills, something especially useful for those who have experienced psychological and physical trauma. This program specifically focuses on helping veterans develop the tools to manage:
• Reintegration- Transition back to civilian life is challenging. Equine-assisted learning methods help one move from a sense of isolation to a sense of community.
• Crisis- Hopelessness is turned around by the companionship and understanding shared by the horse and humans at ANT.
• Addictions- A horse’s strong intuition and acceptance of our full range of feelings has helped many individuals overcome addictive tendencies.
• PTSD and/or Depression- Horses are fight or flight animals who have learned to deal with their own anxieties and who invite humans to develop strategies to address theirs.
Our human staff are PATH certified. We utilize information gathered from Linda Kohanov's Equus work, Natural horsemanship practitioners, Frank Bell, Adventures in Awareness and the Masterson Beyond Massage technique.
Community Outreach and/or Public Education:
Overview of our programs involved with providing community outreach and/or public education programs involving horses:
We present to school groups about jobs/careers/taking care of equines/animals. They can also visit the farm for educational field trips.
Our animals and miniature equines attend community events like fundraisers.
Our MOBILE ANT brings the joy of connecting with animals to elder care facilities, homeless shelters, and stressed university students. In this inter-generational program, youth from schools and rehab programs bring bunnies, chickens, dogs and miniature horses to visit elders. Teens and elders connect and find value in themselves and one another. These interactions invite youth to develop empathy, practice respectful communication with older people and patience with animals. This program builds community between over 100 youth and hundreds of elder community members each year.
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.
Our Programs/Activities that are not equine-related and/or involving animals other than equines:
The other animals that participate in ANT programs are: rabbits, chickens, goats, and dogs.
The miniature equines as well as some of the smaller animals are involved in visits to assisted care facilities with our Mobile ANT program, and also out in the community: the nearby university at mid-terms, homeless shelters and local community events. Our smaller animals are often enjoyed by visitors of all ages to the farm and each has a special role to play.
POLICIES: ACQUISITION
Our organization acquires horses/equines from the following source(s):
Donation
Lease
Purchase from Owner
Our organization does not acquire horses/equines from the following source(s):
Auction
Kill pen/Feedlot
Return
Surrender
Seizure
Abandonment
Our organization will accept the following:
Geldings
Mares
Not Checked:
Pregnant Mares
Foals
Stallions
Only Stallions to be castrated
Additional information about our acquisition policies and practices:
We will consider accepting horses from any source - but generally sources include donation or lease. We always ask for a three month trial for any horse coming into our program, as not all horses enjoy EAL/EFP work and some horses become stressed in the new environment.
POLICIES: INTAKE, ASSESSMENT & TRAININING
Prior to a horse being accepted and/or arriving at the facility, the organization requires the following with respect to the health status of the horse:
A current Coggins
Vaccination records that have been administered within the last 12 months
If health records are not available or are out-of-date, the owner is responsible for having vaccinations administered.
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
Prior to a horse being accepted and/or arriving at the facility, the organization has the following policies in place:
The owner of a potential equine is interviewed over the phone or in person prior to seeing the equine
The equine is evaluated at its place of residence
The owner completes an application/contract which constitutes the agreement between the owner and our organization
Equines are on trial for 60 or more days
The trial period may be reduced based on the equine's progress
During the trial period, the organization accepts financial responsibility for the care of the equine, including board, feed, shoeing and any necessary veterinary care,
up to a fixed amount agreed upon by the organization and the owner
The trial period may be terminated by either the organization or the owner for any reason
Not Checked:
The owner is financially responsible for the shipping of the equine to and from the organization
Equines are not taken on trial
Equines are on trial for up to 30 days
Equines are on trial up to 60 days
During the trial period, the organization accepts total financial responsibility for the care of the equine, including board, feed, shoeing and any necessary veterinary care
During the trial period, the owner/donor is financially responsible for the care of the equine, including board, feed, shoeing and any necessary veterinary care
Following arrival of the equine at the facility, the following is performed:
A Henneke Body Conditioning Score or other body conditioning score is assigned
Physical examination by trained barn staff
Photographs are taken of each equine upon arrival at the facility and kept with the equine's health records
Physical examination by a farrier
Not Checked:
Physical examination by a veterinarian upon arrival
Physical examination by a dentist
Coggins test
Blood work other than Coggins
Fecal test
Vaccinations
De-worming
The equine is scanned to check for a microchip
The equine is microchipped if the scan indicates that there is no microchip
Upon intake, the organization has the following quarantine policy in place:
The equine is not quarantined
Not Checked:
The equine is confined to a designated and separate area for isolation and quarantine at the facility for a prescribed period of time
The equine is 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:
Horses are not quarantined
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
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
Not Checked:
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 nutritionist
Our organization has the following policies and procedures in place pertaining to the weight-carrying or workload capabilities of horses/equines that are ridden in our care:
Our organization evaluates at least annually and maintains a written record of the weight-carrying and workload limitations for each equine that is ridden
Not Checked:
Our organization does not evaluate the weight-carrying and workload limitations for each equine that is ridden
No equines are ridden; not applicable
The following variables are considered in determining the weight-carrying and workload limitations for each equine that is ridden:
Equine age, weight, breed, body condition, fitness, balance, health and soundness
Equine conformation to include the top line, length of back, strength and width of loin, bone density (measured by the circumference of the cannon bone just below the knee)
Size, shape, condition and angle of the hooves
Participant weight, height, body proportions, balance, fitness and riding skills as well as behavioral issues and safety concerns
Weight and proper fit of the saddle and other equipment
Terrain and footing in the working environment
Duration and frequency of working sessions, as the frequency with which an equine is subjected to maximum weight carrying and/or workload
Nature and pace of work, repetitive or varied, radius of turns, degree of incline and regularity of footing when equine is subject to maximum weight-carrying capacity
Temperature and/or weather conditions
Seasonal impact on the equines' workload and weight-carrying capabilities and limitations
Not Checked:
Our organization does not evaluate the weight-carrying and workload limitations for each equine that is ridden
No equines are ridden; not applicable
Horses provided formal training (groundwork or riding):
As needed; no set schedule
Additional information about our intake, assessment & training policies and practices:
We have a detailed intake process that includes talking to the equine's owner about the details of the equine's veterinary, vaccination, and deworming history. We require a current Coggins test along with a health check from the vet before moving to our farm. We require that every equine is up to date on vaccinations and deworming.
We do not quarantine as we do not have readily available access to a space where we are able to properly quarantine the equine. We require as many health checks as possible before moving an equine onto the property and rely on the veterinary assessment. We do not often have equines moving on or off the property.
POLICIES: BREEDING
The organization has the following policies related to breeding and stallions:
Our main facility where our organization conducts its programs does NOT breed equines.
Not Checked:
One or more of the facilities where our organization conducts its programs, including foster facilities, breeds equines
One or more of the facilities where our organization conducts its programs, including foster facilities, are permitted to house stallions
Additional information about our breeding policies and practices:
Animals as Natural Therapy has decided that we are best able to provide services to our community with horses that are donated and/or leased to us and that we do not have capacity to breed equines.
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 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
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
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:
Euthanasia is always our last resort. We provide our equines with as much care as possible from our veterinarian and trust our veterinarian to tell us when we have tried all treatment options. Our veterinarian provides farm calls so the only reason for the equine to be euthanized off-site would be if an emergency happened while the equine off-site.
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 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
Not Checked:
Adopters/purchasers are NOT required to provide updates
Our organization has the following policies and procedures related to horses that need to be retired, are no longer able to contribute to the mission of the organization, and/or are no longer manageable:
Equines may remain at our organization for their lifetimes
Equines may be found suitable homes by our organization
Equines may be returned to their owners
In the case an equine is 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 sent to auction
In the case an equine is unmanageable and demonstrates repeated dangerous behaviors, the equine may be euthanized upon the recommendation of the veterinarian
If a suitable home cannot be located within 12 months, the equine may be euthanized
The organization will accept financial responsibility for equines in the current care of the organization that need to be retired or are no longer able to contribute to the mission of the organization if all alternatives have been explored to find the equine an appropriate placement and space is not available for the equine to remain at the organization.
The uploaded Re-homing agreement includes the following re-homing (adoption/purchase) statements:
The agreement reflects that any individual or organization in possession of the equine as of the date of the agreement and any time thereafter is bound to not sell the equine at auction for slaughter or allow the equine to be sold, transferred, released, or otherwise placed into possession of any person or organization that will cause or allow the equine to be sold at auction for slaughter.
The agreement states that should the adopter decide to re-home the equine, our organization must be notified of the name, address, and telephone number of any individual or organization intending to take possession of the equine for any reason prior to the equine being placed into the possession of such individual or organization.
The agreement states that the 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 adopters/purchasers can return an equine to our organization free of charge
The agreement states that adopters/purchasers are required to provide updates (photos, vet records) for two years
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 grant approval of any individual or organization intending to take possession of the equine for any reason prior to the equine being placed into the possession of such individual or organization, including being provided written notification of the name, address, and telephone number of any individual or organization intending to take possession of the equine for any reason.
The agreement states that our organization reserves the right to make 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 three or more years
None of the statements are included.
The organization does not re-home equines under any circumstances; our organization retains custody of our equines and ensures care of the equines for their lifetimes.
Our organization does not have the authority to transfer ownership and/or does not own any of the equines involved with our programs.
Our organization requires references from the following:
Not applicable or no references required.
Not Checked:
Veterinarian
Farrier
Personal/Other
Transfer of ownership occurs:
Immediately (at the time of adoption/purchase) or less than one year
The average equine re-homing (adoption/purchase) fee received by your organization:
Not applicable; None received
Additional information about our rehoming policies and practices:
We do not advertise the equine we need to rehome. We rely on our network to find the equine a suitable home. Because of this, we do not always require a rehoming fee other than transport cost because we are confident that the new home does not have any intention on reselling the horse and will be providing our organization updates on that equine.
EQUINE CARE & SHELTER/FACILITY INFORMATION
Total facilities at which our organization cares for and shelters horses used in our programs:
1Our organization does not
CURRENTLY use satellite, overflow, foster, and/or outreach facilities.
Animals as Natural Therapy
284 Kline Road Bellingham WA 98226
Contact: Kelsy Hartmann
Contact's Phone: 253-341-0940
Contact's Email: barnyard@animalsasnaturaltherapy.org
Total number of horses/equines currently involved with your programs, under your care, and/or owned by your organization at this facility:
Total number of horses at this facility INCLUDING those counted above: 13
Maximum capacity of horses at this facility: 13
Does your organization own, lease or use a part of this facility? Use
Provide the contact information for the individual or organization responsible for investigating
abuse in the county where the facility is located, including mailing address, email address, and phone information.
Whatcom Humane Society
2172 Division Street, Bellingham, WA 98226
360-733-2080
director@whatcomhumane.org
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:
3Equine Assisted Service Providers Assigned to this Facility: (see Equine Assisted Service Provider Section below for details)
3 -> 0 - The total number of Equine Assisted Service Providers entered for this facility does not match the number of Equine Assisted Service Providers assigned to this facility under in the Equine Assisted Service Provider Section
Additional information about this facility:
We moved to this property about two year ago and we are always making improvements for the equines.
Animals as Natural Therapy
Veterinarian InformationVeterinarian: Dr. Holly Smith
Clinic Name: Kulshan Veterinary Hospital
8880 Benson Road
Lynden WA 98264
Phone: 360-354-5095
Overview: Animals as Natural Therapy (*Main)
Total number of horses/equines currently involved with your programs, under your care, and/or owned by your organization at this facility:
Total number of horses at this facility INCLUDING those counted above: 13
Maximum capacity of horses at this facility: 13
Total acreage dedicated specifically to the horses: 8
Our organization has use of the following at this facility:
Structures/Barns: 2 Run-in sheds: 2
Pastures: 5 Paddocks/Pens/Turnout Areas: 3
Uncovered Outdoor Rings: 1 Covered Outdoor Rings: 1 Indoor Rings: 0
Regarding structures at this facility where horses are stalled:
Do horses have assigned stalls in the structure(s)? Yes Do all stalls/enclosures allow horses to lie down, stand up and turn around? Yes Is there adequate ceiling & beam height (a minimum of 12 feet above the tip of the horse's ear) when standing in all stalls/enclosures? Yes How often are the stalls/enclosures cleaned? 6-7 Days a WeekAre floors constructed and maintained for both good drainage and traction? Yes Is there a ventilation and circulation system in place to control temperature and prevent buildup of toxic gases? Yes Is wiring inaccessible to horses and maintained for safety? Yes Are fire prevention/protection measures (fire alarms, extinguishers and sprinkler systems) maintained and in good working order? Yes Is there adequate lighting to ensure safety in all areas of facility? Yes Are emergency contacts, including veterinarian contact information, conspicuously posted in easily accessible locations? Yes Are human and equine first aid kits easily accessible? Yes How many hours per day, on average, are horses stalled? 9-12
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:
A dedicated staff person(s) is responsible for pasture management
All pastures are fenced to prevent escape or injury
Electric fencing is used; electric wires or tape fence are visibly marked
Fencing checks, such as broken or missing planks, loose fence posts, exposed or loose nails, detached wires, etc., are done regularly
Pastures are rotated
Not Checked:
This facility does not have pastures where equines can graze on pasture grass
This facility has a written plan in place for pasture management, which includes guidelines for seeding, fertilizing, irrigation, mowing, dragging, harrowing, manure removal, removal of debris, the control of poisonous plants, and a schedule for cleaning
Barbed wire is used for fencing
Pastures have natural protection for equines (i.e., trees)
Pastures have man-made protection for equines (i.e., shelters)
The following describes the turnout areas other than pastures at this facility:
A dedicated staff person(s) is responsible for the maintenance of turnout areas
All turnout areas are fenced to prevent escape or injury
Electric fencing is used; electric wires or tape fence are visibly marked
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
Turnout areas have man-made protection for equines (i.e., shelters)
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
By Appointment Only signs are posted.
Authorized Personnel Only signs are posted
Visitors are only permitted at specific times
Visitors are only permitted in specific areas
The property is fitted with motion lights
Not Checked:
A security guard is present at night
Equines are checked overnight
No Trespassing signs are posted
Hold Harmless signs are posted
Entrance gates are locked 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)
The perimeter of the property is fully fenced
Equine Care/Emergency Preparedness: Animals as Natural Therapy (*Main) This section is required.
Horse Health Care/Barn Management Records: What system is used to collect and store health/horse care records?
Notebook or equivalent (technology not utilized)
Onsite computer with cloud-based backup storage system
The following items are consistent with our feed management plan and practices:
Equines are provided with individualized feeding plans, including supplements, according to age and any health issues
Feed plans are determined in consultation with a veterinarian
Supplement plans are determined in consultation with a veterinarian
Equines are fed in individual stalls
Equines are fed in groups
Staff and volunteers are trained in proper feed measurements and protocols and observed periodically to ensure they are feeding correctly
The feed chart is centrally located and updated as needed
The area(s) where hay, feed, grain, and supplements are stored are kept clean, free of debris and chemicals, and protected from weather and other animals in rodent-proof and mold-proof containers and grain bins
Feed, supplements and hay types are clearly labeled
Water sources, i.e., buckets, troughs, automatic waterers, etc. are kept clean, free of debris and chemicals, and protected from weather and other animals
Not Checked:
Medications are kept in a locked, climate-controlled area
Do horses have access to clean drinking water at all times? Yes
Hoof Care: How often is hoof care provided for each equine? Every 4-8 weeks and when an issue arises
Dental Care: How often is dental care provided for each equine? Annually and when an issue arises
Horse checks: How often are equines visually and physically checked by personnel at the facility? Every day or 6 days a week
Parasite Control: Our organization has the following worming protocols in place: (Check all that apply
The protocol for each equine is determined in consultation with a veterinarian
A de-wormer is used without fecal testing
Fly/Insect Control: What remedies are used to control flies and insects?
Fly parasites
Fly Traps and Tapes
Fly Spray Repellent
Fly Masks
Fly Sheets
The following represent the biosecurity practices in place at facility:
Sick, affected and/or quarantined equines do not have contact with other equines or other animals
The organization has a written biosecurity plan
All staff are trained in best practices related to biosecurity
A specific individual is assigned to care for sick, affected and/or quarantined equines
Restricted access signs are posted at primary points of access to sick, affected and/or quarantined equines
Hand sanitizers and footbaths are available at all primary points of access to sick, affected and/or quarantined equines
Manure and bedding from sick, affected and/or quarantined equines is disposed of in specific areas designated for infectious materials - not put in open air piles, and not spread on pastures
Stalls, aisle ways, and common areas are disinfected after conclusion of the quarantine
Trailers/vans used by sick, affected and/or quarantined equines are cleaned and disinfected after each use and cleaning takes place away from where equines are sheltered
Equipment used by sick, affected and/or quarantined equines is not shared and is clearly labeled
Latex gloves are worn when working with sick, affected and/or quarantined equines
Personnel are required to leave the facility (or shower and change clothing) after working with quarantined equines
Equines are not quarantined on arrival.
Not Checked: Our organization follows the
AAEP's Biosecurity Guidelines and/or the
UC Davis Biosecurity Guidelines Our organization follows the biosecurity guidelines of our veterinarian
All volunteers are trained in best practices related to biosecurity
Sick, affected and/or quarantined equines are cared for last if the caretaker must also care for healthy equines
Shared 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 piled in an area where equines are not located
Manure is hauled, sold or given away
Manure piles are composted or spread on pastures
Not Checked:
Manure is stored in dumpster(s)
Manure piles are covered
Our organization adheres to the manure management guidelines set by state and/or local authorities
The following steps are taken to help staff and volunteers readily identify each horse on the property:
Equines are assigned the same stall/location each day
Name plates are located on the stall
Photos are located on the stall
Equines wear halters with nametags
A notebook or binder with photos and information on each equine is easily accessible
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
Team leaders work with new staff/volunteers until they are able to identify the equines
Not Checked:
A map/diagram is posted showing the location of each equine with equine names and photos
Staff/volunteers are provided training on conformation, markings, colors, and breeds
Our organization has the following policies and procedures in place pertaining to tack, apparel and equipment:
Saddles 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
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
Helmets are shared
Helmets are cleaned/disinfected after each use
Helmets are replaced at least every five years.
Not Checked:
All equines have specifically assigned tack, apparel and equipment that is not 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 stored in a climate-controlled location
Helmets are replaced after a fall
No equines are ridden; not applicable.
Emergency Preparedness: Animals as Natural Therapy: *Main This section is required.
The following plans, policies, and procedures are in place at the facility to handle emergencies and address weather related issues, fire safety procedures, and/or any additional hazardous scenarios the facility could potentially experience:
Emergency phone numbers are posted prominently
The facility maintains at least two weeks of hay, feed, shavings and medications
The facility collects and maintains medical information from staff, volunteers, and clients
The facility maintains appropriate liability and/or workers' compensation insurance
All staff/volunteers are briefed regularly on emergency preparedness/safety procedures
The organization has a written emergency preparedness/safety plan (EPP)
Not Checked:
Emergency procedures are posted prominently
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
Fire
Natural Disasters - thunderstorm, hurricanes, earthquakes, tornados, etc
Protocols to notify emergency personnel
Building/facility exit plans
Not Checked:
Power outages
Terrorist attacks
The facility follows the specific procedures to help PREVENT emergency situations:
Smoking is strictly prohibited
Permanent or temporary structures where equines are stalled are kept free of dust, cobwebs, trash, cleaning rags, and other flammable items
Aisles and doorways are kept clear
Not Checked:
NO SMOKING signs are posted prominently
Hay is stored away from permanent or temporary structures where equines are stalled
Heaters with automatic shutoff settings are used
How often are the following checked or performed?
Fire Extinguishers are checked: AnnuallySmoke detectors are checked: Not at all/NAElectrical Systems are checked: AnnuallyFence lines are checked: DailyTurnout Areas are checked: WeeklySprinkler 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: Annually
Equine Transportation
2-horse van/trailer with truck:
0 Owned onsite 1 Access onsite but not owned 0 Access offsite;
3-horse van/trailer with truck:
1 Owned onsite 0 Access onsite but not owned 0 Access offsite;
4-horse van/trailer with truck:
0 Owned onsite 0 Access onsite but not owned 0 Access offsite;
6-horse van/trailer with truck:
0 Owned onsite 0 Access onsite but not owned 0 Access offsite;
8-horse van/trailer with truck:
0 Owned onsite 0 Access onsite but not owned 0 Access offsite;
10-horse van/trailer with truck:
0 Owned onsite 0 Access onsite but not owned 0 Access offsite;