MISSION & PROGRAMS

Mission:
Mission Statement: Happy Trails Farm Animal Sanctuary rescues, rehabilitates and re-homes criminally abused, neglected and abandoned equine and farm animals.
Rescue – working in cooperation with law enforcement and county humane organizations, we provide our service to Ohio and any state beyond requesting assistance.
Rehabilitation – providing the veterinary attention, nutrition and maintenance care and nurture to each animal who enters the sanctuary.
Re-home – networking to find loving and forever homes for each animal based on the best match of people, personalities and facilities.

Our organization provides programs involved with equine rescue, adoption & retirement
Our organization provides outreach and/or public education programs involving horses.
Over 50% 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.
Summary of organization's recent accomplishments, goals, strategies to achieve the goals, and capabilities to meet the goals, including its long-term plans to sustain its programs:
New in 2024: STAI (Solutions to Avoid Intake) Program
     Along with our Amish Retirement Initiative and Owner Relinquish Initiative, HTFAS now offers safety net services to our neighbors in need. Through the implementation of this program in 2023, we identified a need while carrying out conversations with community members requesting to relinquish their animal. They reached out thinking their only option was to surrender, while their actual need was guidance and financial assistance with veterinary care and/or medications, feed/hay, or support for a decision of euthanasia.
     
     As a result, we now offer safety net services to aid and support to horse owners in need of a short-term helping hand to keep their horses at home rather than surrendering them to the rescue. Through this program, HTFAS offers microgrants in the form of basic care (hay/feed), farrier care, routine vetting (floats, vaccinations, deworming), medications for chronic but manageable conditions (such as Cushing's), and if needed, euthanasia assistance.
     
     The goal of this program is to keep horses safe and at home with their owners to increase HTFAS capacity of care. In the past two years, HTFAS has offered eighteen (18) microgrants, which have assisted owners with medication, euthanasia assistance and removal. These grants have ranged between $225-$1,200. To date, HTFAS has paid out $10,567 in Safety Net grants. We are grateful to the EQUUS Foundation's LaFitte de Muze's Safety Net Program for having supported our pilot efforts in 2023 and 2024.
     
     Goals and Outcome Measures:
     
     In 2023, eighty (80) equine came into our care. Sixty-nine (69) of those horses were adopted into loving homes, which includes one (1) who was transferred to another agency. Eleven (11) horses were humanely euthanized due to quality of life. Of those eleven euthanized, seven (7) were euthanasia assists through our safety net program. Our goal in 2024 is to increase that reach of assistance by 40% via intake and safety net services.
     
     Sustainability:
     We will continue to solicit funds from individuals, groups and foundations. The adoption fees that accompany each animal will serve to defray that animal’s intake expenses. Ultimately, our goal is twofold: we expect that by increasing our assistance and presence in the community, we will intercept more at-risk animals; and by increasing our exposure in the community, donations towards our programming will increase. This year to date, we have received $43,300 from foundations, which is restricted to our Safety Net and Owner Relinquish Initiatives.



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:

All horses at HTFAS are fully vetted upon entry to our program. Each animal receives appropriate nutritional/medical rehabilitation as directed by our veterinarian and farrier.
     We are including our equine restitution guidelines to show you what each horse may receive, depending on their condition. These guidelines were created to provide information to the legal community in situations of criminal neglect, but are valuable in sharing our refeeding/rehabilitation program:
     
     Grain
     The average equine consumes 3lbs of grain per feeding (2x daily) of a maintenance feed. The average good quality equine feed is $23 per (50 lb) bag. This calculates to $2.76 per day. Equine brought in to HTFAS require from 6-12 lbs of grain daily to bring them back to maintenance weight. This cost is $2.76 to $5.52 per day with an average cost of $4.14 per day.
     Hay
     The average equine consumes up to 20 lbs of hay each day. A bale of good quality and nutritional valuable hay is $7 per (60 lb) bale. This calculates to $2.40 per day. Equine brought in to HTFAS receive unlimited hay in stall as well as at pasture. This cost is $2.40 per day.
     Supplements
     An emaciated equine is put on fat and protein supplements to aid in weight gain, consuming ½ lb per feeding (2x daily). The average good quality equine supplement or top dress is $52 per (50 lb) bag. This calculates to $1.04 per day. Equine brought in to HTFAS are fed these supplements as a top dressing to aid in their overall nutritional balance. This cost is $1.04 per day.
     Bedding
     An equine requires adequate bedding in the stall for comfort and absorbency of urine. A truck load of sawdust brought into the sanctuary is $350 per (30 yd) load. A wheelbarrow (10 wheelbarrows per yd) will last approximately one week. This cost is $.17 per day. Equine brought in to HTFAS receive a 12 x 12 stall with fresh bedding using 1 yd. Stalls are cleaned daily and fresh sawdust is added as needed at least once per week. An emaciated horse is given extra bedding (2 yds) to provide relief from bones pressing through delicate skin as they lay. This cost is $.36 per day.
     Staff Care
     The staff at HTFAS have a working knowledge of equine care and work hard to provide care and attention to each equine brought in to HTFAS. Staff is paid an average hourly rate of $15.00 an hour and each equine requires at least one three-quarter hour each day for feeding, stall cleaning, turnout, observation and occasional grooming. This is an average cost of $11.25 per day.
     
     Farrier – Hoof Care (receipt will be provided)
     The average equine requires hoof trimming every 6 weeks in the summer and every 8 weeks in the winter. A hoof trim from a professional farrier costs $60 to $100 per trim. An equine with hoof abnormality, deformity and/or infection due to neglect will receive treatment from a hoof injury specialist and will be billed appropriately. Equine brought in to HTFAS are trimmed upon arrival and at appropriate intervals from that point forward. This cost is $60 per equine per trim.
     
     Veterinary Attention (receipt will be provided)
     A healthy equine must be provided the attention of a veterinarian at least once a year to provide teeth floats and vaccinations. Equine brought in to HTFAS receive an initial vet intake to record weight, body score, hydration, notation of any injury, overall condition and recommendation for treatment and care. Each equine is provided with a dental exam and teeth float. Fecal and follow up de-worming as well as vaccinations and follow-up boosters 4 to 6 weeks later (as vaccination history is unknown) are administered by our equine veterinarian. This cost is $130 per equine.
     
     As stated in part one of our Guardian application, all equines are turned out unless brought in for feeding or in inclement weather. Horses are turned out on grass as appropriate. All pastures have run-ins,hay feeders and ample water supply. Horses are turned out in appropriate social groupings.
     
     One aspect of human-equine interaction that takes place at HTFAS is the creation of our "Curry Club." This all-volunteer group meets weekly to work with our horses as appropriate. Many times, this involves grooming and handling horses as they transition from their previous homes to their new placements.

Equine Transition Services:
Overview of our programs involved with rescue, rehabilitation, retraining, re-homing and/or retirement:
     Rescue – working in cooperation with law enforcement and county humane organizations, we provide our service to Ohio and any state beyond requesting assistance.
     
     Rehabilitation – providing veterinary attention, nutrition and maintenance care and nurture to each animal who enters the sanctuary.
     
     Re-home – networking to find loving and forever homes for each animal based on the best match of people, personalities and facilities.
     
     Happy Trails handles the recovery and rehabilitation of the rescued animals, and also provides educational and community outreach programs. Since its incorporation in 2001, Happy Trails has accepted responsibility for the rehabilitation, daily care, veterinary and other health care expenses, retraining and re-homing of more than 3,000 farm animals and horses. Happy Trails has several equine (horse) specific programs, which include the Amish Horse Initiative, Owner Relinquish Initiative and the Pasture Pals Program. In these programs, horses are rehabilitated appropriately and adopted out accordingly so that they may live out the remainder of their lives comfortably. Happy Trails has had a dedicated Equine Placement Coordinator since 2018 to honor our commitment to rescuing and re-homing equine.
     
     In 2024, HTFAS officially launched its STAI program (Solutions to Avoid Intake) which will provide financial assistance to area horse owners in need of safety net services.
Overview of our programs involved with providing outreach and/or public education programs involving horses:
     Educational Collaborations
     HTFAS hosts a variety of professional development programming for area veterinary professionals. Registered Veterinary Technicians attend these seminars for CEUs and accompanying practicum with our animals at the facility. Because HTFAS has a variety of species available for these practices, it is a popular location for this educational opportunity.
     
     HTFAS collaborates with Kent State University in several areas. We have had many students satisfy their internship requirements at HTFAS from a variety of majors including biology, zoology, business and non-profit management. Kent State sends Registered Veterinary Technician students in their final semester from their Trumbull County campus to fulfill AVMA (American Veterinary Medical Association) requirements for large animal experience. Kent State also has a Pre-Veterinary Club for aspiring veterinary students. The Club visits HTFAS annually for large animal experience. Finally, Kent State’s Biology Club is one of our regular volunteer groups who come to HTFAS to assist with various projects.
     
     HTFAS also hosts interns from The Ohio State University and Cuyahoga Community College.
     
     
     Additional Collaborative Opportunities Provided by HTFAS
     HTFAS provides internships for students from Bio-Med Science Academy in Rootstown. Each year, one student is selected to spend 180 hours at HTFAS. The Academy also sends various clubs and groups for volunteer projects throughout the year.
     
     Hudson City Schools has a service-learning program through which HTFAS provides animal care experience to two students per semester. These students are at the facility 3-4 days a week.
     
     Animal Welfare/Law Enforcement Collaborations
     Due to the nature of our work, HTFAS collaborates with several area humane societies and county and municipal law enforcement agencies. We anticipate using the meeting space to further our work with our surrounding rescue partners.
     
     Our efforts to remain a leading and accredited organization in the animal welfare field require hosting leaders of foundations who are considering HTFAS for funding opportunities, directors of accreditation organizations such as the ASCPA, Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries and the Standardbred Transition Alliance along with the BBB of Ohio.
     
     Humane Education
     HTFAS offers a variety of humane education initiatives throughout the community. Each year, we offer programming that touches tens of thousands of individuals annually including children, the elderly and people with disabilities. Humane Education is an essential tool in the campaign to alleviate animal suffering and can help children grow into caring, compassionate human beings. Studies have shown that cruelty toward animals can lead to violent behavior toward people. This link underscores the importance of humane teachings for the benefit of animals and people.
     
     Through humane education programs and by example, HTFAS strives to teach compassion for all animals including the unwanted, the abandoned and the neglected. We offer a variety of interactive educational programs in school classrooms to students in grades PreK-12 and after-school enrichment clubs, scout troops, youth groups and other community organizations.
     
     Additionally, we participate in several community outreach events, which help us spread our mission. Our annual Open House is attended by more than 500 guests who experience our program firsthand. Our programs are designed to develop the understanding that animals are living, feeling beings to be treated with respect and compassion.
     
     Farm Animal Visitation Program
     HTFAS gives back to Northeast Ohio by taking rescued farm animals into nursing homes and residential facilities for disabled individuals. In this program, residents and rescued animals safely visit with one another. Weather permitting, HTFAS also brings seniors and the disabled to the facility to visit with the entire animal population. Furthermore, HTFAS has taken animals to visit with terminally ill patients in private homes.
     
     
     HTFAS is proud to promote our mission in full color, hard copy newsletters that are published quarterly. Our newsletters reach approximately 6,000 households via direct mail as well as thousands more when we are able to attend community events. Further promotions are distributed via social media with more than 28,000 followers (22K Facebook and 4.3K Instagram and 2.5K+ TikTok) and mass email to an email list of approximately 5,000 people.

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:
 Our organization also rescues criminally neglected and abused farm animals. So, in addition to equine, we also rescue, rehabilitate and re-home cows, sheep, goats, chickens, alpacas, and pigs (farm and potbelly).

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POLICIES: INTAKE, ASSESSMENT & TRAINING

Prior to a horse being accepted and/or arriving at the facility, the organization has the following policies in place:
    The owner of a potential equine is interviewed over the phone or in person prior to seeing the equine
    The equine is evaluated at its place of residence
    The owner completes an application/contract which constitutes the agreement between the owner and our organization when the equine is acquired from the equine's owner other than by purchase from an auction or kill pen, or by seizure or by abandonment
    If health records are not available or are out-of-date, our veterinarian will administer appropriate vaccinations

Trial Period: Check all that apply:
    Equines are 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

The typical length of quarantine is:   20 to 30 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
    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 scanned to check for a microchip
    The equine is microchipped if the equine has not been microchipped

Horses are assessed for following skills and behaviors:
    Retrieval from a pasture/paddock
    Leading with a halter and lead rope
    Temperament, disposition and attitude, such as rated from very calm to very high spirited
    Saddling
    Bridling
    Lunging
    Loading onto and unloading off a trailer
    Mounting and dismounting
    Riding at the walk
    Riding at the trot
    Riding at the canter
    Riding by a beginner and/or unbalanced rider
    Tolerance to unusual objects and loud noises
    Known vices, i.e., cribbing, biting, kicking, weaving, stall walking, etc
    Grooming
    Bathing
    Clipping
    Tolerance to multiple handlers at the same time

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
    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

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

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


Horses provided formal training (groundwork or riding):   As needed; no set schedule

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.
    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:
All stallions are gelded prior to rehoming.

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
    Euthanasia is done at the veterinarian's facility
    Disposal of the carcass is handled within 24 hours

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

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
    Potential adopters/purchasers must visit our organization and be observed with the equine on site
    Our organization conducts a site visit of the adopter/purchaser's facility before the transfer of the equine to the adopter/purchaser's facility

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 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 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 our organization reserves the right to make scheduled visits

Our organization requires references from the following:
    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:
$201 to $500


Additional information about our rehoming policies and practices:
Our agreement states: Adopter agrees to not transfer the adopted animal on to another party without the prior written permission of HTFAS for a term of six (6) months. Adopter agrees they are in no way connected and will have no contact with defendant of the cruelty/neglect case under which this animal was surrendered. Upon successful completion of a term of adoption ending six (6) months from the date of adoption, Adopter is awarded sole legal ownership and custody at which time ownership can be transferred if desired.

EQUINE CARE & SHELTER/FACILITY INFORMATION

Total facilities at which our organization cares for and shelters horses used in our programs: 1
Our organization does not CURRENTLY use satellite, overflow, foster, and/or outreach facilities.

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Happy Trails Farm Animal Sanctuary
5623 New Milford Road Ravenna OH 44266
Currently operational
Total number of horses/equines currently involved with your programs, under your care, and/or owned by your organization at this facility: 8

Maximum capacity of horses at this facility: 24

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.
     Portage APL 8122 Infirmary Road Ravenna, OH 44266 330-296-4022 Chalan Lowry, Executive Director humaneofficer@portageapl.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)? No

We have installed a sanctuary-wide security camera system.

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Happy Trails Farm Animal Sanctuary

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Veterinarian Information
Veterinarian: Thomas Shaw
Clinic Name: Buckeye Veterinary Service
16295 Claridon Troy Road
Burton   OH   44021
Phone: 440-834-8821

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Overview: Happy Trails Farm Animal Sanctuary (*Main) Currently operational
Total acreage dedicated specifically to the horses: 6
Our organization has use of the following at this facility:
Structures/Barns: 2  Run-in sheds: 4
Pastures: 4  Paddocks/Pens/Turnout Areas: 1
Uncovered Outdoor Rings: 0  Covered Outdoor Rings: 0  Indoor Rings: 1












































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

Regarding all shelters where horses are housed including run-in sheds:
Do horses have assigned stalls in the barn/structure(s) or exclusively assigned shelter locations where they are separated from other horses with a barrier?    Yes    
How many hours per day, on average, are horses stalled or restricted to these sheltered exclusive shelter locations? 0-3;
How often are the stalls/shelters cleaned, i.e., kept in good repair and free of standing water, accumulated waste, sharp objects and debris? 6-7 Days a Week
Do all stalls/shelters allow horses to lie down, stand up and turn around and provide protection from inclement weather (wind, sleet, rain, snow and extreme temperatures)?    Yes    
Are stalls/shelters kept in good repair, with adequate ceiling height, and free of standing water, accumulated waste, sharp objects and debris?    Yes    
Are floors constructed and maintained for both good drainage and traction?    Yes    
Is there a ventilation and circulation system in place to allow free flow of air to control temperature, and humidity, and to prevent air stagnation?    Yes    
Is wiring inaccessible to horses and maintained for safety in all areas of facility?    Yes    
Are fire prevention/protection measures (fire alarms, extinguishers and sprinkler systems) maintained and in good working order?     Yes    
Is there adequate lighting to ensure safety in all areas of facility?     Yes    
How many hours per day, on average, are horses turned out:
    Equines are out 24/7 except they are brought in to feed
    Equines are out 24/7 except they are brought in if there is inclement weather
    Equines are out 24/7 except when they are being trained

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
    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
    Electric fencing is used; electric wires or tape fence are visibly marked
    Turnout areas have man-made protection for equines (i.e., shelters)
    Fencing checks, such as broken or missing planks, loose fence posts, exposed or loose nails, detached wires, etc., are done regularly

The following policies and procedures are in place at the facility to restrict public access and to keep horses safe:
    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

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Equine Care/Emergency Preparedness: Happy Trails Farm Animal Sanctuary (*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

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

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

Hoof Care: How often is hoof care provided for each equine? Every 4-8 weeks and when an issue arises

Dental Care: How often is dental care provided for each equine? Annually and when an issue arises

Horse checks: How often are equines visually and physically checked by personnel at the facility? Every day or 6 days a week

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

The following represent the biosecurity practices in place at facility:
    Our organization follows the biosecurity guidelines of our veterinarian
    Sick, affected and/or quarantined equines do not have contact with other equines or other animals
    The organization has a written biosecurity plan
    Staff are trained in best practices related to biosecurity
    Volunteers are trained in best practices related to biosecurity
    A specific individual is trained and assigned to care for sick, affected and/or quarantined equines
    Sick, affected and/or quarantined equines are cared for last if the caretaker must also care for healthy equines
    Restricted access signs are posted at primary points of access to sick, affected and/or quarantined equines
    Hand sanitizers are available at all primary points of access to sick, affected and/or quarantined equines
    Footbaths are available at all primary points of access to sick, affected and/or quarantined equines
    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

Additional information on biosecurity:
Manure from sick and quarantined equines is removed with separate equipment, but all manure is removed and spread on local farmers' fields. We do not separate sick animal manure from healthy animal manure.

The following represent the manure removal practices in place at facility:
    Manure is stored in dumpster(s)
    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
    Our organization adheres to the manure management guidelines set by the state, local authorities, and/or our organization's veterinarian

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
    A map/diagram is posted showing the location of each equine with equine names and photos
    Equine photos and profiles are available on the website
    Staff/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

Our organization has the following policies and procedures in place pertaining to tack, apparel and equipment:
     All equines have specifically assigned tack, apparel and equipment that is not shared
    Blankets are shared
    Sheets are shared
    Turnout apparel is 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 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
    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.

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Emergency Preparedness: Happy Trails Farm Animal Sanctuary: *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)
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


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

How often are the following checked or performed?
Fire Extinguishers are checked: Monthly
Smoke detectors are checked: Monthly
Fence lines are checked: Daily
Turnout Areas are checked: Daily
Sprinkler systems are checked: Not at all/NA
Fire drills are conducted: Not at all/NA
Review of safety protocols with staff are conducted: Quarterly
Review of safety protocols with volunteers are conducted: Monthly
The Emergency Preparedness Plan is reviewed and updated: Quarterly

Equine Transportation: 4= Onsite: 2 (2 + 0) + Offsite: 2
2-horse van/trailer with truck:
    1 Owned onsite  1 Access offsite;
3-horse van/trailer with truck:
    
4-horse van/trailer with truck:
    1 Access offsite;
6-horse van/trailer with truck:
    1 Owned onsite  
8-horse van/trailer with truck:
    
10-horse van/trailer with truck:
    

GOVERNANCE, MANAGEMENT & FINANCIAL REPORTING

Financial Reporting
Budget:  $500K to $1M
Equine Budget:   $50K to $100K
Month Fiscal Year Ends: 12
Type of Financial Reporting (Audit, Review, Compilation): Audit
Type of IRS Filing (990, 990-EZ, 990-N): 990


Governing Body:
Board meetings per year:  12
Number of Board Members:  11  Number of Voting Board Members:  11

Board Compensation:
Is the Board Chair compensated?  No  Is the Treasurer compensated?  No
Are there any other Voting Board Members that are compensated?  No

Board/Staff Relationships:
Are any members of the Board, Staff or Program Participants related to each other through family or business relationships? No

Board/Staff Affiliations:
Are any Board members providing services to your organization or compensated by your organization, or are any Board members or staff members associated with and/or compensated by another organization with a relationship or business affiliation to your organization? No

Conflict of Interest:
Does your organization have a written conflict of interest policy that ensures that any compensated board member is a NON-VOTING (Independent) board member or that any compensated board member or any board member related to a compensated staff member, independent contractor, or any related board members, or any individual or organization that might benefit from a board decision, abstains from voting on issues impacting such compensation and requires officers, directors or trustees, and key employees to disclose at least annually in writing interests that could give rise to conflicts?  Yes


Compliance:
Below is a list all local, state and federal licenses held by the organization, and/or accreditations or compliances with the published standards of an accrediting organization, if applicable:  ASPCA Right Horse Partner
     BBB-Accredited Charity
     Equine Welfare Data Collective Member
     EQUUS Foundation Guardian organization
     Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries Accredited status
     Homes for Horses Coalition
     Ohio Animal Welfare Federation
     Platinum Level Seal of Approval from Candid
     Standardbred Transition Alliance-Accredited Organization
     United Horse Coalition

Organization documents available on our website:
    Most recent Financials
    Most recent IRS Form 990
    Most recent Annual Report
    Adoption/Foster Agreement
    Volunteer Handbook

Organization documents available on request:
    Most recent Financials
    Most recent IRS Form 990
    Most recent Annual Report
    Equine Intake Guidelines
    Adoption/Foster Agreement
    Volunteer Handbook
    Staff Handbook
    Bylaws


Staff & Volunteers:
Chief Staff Officer (CSO):  Laurie Jackson, Executive Director
Employees/Independent Contractors:   Full-Time:  8  Part-Time:  8  Volunteers:  42
Staff Recruitment, Screening and Training processes including employees and independent contractors:
    Prospective staff/independent contractors complete a written application/agreement
    Staff and/or contractors are required to complete a Liability Release/Hold Harmless Agreement
    Staff and/or contractors are required to provide Emergency Medical Information
    Staff and/or contractors provide parent/guardian information if applicable
    Staff and/or contractors have a written job description
    Staff and/or contractors are evaluated on an annual and as needed basis or with any change in their job description
    Staff and/or contractors are updated on all the organization's policies and procedures on an annual and as needed basis or with any change in policy or procedure
    Staff and/or contractors receive training that includes safety guidelines, confidentiality, equine handling, equine identification, and emergency procedures; additional training is job specific
    Staff and/or contractors have a supervisor and is responsible for keeping their supervisor up to date on work related activities
    The organization provides a handbook to every member of the staff, including employees and/or independent contractors serving in staff positions;
    The handbook includes information, such as hours of work, vacation, sick leave, dress code, cell phone usage, and the protocol for dismissal
    The handbook is reviewed annually and updated
    One or more staff members or contractors are trained in CPR and human first aid
    One or more staff members or contractors are trained in equine first aid

Volunteer Recruitment, Screening and Training processes:
    Prospective volunteers complete a written application/agreement
    Volunteers required to complete a Liability Release/Hold Harmless Agreement
    Volunteers are required to provide Emergency Medical Information
    Volunteers provide parent/guardian information if applicable
    Volunteers have written job descriptions
    Volunteers receive training that includes safety guidelines, confidentiality, equine handling, equine identification, and emergency procedures; additional training is job specific
    Volunteers are assigned a supervisor (staff member and/or senior volunteer) and is responsible for keeping their supervisor up to date on work related activities
    The supervisor assesses the volunteer's abilities and assigns specific duties to the volunteer based on their skills
    The organization records and maintains written attendance information and hours on every volunteer
    The organization provides a Volunteer Handbook to every volunteer
    The Volunteer Handbook includes volunteer-related information, such as hours of work, dress code, cell phone usage, and the protocol for dismissal
    The Volunteer Handbook is reviewed annually and updated
    The organization holds regular orientation sessions for volunteers and prospective volunteers that includes an overview of the organization, its mission, activities, volunteer responsibilities and expectations, safety guidelines, and a tour of the facility

Additional explanation regarding governance, staffing and volunteer practices or further explanation of the answers above.
Beginning in 2021, we have created an Annual Report which is available on our website.