MISSION & PROGRAMS

Mission:
Mission Statement: NCEFT is dedicated to helping children, adults, and military Veterans with special needs reach beyond boundaries through equine-assisted therapies, education, and research.

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 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.
100% of our total programs and services are equine-related.

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:
Over the past year, NCEFT continued its Hippotherapy, Adaptive Recreation and Learning, and Mental Health and Resilience programming, serving approximately 500 clients. We outlaid over $75,000 in financial assistance to low-income clientele, and over $56,000 in financial assistance to Veteran and First Responder clientele who receive services at NCEFT free of charge.
     
     We expanded our Mental Health and Resilience programs to include:
     
     - Buckaroos: a 10-week resilience workshop for elementary school students. These workshops take place outside at our beautiful 12-acre property. Our licensed mental health professionals and equine specialists curate specific clinically-driven activities to reduce anxiety, build confidence, enhance communication, and improve social skills while observing and interacting with horses. Activities such as journaling, group discussion, and art are also incorporated.
     
     - Pathways: Specialized programming for individuals with cognitive delays living in a residential community dedicated to supporting independent choice and successful community integration.
     
     - TAC (Terapia Asistida por Caballos - translated to Horse Assisted Therapy): This 8-week workshop addresses the unique needs of English language learner high school students who have recently immigrated to the United States from Central and South America. The program is provided in Spanish and focuses on building resilience tools that the students can utilize in everyday life to combat depression, PTSD, anxiety, grief, loss, and social isolation. Most participants have significant trauma histories. Many have directly experienced or witnessed profound acts of violence and loss. Over their time together at NCEFT, students create positive and healthy relationships with one another, the horses, and the group leaders. They progress from being anxious and unsure, to comfortably taking the reins and leading horses, speaking about difficulties, and interacting. Their posture changes, their ability to engage in activities changes, and they become more confident, positive, and have fun. At the conclusion of the 8 weeks, participants write letters to their favorite horses which are thoughtful and moving. The students note parallels between their lives and the lives of the horses that they got to know during the workshop. They also talk about the inspiration they received from the horses and their desire to be strong like the horses, especially the horses who have experienced some type of trauma.
     
     - Group Retreats: Retreats at NCEFT provide an opportunity for teams to improve group dynamics, get away from daily routines, enhance communication, and lower stress. Our unique and customized approach to retreats allows members to connect on a deeper level while learning and practicing resilience tools. Our licensed therapists combine the knowledge of human behavior and psychology with the understanding of horses to facilitate an experiential learning process. Team-building activities are designed to strengthen social and emotional intelligence and self-awareness.
     
     
     We expanded our community partnerships to include:
     
     - Sequoia Healthcare District: NCEFT provides its TAC workshop to ELL students attending high school in the Sequoia Healthcare District.
     
     - Thistle House: NCEFT provides its Pathways program to individuals with cognitive delays living in at the Thistle House.
     
     - The Primary School in East Palo Alto: NCEFT provides a combination of outdoor education and resilience skill building to diverse/underserved children.
     
     - Silicon Valley Recovery Center: NCEFT provides mental health and resilience services to adults in an in-patient substance abuse recovery program at SVR. These clients commute to NCEFT weekly for services.
     
     - Bay Area Cancer Connections: NCEFT provides its “Healing with the Herd” mental health and resilience workshop to their clients (women with cancer).
     Mountain View Los Altos Adult School: NCEFT provides specialized programming for young adults with developmental disabilities.
     
     
     One of NCEFT’s goals as an organization is to ensure access to our services, regardless of an individual’s socioeconomic status. To this end, we offer financial assistance to those who qualify, and have intentionally developed numerous community partnerships to reach more underserved and at-risk populations.
     
     The main goal of our programs is to improve the quality of life and well-being of our clients. Typical and measurable outcomes for our clients include improved postural stability, motor control, coordination, protective reflexes, balance, cognition, ability to follow multi-step instructions, self-esteem, reduced depression and anxiety, strengthened social and emotional well-being, and increased self-awareness and self-confidence – all leading to an overall improvement in quality of life and independence.
     
     NCEFT’s capability to achieve its goals include fundraising strategies to raise monies to sustain our financial assistance programs and general operations, a strong team of licensed therapists and certified instructors to provide our services, many community partnerships, and the unwavering support from our board of directors.
     
     NCEFT uses a variety of tools to measure the outcomes of our programs. These include:
     
     - Clinical Evaluation Tools: Our Physical and Occupational therapists use a variety of industry standard measurement evaluation tools to evaluate clients and determine and measure long-term and short-term therapy goals. These include the PDMS-2 (Peabody Developmental Motor Scales), the GMFM-88 and GMFM-66 (Gross Motor Function Measure), the Sensory Profile 2, and the DP-3 (Developmental Profile 3).
     
     - Industry Standard Assessment Tools: Our Mental Health clinicians use the PHQ-9 rating scale for depression, and GAD-7 rating scale for anxiety. Participants fill out these assessments before and after the program, and we use these results to measure our success.
     
     - EMR System: Client progress toward goals, session notes, demographics, and prescription renewals are tracked in our HIPAA-compliant Electronic Medical Records system. Physical and Occupational Therapists and Adaptive Riding Instructors chart notes on each client after each session.
     
     - Questionnaires/Surveys: We collect pre- and post-program questionnaires to measure progress against identified program goals. We also use surveys to collect feedback and use these results to measure success and to continue to improve our programs. We also routinely receive unsolicited positive feedback from clients and their families about our programs and services.
     
     - Prescription Renewals: Our Physical and Occupational Therapy programs require a doctor’s prescription to begin and continue treatment, and Adaptive Riding programs require an initial doctor’s clearance. Prescription renewals are evidence of a medical professional's support of the efficacy of NCEFT therapies. Prescriptions are renewed annually.
     
     NCEFT’s breadth and depth of programming, tenure, and history of pioneering equine-assisted programs in the United States sets us apart from other similar organizations. No other organization in the area has been in continuous operation nor operates at the scale of NCEFT. Our unique programming and industry-leading, stellar reputation are unmatched in Northern California, and we consistently attract a steady stream of clients.
     
     NCEFT adheres to the highest standards of professionalism, licensing, accreditation, and fiscal integrity. This fiscal integrity and transparency are evidenced by a Platinum status from Guidestar.org. We also have a 5-star rating with GreatNonProfits.org, Guardian status with EQUUS Foundation (indicating the highest standards of horse care), and we have the distinction of being the only Northern California Facility member of the American Hippotherapy Association.
     
     The impact of our programs is best described by our clients themselves:
     
     "The most beautiful experience is coming to this place and leaving my worries behind." -- TAC workshop participant (high school student, English language learner)
     
     “It was a beautiful and comfortable experience. I was able to clear my mind and engage with peers. I learned so much about myself." -- TAC workshop participant (high school student, English language learner)
     
     "This program helped me control my anger and anxiety." -- TAC workshop participant (high school student, English language learner)
     
     "My experience was amazing. I learned a bunch about horses, and I am at peace when I am present here." -- Trailblazers resilience camp participant
     
     "Exceeded my expectations and eye opening to how amazing you are!" -- Group Retreat participant
     
     "Dear NCEFT, Thank you for this amazing opportunity. The kids have blossomed during this unique and incredible experience". -- Preschool Staff of Menlo Park City School District
     
     "Words can’t express all the ways NCEFT has made a positive impact in my life. Every single person who works at NCEFT is invaluable and has the desire to help anyone who steps foot on their site. I was fortunate to get enough strength to participate in the mental health program by doing the occupational therapy program with Wendy, first. Chris and Wendy sat down with me and really brainstormed how to come up with the perfect route for my healing. Once I was stronger, I had the honor of working alongside Briana and the spirit horse, Mac. Briana is a gem to the mental health field and really changed my ability to participate in life again. I was diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder and was exhibiting agoraphobia, the fear of going out. With Briana’s guidance I began to attend conferences at Stanford, I’ll be returning to school on campus, I am now a part of a club on campus and am looking to attend a summer internship program for research! I wouldn’t have been able to regulate my nervous system as much as I have if I wouldn’t have worked with her and Mac. When my brain begins to have intrusive thoughts, I can practice what I learned to do with Briana. I can still become nervous being out, as it takes practice, but now I envision my bonding time with Mac and it brings a smile to my face, allowing me to recenter and get back to the present moment. I am living a life that has quality now, all thanks to NCEFT and my hard work to follow what they taught me. I can never repay or thank NCEFT enough for what they’ve done for me. Thank you to everyone involved with NCEFT. You all have hearts of gold and are truly changing lives." -- Mental Health and Resilience program client

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 Occupational Therapy/Physical Therapy/Speech-Language Pathology

8: Total number of Equine Assisted Service Providers at National Center for Equine Facilitated Therapy

     1. Anna Lee, Adaptive Riding Instructor

         FACILITY PARTICIPATION:

         National Center for Equine Facilitated Therapy

         RELATIONSHIP: Employee

         SERVICES PROVIDED:

         Therapeutic Mounted Services

         Therapeutic Unmounted Services

         DEGREES, LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS

         Anna Lee, NCEFT Adaptive Riding Instructor
Anna is a Bay Area native who learned to ride in Portola Valley and first started volunteering in adaptive riding sessions when she was in high school. Anna did her Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International (PATH Intl.) instructor apprenticeship while in grad school in Madison, Wisconsin. Anna returned to the Bay Area, Palo Alto, to start her Ph.D. in environmental science and found her way to NCEFT as a volunteer. She began teaching at NCEFT in 2015 and says she feels so lucky to have found such an amazing center with such talented horses, staff, and volunteers, and such a wonderful group of students and families. Anna enjoys baking, playing the viola, and long-distance trail running.

     2. Briana Carr, PsyD

         FACILITY PARTICIPATION:

         National Center for Equine Facilitated Therapy

         RELATIONSHIP: Employee

         SERVICES PROVIDED:

         Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy/Counseling (Mental Health)

         DEGREES, LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS

         Briana holds a PsyD in Clinical Psychology from Alliant International University. She previously worked as a staff Psychologist in the Dept of Psychiatry at Kaiser Permanente providing psychotherapy to adults, youth, and families. Her love for horses led her to pursue a career at NCEFT where she could connect people to the powerful experience of utilizing horses with mental health services.

     3. Chris Swan, PT & Program Director

         FACILITY PARTICIPATION:

         National Center for Equine Facilitated Therapy

         RELATIONSHIP: Employee

         SERVICES PROVIDED:

         Equine-Assisted Occupational Therapy/Physical Therapy/Speech-Language Pathology

         DEGREES, LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS

         Chris Swan, NCEFT Program Director, MSPT, ATC, HPCS
Chris has been with NCEFT since September 2007. Chris graduated with a BS in health education and athletic training before attaining her MS in physical therapy. In 1996, Chris trained with one of the pioneers of the treatment strategy of hippotherapy in the US, Barbara Heine, before going on to volunteer at NCEFT as a side walker and working as a per diem PT in 1998 and 1999. After that, Chris worked in out-patient orthopedic and home health settings before returning to NCEFT in 2007 and attaining her clinical specialist certification in 2010. Chris is mom to three boys, and she enjoys activities such as photography, kickboxing classes, hiking, dancing, jewelry making, and drawing. Chris loves her work at NCEFT because it represents a never-ending puzzle for her to solve and because she loves the interactions with patients who, although they are working hard, enjoy her playful and encouraging approach to their therapy.

     4. Matthew Gridley, Adaptive Riding Instructor

         FACILITY PARTICIPATION:

         National Center for Equine Facilitated Therapy

         RELATIONSHIP: Employee

         SERVICES PROVIDED:

         Therapeutic Mounted Services

         Therapeutic Unmounted Services

         DEGREES, LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS

         Matt has lived in California for about a year. He hails from the East coast where he grew up riding. He worked as a Head Groom, Exercise Rider and Barn Manager for several International Show Jumping barns in North Carolina and Florida. In addition to his equestrian experience, Matt and his brother owned a coffee shop in upstate New York. Matt is currently in the process of receiving his certification from Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International (PATH Intl.)

     5. Wendy Lucas, OTR/L, Occupational Therapist

         FACILITY PARTICIPATION:

         National Center for Equine Facilitated Therapy

         RELATIONSHIP: Employee

         SERVICES PROVIDED:

         Equine-Assisted Occupational Therapy/Physical Therapy/Speech-Language Pathology

         DEGREES, LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS

         Wendy joined NCEFT in April 2022. She received her MS in Occupational Therapy from San Jose State University in 2018. Wendy comes from a school-based OT background. Her love of animals, outdoors, and working with people of all ages led her to NCEFT.

Overview of our programs involved with providing EAS to individuals with special needs:
     Founded with a vision to provide hope and healing to children and adults with disabilities and mental health challenges, NCEFT combines evidence-based practices with the power of the human-horse connection to deliver a comprehensive range of programs. NCEFT's team of skilled professionals, including licensed therapists, certified instructors, and compassionate volunteers, work together to create a safe and supportive environment for participants. Established in 1971, NCEFT has made a positive impact on the lives of countless individuals and their families for over 50 years.
     
     Typical client diagnoses we treat include, but are not limited to, cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis, Down syndrome, autism, developmental delay, traumatic brain injury, genetic disorders, ADHD, and learning or language disabilities, trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, social isolation, grief, and loss.
     
     Our programs include:
     
     PHYSICAL & OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY (aka HIPPOTHERAPY):
     Physical and Occupational therapy conducted on horseback. This is an evidence-based approach to therapy and produces significant and measurable outcomes. This treatment strategy is approved by the American Physical and Occupational Therapy Associations. While sitting astride a horse, a person’s pelvis moves in the same multi-dimensional pattern and rhythm as it would if that person were walking typically. This allows clients to experience typical movement patterns in a way that therapists cannot replicate in a traditional indoor clinic. Outcomes such as improved mobility and gaining strength and independence to do activities of daily living are routine.
     
     ADAPTIVE RIDING:
     Recreational horseback riding and horsemanship lessons adapted to meet the ability and needs of each client.
     
     HORSEMANSHIP ACADEMY:
     Ground-based horsemanship skills and education program.
     
     MENTAL HEALTH & RESILIENCE PROGRAMS:
     Programs address depression, anxiety, PTSD, and occupational trauma. Participants are guided through mindfulness exercises and interactive learning, grooming and connection with our horses while experiencing the relaxing benefits of being in a beautiful outdoor environment.
     
     SCHOOL PROGRAMS:
     Programs for underserved children or children with disabilities that provide field-study learning and exposure to a barn environment/horses.
     
     VETERAN & FIRST RESPONDER PROGRAMS:
     Programs are designed to encourage physical and cognitive rehabilitation, providing veterans and first responders a safe environment to reclaim their independence, confidence, and strength. All veterans and first responders are treated free of charge.


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: ACQUISITION

Our organization acquires horses/equines from the following source(s):
    Donation  
    Lease  
    Purchase from Owner  
    Return  

Our organization does not acquire horses/equines from the following source(s):
    Auction  
    Kill pen/Feedlot  
    Surrender  
    Seizure  
    Abandonment  

Our organization will accept the following:
    Geldings
    Mares

Not Checked:
    Pregnant Mares
    Foals
    Stallions
    Only Stallions to be castrated

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.

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 up to 60 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

Following arrival of the equine at the facility, the following is performed:
    Physical examination by a veterinarian upon arrival
    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
    Physical examination by a dentist
    Vaccinations
    De-worming
    The equine is scanned to check for a microchip

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:   Up to 10 days

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
    Equines at our facility may be treated by an equine chiropractor
    Equines at our facility may be treated by an equine acupuncturist
    Equines at our facility may be treated by an equine massage therapist
    Equines at our facility may be treated by an equine nutritionist
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
    Temperature and/or weather conditions
    Seasonal impact on the equines' workload and weight-carrying capabilities and limitations


Horses provided formal training (groundwork or riding):   Daily

Additional information about our intake, assessment & training policies and practices:
We require owner verification that the equine is healthy, vaccinations are up to date, and temperature taken prior to a horse being brought onto our property. Horses are then isolated for 3 days, while temperature is monitored.

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.

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

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
    Our organization conducts a site visit of the adopter/purchaser's facility before the transfer of the equine to the adopter/purchaser's facility
    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

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.

Our organization requires references from the following:
    Veterinarian

Transfer of ownership occurs:   Immediately (at the time of adoption/purchase) or less than one year

The average equine re-homing (adoption/purchase) fee received by your organization:
Over $1,500

Additional information about our rehoming policies and practices:
NA

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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National Center for Equine Facilitated Therapy
Contact: Nancy Contro
Contact's Phone: 650-851-2271
Contact's Email: info@nceft.org
Currently operational
Total number of horses/equines currently involved with your programs, under your care, and/or owned by your organization at this facility: 15
Total number of horses at this facility INCLUDING those counted above: 34
Maximum capacity of horses at this facility: 40

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.
     The 20 cities and towns in San Mateo County contract with the County to operate a countywide animal control program. San Mateo County Animal Control & Licensing, 225 37th Avenue, San Mateo, CA 94403. Program manager: (650) 573-3726. The County contracts with the Peninsula Humane Society & SPCA (PHS), a private non-profit organization, to enforce all animal control laws, shelter homeless animals, and provide a variety of other services. Services provided by the PHS, 12 Airport Boulevard, San Mateo, CA 94401; 1450 Rollins Road, Burlingame, CA 94010, (650) 340-8200

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:  8

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

     1. Anna Lee, Adaptive Riding Instructor
     2. Briana Carr, PsyD
     3. Chris Swan, PT & Program Director
     4. Matthew Gridley, Adaptive Riding Instructor
     5. Wendy Lucas, OTR/L, Occupational Therapist
8 -> 5 - 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

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National Center for Equine Facilitated Therapy

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Veterinarian Information
Veterinarian: Wayne N. Browning
Clinic Name: Bayhill Equine
123 Belmont Avenue
Redwood City   CA   94061
Phone: 650-851-2300

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Overview: National Center for Equine Facilitated Therapy (*Main)
Total acreage dedicated specifically to the horses: 12
Our organization has use of the following at this facility:
Structures/Barns: 10  Run-in sheds: 0
Pastures: 5  Paddocks/Pens/Turnout Areas: 31
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 Week
Are 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? 17+
How many hours per day, on average, are horses turned out:
    Equines are out 1 to 3 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
    Fencing checks, such as broken or missing planks, loose fence posts, exposed or loose nails, detached wires, etc., are done regularly
    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
    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:
    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
    Equines are checked overnight
    No Trespassing signs are posted
    Authorized Personnel Only signs are posted
    Entrance gates are locked at night
    Visitors are only permitted at specific times
    Visitors are only permitted in specific areas
    The property is fitted with motion lights
    The perimeter of the property is fully fenced

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Equine Care/Emergency Preparedness: National Center for Equine Facilitated Therapy (*Main) 2024 and 2023 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 onsite backup storage system
    Onsite computer with cloud-based backup storage system
    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 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
    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

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 Traps and Tapes
    Premise Sprays/Insecticides
    Fly Spray Repellent
    Fly Masks
    Fly Sheets
    Fans

The following represent the biosecurity practices in place at facility:
    Our organization follows the AAEP's Biosecurity Guidelines and/or the UC Davis Biosecurity Guidelines
    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
    All staff are trained in best practices related to biosecurity
    A specific individual is 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 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
    Equipment used by sick, affected and/or quarantined equines is cleaned of organic debris and disinfected after each use
    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

The following represent the manure removal practices in place at facility:
    Manure is stored in dumpster(s)
    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 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
    A map/diagram is posted showing the location of each equine with equine names and photos
    Equine photos and profiles are available on the website
    Staff and volunteers are provided with an information packet with equine profiles, including photos and detailed descriptions
    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:
    Saddles are shared
    Saddle pads 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
    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: National Center for Equine Facilitated 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 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
    All staff/volunteers are briefed regularly on emergency preparedness/safety procedures
    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
    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: Annually
Smoke detectors are checked: Annually
Electrical Systems are checked: Annually
Fence lines are checked: Monthly
Turnout Areas are checked: Daily
Sprinkler systems are checked: Annually
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
2-horse van/trailer with truck:
    1 Owned onsite  0 Access onsite but not owned  1 Access offsite;
3-horse van/trailer with truck:
    0 Owned onsite  1 Access onsite but not owned  0 Access offsite;
4-horse van/trailer with truck:
    0 Owned onsite  1 Access onsite but not owned  1 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  1 Access offsite;
10-horse van/trailer with truck:
    0 Owned onsite  0 Access onsite but not owned  0 Access offsite;