Bridle Paths has not attained the Guardian designation for 2023. The following information is based on 2022. Some information will be missing until the 2023 Guardian designation is attained.

MISSION & PROGRAMS

Mission:
Bridle Paths is a nonprofit organization that offers authentic connections, in partnership with horses. Our mission is to offer strength, support, and healing to individuals and families through safe, effective, and high-quality equine-assisted services.

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 horse-related.
Our organization does not use satellite, overflow, foster, and/or outreach facilities
Number of facilities/locations where horses used in our programs are HOUSED AND CARED FOR or were HOUSED AND CARED FOR during 2022: 1
     1. Bridle Paths (*Main) Status: 2023 and 2022

Summary of organization's goals, strategies to achieve the goals, accomplishments, and capabilities to meet the goals, including its long-term plans to sustain its programs:
One constant amid the changes and challenges of the past two years is the need for connection, to be seen and heard as our authentic selves. Bridle Paths provided essential connections for a growing community of participants, volunteers, and donors over the past year. Revenues from therapeutic services and donors continued steady growth, along with new relationships with mental health professionals and veteran service organizations to better serve our participants. The program is well-positioned to continue to pursue our mission to offer strength, support, and healing to individuals and families through safe, effective, and high-quality equine-assisted services. Outlined below are our goals for 2021 and associated results.
     
     Develop sustainable programs for veterans, service members, and their families.
     - Nearly 30 veterans and military medical center staff participated in six equine-assisted psychotherapy groups for veterans and service members, funded by a VA Adaptive Sports Grant that was completed in 2021.
     - At the February meeting of the VA Equine Consortium, we presented our Making the Connection equine therapy curriculum to a meeting of 50 VA staff members.
     - We built connections with new military medical centers and veteran service organizations, including the D.C. VA and the Association of the U.S. Army, George Washington Chapter.
     - The Horse Power for Military Families Fund garnered $20,000 in private donations to fund equine-assisted psychotherapy sessions for military families.
     
     Expand equine-assisted learning (EAL) programs.
     - Two sessions of a corporate EAL program offered participants the opportunity to implement mindfulness and wellness practices essential to managing through and beyond the pandemic.
     
     Provide training and certification opportunities for equine-assisted activities and therapies professionals.
     - Bridle Paths hosted a Masterson Method Equine Specialist (MMES) workshop in October 2021, and received the first Certificate of Recognition from the Masterson Method for supporting the MMES program. Additionally, Program President Katie Fallon participated in a Masterson Method “Expert Hour” on the application of MMES techniques to equine-assisted services programs.
     - Program President Katie Fallon will join the faculty of the Human Equine Relational Development (HERD) Institute, and will deliver an equine-facilitated learning certification for the HERD Institute in 2022.
     
     Build operating funds to care for our horses.
     - A program assistant joined the organization to support the provision of participant services and the care and conditioning of program equines. Volunteer hours totaling nearly 7,000 supported all aspects of program operations.
     - Stalwart program horse Ty passed crossed the rainbow bridge, and mother and son Shetland pony duo Snowy and Thunder joined the herd.
     - Bridle Paths served 42 unique adaptive riding clients in nearly 1,000 lessons, and provided 40 lessons for military families during 2021. We served 16 unique equine-assisted psychotherapy clients in 60 sessions, and established relationships with new mental health professionals in Loudoun County to serve client needs.
     - Revenue from therapeutic services exceeded $84,000 in 2021.
     - Contributions to the program exceeded $84,000, enabling us to provide enhanced wellness care for our horses, allocate funds to serve military families at no cost to them, and invest in technology and administrative improvements to support program growth.
     
     We have three primary goals for 2022. First, we will celebrate our tenth anniversary in ways big and small, including a partnership with Sharon Hallman Photography to help tell the stories of our horses, our humans, and their healing connections. Second, we will offer equine therapy services for military families, at no cost to them, through the newly-established Horse Power for Military Families Fund. Third, we will develop and deliver equine-assisted learning programs for teens with depression and anxiety and their parents.
     
     CLIENT TESTIMONIALS:
     The following testimonials exemplify our impact.
     
     Katie, Bridle Paths, and the horses changed my life. Sunup is still the only person that I have trusted to tell the full trauma story to, and it’s likely to stay that way. He gave me the space and safety to release what I’d been carrying for over 10 years. It’s hard to find words for that! It's not only that experience but the way I have felt supported and “carried” by you and the herd... BR, Veteran, US Army
     
     This place literally saved my life. Chance took a chance on me, and it helped me to start my journey of healing. I felt so lost before I found this place. My heart rate slows more than medication can make it and it calms me. Katie is an amazing person, and I am privileged to know her. Her staff is incredible too. – AR, Veteran, US Air Force
     
     After sustaining an injury I reached out to Bridle Paths to find out if their services would benefit me. Well they did in more ways than one; my confidence has improved tremendously. Katie is very knowledgeable with her wealth of horse experience; giving me new insight in how to interact with horses and my daily life. Horses are all sweet and well cared for. LS, Adaptive Riding Student
     
     Our daughter has various learning disabilities and delays. She also has low muscle tone which can lead to things like scoliosis. Her doctor recommended therapeutic riding to help with all of her issues. We’re so glad we did because we could see a difference in her after just the first few sessions.
     Her speech exploded after we started at Bridle Paths. Not only that, but she got so much stronger, especially her core. She was small and a little intimidated in the beginning, so she required some assistance and patience. But Katie and her team persevered and now she can’t wait for her weekly riding session. She’s getting great therapeutic benefit and doesn’t even know it because it’s so much fun. I’m sure her horse loves all the hugs and kisses she gives. – JO, Parent
     
     After his diagnosis of TBI, my husband began his journey toward healing at Bridle Paths. He included our family in the journey, and we soon joined him for family equine therapy sessions. Our family has received the blessing of healing and growing individually & as a family unit through our work with the staff and volunteers, who all show great honor and respect for the participants and the horses alike. Bridle Paths is unique because although they implement professional therapeutic techniques backed up by research, they also create an organic atmosphere that allows for bonding and connecting with the horses and with one another. Hearing my husband comment about the peace and serenity he feels during our time at Bridle Paths is the greatest gift to our children and me. Thank you, Bridle Paths, for all you bring to our family and other military families! – OE, Veteran
     
     There are so many good things to say about Bridle Paths that it is difficult to choose just a few. The herd is well cared for, quirky and full of personality. Each horse brings unique qualities to therapeutic riding. Katie Fallon is a gifted teacher and equine specialist whose kindness, patience and skill make learning a joy. All of this plus a beautiful rural setting add up to a rare treat; I cannot recommend Bridle Paths highly enough! – JG, Adaptive Riding student
     
     It’s hard to explain what a visit to Bridle Paths can do for the soul. Worries melt away. Calm grows under the soft brown eyes of Katie’s healing horses. It’s a safe, welcoming place for all. – MS, Volunteer
     
     Our 15-year-old son was clinically depressed in December 2020. His regular therapy was not working, and he and his therapist had decided to go on a break. We decided to try horse therapy with Katie and Bridle Paths. Our son originally was very reluctant to go. Katie made us all at ease right away and I could see my son’s interest showing up, after a whole year of showing no interest in anything. Katie said that you can’t hide your emotions from a horse and our son was very good at hiding his pain to protect us. Going to Bridle Paths is the best thing we did – almost a year later, he still goes happily every time and now volunteers his time to help with the barn afterwards. He is not on medication anymore and is back to his original self, interested in the things he loved before and has acquired a lifetime love of horses. Katie and her staff have been so patient and supportive despite COVID, and they have helped our son get back to his life. This program saved us. We are so very thankful for their hard work and kindness. – AS, Parent
     
     Bridle Paths works with our 7-year old daughter to develop ADHD coping mechanisms through horseback riding lessons. She has had a wonderful therapeutic and educational experience for the past year and, most importantly, we have seen her improvements carry over into her life outside the stable. For example, she has shown significant improvement in following multi step instructions as well as showing empathy toward others. Katie and Mairin are patient but firm instructors who understand how to communicate with children like our daughter who struggle with impulse control, hyperactivity, and focus. Through redirection, positive reinforcement and other techniques, Bridle Paths has given our daughter an ongoing growth opportunity in a setting that she genuinely looks forward to every week. While we hope this is just the beginning of what will be a life-long hobby, we know no matter what happens she is developing social capacities that will follow her into adulthood. – RO, Parent
     
     "I’ve been working with the horses for about seven months now...I never quite learned how to get through depression, anxiety, and PTSD. These things were so often shrouds for other things as well. Sexual abuse, trauma, being trapped... On October 29, I attempted suicide. I went to the hospital. I didn’t talk for a week. When I came home I was a different person. I started to talk. I walked. I remembered my time with [the horses]. They each taught me something. And when I returned, every one of them was there to receive me for who I am, for what I was, and all the pain I’d released. They’d been teaching me how to release for seven months. They’d been showing me an inner man I didn’t know was there anymore. They’d been carrying this load with me for all of this time. The conversation between us continues. The work continues. The horses are there, ready to do their work. And I’m ready to respond, ready to give all the parts of myself to the work I need to do in order to meet restoration and community at the door step. That’s what this is all about. It’s about being able to come back to community, to my own herd, and have life, have voice, and know who I am in that. To experience vitality and purpose. And the horses know how to communicate these things. They know how to deal with all the baggage we bring them. I am doing much better. Since coming back from the hospital I haven’t experienced anxiety or depression or nightmares. For the first time in 24 years...The fact that I can share this with you without any anxiety is the real testimony. The fact that I know my own voice well enough to say out loud, “This is how I was very broken, I was hurt very badly, and here’s what happening now,” that I can share that without being terrified, is owed to the work I’ve done with the horses. Without Katie, without Bridle Paths, this wouldn’t have been possible, my path, the one I’m on now wouldn’t have been possible. - KB, Veteran, U.S. Navy
     
     LONG-TERM GOALS:
     
     We seek to ensure program sustainability and to consolidate our work at the nexus of physical, cognitive, and emotional needs over the next 3-5 years. To that end, two of our board members are participating in a board development series through one of our membership organizations, PATH Intl.; we will create robust policies for board recruitment and governance, planning, and program oversight through this process. Additionally, program president Kathleen Fallon is working with a leadership coach from the Ford Foundation through Georgetown University, focusing on ways in which to create space for new volunteers to bring their expertise in support of the program's vision and sustainability. We have engaged the services of a local bookkeeping firm to automate our accounts and processes to enhance efficiency and scale of operations. We are cultivating additional contacts with local mental health professionals who work with adolescents and teens, and we are supporting volunteers who have begun the process of PATH therapeutic riding instructor certification and EAGALA certified equine specialist certification. We have established a reserve fund that we will leverage through fundraising activities to support the provision of services for military and civilian clients in need and to cover veterinary and other horse care expenses. Additionally, we are using CARES Act and other resources to design and deliver both virtual and in-person equine-assisted psychotherapy programs for veterans and service members and training and technical assistance sessions for military medical center staff.
     
     We are continuing to provide the best possible care for each of our ten equines. This includes all scheduled vaccination, dental, and farrier care, as well as schooling and conditioning activities that support our horses’ needs for physical activity and mental and social enrichment. We record and share photos and videos of these activities on our social media accounts and with our current participants and volunteers, in an effort to preserve connection in our community. Our board of directors is in frequent contact through email and virtual meeting channels to identify and access means of support for the program. We are working to improve on our technology, forms, and recordkeeping to permit more efficient and timely delivery and evaluation of our services and supports.

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 Personal and/or Professional Development

5: Total number of Equine Assisted Service Providers at Bridle Paths

     1. Elizabeth Ratchford, LCSW

         FACILITY PARTICIPATION:

         Bridle Paths

         RELATIONSHIP: Other

         SERVICES PROVIDED:

         Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy/Counseling (Mental Health)

         Equine-Assisted Learning involving Personal and/or Professional Development

         DEGREES, LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS

         Beth Ratchford is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who specializes in working with adults who have experienced trauma. Currently in private practice, Beth’s past clinical experience includes work in psychiatric hospital settings and work with homeless adults in a transitional housing program. Beth treats adults with both childhood and adult trauma and has worked with veterans and family members as well as DEA and CIA agents. Beth has also worked with non-profits providing supportive services to vulnerable children and families in Sierra Leone. Beth is certified as a mental health professional through EAGALA.

     2. Jacqueline Cleland, PsyD

         FACILITY PARTICIPATION:

         Bridle Paths

         RELATIONSHIP: Independent Contractor

         SERVICES PROVIDED:

         Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy/Counseling (Mental Health)

         DEGREES, LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS

         Licensed clinical psychologist Jacqueline Cleland, PsyD, has devoted her life’s work—spanning over three decades—to promoting the health and wellbeing of a broad range of service populations. She has held administrative and direct service positions in local, state, and federal agencies including the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, U.S. Department of Justice, and the State of Iowa Office of the Attorney General. She completed a doctoral program in clinical psychology with a concentration in child and adolescent development and psychopathology. Areas of clinical specialty include complex trauma and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. Dr. Cleland is not currently certified as a mental health professional by EAGALA. She works with the equine-assisted psychotherapy groups funded by the VA Adaptive Sports Grant.

     3. Kathleen Fallon

         FACILITY PARTICIPATION:

         Bridle Paths

         RELATIONSHIP: Volunteer

         SERVICES PROVIDED:

         Therapeutic Mounted Services

         Therapeutic Unmounted Services

         DEGREES, LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS

         Bridle Paths founder and president Kathleen Fallon holds certifications as a PATH, Intl. Advanced Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor. She is also certified as a PATH, Intl. Certified Equine Specialist in Mental Health and Learning, and as an EAGALA Equine Specialist. She obtained certification in 2020 as a Masterson Method Equine Specialist as well.

     4. Stephanie Christensen

         FACILITY PARTICIPATION:

         Bridle Paths

         RELATIONSHIP: Other

         SERVICES PROVIDED:

         Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy/Counseling (Mental Health)

         DEGREES, LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS

         Stephanie is a Marriage and Family therapy Resident-Intern with Loudoun Family Counseling in Leesburg, Virginia. She is currently completing the clinical portion of her master’s degree in marriage and family therapy from Virginia Tech. Stephanie is also pursuing her certification as an Emotionally Focused Therapist and EAGALA Equine Assisted Psychotherapist. Stephanie is working under supervision by Florinda Reid, LPC, RPT-S, practice owner. Stephanie enjoys working with couples and families to discover their patterns of interaction and establish healthy, emotion-focused communication that creates an environment that fosters deep and lasting connection. Her work is heavily influenced by attachment theory, EFT, Bowen Family Systems and Satir Family Therapy. She believes that change is best created through experiential learning and implements evidence-based techniques that facilitate self-discovery and personal growth.

Overview of our programs involved with providing EAS to individuals with special needs:
     Bridle Paths serves children and adults with challenges that are often invisible - attention deficit disorder, autism spectrum disorders, anxiety and depression, seizure disorders, brain injuries, post-traumatic stress, and trauma. We also serve veterans, service members, and their families, at no cost to them. Our participants rely on us to provide a space of safety, authenticity, and community, and emotional attunement is a hallmark of each participant interaction.
     
     PRIMARY PROGRAMS:
     The services that Bridle Paths provides include the following:
     
     ADAPTIVE RIDING programs at Bridle Paths offers adapted riding instruction to children and adults with physical, cognitive, behavioral, and emotional needs. In addition to mounted instruction, lessons incorporate groundwork in horse care and horsemanship. Our therapeutic equines are carefully chosen for their temperament, training, and quality of movement, and each lesson is staffed with a certified instructor and trained and committed volunteers to conduct lessons safely. Most of our adaptive riding students participate in weekly private lessons that are an hour in length and include both unmounted and mounted components. Our participant population has doubled over the past eighteen months, attributable almost entirely to an increase in our adaptive riding participants who have experienced significant deleterious mental health effects from the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic and have sought out our services to allay symptoms of anxiety, depression, and social isolation.
     
     EQUINE ASSISTED PSYCHOTHERAPY (EAP) is an experiential therapeutic approach that addresses treatment goals using collaborative efforts among a horse professional, licensed therapist, the horse, and the client. Each client-driven session includes hands-on activities with the horses, as well as processing (discussion) of feelings, behaviors, and patterns designed to enable clients to learn about themselves and others. Clients interact with the horses on the ground and use nonverbal communication, problem solving, and creative thinking to address a variety of mental health and developmental issues. The EAP process is solution-focused and is considered a short-term or "brief" approach designed to activate the client's own healing resources. EAP sessions with private clients are scheduled on weekdays; precise schedules are determined by client needs and availability and the schedules of referring mental health providers. Following our Covid-19 shutdown in spring 2020, we resumed providing in-person EAP services, with 1-3 clients each week and new client referrals from partnerships with other referring mental health professionals.
     
     EQUINE ASSISTED LEARNING offers opportunities for participants to engage in hands-on learning opportunities with our horses, and to explore the connections that can be made between horses and humans. Among the areas addressed in these groups are: cognitive and physical development, executive functioning skills, and emotional and social development. In these groups, we explore topics such as mindfulness, communication, boundaries, safety and flexibility, belonging and fit, collaboration, and integration. These groups are targeted to the specific needs of particular populations, including survivors of traumatic brain injury, individuals with social and communication challenges, and veterans and service members, and are scheduled according to the needs and availability of participants and facilitators. The Covid-19 pandemic precluded us from offering planned groups for survivors of traumatic brain injury in 2020 (and from competing for grant funding for those groups, when one of our grantor organizations pivoted to provide Covid relief in place of their regular grant cycle). We are hopeful that we will receive grant funds to offer this program in the fall of 2022.
     
     MILITARY SERVICES are provided to veterans, service members and their families at no cost to them. Bridle Paths offers weekly adaptive riding and horsemanship sessions and one-time visits for individuals and families, as well as 8-week equine-assisted learning groups focused on the cultivation of relationships, communication, and connection. Our sessions address physical, cognitive, social, and recreational goals. We also offer equine-assisted psychotherapy sessions staffed by an equine specialist and a licensed mental health provider, as well as equine-assisted psychotherapy groups for military families.


At a time when equestrian sports are under pressure to protect horses while making those sports more accessible, so too must all equine organizations ensure that horses are treated humanely when interacting with people with and without special needs. Our organization takes the following steps to ensure that horses are benefiting from their interactions with people:
     It is our conviction at Bridle Paths that our program is only as safe and effective as our horses are happy, healthy, and comfortable. For that reason, we are vigilant to ensure that each horse receives the care, training, and support that he or she needs to participate willingly in the programs that Bridle Paths offers.
     
     We recognize that equine-assisted services can be extremely stressful for horses, insofar as the horses regularly interact with clients who can be unpredictable and unbalanced. Further, we know that many of our horses come to us as a second or even a third career, and that they may have physical limitations such as arthritis, visual impairments, ulcers, and dentition issues. For these reasons, we maintain each horse on a regular program of veterinary and farrier care (including medications, supplements, and alternative therapies when necessary), as well as dental care and regular evaluations of tack fit, to ensure that each horse can engage in mounted work as comfortably as possible. We host Masterson Method Equine Specialist bodywork sessions on a regular basis, and have received training in this method to help our horses to release tension in their bodies in a relaxed way. We support our participants in sharing this work with the horses. Our feeding program takes account of tooth wear, ulcers, and possible endocrine issues.
     
     Program staff and volunteers participate in weekly lessons with a former advanced level eventer who has designed a schooling and conditioning program that is specific to each horse's physical condition and limitations, training, and enrichment. The horses take hacks around the property, jump, do dressage, long line, and longe with experienced riders and horse handlers to maintain their strength, balance, and flexibility, and to provide a counterpoint to the work they do with our special needs participants.
     
     We also recognize that horses may struggle to engage with our participants, volunteers, and visitors, because many people are unaware of the nature of horses as sentient beings. People often think of doing "to" horses, rather than doing "with" them as partners, particularly in the competition venues from which our horses often come. Therefore, we are diligent in sensitizing and educating participants, volunteers, and visitors alike to the nature of horses as prey animals and herd animals, and in training everyone to work with the horses in an attuned, quiet, and respectful manner. Safety is enhanced as people become proficient in reading the horses' subtle cues, thereby precluding the need for the horses to communicate more "loudly" by kicking, biting, bucking, rearing, etc. Each of our weekly participants spends time on the ground with his or her horse, grooming and tacking and noticing how the horses is doing on that particular day; in some cases, participants may opt not to ride at all, rather engaging in some sort of groundwork with the horses.
     
     In training volunteers and working with participants, we emphasize the fact that each horse is an individual, with his or her unique temperament and experiences. Not every horse is required to do every job in the program. Certain horses can move easily among the adaptive riding, equine-assisted learning, and equine-assisted psychotherapy aspects of the program (and in fact, they sometimes seem to enjoy this "cross training.") However, a few of our horses find the under saddle work to be difficult, because of previous bad experiences with riders or heightened reactivity to outside stimuli. These horses work almost exclusively in the groundwork parts of the program, such as equine-assisted psychotherapy; two of our horses work particularly well with participants with experiences of trauma and substance use disorders because of their reactivity and sensitivity. We know that this emotional "heavy lifting" can be challenging for a horse to handle, so we are scrupulous about debriefing our equine partners with a good scratch or groom, an opportunity to roll or run in the arena, or a return to the stall for some quiet time. Some horses have indicated clearly that they cannot work in two psychotherapy sessions in one day, and we honor that request.
     
     As noted elsewhere in this document, the Bridle Paths program provides emotionally-attuned services with a focus on relationship, communication, connection, and trust. The relationship with the horse provides participants with a rare opportunity to come as they are, and to be who they are, without judgment or expectation. On occasion, horses that enter the program demonstrate challenges other than the physical; for example, they may be highly sensitive and reactive on the ground or under saddle, or they might be shut down and wary of engaging with people. Especially for our participants who have experienced trauma, interacting with these types of horses can externalize and normalize some of their personal challenges. We encourage our participants to be curious about the information the horse shares, and we teach techniques and skills that can help to settle and soothe these more fractious horses. As these participants feel more grounded and stabilized, they can begin to engage with their horses and with their environments in a more authentic and empowered way.


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. 

EQUINE ASSISTED SERVICES CENSUS

Bridle Paths

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Equine Assisted Services (EAS)

2022 EAS Operations - EAS Providers: 5	Mounted Only	Unmounted Only	Both Mounted & Unmounted	Total
Horses/Equines participating in EAS programs at this facility
Number of horses/equines aged 3-8	0	0	0	0
Number of horses/equines aged 9-14	0	0	0	0
Number of horses/equines aged 15-20	0	0	0	0
Number of horses/equines Over 20	0	0	0	0
Total number of horses/equines participating in EAS programs at this facility	0	0	0	0
	Mounted	Unmounted
Number of hours per day each horse works	0	0
Number of days per week each horse works	0	0
Clients participating in EAS programs at this facility	Mounted Only	Unmounted Only	Both Mounted & Unmounted	Total
Total number of individual clients (not lessons) served annually
Average number of clients (not lessons) participating in activities per week
	Mounted	Unmounted
Number of days per week programs are conducted at this facility	0	0
Number of weeks per year programs are conducted at this facility	0	0
	Mounted	Unmounted
Average wait list time for a client

EQUINE CENSUS SUMMARY

Total Facilities: 1

     1. Bridle Paths (*Main) Status: 2023 and 2021

9 Total number of horses involved with your programs on January 1, 2021
PLUS: Horse Intake during 2021
2 Donated
0 Lease
0 Purchase from Owner
0 Auction
0 Kill Pen/Feedlot
0 Surrendered
0 Seized
0 Abandoned
0 Returned
0 Transfer
0 Born at facility
0 Adoption from Rescue
0 Owner Owned
2 Total intakes
LESS: Horse Departure during 2021
0 Horses adopted/sold:
0 Horses transferred/returned
0 Horses deceased
1 Horses euthanized
1 Total departures
10 Number of horses involved with your programs on December 31, 2021
10 Total number of active horses (not retired) including
horses undergoing rehabilitation and/or retraining.
0 Total number of horses permanently retired.

Summary: 9 on 1/1/2021+ Intakes - 1 Departures = 10 on 12/31/2021

Total days that equines were in the care of Bridle Paths during 2021: 3311
Bridle Paths Prior Year information not updated.

POLICIES: ACQUISITION

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

Our organization does not acquire horses/equines from the following source(s):
    Purchase/Adoption from Owner  
    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:
Each equine that is considered for placement in the Bridle Paths program undergoes a trial period of at least 30 days, during which time program staff evaluates the equine's suitability for engagement in activities germane to equine-assisted services. If Bridle Paths determines at the conclusion of this (or any extended) trial period that the equine is unsuitable for program activities, the equine is returned to the prospective lessor or donor.
     
     Bridle Paths requires information regarding a prospective equine's vaccine and health history (including proof of current vaccinations and a negative Coggins test), and obtains all necessary information regarding illnesses, infirmities, or unsoundnesses, temperament, training, and farrier care of a prospective equine. Bridle Paths executes free lease and donation contracts with the lessors and donors of program equines. Each equine that is accepted into the Bridle Paths program receives the best of care, including all necessary vaccination, deworming, hoof care, and schooling and conditioning needs.
     
     Bridle Paths assumes full responsibility for all donated equines, including without limitation all decision-making authority regarding the care of the animal, unless otherwise specifically agreed to in writing with the donor.
     
     Equines that are free leased to the program are subject to a stated veterinary expense limit; any costs for veterinary care in excess of this expense limit are the responsibility of the lessor of the equine. Lessors of program equines are added to Bridle Paths' insurance liability policy as an additional insured.

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.

Not Checked:
    If health records are not available or are out-of-date, our veterinarian will administer appropriate vaccinations
    A health certificate signed by a veterinarian and dated no more than seven days prior to arrival attesting to the health status of the equine is provided to our organization either prior to or upon arrival of the equine

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
    The owner is financially responsible for the shipping of the equine to and from the organization
    Equines are on trial for up to 30 days
    Equines are on trial up to 60 days
    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 total financial responsibility for the care of the equine, including board, feed, shoeing and any necessary veterinary care
    The trial period may be terminated by either the organization or the owner for any reason

Not Checked:
    Equines are not taken on trial
    During the trial period, the organization accepts financial responsibility for the care of the equine, including board, feed, shoeing and any necessary veterinary care, up to a fixed amount agreed upon by the organization and the owner
    During the trial period, the owner/donor is financially responsible for the care of the equine, including board, feed, shoeing and any necessary veterinary care

Following arrival of the equine at the facility, the following is performed:
    Physical examination by a veterinarian upon arrival and/or prior to quarantine departure
    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
    A Henneke Body Conditioning Score or other body conditioning score is assigned
    Physical examination by a farrier
    Physical examination by a dentist
    Blood work other than Coggins
    Fecal test
    Vaccinations
    De-worming

Not Checked:
    Coggins test
    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 confined to a designated and separate area for isolation and quarantine at the facility for a prescribed period of time

Not Checked:
    The equine is confined to a designated and separate area for isolation and quarantine off-site for a prescribed period of time
    The equine is not quarantined

The typical length of quarantine is:   10 to 20 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
    Tolerance to multiple handlers at the same time

Not Checked:
    Jumping
    Driving (Pulling a carriage)
    Clipping

Our organization has the following policies and procedures in place pertaining to the ongoing assessment of horses in its care:
    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
    Physical examination by a veterinarian at least annually

Not Checked:
    The Henneke Body Condition score or other body conditioning score is updated at least annually
    Photographs are taken of each equine monthly and kept with the equine's health records
    Photographs are taken of each equine annually and kept with the equine's health records
    
    

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 also obtain information about a prospective equine's behavior in the herd, and we evaluate that behavior at the conclusion of the quarantine period.

POLICIES: BREEDING

The organization has the following policies related to breeding and stallions:
    The facility or facilities where our organization conducts its programs, including foster facilities, does NOT breed equines.

Not Checked:
    The facility or facilities where our organization conducts its programs, including foster facilities, breeds equines
    The facility or facilities where our organization conducts its programs, including foster facilities, are permitted to house stallions

POLICIES: EUTHANASIA

The organization has the following policies related to euthanasia:
    Our organization will never have an equine euthanized for space
    Our organization may have a healthy equine euthanized if it is a threat to itself, other equines, or people and euthanasia is recommended by a veterinarian
    Our organization may 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 a healthy equine euthanized under any circumstances
    Euthanasia is done at the veterinarian's facility

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

Not Checked:
    A certified euthanasia technician
    Senior staff with appropriate training
    Employee of animal control shelter or humane society with appropriate training
    Veterinary student under the supervision of a licensed veterinarian
    Not applicable. Our organization prohibits euthanasia under any circumstances

Additional information about our euthanasia policies and practices:
A decision to euthanize a program equine is never taken lightly, and is made only after extensive consultations with the equine's care team (veterinarian, chiropractor, farrier) and owner/lessor, if applicable. Our priority in each case is to ensure that each equine can participate comfortably and happily in the program, supported by the best of medical care and prudent equine management. When it is determined that this is no longer the case (as happened with longtime program equine Ty, who was euthanized in December 2021 pursuant to increasing struggles with arthritis, navicular syndrome, and other physical challenges), we notified program participants and volunteers to allow time for grieving and goodbyes. We scheduled his euthanasia at a time when his owner and key program staff and volunteers were able to be there, and we arranged for removal of his body for burial promptly after euthanasia.

POLICIES: RE-HOMING

Re-homing Agreement not applicable.
Our organization has the following re-homing (adoption/purchase) policies and procedures in place:
    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 has the following policies and procedures related to horses that need to be retired, are no longer useful, or are no longer manageable:
    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.

Additional information about our rehoming policies and practices:
Our thorough trial period evaluation, close coordination and relationships with horse donors, availability of both mounted and unmounted programs, and close and collaborative relationship with our program veterinarian, have enabled us to provide appropriate care and activities for program horses without the need to identify third-party retirement homes.

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 use satellite, overflow, foster, and/or outreach facilities

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Bridle Paths
43247 Spinks Ferry Road Leesburg VA 20176
Contact: Kathleen Fallon
Contact's Phone: 571-216-9089
Contact's Email: bridlepaths@gmail.com

Does your organization own, lease or use a part of this facility? Lease

Provide the contact information for the individual or organization responsible for investigating abuse in the county where the facility is located, including mailing address, email address, and phone information.
     Loudoun County Animal Sevices 39820 Charles Town Pike Mailstop #66 Waterford, VA 20197 703-777-0406 animals@loudoun.gov

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

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

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

     1. Elizabeth Ratchford, LCSW
     2. Jacqueline Cleland, PsyD
     3. Kathleen Fallon
     4. Stephanie Christensen
5 -> 4 - 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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Bridle Paths

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Veterinarian Information
*Vet Assessment Not Current.
Bridle Paths (*Main) Vet Assessment Not Current/Vet Assessment has not been provided by the veterinarian for this facility.
Veterinarian: Dr. Elizabeth Gard

18910 Beallsville Road
Beallsville   MD   20839
Phone: 301-407-0417

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Bridle Paths: *Main

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Grounds
Total number of horses/equines currently involved with your programs at this facility: 10
Of the total number of horses/equines currently involved with your programs at this facility, the number of horses that are microchipped: 0
Total number of horses at this facility INCLUDING those not involved with your programs: 10
Maximum capacity of horses at this facility: 14
Total acreage dedicated specifically to the horses: 20
Our organization has use of the following at this facility:
Structures/Barns: 1  Run-in sheds: 0
Pastures: 1  Paddocks/Pens: 12
Uncovered Outdoor Rings: 1  Covered Outdoor Rings: 0  Indoor Rings: 1

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? 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:
    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
    A dedicated staff person(s) is responsible for pasture management
    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:
    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
    A dedicated staff person(s) is responsible for the maintenance of turnout areas
    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
    No Trespassing signs are posted
    Hold Harmless 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 a security system that is monitored internally by staff (or the property owner)

Not Checked:
    A security guard is present at night
    Equines are checked overnight
    By Appointment Only signs are posted.
    Entrance gates are locked at night
    The property is fitted with motion lights
    The property is fitted with a security system monitored by police or a professional service
    The perimeter of the property is fully fenced

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Bridle Paths

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Equine Care

Horse Health Care/Barn Management Records: What system is used to collect and store health/horse care records?
    Notebook or equivalent (technology not utilized)
    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

Not Checked:
    Equines are fed in groups
    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 horse? Every 4-8 weeks and when an issue arises

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

Horse checks: How often are horses 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
    Fecal testing is performed prior to the use of a de-wormer.

Fly/Insect Control: What remedies are used to control flies and insects?
    Fly Spray Repellent
    Fly Masks
    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
    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
    Sick, affected and/or quarantined equines do not have contact with other equines or other animals
    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
    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
    Shared 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

Not Checked:
    The organization has a written biosecurity plan
    All staff are trained in best practices related to biosecurity
    All volunteers are trained in best practices related to biosecurity
    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
    Equines are not quarantined on arrival.

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
    Our organization adheres to the manure management guidelines set by state and/or local authorities

Not Checked:
    Manure is stored in dumpster(s)
    Manure piles are covered

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/volunteers are provided training on conformation, markings, colors, and breeds
    Team leaders work with new staff/volunteers until they are able to identify the equines

Not Checked:
    Staff and volunteers are provided with an information packet with equine profiles, including photos and detailed descriptions

Our organization has the following policies and procedures in place pertaining to tack, apparel and equipment:
     All equines have specifically assigned tack, apparel and equipment that is not 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
    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 after a fall
    Helmets are replaced at least every five years.

Not Checked:
    Saddles are shared
    Saddle pads are shared
    Bridles are shared
    Bits are shared
    Blankets are shared
    Sheets are shared
    Turnout apparel is shared
     Halters are shared
    Tack is cleaned weekly
    Tack is cleaned only when needed
    Tack is stored in a climate-controlled location
    No equines are ridden; not applicable.

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Emergency Preparedness
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 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)

Not Checked:
    Emergency procedures are posted prominently

The written EPP addresses the following areas:
    Local fire department and/or the state's emergency planning department procedures
    Medical emergencies for clients, staff, and volunteers
    Medical emergencies for equines
    Evacuation plans
    Power outages
    Fire
    Natural Disasters - thunderstorm, hurricanes, earthquakes, tornados, etc
    Protocols to notify emergency personnel
    Building/facility exit plans

Not Checked:
    Terrorist attacks

The facility follows the specific procedures to help PREVENT emergency situations:
    Smoking is strictly prohibited
    NO SMOKING signs are posted prominently
    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:
    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: Annually
Smoke detectors are checked: Annually
Electrical Systems are checked: Quarterly
Fence lines are checked: Weekly
Turnout Areas are checked: Weekly
Sprinkler systems are checked: Not at all/NA
Fire drills are conducted: Annually
Review of safety protocols with staff are conducted: Semi-annually
Review of safety protocols with volunteers are conducted: Semi-annually
The 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:
    0 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;

GOVERNANCE, MANAGEMENT & FINANCIAL REPORTING

Staff & Volunteers:
Chief Staff Officer (CSO):  Kathleen Fallon
Employees/Independent Contractors:   Full-Time:  1  Part-Time:  2  Volunteers:  40
Staff Recruitment, Screening and Training processes including employees and independent contractors:
    Prospective staff/independent contractors complete a written application/agreement
    Our organization has a practice in place to ensure that the organization has sufficient knowledge of the background of prospective staff and independent contractors that may impact the safety of your clients and your horses, such as whether prospective staff/independent contractors serving in the capacity as staff have been convicted of a sexual offense or convicted for animal cruelty or neglect. Such practices must comply with local, state, and federal mandates.
    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 are required to sign a Photo Release
    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
    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

Not Checked:
    Prospective staff/independent contractors are required to undergo a Background Check
    Staff and/or contractors carry current health insurance
    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
    Staff and/or contractors are subject to Random Drug Screening

Volunteer Recruitment, Screening and Training processes:
    Prospective volunteers complete a written application/agreement
    Our organization has a practice in place to ensure that the organization has sufficient knowledge of the background of prospective volunteers that may impact the safety of your clients and your horses, such as whether prospective volunteers have been convicted of a sexual offense or convicted for animal cruelty or neglect. Such practices must comply with local, state, and federal mandates.
    Every volunteer is required to complete a Liability Release/Hold Harmless Agreement
    Every volunteer is required to provide Emergency Medical Information
    Every volunteer is required to sign a Photo Release
    Every volunteer provides parent/guardian information if applicable
    Every volunteer has a written job description
    Every volunteer is evaluated on an annual and as needed basis or with any change in their job description
    Every volunteer is updated on all the organization's policies and procedures on an annual and as needed basis or with any change in policy or procedure
    Every volunteer receives training that includes safety guidelines, confidentiality, equine handling, equine identification, and emergency procedures; additional training is job specific
    Every volunteer is 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

Not Checked:
    Prospective volunteers are required to undergo a Background Check
    Every volunteer carries current health insurance
    Every volunteer is subject to Random Drug Screening

Governing Body:
Board meetings per year:  7
Number of Board Members:  8  Number of Voting Board Members:  8

Board Compensation:
Is Board Chair compensated?  No  Is 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 Affiliations:
Are any Board members or Staff 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:  Bridle Paths is a member of the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship (PATH) International, and adheres to PATH standards for facility, administration, and programming. Bridle Paths' staff are certified members of the Equine Assisted Growth and Learning Association, and follow the precepts of EAGALA as well. Bridle Paths maintains a current Business Professional and Occupational License through Loudoun County.

Organization documents available on our website:
    Most recent IRS Form 990
    Most recent Annual Report
    Volunteer Handbook

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

Additional explanation regarding governance, staffing and volunteer practices or further explanation of the answers above.
Bridle Paths hired our first full-time employee in April 2021. This employee will discontinuing her affiliation with the program in May 2022. We are in the process of developing a staff handbook that will apply to all staff and independent contractors, but that undertaking is not yet complete. As part of this process, we are reviewing our staffing needs and associated job descriptions. Based on this review, we may hire another staff person late in the summer of 2022 to support service delivery, horse care, and administrative tasks.

Budget:  $100K to $500K
Equine Budget:   $100K to $150K
Month Fiscal Year Ends: 12
Type of Financial Reporting (Audit, Review, Compilation): Compilation
Type of IRS Filing (990, 990-EZ, 990-N): 990-EZ
Does the uploaded Pro Forma 990/990 represent 2022? No
View The IRS Form 990/Pro Forma 990