MISSION & PROGRAMS
Mission:Begin Again Horse Rescue is a 501 c-3 not-for-profit organization dedicated to the well-being of all equine. Its goal is to make a difference one animal at a time, by providing care and rehabilitation to abused, abandoned or neglected horses and intercepting horses potentially at risk of being sent to slaughter. We do this through the charitable works of our volunteers, sponsors, and staff, and the use of foster/adoptive homes. Surrendered horses will be accepted without judgment. The organization seeks to better the lives of horses by providing rescue care and safe haven, as well as by the promotion and education of responsible horse ownership and neuter programs.
Our organization provides programs involved with equine rescue & adoption
Our organization provides 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
CURRENTLY uses satellite, overflow, foster, and/or outreach facilities which adhere to all the policies, procedures and practices of our organization or did in the previous year. Facility information is provided for the organization's main, satellite and overflow 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:Please summarize your organization's recent accomplishments (within the past year), goals, strategies to achieve the goals, and capabilities to meet the goals, including its long-term plans to sustain its programs:
In 2024 Begin Again Horse Rescue celebrated the completion of the building of the Dinah Hoyt Taylor Memorial Barn, which contained 8 stalls, a wash stall with hot/cold water, a restroom, a feed/treatment room and a new septic system. After we moved the stalls from the arena into the new barn, we resurfaced the arena and an indoor training area became a reality. We held a huge open house/celebration in October, our 15 year anniversary.
During 2024 we were able to join with other organizations to participated in two large equine rescues. We always have a waiting list of horses needing entry to our program due to either owner surrender needs or equine medical needs, but law enforcement cases take priority so the wait to enter our program sometimes long . To help alleviate this wait, we offer a free listing on our Facebook site dedicated to free adoption, where potential adopters can contact the owner directly to get information and make arrangements.
Although staffing remains a challenge, we were able to maintain three part time equine caretakers and a handyman/groundskeeper for much of the year.
Our BAHR Used Tack Shop continues to be a major source of income. Community members are generous with their donations and our shop staff, all volunteers, is superb at cleaning, pricing and selling the 12 rooms of items. This has been a major source of income., one that allows us to pay for many of our horses’ needs, while also meeting our program goals to financially assist community members with costs for stallion gelding or humane euthanasia.
In 2025, we will need to make repairs to the house, which was built in 1850. Thanks to a Daisy Marquis Jones grant we were able to switch from oil to propane heat in 2024, eliminating a leak in the very old system. This year we will need to replace the chimney, repair the moldy, leaky interior ceiling in one room, and plaster and paint the walls, so as to keep the building a healthy place in which to shop and work. Our handyman/groundskeeper will do this with help from volunteers.
We are very proud of our six board directors who are all hands-on volunteers. We do all that can possibly be done to help the barn staff complete their tasks. Additionally, we try to have a monthly fund raiser or clinic. We are continuing this policy in 2025. We had an Open House/Tack Sale, a farrier clinic about helping horses with lameness and plan on at least one horse show and clinic in August and September. The first Saturday of each month, our barn staff’s off day, is Super Saturday. During that time one BAHR Director spends time with novice volunteers fulfilling general barn needs such as dumping and scrubbing water troughs, or cobwebbing. After work is done the volunteers received horse time, learning to lead/groom horses. It is a popular event and we will continue through the year. Our board members do outreach programs with church groups, at schools and events such as Equifest. We each will continue to do as much as we can to be an interactive part of the rescue in 2025.
Please describe what steps your organization takes to ensure that:
1) all interactions between your equines and people are mutually beneficial and conducted in accordance with the
Guidelines for Human-Equine Interactions stated below;
2) all equines in the care of our organization and/or equines that participate in the organization's program have access to clean drinking water at all times; nutritious food in sufficient quantity, including natural forage such as pasture grass and/or hay; appropriate veterinary, farrier, and dental care; shelter and protection from the weather; sufficient safe space to move around comfortably on a daily basis; and daily opportunity to freely interact and have contact with other equines:
II. Statement on Human-Equine Interactions:
One of Begin Again Horse Rescue’s (BAHR) goals is to provide program-equines with safe and pleasant environments for the rest of their lives, ensuring, to the best of our ability, that these animals are never again in unsafe, or uncomfortable situations. In order to optimize reaching this goal, we maintain ownership of program equines and provide a permanent-lease contract to the adopter that outlines our expectations for equine care and housing after adoption. In the contract we deny use for racing and breeding and emphasize that they must return their adopted horse(s) to BAHR if the conditions cannot be met or it is no longer wanted. Every adopter goes over this contract out loud with the supervisor and signs that he(she) understands and agrees to our terms. In order to choose the best fit for a horse, prospective adopters must come to the rescue and spend time with the chosen horse at lease twice, supervised and evaluated by our trainer.
After our farm supervisor screens and initial contact, eligible applicants, those living within a two hour radius of BAHR, are encouraged to fill out an application. When it is submitted, visits with the horses are made. The trainer notes compatibility during interactions at these prospective adopter/equine meetings. While the visits are happening, our Secretary checks references. Then, after an adoption committee member makes a farm inspection to insure the horse’s future safety , the committee reviews the compiled results and either approves adoption or makes recommendations needed to meet our standards. Once the adopter makes the changes, the Permanent Lease is signed, and the adopted horse goes to its new home. Rechecks are made at least yearly, more often if concerns arise. All visits must be arranged by the farm supervisor and trainer ahead of time.
At the farm each horse has a box stall and paddock with fresh water, and pasture or dry-lot according to individual needs. In winter conditions horses are stalled at night and blanketed. In warm weather they are out 24/7, but come in at least twice daily for health checks, treatments, feeding and/or training. There are at least 2 people for each 4 hour shift – one staff member and one volunteer. New volunteers are supervised one-on-one until they are deemed competent by our experienced director and head volunteer to our routines, techniques, and procedures. Our farrier comes to the farm, routinely every other week unless needed for specialized care. If not and emergency each equine receives a veterinary intake examination and evaluation during or just after a two week isolation/quarantine period. At that time, if needed, it also receives vaccines, a fecal exam, dental care, x-rays, or whatever else is needed. A thorough care, feeding, and treatment plan is developed at that time. Our adoption process occurs after mental, physical, and training evaluations determine that the equine is ready to be available to easily respond to humans. We are determined to provide individualized care and attention to meet the needs of our equine.
In case of an emergency for the horses or humans, our veterinarians and 911 are always on call. Additionally, one farm director is a Board Certified Animal Health Technician and our equine trainer is a State Certified EMT. We have several committee media sites in which we text interactively with immediate results. We are prepared for prompt emergency responses.
The BAHR equine selection policy is fully explained in the BAHR Protocol and Procedure book that is always available online upon request, or in hard copy in the two offices. Priority for acceptance into the rescue is given according to need. Law enforcement seizures and those horses deemed at immediate risk of suffering are moved to the front of the always present waiting list or brought in immediately. Our President/Farm Supervisor screens the farm phone and social medial cases that present to her. She contacts the Intake/Adoption committee to inform it of recent requests and events. The committee discusses the issues immediately as needed or at the monthly Board of Directors’ meeting and action progresses to resolution.
Equine Transition Services:Overview of our programs involved with rescue, rehabilitation, retraining, re-homing and/or retirement:
Begin Again Horse Rescue is run mainly by volunteers and part-time equine caregivers and a trainer who provide continuity of care and training. Horses taken into the program must be deemed at risk of neglect, abuse or of being sent to slaughter. We believe that every horse is only one owner away from landing in an unsafe situation. Our part time trainer is concerned main with helping our resident equine become good citizens and therefore, more adoptable.
After its two week quarantine, the horse, if healthy, is introduced to the other resident horses and evaluated for training and suitability. After evaluation, its description is posted on our website and it is made availability for adoption. Our contract is a Permanent Lease since BAHR keeps ownership of every equine within our system. Our veterinarian prescribed rehabilitation and retraining program is strictly followed by staff and volunteers.
All care is monitored, measured and supervised. A prospective adopter must visit the chosen horse at least twice to determine compatibility and suitability. The adopter's farm is visited by trained volunteers and inspected to insure that it meets the rescue's safety guidelines. References are checked too. When all requirements are met, the adopter signs a Permanent Lease Contract agreeing to return the horse to Begin Again if it can no longer be kept. The adopter also agrees to yearly farm contact by designated volunteers and record inspection. The contract includes no-breeding, no-racing, and no-sale clauses.
We are determined that in the Begin Again Horse Rescue's life-long program our equine will never suffer the possibility of abuse or neglect. In the last few years, horses have been returned to Begin Again for end of life care. This is an unforeseen result of the Permanent Lease Contract and an expensive one. We have accepted this responsibility and are seeking donations to cover these added expenses. We have also set up gelding, euthanasia and hay assistance programs, which require applicants, if able, to give volunteer hours to BAHR in return for our help with these programs.
Outreach and/or Public Education:
Overview of our programs involved with providing outreach and/or public education programs involving horses:
Prospective adopters or those wanting equine learning experiences can volunteer at the farm for at least two visits or on a regular schedule, where their knowledge and comfort levels with equine can be evaluated to ensure that their adoption choices are good matches. We also provide a site for the Arc program of Livingston/Wyoming County,The Walden Project of Ontario/Monroe Counties, NY and Catholic Charities of Livingston County programs. They send one person at a time for instruction in, and experiences with daily barn maintenance and equine care. We also extend these opportunities to high school students through internship programs approved by the Livingston County BOCES work experience program.
Our volunteers provide outreach programs to 4-H groups, schools, county fairs, street fairs and Rotary Clubs to name a few. Our goal is to educate the public to routine equine needs, and to explain about the crisis of neglect that many people don't realize exists. We want them to know how to recognize neglected horses and what they can and cannot do if they suspect neglect or abuse. We try to do 2-6 events a year. The number of events depends upon volunteer coverage.
Additionally, Begin Again Horse Rescue has established a Gelding/Euthanasia Fund to assist its community residents with needed services for their equine. We provide local owners with feed or board fees for their animals if there is a short-term need due to a temporary loss of income and/or illness. We maintain a Facebook page called "Rehoming Horses in Western New York", where we place free courtesy listings for free equines needing new homes if we don't have room to immediately take in their horses, or while they are on our waiting list for entrance to our program.
The Covid 19 Pandemic caused us to limit our interaction with the public to meetings by appointments only, which we have continued in 2024-2025. Although we canceled our person-to-person outreach efforts in 2020, we have now increased them. Our Facebook presence, and E-mail contacts will increase in 2025, and our goal is to to extend our person-to-person outreach programs during 2025 even further. We will be represented in 2025 at larger events such as the Equine Affair and Genesee Valley Hunt Races, where our President will engage the public with demonstrations and a manned informational booth.
Research/Medical Use of Equines:Our organization has never made, and would not ever consider making, equines available for research studies or medical training that involves invasive procedures and/or that which may cause pain or suffering to the equine.
Religious Affiliation:Our organization does not promote religious education, religious purposes, or a specific religious faith or use donations for religious education or religious purposes; require participants to be of a certain faith; require participation in religious, instruction, activities or services; or require participation in prayer, worship, religious instruction or other religious activities as a condition of receiving social or secular services offered.
Auction Donation:Our organization has never allowed, or would not consider allowing, an equine to be sold, transferred, released, or otherwise placed into possession of any person or organization that would cause or allow the equine to be sold at auction for slaughter.
Our Programs/Activities that are not equine-related and/or involving animals other than equines:
When called on by other organizations we occasionally provide transportation and/or temporary housing for animals other than horses, although our expressed mission is to help equine. We have helped care for and place cows, a goat, sheep, a dog, cats, and chickens.
POLICIES: INTAKE, ASSESSMENT & TRAINING
Prior to a horse being accepted and/or arriving at the facility, the organization has the following policies in place:
The owner of a potential equine is interviewed over the phone or in person prior to seeing the equine
The equine is evaluated at its place of residence
The owner completes an application/contract which constitutes the agreement between the owner and our organization when the equine is acquired from the equine's owner other than by purchase from an auction or kill pen, or by seizure or by abandonment
The owner is financially responsible for the shipping of the equine to and from the organization
If health records are not available or are out-of-date, our veterinarian will administer appropriate vaccinations
Not Checked:
A health certificate signed by a veterinarian and dated no more than seven days prior to arrival is provided to our organization either prior to or upon arrival of the equine attesting to the health status of the equine
Trial Period: Check all that apply:
Equines are not taken on trial
Upon intake, the organization has the following quarantine policy in place:
The equine is confined to a designated and separate area for isolation and quarantine
at the facility for a prescribed period of time
The equine is confined to a designated and separate area for isolation and quarantine
off-site for a prescribed period of time
Not Checked:
The equine is not quarantined
The typical length of quarantine is:
10 to 20 days
Following arrival of the equine at the facility, the following is performed:
Physical examination to include temperature, pulse and respiration by a veterinarian upon arrival
Physical examination to include temperature, pulse and respiration by a trained staff member upon arrival
A Henneke Body Conditioning Score or other body conditioning score is assigned by a veterinarian upon arrival
Photographs are taken of each equine upon arrival at the facility and kept with the equine's health records
Physical examination by a farrier
Physical examination by a dentist
The equine is scanned to check for a microchip
The equine is microchipped if the equine has not been microchipped
Not Checked:
A Henneke Body Conditioning Score or other body conditioning score is assigned by a trained staff member upon arrival
Horses are assessed for following skills and behaviors:
Retrieval from a pasture/paddock
Leading with a halter and lead rope
Temperament, disposition and attitude, such as rated from very calm to very high spirited
Saddling
Bridling
Lunging
Loading onto and unloading off a trailer
Mounting and dismounting
Riding at the walk
Riding at the trot
Riding at the canter
Riding by a beginner and/or unbalanced rider
Tolerance to unusual objects and loud noises
Known vices, i.e., cribbing, biting, kicking, weaving, stall walking, etc
Grooming
Bathing
Clipping
Tolerance to multiple handlers at the same time
Not Checked:
Jumping
Driving (Pulling a carriage)
Our organization has the following policies and procedures in place pertaining to the ongoing assessment of horses in its care:
Physical examination by a veterinarian at least annually
The Henneke Body Condition score or other body conditioning score is updated at least annually by the veterinarian
Vaccinations are administered at least annually
Photographs are taken of each equine annually and kept with the equine's health records
Equines at our facility may be treated by an equine chiropractor
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
Not Checked:
The Henneke Body Condition score or other body conditioning score is updated at least annually by a trained staff member
Photographs are taken of each equine monthly 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
Not Checked:
Seasonal impact on the equines' workload and weight-carrying capabilities and limitations
Our organization does not evaluate the weight-carrying and workload limitations for each equine that is ridden
No equines are ridden; not applicable
Horses provided formal training (groundwork or riding):
Daily
Additional information about our intake, assessment & training policies and practices:
Priority for intake is given to horses at risk of neglect or of being sent to auction or slaughter. Priority for intake is not based on age or condition. Horses all have pastures/paddocks with run-in sheds. However, they remain in their individual stalls at feeding time and in winter weather. They are led into the barn to eat twice daily during which time they are evaluated for health and/or lameness. After their initial two week quarantine, an individual program for rehabilitation/training is designed and followed. We have 1 half-time trainer at BAHR five half-days a week. She evaluates each equine's level of training and needs and spends her time training from ground work through riding. Training is done to help the horses become "good citizens" and therefore more adoptable.
POLICIES: BREEDING
The organization has the following policies related to breeding and stallions:
Our organization does not conduct breeding of equines owned or under the care of our organization.
Our main facility where our organization conducts its programs does NOT breed equines.
Not Checked:
One or more of the facilities where our organization conducts its programs, including foster/temporary care facilities, breeds equines
One or more of the facilities where our organization conducts its programs, including foster/temporary care facilities, are permitted to house stallions
Additional information about our breeding policies and practices:
Our adoption (permanent lease) agreement contains a no-breeding clause.
POLICIES: EUTHANASIA
The organization has the following policies related to euthanasia:
Our organization will never have an equine euthanized for space
Our organization will have an equine euthanized upon the recommendation of the veterinarian if the equine is a threat to itself, other equines, or people
Our organization will have an equine euthanized upon the recommendation of the veterinarian after all reasonable treatment options have been explored
Euthanasia is done on site when possible to decrease trauma from transport
Disposal of the carcass is handled within 24 hours
Not Checked:
Our organization will never have an equine euthanized under any circumstances
Euthanasia is done at the veterinarian's facility
The following are authorized to administer the procedure for your organization in accordance with state laws:
Veterinarian
Not Checked:
A certified euthanasia technician
Senior staff with appropriate training
Employee of animal control shelter or humane society with appropriate training
Veterinary student under the supervision of a licensed veterinarian
Not applicable. Our organization prohibits euthanasia under any circumstances
Additional information about our euthanasia policies and practices:
Begin Again Horse Rescue has established a euthanasia fund to assist community members, who need financial assistance euthanizing their equine in a humane way, when the animal no longer has quality of life.
POLICIES: RE-HOMING
View Re-homing AgreementOur organization has the following re-homing (adoption/purchase) policies and procedures in place:
All potential adopters/purchasers complete a written contract which constitutes the agreement between our organization and the new owner
Potential adopters/purchasers must visit our organization and be observed with the equine on site
The distance of a potential adopter/purchaser's home from our facility is a consideration for when re-homing an equine
Our organization conducts a site visit of the adopter/purchaser's facility before the transfer of the equine to the adopter/purchaser's facility
Potential adopters/purchasers are encouraged to do a short-term, on-site foster with the equine
Not Checked:
Our organization does NOT re-home an equine to first time equine owners
Our organization will only re-home an equine to a location where another equine resides
Adopters/purchasers are NOT required to provide updates
Our organization has the following policies and procedures related to horses that need to be retired, are no longer able to contribute to the mission of the organization, and/or are no longer manageable:
Equines may remain at our organization for their lifetimes
Equines may be found suitable homes by our organization
Equines may be returned to their owners
In the case an equine is unmanageable and demonstrates repeated dangerous behaviors, the equine may be euthanized upon the recommendation of the veterinarian
In the case an equine is unsound and/or unhealthy and cannot be treated to relieve suffering, the equine may be euthanized upon the recommendation of the veterinarian
The organization will accept financial responsibility for equines in the current care of the organization that need to be retired or are no longer able to contribute to the mission of the organization if all alternatives have been explored to find the equine an appropriate placement and space is not available for the equine to remain at the organization.
Not Checked:
Equines may be sent to auction
If a suitable home cannot be located within 12 months, the equine may be euthanized
The uploaded Re-homing agreement includes the following re-homing (adoption/purchase) statements:
The agreement states that the re-homed equine CANNOT be sold, adopted, transferred, auctioned, released, given away, or otherwise placed into the possession of another individual or organization
under any circumstances and must be returned to our organization should the adopter decide that he/she is no longer able, or no longer wishes, to care for the equine.
The agreement reflects that any individual or organization in possession of the equine as of the date of the agreement and any time thereafter is bound to not sell the equine at auction for slaughter or allow the equine to be sold, transferred, released, or otherwise placed into possession of any person or organization that will cause or allow the equine to be sold at auction for slaughter.
The agreement states that re-homed equines cannot be bred
The agreement states that if there is any breach of contract the equine must be returned to our organization
The agreement states that our organization reserves the right to make unannounced visits
The agreement states that our organization reserves the right to make scheduled visits
The agreement states that adopters/purchasers can return an equine to our organization free of charge
The agreement states that adopters/purchasers are required to provide updates (photos, vet records) for as long as the adopter/purchaser is responsible for the care of the equine
Not Checked:
The agreement states that should the adopter decide to re-home the equine, the adopter must grant the organization first right of refusal prior to the equine being placed into the possession of any individual or organization intending to take possession of the equine for any reason.
The agreement states that should the adopter decide to re-home the equine, our organization must be notified of the name, address, and telephone number of any individual or organization intending to take possession of the equine for any reason prior to the equine being placed into the possession of such individual or organization.
The agreement states that should the adopter decide to re-home the equine, our organization must grant approval of any individual or organization intending to take possession of the equine for any reason prior to the equine being placed into the possession of such individual or organization, including being provided written notification of the name, address, and telephone number of any individual or organization intending to take possession of the equine for any reason.
The agreement states that the terms of our organization's agreement will be binding on any future individual or organization taking and/or in possession of the equine for any reason.
The agreement states that adopters/purchasers can return an equine to our organization for a fee
The agreement states that adopters/purchasers are required to provide updates (photos, vet records) for one year
The agreement states that adopters/purchasers are required to provide updates (photos, vet records) for two years
None of the statements are included.
The organization does not re-home equines under any circumstances; our organization retains custody of our equines and ensures care of the equines for their lifetimes.
Our organization does not have the authority to transfer ownership and/or does not own any of the equines involved with our programs.
Our organization requires references from the following:
Veterinarian
Farrier
Personal/Other
Not Checked:
Not applicable or no references required.
Transfer of ownership occurs:
Our organization retains ownership of the equine for its lifetime
The average equine re-homing (adoption/purchase) fee received by your organization:
$201 to $500
Additional information about our rehoming policies and practices:
Adoptions must be within a two hour radius of Begin Again Horse Rescue to facilitate volunteers making farm checks.
First time horse owners can adopt a horse from Begin Again provided that they volunteer their time at our facility and demonstrate that they are capable and comfortable when handling and caring for the horse(s).
On rare occasions Begin Again will allow a horse to be adopted as a single horse when it is determined that this situation is in the horse's best interest.
BAHR retains ownership and requires that the equine be returned to the facility if it is no longer wanted. No questions are asked about the return. It cannot be transferred or sold.
EQUINE CARE & SHELTER/FACILITY INFORMATION
Total facilities at which our organization cares for and shelters horses used in our programs:
2Our organization
CURRENTLY uses satellite, overflow, foster, and/or outreach facilities which adhere to all the policies, procedures and practices of our organization or did in the previous year. Facility information is provided for the organization's main, satellite and overflow facilities.
Begin Again Horse Rescue
2828 Plank Road Lima NY 14485
Currently operational
Total number of horses/equines currently involved with your programs, under your care, and/or owned by your organization at this facility: 19
Maximum capacity of horses at this facility: 16
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.
There are several organizations responsible for investigating abuse as we cover several western NY counties.
Humane Society of Ontario County - Happy Tails Animal Shelter
(585) 396-4590
happy_tailsoc@hotmail.com
Livingston County Sheriff's Office
Deputy Kevin Barrett
585-243-7100
Lollypop Farm, Humane Society of Monroe County
99 Victor Road
Fairport, NY 14450
585-223-6500 (Humane Law Enforcement Department)
Does your organization conduct Equine Assisted Services (EAS) at this facility in accordance with the
EQUUS Foundation Guidelines on Qualifications of Organizations Conducting Equine Assisted Services (EAS)? No
Begin Again Horse Rescue
Veterinarian InformationVeterinarian: Gabrielle Faragasso/Sarah Pell
Clinic Name: Genesee Valley Equine Clinic
924 Chili-Scottsville Rd
Scottsville NY 14546
Phone: 585 889-1170
Overview: Begin Again Horse Rescue (*Main)
Total acreage dedicated specifically to the horses: 28
Our organization has use of the following at this facility:
Structures/Barns: 2 Run-in sheds: 9
Pastures: 6 Paddocks/Pens/Turnout Areas: 7
Uncovered Outdoor Rings: 1 Covered Outdoor Rings: 0 Indoor Rings: 1
Are the organization's rules, restrictions and warnings (signage) conspicuously posted in easily accessible locations? Yes
Are the organization's emergency contacts, including veterinarian contact information, conspicuously posted in easily accessible locations? Yes
Are human and equine first aid kits easily accessible? Yes
Regarding all shelters where horses are housed
including run-in sheds:
Do horses have assigned stalls in the barn/structure(s) or exclusively assigned shelter locations where they are separated from other horses with a barrier? Yes How many hours per day, on average, are horses stalled or restricted to these sheltered exclusive shelter locations? 4-8How often are the stalls/shelters cleaned, i.e., kept in good repair and free of standing water, accumulated waste, sharp objects and debris? 6-7 Days a WeekDo all stalls/shelters allow horses to lie down, stand up and turn around and provide protection from inclement weather (wind, sleet, rain, snow and extreme temperatures)? Yes Are stalls/shelters kept in good repair, with adequate ceiling height, and free of standing water, accumulated waste, sharp objects and debris? Yes Are floors constructed and maintained for both good drainage and traction? Yes Is there a ventilation and circulation system in place to allow free flow of air to control temperature, and humidity, and to prevent air stagnation? Yes Is wiring inaccessible to horses and maintained for safety in all areas of facility? Yes
Are fire prevention/protection measures (fire alarms, extinguishers and sprinkler systems) maintained and in good working order? Yes
Is there adequate lighting to ensure safety in all areas of facility? Yes
How many hours per day, on average, are horses turned out:
Equines are out 9 to 15 hours per day
Equines are out 16+ hours per day
Equines are out 24/7 except they are brought in to feed
Equines are out 24/7 except they are brought in if there is inclement weather
The following describes the pastures at this facility:
A dedicated staff person(s) is responsible for pasture management
All pastures are fenced to prevent escape or injury
Electric fencing is used; electric wires or tape fence are visibly marked
Fencing checks, such as broken or missing planks, loose fence posts, exposed or loose nails, detached wires, etc., are done regularly
Pastures are rotated
Pastures have natural protection for equines (i.e., trees)
Pastures have man-made protection for equines (i.e., shelters)
Not Checked:
This facility does not have pastures where equines can graze on pasture grass
This facility has a written plan in place for pasture management, which includes guidelines for seeding, fertilizing, irrigation, mowing, dragging, harrowing, manure removal, removal of debris, the control of poisonous plants, and a schedule for cleaning
Barbed wire is used for fencing
The following describes the turnout areas other than pastures at this facility:
This facility has a written plan in place for the maintenance of turnout areas, which includes a schedule for cleaning, manure removal, and dragging
A dedicated staff person(s) is responsible for the maintenance of turnout areas
All turnout areas are fenced to prevent escape or injury
Electric fencing is used; electric wires or tape fence are visibly marked
Turnout areas have man-made protection for equines (i.e., shelters)
Fencing checks, such as broken or missing planks, loose fence posts, exposed or loose nails, detached wires, etc., are done regularly
Not Checked:
This facility does not have turnout areas
Barbed wire is used for fencing
The following policies and procedures are in place at the facility to restrict public access and to keep horses safe:
By Appointment Only signs are posted.
No Trespassing signs are posted
Hold Harmless signs are posted
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
Not Checked:
The property owner, staff member or caretaker lives on the premises and ensures that public access is restricted and is responsible for the security of the facility and equines
A security guard is present at night
There is a practice in place to monitor equines overnight
Authorized Personnel Only signs are posted
Entrance gates are locked at night
The property is fitted with a security system monitored by police or a professional service
The property is fitted with a security system that is monitored internally by staff (or the property owner)
Equine Care/Emergency Preparedness: Begin Again Horse Rescue (*Main) 2025 and 2024 This section is required.
Horse Health Care/Barn Management Records: What system is used to collect and store health/horse care records?
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 the equine's age, breed/type, condition, size, work level and any health issues, consisting of nutritious food provided in sufficient quantity and access to adequate natural forage, or be fed daily, or as recommended by the organization's veterinarian
Feed plans are determined in consultation with a veterinarian
Supplement plans are determined in consultation with a veterinarian
Equines are fed grain in individual stalls
Staff and/or volunteers are trained in proper feed measurements and protocols and observed periodically to ensure they are feeding correctly
The feed chart is centrally located and updated as needed
The area(s) where hay, feed, grain, and supplements are stored are kept clean, free of debris and chemicals, and protected from weather and other animals in rodent-proof and mold-proof containers and grain bins
Feed, supplements and hay types are clearly labeled
Water sources, i.e., buckets, troughs, automatic waterers, etc. are kept clean, free of contaminants, debris and chemicals, protected from weather and other animals, and be positioned or affixed to minimize spillage.
Medications are kept in a secure area
Not Checked:
Equines are fed grain in groups
Is clean, potable water available at all times for all equines, or if not at all times, at least twice daily? Yes
Hoof Care: How often is hoof care provided for each equine? Every 4-8 weeks and when an issue arises
Dental Care: How often is dental care provided for each equine? Annually and when an issue arises
Horse checks: How often are equines visually and physically checked by personnel at the facility? Every day or 6 days a week
Our organization has the following parasite and fly/insect control protocols in place, including remedies used to control flies and insects:
Fly/Insect Control Remedies:
Fly Traps and Tapes
Fly Spray Repellent
Fly Masks
Fly Sheets
Fans
Not Checked:
Our organization follows the parasite control guidelines of our veterinarian, including fecal testing and de-worming
The following represent the biosecurity practices in place at facility:
Our organization follows the biosecurity guidelines of our veterinarian
Sick, affected and/or quarantined equines do not have contact with other equines or other animals
The organization has a written biosecurity plan
Staff are trained in best practices related to biosecurity
Volunteers are trained in best practices related to biosecurity
Sick, affected and/or quarantined equines are cared for last if the caretaker must also care for healthy equines
Restricted access signs are posted at primary points of access to sick, affected and/or quarantined equines
Hand sanitizers are available at all primary points of access to sick, affected and/or quarantined equines
Footbaths are available at all primary points of access to sick, affected and/or quarantined equines
Manure and bedding from sick, affected and/or quarantined equines is removed from the facility - not put in open air piles, and not spread on pastures
Quarantine areas, such as stalls, aisle ways, paddocks, and common areas, are cleaned (and needed, disinfected) after conclusion of the quarantine.
Trailers/vans used by sick, affected and/or quarantined equines are cleaned and disinfected after each use and cleaning takes place away from where equines are sheltered
Equipment used by sick, affected and/or quarantined equines is not shared
Equipment used by sick, affected and/or quarantined equines is cleaned of organic debris and disinfected after each use
Latex gloves, or equivalent gloves, are worn when working with sick, affected and/or quarantined equines
Not Checked:
A specific individual is trained and assigned to care for sick, affected and/or quarantined equines
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 the state, local authorities, and/or our organization's veterinarian
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 exclusive stall/shelter location each day
Name plates are located on the stall/shelter location
Photos are located on the stall/shelter location
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
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:
Equines wear halters with nametags
Our organization has the following policies and procedures in place pertaining to tack, apparel and equipment:
Saddles are shared
Saddle pads are shared
Bridles are shared
Bits 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
Tack is stored in a climate-controlled location
Helmets are shared
Helmets are replaced after a fall
Helmets are replaced at least every five years.
Not Checked:
All equines have specifically assigned tack, apparel and equipment that is not shared
Blankets are shared
Sheets are shared
Turnout apparel is shared
Halters are shared
Tack is cleaned after each use
Tack is cleaned weekly
Assigned tack is clearly labeled
Helmets are cleaned/disinfected after each use
No equines are ridden; not applicable.
Emergency Preparedness: Begin Again Horse Rescue: *Main This section is required.
The following plans, policies, and procedures are in place at the facility to handle emergencies and address weather related issues, fire safety procedures, and/or any additional hazardous scenarios the facility could potentially experience:
Emergency procedures are posted prominently
Emergency phone numbers are posted prominently
The facility owns or has access to a generator
The facility maintains at least two weeks of hay, feed, shavings and medications
The facility collects and maintains medical information from staff, volunteers, and clients
The facility maintains appropriate liability and/or workers' compensation insurance
The organization has a written emergency preparedness/safety plan (EPP)
Not Checked:
The written EPP addresses the following areas:
Local fire department and/or the state's emergency planning department procedures
Medical emergencies for clients, staff, and volunteers
Medical emergencies for equines
Evacuation plans
Power outages
Fire
Natural Disasters - thunderstorm, hurricanes, earthquakes, tornados, etc
Protocols to notify emergency personnel
Building/facility exit plans
Not Checked:
Terrorist attacks
The facility follows the specific procedures to help PREVENT emergency situations:
Smoking is strictly prohibited
NO SMOKING signs are posted prominently
Hay is stored away from permanent or temporary structures where equines are stalled
Permanent or temporary structures where equines are stalled are kept free of dust, cobwebs, trash, cleaning rags, and other flammable items
Aisles and doorways are kept clear
Not Checked:
Heaters with automatic shutoff settings are used
How often are the following checked or performed?
Fire Extinguishers are checked: AnnuallySmoke detectors are checked: Not at all/NAFence lines are checked: WeeklyTurnout Areas are checked: DailySprinkler systems are checked: Not at all/NAFire drills are conducted: Not at all/NAReview of safety protocols with staff are conducted: AnnuallyReview of safety protocols with volunteers are conducted: Semi-annuallyThe Emergency Preparedness Plan is reviewed and updated: AnnuallyEquine Transportation: 7= Onsite: 0 (0 + 0) + Offsite: 7
2-horse van/trailer with truck:
0 Owned onsite 0 Access onsite but not owned 4 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 2 Access offsite;
6-horse van/trailer with truck:
0 Owned onsite 0 Access onsite but not owned 1 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;