MISSION & PROGRAMS
Mission:The Secretariat Center is a 24-acre, 501(c)(3) non-profit horse adoption program located at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, KY. The Secretariat Center's mission is to prepare off track Thoroughbreds for happy, healthy, and successful post-track careers by rehabilitating and giving them a broad-based foundation of skills to ensure a harmonious match with their adopters. We advocate for the athleticism and versatility of the American Thoroughbred and provide educational opportunities for development through horsemanship.
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 does not
CURRENTLY use satellite, overflow, foster, and/or outreach facilities.
Equine Transition Services:Overview of our programs involved with rescue, rehabilitation, retraining, re-homing and/or retirement:
The Secretariat Center, hailed as "the Gold Standard in Thoroughbred reschooling", opened in October 2004. It uses its location at the famed Kentucky Horse Park near Lexington to highlight the versatility and athleticism of off-the-track Thoroughbreds, while underscoring the desirability of adopting one.
Secretariat Center horses act as ambassadors for the breed. Eligibility for the program is based on soundness, temperament, and serviceability. As the campus is small - 12 acres of paddocks and a 10-stall barn - it can only house 10 horses at a time.
The Secretariat Center is not a rescue facility; its job is to herald, showcase, and market the value of the Thoroughbred in second careers.
Horses in the program learn new skill sets. All horses arrive with health papers showing the horse is healthy. On arrival, the horse is evaluated by a team of experts: dentist, farrier, nutrition specialist, chiropractor, acupuncturist, and various practitioners to ensure that the horse is as balanced physically from the onset, as it can be. From there horses are assessed for temperament and learning style in a round pen, as well as desensitization exercises. Training progresses classically then with in hand ground work, lunging and long lining, followed by interdisciplinary introductions to dressage, jumping, trail riding, cross country work, and, when possible, horse shows.
Potential adopters are required to fill out applications that include veterinary, personal, and equine specialist references, and if approved, must visit to try the horses to make sure the fit is a good one. Adoption fees are based on the scope of a given horse and expenses incurred during reschooling.
Keen to be a beacon of information about reschooling OTTBs, the Secretariat Center offers internships for students of high school through college age, provides educational opportunities for volunteers, and regularly hosts tours and demonstrations.
Outreach and/or Public Education:
Overview of our programs involved with providing outreach and/or public education programs involving horses:
The Secretariat Center offers year-round internship opportunities for motivated individuals looking to expand their knowledge and skills in Thoroughbred Aftercare alongside our experienced professionals.
Our Equine Non-Profit Fundamentals Internship is a structured program with weekly lessons, goals, and objectives for students in the areas of horse care and training, not-for-profit 501 (C)3 business fundamentals, research, media/design, and the complete adoption and rehoming process. Interns will spend one-on-one time with all staff members (and horses) to obtain a complete picture of the Secretariat Center's daily activities, methodology, and purpose.
The Secretariat Center is a Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance accredited organization dedicated to the gold standard of re-schooling and rehoming. All internships are unpaid educational opportunities for students to delve deeper into the aftercare needs of horses as they move into second careers. We are happy to work with schools and Universities to complete class requirements and provide letters of recommendation for graduates as they consider future career paths.
Equine Non-Profit Fundamentals Internship is adaptable to the availability and needed requirements of the student. We are happy to work with student's schedules to provide a well-rounded educational process and to adapt projects to cater to the interests of our interns. It is our goal that students will complete the program with the knowledge and skills to succeed in a multitude of positions in the equine industry, as well as the ability to educate others on the success and importance of aftercare.
The Secretariat Center welcomes volunteers of all ages, all professional backgrounds, and all levels of equestrian knowledge and ability. Everyone who volunteers at the Secretariat Center comes, like each of our horses, with unique abilities. We need Volunteer help in the barn, in the office, and throughout the grounds. Volunteers go through an orientation and are then welcome to come as much or as little as they desire. Volunteers are not allowed to ride the horses due to insurance limitations.
Research/Medical Use of Equines:Our organization has never made, and would not ever consider making, equines available for research studies or medical training that involves invasive procedures and/or that which may cause pain or suffering to the equine.
Religious Affiliation:Our organization does not promote religious education, religious purposes, or a specific religious faith or use donations for religious education or religious purposes; require participants to be of a certain faith; require participation in religious, instruction, activities or services; or require participation in prayer, worship, religious instruction or other religious activities as a condition of receiving social or secular services offered.
Auction Donation:Our organization has never allowed, or would not consider allowing, an equine to be sold, transferred, released, or otherwise placed into possession of any person or organization that would cause or allow the equine to be sold at auction for slaughter.
POLICIES: 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
A health certificate signed by a veterinarian and dated no more than seven days prior to arrival is provided to our organization either prior to or upon arrival of the equine attesting to the health status of the equine
Not Checked:
Trial Period: Check all that apply:
Equines are on trial for up to 30 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 on trial up to 60 days
Equines are on trial for 60 or more days
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
Upon intake, the organization has the following quarantine policy in place:
The equine is not quarantined
Not Checked:
The equine is confined to a designated and separate area for isolation and quarantine at the facility for a prescribed period of time
The equine is confined to a designated and separate area for isolation and quarantine off-site for a prescribed period of time
The typical length of quarantine is:
Horses are not quarantined
Following arrival of the equine at the facility, the following is performed:
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
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
Coggins test
Fecal test
Vaccinations
De-worming
The equine is scanned to check for a microchip
The equine is microchipped if the equine has not been microchipped
Not Checked:
Physical examination to include temperature, pulse and respiration by a veterinarian upon arrival
Blood work other than Coggins
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
Mounting and dismounting
Riding at the walk
Riding at the trot
Riding at the canter
Jumping
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:
Loading onto and unloading off a trailer
Riding by a beginner and/or unbalanced rider
Driving (Pulling a carriage)
Our organization has the following policies and procedures in place pertaining to the ongoing assessment of horses in its care:
Physical examination by a veterinarian at least annually
The Henneke Body Condition score or other body conditioning score is updated at least annually
Photographs are taken of each equine annually and kept with the equine's health records
Equines at our facility may be treated by an equine chiropractor
Equines at our facility may be treated by an equine acupuncturist
Equines at our facility may be treated by an equine massage therapist
Equines at our facility may be treated by an equine nutritionist
Not Checked:
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
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):
Daily
Additional information about our intake, assessment & training policies and practices:
The owner must answer questions about the horse's health and medical history including: all past or current injuries, surgeries, and medical procedures, most current vaccinations and dates, date of most current farrier work, date and type of most current deworming, and date of most recent dental work. The owner must also answer a brief questionnaire about the horse's current living situation - what feed is it receiving, does it know how to drink from an automatic waterer, date of gelding, date of last ride, has the horse been turned out with other horses, and any vices the horse may have.
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 facilities, breeds equines
One or more of the 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 will have an equine euthanized upon the recommendation of the veterinarian if the equine is a threat to itself, other equines, or people
Our organization will have an equine euthanized upon the recommendation of the veterinarian after all reasonable treatment options have been explored
Euthanasia is done on site when possible to decrease trauma from transport
Euthanasia is done at the veterinarian's facility
Disposal of the carcass is handled within 24 hours
Not Checked:
Our organization will never have an equine euthanized under any circumstances
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
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
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
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
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 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 remain at our organization for their lifetimes
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 reflects that any individual or organization in possession of the equine as of the date of the agreement and any time thereafter is bound to not sell the equine at auction for slaughter or allow the equine to be sold, transferred, released, or otherwise placed into possession of any person or organization that will cause or allow the equine to be sold at auction for slaughter.
The agreement states that should the adopter decide to re-home the equine, our organization must be notified of the name, address, and telephone number of any individual or organization intending to take possession of the equine for any reason prior to the equine being placed into the possession of such individual or organization.
The agreement states that the terms of our organization's agreement will be binding on any future individual or organization taking and/or in possession of the equine for any reason.
The agreement states that if there is any breach of contract the equine must be returned to our organization
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 the re-homed equine CANNOT be sold, adopted, transferred, auctioned, released, given away, or otherwise placed into the possession of another individual or organization under any circumstances and must be returned to our organization should the adopter decide that he/she is no longer able, or no longer wishes, to care for the equine.
The agreement states that should the adopter decide to re-home the equine, 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 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 re-homed equines cannot be bred
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 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
Personal/Other
Not Checked:
Farrier
Not applicable or no references required.
Transfer of ownership occurs:
Immediately (at the time of adoption/purchase) or less than one year
The average equine re-homing (adoption/purchase) fee received by your organization:
Over $1,500
Additional information about our rehoming policies and practices:
Prospective adopters first complete an adoption application. The application includes a summary of the applicant's riding and horse experience, a description of the type of horse for which they are searching, photographs of the location in which any adopted horse will be living (barns and paddocks), and three references in the categories of Non-family character, Equine professional, and Veterinary. Each application is thoroughly reviewed by the Director and an Approval Committee made up of two SC Consultants. After being approved for adoption, the SC recommends that all potential adopters travel to the SC and ride/meet each horse they are interested in adopting, in order for the staff to assess their ability and their personality match with the horses. Should questions be raised at any point in the approval process, our trainer will contact the applicant and talk through each issue, be it fencing concerns, financial concerns, or horse-handling concerns. If the adopter wants to adopt without visiting the Center, they must submit a video that demonstrates their riding ability, and sign an additional document that states they are adopting the horse 'site unseen' and have declined the opportunity for a trial.
All prospective adopters are required to complete a standard liability waiver prior to handling or riding any horses. At this point in the adoption process, the prospective adopter has already communicated thoroughly with either the Trainer or the Barn Manager, including conversations about the prospective adopter’s current riding level, skill with handling horses, type of personality desired in a horse, and current available horses that may be a match for the prospective adopter. The staff also carefully reviews the adopter’s equine professional reference that is included in the adoption application, and if necessary speaks directly to the equine professional. Upon arrival at the SC, and after signing a standard liability waiver, the prospective adopter may meet and handle any of the horses previously discussed as potential matches. The prospective adopter may then ride any of those same horses, following a ride by the Barn Manager or Trainer. If at any point while the SC staff is riding the horse to show to the prospective adopter, the horse should appear unsafe for the prospective adopter to ride, or unsound in any fashion, the prospective adopter will not be allowed to ride the horse on that day. All rides occur in the SC’s arena, and if necessary, the staff may begin by lunging the rider on the horse to ensure safety.
The Adoption Contracts states that should the horse adopted from the SC prove unsuitable for the purpose adopted, it can be returned to the center at any point within 30 days of the adoption date as listed on the adoption contract. Upon return of the horse, the adopter will be given a credit for the sum initially donated at the time of the adoption, minus the expenses incurred by the SC for the care of the horse.
The Secretariat Center tracks its adopted horses for their lifetimes. Each year, adopters must complete a Track for Life form and return it to the SC with current photos of the adopted horse. Adopters may sell their horses at any time but the individual purchasing the horse must sign a Transfer Adoption Contract. This new owner must also continue to submit Track for Life forms for the duration of the horse's life.
In regards to the care of horses who are in need of full retirement, as a retraining organization rather than a rescue, we are very selective about the horses we accept into the program. However, we do have partnerships with other TAA accredited organizations and sanctuary facilities (these maintain our track for life policy) by which we are able to secure homes for any horse that requires retirement. We also maintain excellent relationships with the majority of our horse donors, so that if necessary, horses may be returned to the donor should such circumstances arise in which future rehoming is not possible. We have a euthanasia policy for any horse that is deemed unsafe for future handling and rehoming, or are unable to maintain a significant level of pasture-soundness. For any horse that the owner reaches out to us but perhaps the horse does not meet our program parameters, we offer a list of suggestions to help owners place horses in appropriate TAA accredited organizations. Sometimes aftercare takes a village and we are lucky enough to be able to help place horses in appropriate homes and safe futures.
EQUINE CARE & SHELTER/FACILITY INFORMATION
Total facilities at which our organization cares for and shelters horses used in our programs:
1Our organization does not
CURRENTLY use satellite, overflow, foster, and/or outreach facilities.
Secretariat Center
4155 Walt Robertson Road Lexington KY 40511
Currently operational
Total number of horses/equines currently involved with your programs, under your care, and/or owned by your organization at this facility: 8
Total number of horses at this facility INCLUDING those counted above: 8
Maximum capacity of horses at this facility: 20
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.
Lexington-Fayette Animal Care and Control
1600 Old Frankfort Pike
Lexington, KY 40504
859-255-9033
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
Secretariat Center
Veterinarian InformationVeterinarian: Dr Cole Sandow
Clinic Name: Hagyard Equine Medical Institute
4250 Iron Works Pike
Lexington KY 40511
Phone: 859-2558741
Overview: Secretariat Center (*Main)
Total acreage dedicated specifically to the horses: 12
Our organization has use of the following at this facility:
Structures/Barns: 1 Run-in sheds: 4
Pastures: 11 Paddocks/Pens/Turnout Areas: 2
Uncovered Outdoor Rings: 1 Covered Outdoor Rings: 0 Indoor Rings: 0
Regarding structures/barns where horses are housed other than run-in sheds:
Do horses have assigned stalls in the structure(s)? No How many hours per day, on average, are horses stalled? 4-8Regarding all shelters where horses are housed
including run-in sheds:
How often are the stalls/shelters cleaned, i.e., kept in good repair and free of standing water, accumulated waste, sharp objects and debris? 6-7 Days a 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 Is there adequate ceiling & beam height (a minimum of 12 feet above the tip of the horse's ear) when standing in all stalls/shelters? 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
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
How many hours per day, on average, are horses turned out:
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
Equines are out 24/7 except when they are being trained
Equines are out 24/7 except when they are used for the conduct of the organization's programs
The following describes the pastures at this facility:
This facility has a written plan in place for pasture management, which includes guidelines for seeding, fertilizing, irrigation, mowing, dragging, harrowing, manure removal, removal of debris, the control of poisonous plants, and a schedule for cleaning
A dedicated staff person(s) is responsible for pasture management
All pastures are fenced to prevent escape or injury
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
Barbed wire is used for fencing
Electric fencing is used; electric wires or tape fence are visibly marked
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
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
Electric fencing is used; electric wires or tape fence are visibly marked
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:
A security guard is present at night
By Appointment Only signs are posted.
Hold Harmless signs are posted
Authorized Personnel Only signs are posted
Entrance gates are locked at night
Visitors are only permitted at specific times
Visitors are only permitted in specific areas
The property is fitted with a security system that is monitored internally by staff (or the property owner)
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
There is a practice in place to monitor equines overnight
No Trespassing signs are posted
The property is fitted with motion lights
The property is fitted with a security system monitored by police or a professional service
Equine Care/Emergency Preparedness: Secretariat Center (*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)
Onsite computer with onsite backup storage system
Onsite computer with cloud-based backup storage system
Our organization utilizes a software application to maintain records
The organization utilizes its own system to maintain records
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
Supplement plans are determined in consultation with a veterinarian
Equines are fed grain in individual stalls
Equines are fed grain in groups
Staff and volunteers are trained in proper feed measurements and protocols and observed periodically to ensure they are feeding correctly
The feed chart is centrally located and updated as needed
The area(s) where hay, feed, grain, and supplements are stored are kept clean, free of debris and chemicals, and protected from weather and other animals in rodent-proof and mold-proof containers and grain bins
Feed, supplements and hay types are clearly labeled
Water sources, i.e., buckets, troughs, automatic waterers, etc. are kept clean, free of 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:
Feed plans are determined in consultation with a veterinarian
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
Quarantine areas, such as stalls, aisle ways, paddocks, and common areas, are cleaned (and needed, disinfected) after conclusion of the quarantine.
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
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
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
Personnel are required to leave the facility (or shower and change clothing) after working with quarantined equines
Equines are not quarantined on arrival.
The following represent the manure removal practices in place at facility:
Manure is hauled, sold or given away
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 is piled in an area where equines are not located
Manure piles are covered
Manure piles are composted or spread on pastures
The following steps are taken to help staff and volunteers readily identify each horse on the property:
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
Team leaders work with new staff/volunteers until they are able to identify the equines
Not Checked:
Equines are assigned the same exclusive stall each day
Name plates are located on the stall
Photos are located on the stall
Equines wear halters with nametags
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
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 are shared
Sheets are shared
Turnout apparel is shared
Blankets, sheets and turn out apparel are fitted and utilized for each equine appropriate to the equine's needs and the weather conditions
Blankets, sheets and turn out apparel are cleaned regularly as needed
Halters are shared
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
Tack is stored in a climate-controlled location
Not Checked:
All equines have specifically assigned tack, apparel and equipment that is not shared
Tack is cleaned weekly
Tack is cleaned only when needed
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.
No equines are ridden; not applicable.
Emergency Preparedness: Secretariat Center: *Main This section is required.
The following plans, policies, and procedures are in place at the facility to handle emergencies and address weather related issues, fire safety procedures, and/or any additional hazardous scenarios the facility could potentially experience:
Emergency phone numbers are posted prominently
The facility maintains at least two weeks of hay, feed, shavings and medications
The facility collects and maintains medical information from staff, volunteers, and clients
The facility maintains appropriate liability and/or workers' compensation insurance
The organization has a written emergency preparedness/safety plan (EPP)
Not Checked:
Emergency procedures are posted prominently
The facility owns or has access to a generator
The written EPP addresses the following areas:
Local fire department and/or the state's emergency planning department procedures
Medical emergencies for clients, staff, and volunteers
Medical emergencies for equines
Evacuation plans
Power outages
Fire
Natural Disasters - thunderstorm, hurricanes, earthquakes, tornados, etc
Terrorist attacks
Protocols to notify emergency personnel
Building/facility exit plans
Not Checked:
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
Heaters with automatic shutoff settings are used
Not Checked:
Hay is stored away from permanent or temporary structures where equines are stalled
How often are the following checked or performed?
Fire Extinguishers are checked: Semi-annuallySmoke detectors are checked: QuarterlyElectrical Systems are checked: Semi-annuallyFence lines are checked: DailyTurnout 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: Semi-annuallyReview of safety protocols with volunteers are conducted: WeeklyThe Emergency Preparedness Plan is reviewed and updated: AnnuallyEquine Transportation: 5= Onsite: 1 (0 + 1) + Offsite: 4
2-horse van/trailer with truck:
0 Owned onsite 1 Access onsite but not owned 2 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 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;