MISSION & PROGRAMS

Mission:
Our mission is to rescue, rehabilitate and re-home abused, neglected and slaughter bound horses.

Our organization provides programs involved with equine rescue & adoption
Our organization provides outreach and/or public education programs involving horses.
100% of our total programs and services are equine-related.
Our organization is directly responsible for the care and shelter of equines involved in our programs.
Our organization 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:
GOALS AND OBJECTIVES
     
     We are committed to providing the best possible outcome for every horse we rescue, and to strengthening our community through education, prevention, and compassionate action.
     
     Rescue and Rehabilitation:
     We assist animal welfare officers and law enforcement who lack funding and facilities to house and care for seized equines. We are a resource for Vermont’s Game Wardens and animal control officials, offering guidance on equine health and care in investigations involving neglect or abuse. Surrendered and seized equines frequently need treatment for conditions that are now much more serious (and costly) for having not been treated in a timely manner. We do not receive any state or federal funding to cover expenses for caring for seized equines.
     Many of the owners who surrender horses are facing illness, financial hardship, or other unexpected life changes. When families face challenging circumstances and unexpected hardships such as divorce, ill health, job loss, or death, horses may suffer from abuse or neglect, or end up at auction and at risk for slaughter. We are contacted daily by owners in need of surrender options or about horses in need of rescue. Due to space constraints, we are often only able to help horses in direst need.
     Every horse entering our care receives individualized veterinary, dental, and farrier treatment. Once rehabilitated, each horse is evaluated and provided with training (we have a professional trainer in house) to improve adoptability. Some receive advanced training through professional partners. Our adoption process includes thorough screening and post-adoption follow-ups, ensuring a safe and permanent placement.
     
     Education and Community Engagement:
     We believe education is key to preventing abuse and neglect. Our volunteer program offers community members, including school groups, hands-on experiences with equine care and volunteering. In 2024, we hosted three local student service days and provided equine care education across Vermont. Through education and outreach, we promote animal welfare and engage volunteers from local schools and organizations in service learning and horse care.
     
     Prevention through the Vermont Hay Bank:
     Established in 2021, the Vermont Hay Bank helps horse owners in temporary crisis keep their horses safe at home. Since inception, we've supported 61 horses through this program, keeping families intact and horses out of harm’s way.
     
     Future expansion:
     Last year, thanks to the generous support of some of our close friends and donors, we purchased a farm property that will, when developed, serve as the ideal rescue and rehabilitation facility to meet the needs of our community for generations to come. Phase one of our Legacy Farm project will create the preliminary infrastructure to allow for our operations, staff, volunteers, and horses to begin to take up residence at the farm, with the eventual plan to move all of our operations to that location.
     
     Re-locating our operations to a centralized, permanent location — one that we own — will allow us to meet the current and future demands for equine rescue in our area. Our long-range master plan for the property and organization includes becoming a full-service regional equine rescue center, offering horse rescue, rehabilitation, and training; horses for adoption; owner education and community programming; expanded hay bank and additional financial assistance programs; additional surrender options; and increased law enforcement support.
     
     ACCOMPLISHMENTS:
     
     Lives: Our biggest accomplishments are the equines whose lives we have been able to save, the uncertain outcomes we’ve been able to improve, the health we have restored to equines when possible, and adoptions into new homes.
     
     Land and future plans: Last year we purchased 178 acres to develop into a future sanctuary—our legacy farm, ensuring we can serve generations of horses to come. We are now in the process of developing and launching a multi-stage capital building campaign to build the infrastructure needed to fully utilize and consolidate all rescue operations onto this property.
     
     Statewide assistance provided: Our rescue has been able to cover the entire state of Vermont: as far north as St. Albans and Barton, and east to St. Johnsbury, Windsor, and Woodstock, south to Wilmington and Bennington.
     
     Successful Partnerships: We have successfully partnered with other rescues (such as Gentle Giants and New Hampshire SPCA and Maine State Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) to house and temporarily place equines seized by law enforcement. These equines may not be forfeited by the courts for lengthy periods of time (ten or more months in one multiple horse seizure from 2024) and require ongoing care and maintenance while their ownership is in limbo in the court system. We also assist the state of Vermont with equine seizures, working in partnership with the state game wardens and other law enforcement. The state of Vermont hired their first animal welfare director, Lisa Milot, in 2025, and we look forward to working with her. Vermont passed a bill in June 2024 that created the first state level division of animal welfare, including this position, and establishes oversight for all animal sanctuaries, shelters, and rescues in the state for the first time.
     
     Accreditation: In addition to our 2024 EQUUS guardian designation, we are also proud to be Vermont’s first and only Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries-accredited equine rescue, meeting the highest standards in animal care and nonprofit transparency.
     
     Ratings: We’ve received a Candid Platinum Seal, recognition as trustworthy from Charity Navigator, and a Top-Rated Nonprofit badge from Great Nonprofits.
     
     Press Coverage: Our rescue and story has been featured in Vermont Digger, WCAX, Vermont Public, and several local newspapers. Our online community has grown to 32,000 Facebook followers and 2,200 email subscribers.
     
     STRATEGIES
     
     A primary goal of ours is to transition our rescue to our future Legacy Farm on 178 acres. Since 2012 we have operated on five rented acres and a handful of foster sites. In January 2024, we purchased 178 acres to develop over the next ten years into a future sanctuary—our legacy farm, ensuring we can serve generations of horses to come. This new property needs infrastructure and building to fully utilize. We decided to phase the project to ensure that we could make use of the property as soon as possible, and getting staff housing and initial property improvements were necessary for that to happen. We can still operate out of two sites while we continue to raise funds for the master plan that will include the barn and arena. We felt it was smarter to start small and get the Legacy Farm established rather than try to raise all the funds at once, which could take several years.
     
     1-year objectives: we have broken our infrastructure and building needs on the new site into several phases. The first phase is to build a cottage on the new site and we have just quietly launched this first phase building campaign with initial donor outreach and a Phase 1 booklet that was just completed. The cottage is for staff housing: due to the nature of our work and the amount of time it takes to care for rescue horses, we don’t feel it would be responsible of us to have horses at the new farm without a staff member living on the property. The staff will still work at our current facility in addition to caring for a small herd at the new farm through this transition. Staff housing is the critical first step to start our expansion to the new farm. Another very important short-term objective is to update our strategic plan (developed in 2021).
     
     3-year objective: Three years from now, our objective is to have Phase 1 of building complete, and Phase 2/3 launched, which are for a barn and public welcome area, and an indoor riding arena. We have the architectural drawings completed for the barn and welcome area, but we will need to raise the necessary funds through our existing donors and by finding new funding. We plan to do this by spending more time on grant research and donor cultivation, and drawing on the expertise of our board, staff, volunteers, and our network of supporters.
     
     10-year objective: Ten years from now we hope to have our buildings and infrastructure in place, and to have completely transitioned to our new property.


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:

How we ensure equine-human interactions are beneficial to the equines:
     
     We restrict access to our equines so that the only people allowed to enter equine enclosures are fully trained equine staff, veterinarians, farriers, and fully trained equine volunteers. We do not allow visitors and untrained staff or volunteers to enter equine enclosures. Visitors may interact with equines (if the equines choose to do so) from the other side of the fence. We do not run any programs or activities where visitors interact with horses in the same enclosure. This is for the safety and comfort of the equines and any visitors. We do not allow un-escorted visitors or volunteers on our property. All visitors are given guided tours by a trained staff member so that all interactions are supervised. If/when we have volunteer days for untrained volunteers, and we plan to have those volunteers clean within a paddock, we will relocate the horses from that paddock in advance of the volunteers arriving so that there is no equine/person interaction that is not separated by a fence.
     
     Training of volunteers and staff: Volunteers are evaluated and trained by our professional staff gradually (beginning with work outside equine enclosures) until our staff has had enough time over multiple sessions to evaluate a volunteer and are confident of an individual volunteer's capability around equines and the equine’s safety and comfort. New staff members are also gradually trained (beginning outside any horse enclosure) until fully trained staff have evaluated their work and are confident of their abilities to work safely with the equines and to assess the comfort of the equines as well. We have written standards of care and operations manuals, including emergency procedures.
     
     CARE
     
      We are committed to having the best care and best possible outcomes for all of our equines. Trained staff work in daily morning and afternoon shifts to provide fresh water and feed and to evaluate each equine in person for any signs that something is off or needs attention. All of our equines have access to clean drinking water at all times. Forage (in season), hay, and grain are available. We administer vet-recommended or prescribed supplements and/or medications. Daily care checklists are implemented that require staff signatures and date to attend to individual equine and overall care needs and note observations. We have an operations manual for horse care and emergencies. All equines in our care have regular veterinary visits, farrier trims, and evaluation for and any needed dental care. Our equines have shelter and protection from the weather, are free to go outside when they choose, have sufficient safe space to move around comfortably; and freely interact and have contact with other equines. We strongly believe that horses are herd animals and need companionship! We will not adopt our equines to a home where they will not have a companion. We carefully screen any potential adopter to ensure that the equine we are placing will not end up in need again, and we commit to serve as a safe landing to which any adopted equine can return to if and when needed.

Equine Transition Services:
Overview of our programs involved with rescue, rehabilitation, retraining, re-homing and/or retirement:
     Each incoming rescue horse must undergo a 30-day quarantine to protect the horses already at The Dorset Equine Rescue from becoming ill through a communicable disease or illness inadvertently brought in with the newcomers. In turn, the newest members of our herd will receive extensive intervention and examinations from our team of veterinarians, and experienced staff. After they gain their health back, each horse will slowly start a training program. Our trainer works closely with our veterinarians to assure the best possible outcome for each horse. We believe that horses are happier and healthier when they have a job. The Dorset Equine Rescue has a full time trainer who evaluates each horse’s abilities and physical condition. Because we rarely get much history on the horses, we treat each horse as if it does not have any training. We make sure we get to know our horses very well and continue their training for as long as they are with us. The better we know what they are capable of, the better we can match them with their future adopter. A well-trained horse is far more adoptable than an untrained horse. Sometimes age or injury prevent horses from being ridable, but that doesn’t mean they are useless. Some of these horses are great companions to our younger horses that are insecure and need stability. Some of them end up being good lead line horses, or therapy horses for people to pet and brush, or they get adopted out as as a companion to another horse who is alone. All of our horses, including the ones that are not ridable are brought into the barn regularly and taught to have excellent ground manners so they are a pleasure to be around and well behaved for the veterinarian and farrier. When a Dorset Equine Rescue horse is ready for adoption, it is listed on our website and shared on social media. Each horse’s adoption fee is based on the horse’s ability, temperament and level of training which then goes directly back into supporting the current horses in our care. Anyone who is interested in adopting a horse must fall within our adoption guidelines and is asked to fill out an adoption application and provide references, after which point we also require a barn check. We require every new home to provide a certain level of care including shelter, a good sized turn out area, basic vaccines and routine farrier care, and a companion equine so the adopted equine will not be alone. After a home is approved, the new owner will sign a contract to help assure the horse will continue to be well cared for. If at any point they cannot keep the horse, the adopter is required to notify us first before re-homing their horse, so that we are part of the re-homing process. The new adopter must follow the same approval process and sign a new adoption contract. Once a horse comes through our rescue, we do everything in our power to keep it forever safe and from falling on hard times again. We strive to make sure each horse and adopter is compatible so they can develop a life-long and successful relationship.
Overview of our programs involved with providing outreach and/or public education programs involving horses:
     We offer several community volunteer education days for the local high schools including Burr and Burton Academy, Long Trail School, and Stratton Mountain School. We have also hosted educational days for Boy Scouts, various summer camps and 4H groups.
     
     We also launched a preventative feed assistance program in 2021, the Vermont Hay Bank, to help horse owners in the community who are experiencing hardship with feed assistance. By doing this we hope to prevent horses in need from being sent to auction or from going hungry. The application is on our web site dorsetequinerescue.org and we helped over a dozen households in 2022, and almost two dozen in 2023. We are considering how to expand this program and make it more accessible in 2025.
     
     In the spring and summer of 2022 we launched Pitchforks and Pastries, which is a series of meet and greet new volunteer orientation sessions where interested community members could meet us and other volunteers during informal work sessions so that we can effectively identify and cultivate potential volunteers and give donors a closer look at what it takes to operate the rescue day to day.

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 seizure or by abandonment
    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

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

The typical length of quarantine is:   20 to 30 days

Following arrival of the equine at the facility, the following is performed:
    Physical examination to include temperature, pulse and respiration by a veterinarian upon arrival
    Physical examination to include temperature, pulse and respiration by a trained staff member upon arrival
    A Henneke Body Conditioning Score or other body conditioning score is assigned by a veterinarian upon arrival
    Photographs are taken of each equine upon arrival at the facility and kept with the equine's health records
    Physical examination by a farrier
    Physical examination by a dentist

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
    Jumping
    Driving (Pulling a carriage)
    Tolerance to unusual objects and loud noises
    Known vices, i.e., cribbing, biting, kicking, weaving, stall walking, etc
    Grooming
    Bathing
    Clipping
    Tolerance to multiple handlers at the same time

Our organization has the following policies and procedures in place pertaining to the ongoing assessment of horses in its care:
    Physical examination by a veterinarian at least annually
    The Henneke Body Condition score or other body conditioning score is updated at least annually by the veterinarian
    Vaccinations are administered at least annually
    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
    Equines at our facility may be treated by an equine chiropractor
    Equines at our facility may be treated by an equine massage therapist
    Equines at our facility may be treated by an equine nutritionist

Our organization has the following policies and procedures in place pertaining to the weight-carrying or workload capabilities of horses/equines that are ridden in our care:
    Our organization evaluates the weight-carrying and workload limitations for each equine that is ridden at least annually
    Our organization maintains a written record of the weight-carrying and workload limitations for each equine that is ridden

The following variables are considered in determining the weight-carrying and workload limitations for each equine that is ridden:
    Equine age, weight, breed, body condition, fitness, balance, health and soundness
    Equine conformation to include the top line, length of back, strength and width of loin, bone density (measured by the circumference of the cannon bone just below the knee)
    Size, shape, condition and angle of the hooves
    Participant weight, height, body proportions, balance, fitness and riding skills as well as behavioral issues and safety concerns
    Weight and proper fit of the saddle and other equipment
    Terrain and footing in the working environment
    Duration and frequency of working sessions, as the frequency with which an equine is subjected to maximum weight carrying and/or workload
    Nature and pace of work, repetitive or varied, radius of turns, degree of incline and regularity of footing when equine is subject to maximum weight-carrying capacity
    Temperature and/or weather conditions
    Seasonal impact on the equines' workload and weight-carrying capabilities and limitations


Horses provided formal training (groundwork or riding):   Daily

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.

Additional information about our breeding policies and practices:
We have a no breeding policy in our adoption contract as well.

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

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

POLICIES: RE-HOMING

View Re-homing Agreement
Our organization has the following re-homing (adoption/purchase) policies and procedures in place:
    All potential adopters/purchasers complete a written contract which constitutes the agreement between our organization and the new owner
    Our organization 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

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
    In the case an equine is unmanageable and demonstrates repeated dangerous behaviors, the equine may be euthanized upon the recommendation of the veterinarian
    In the case an equine is unsound and/or unhealthy and cannot be treated to relieve suffering, the equine may be euthanized upon the recommendation of the veterinarian

The uploaded Re-homing agreement includes the following re-homing (adoption/purchase) statements:
    The agreement reflects that any individual or organization in possession of the equine as of the date of the agreement and any time thereafter is bound to not sell the equine at auction for slaughter or allow the equine to be sold, transferred, released, or otherwise placed into possession of any person or organization that will cause or allow the equine to be sold at auction for slaughter.
    The agreement states that 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 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 scheduled visits
    The agreement states that adopters/purchasers can return an equine to our organization free of charge

Our organization requires references from the following:
    Veterinarian
    Farrier
    Personal/Other

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

The average equine re-homing (adoption/purchase) fee received by your organization:
$1,001 to $1,500

Additional information about our rehoming policies and practices:
Adoption Guidelines:
     Since all adoptions require a farm visit, we only adopt out within about a three hour radius from Dorset, VT. We ask that potential adopters do a map check from their property to Dorset, VT to see if within that range. This range is a little flexible, but not by much.
     
     Each horse we adopt out must have an equine companion at their new home to be turned out with. Horses are herd animals and are happiest with a buddy.
     
     The horse must have access to a clean three sided run-in shed or stall 24/7, blocking the prevailing winds and protecting them from the weather.
     
     The horse must always have access to a clean water trough that is heated in the winter.
     
     We require the adopted horse stay up to date on these basic vaccines: Eastern/Western Encephalitis, Tetanus, Rabies, Influenza and Rhino.
     
     We require that the adopted horse stays up to date with regular feet trimming (6-10 weeks depending on the time of year), deworming (minimum of 4 times per year), and annual dental care.
     
     The adopted horse must have a minimum of 8 hours of turn out daily.
     
     The adopted horse must have a minimum of 1 acre of pasture for a full size horse(s) and a minimum of ¼ acre for a miniature horse(s).
     
     Although it is not required, we do encourage all perspective adopters to have their own vet do a pre-purchase exam.

EQUINE CARE & SHELTER/FACILITY INFORMATION

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.

Total facilities at which our organization cares for and shelters horses used in our programs: 6

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The Dorset Equine Rescue
*Physical address available on request.

Currently operational
Total number of horses/equines currently involved with your programs, under your care, and/or owned by your organization at this facility: 10
Total number of horses at this facility NOT INCLUDING those counted above: 3
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.
     The Vermont State Police 45 State Dr. Waterbury, VT 05671 (802) 244-7345 vsp.vermont.gov/patch

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

Many of our horses come into stalls to eat breakfast and dinner to ensure they are getting all of their grain, medications, and supplements, etc. and the rest are fed out of individual feed bags at breakfast and dinner to ensure  that each of them are getting their proper amounts of grain, medications, and/or supplements. The feedbags are immediately removed once they are finished eating. The feed bags are washed regularly for sanitary reasons. 

Our manure is put in open air piles. One or two times per year, the manure is completely removed by a local farmer.

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Grounds: The Dorset Equine Rescue (*Main) Currently operational This section is required.
Total acreage dedicated specifically to the horses: 6
Our organization has use of the following at this facility:
Structures/Barns: 2  Run-in sheds: 6
Pastures: 2  Paddocks/Pens/Turnout Areas: 5
Uncovered Outdoor Rings: 1  Covered Outdoor Rings: 0  Indoor Rings: 0




















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?    No    
How many hours per day, on average, are horses stalled or restricted to these sheltered exclusive shelter locations? 0-3;
How often are the stalls/shelters cleaned, i.e., kept in good repair and free of standing water, accumulated waste, sharp objects and debris? 6-7 Days a Week
Do all stalls/shelters allow horses to lie down, stand up and turn around and provide protection from inclement weather (wind, sleet, rain, snow and extreme temperatures)?    Yes    
Are stalls/shelters kept in good repair, with adequate ceiling height, and free of standing water, accumulated waste, sharp objects and debris?    Yes    
Are floors constructed and maintained for both good drainage and traction?    Yes    
Is there a ventilation and circulation system in place to allow free flow of air to control temperature, and humidity, and to prevent air stagnation?    Yes    
Is wiring inaccessible to horses and maintained for safety in all areas of facility?    Yes    
Are fire prevention/protection measures (fire alarms, extinguishers and sprinkler systems) maintained and in good working order?     Yes    
Is there adequate lighting to ensure safety in all areas of facility?     Yes    
How many hours per day, on average, are horses turned out:
    Equines are out 9 to 15 hours per day
    Equines are out 16+ hours per day
    Equines are out 24/7
    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
    Electric fencing is used; electric wires or tape fence are visibly marked
    Fencing checks, such as broken or missing planks, loose fence posts, exposed or loose nails, detached wires, etc., are done regularly
    Pastures are rotated
    Pastures have natural protection for equines (i.e., trees)
    Pastures have man-made protection for equines (i.e., shelters)

The following describes the turnout areas other than pastures at this facility:
    This facility has a written plan in place for the maintenance of turnout areas, which includes a schedule for cleaning, manure removal, and dragging
    A dedicated staff person(s) is responsible for the maintenance of turnout areas
    All turnout areas are fenced to prevent escape or injury
    Electric fencing is used; electric wires or tape fence are visibly marked
    Turnout areas have man-made protection for equines (i.e., shelters)
    Fencing checks, such as broken or missing planks, loose fence posts, exposed or loose nails, detached wires, etc., are done regularly

The following policies and procedures are in place at the facility to restrict public access and to keep horses safe:
    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
    By Appointment Only 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 property is fitted with a security system that is monitored internally by staff (or the property owner)

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Equine Care/Emergency Preparedness: The Dorset Equine 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?
    Onsite computer with onsite backup storage system
    Our organization utilizes a software application 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
    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
    Equines are fed grain in groups
    Staff and/or volunteers are trained in proper feed measurements and protocols and observed periodically to ensure they are feeding correctly
    The feed chart is centrally located and updated as needed
    The area(s) where hay, feed, grain, and supplements are stored are kept clean, free of debris and chemicals, and protected from weather and other animals in rodent-proof and mold-proof containers and grain bins
    Feed, supplements and hay types are clearly labeled
    Water sources, i.e., buckets, troughs, automatic waterers, etc. are kept clean, free of contaminants, debris and chemicals, protected from weather and other animals, and be positioned or affixed to minimize spillage.
    Medications are kept in a secure area

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

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

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

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

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

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

Additional information on biosecurity:
Manure is put in open piles and hauled away by a local farmer.

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
    Our organization adheres to the manure management guidelines set by the state, local authorities, and/or our organization's veterinarian

The following steps are taken to help staff and volunteers readily identify each horse on the property:
    Equines are assigned the same exclusive stall/shelter location each day
    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

Our organization has the following policies and procedures in place pertaining to tack, apparel and equipment:
    Saddles are shared
    Blankets, sheets and turn out apparel are fitted and utilized for each equine appropriate to the equine's needs and the weather conditions
    Blankets, sheets and turn out apparel are cleaned regularly as needed
    Tack is cleaned only when needed
    Tack is inspected for overall working condition before each use by trained personnel
    Tack is assessed for fit before each use by trained personnel
    Tack is assessed for fit by trained personnel when an equine's body condition changes
    Tack is assessed for fit by trained personnel when an equine's disposition changes
    This facility enlists the services of a professional saddle fitter at least once a year
    Assigned tack is clearly labeled
    Tack is stored in a climate-controlled location
    Helmets are cleaned/disinfected after each use
    Helmets are replaced after a fall
    Helmets are replaced at least every five years.

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Emergency Preparedness: The Dorset Equine 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)
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
    Fire
    Natural Disasters - thunderstorm, hurricanes, earthquakes, tornados, etc
    Protocols to notify emergency personnel
    Building/facility exit plans


The facility follows the specific procedures to help PREVENT emergency situations:
    Smoking is strictly prohibited
    NO SMOKING signs are posted prominently
    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

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

Equine Transportation: 2= Onsite: 1 (1 + 0) + Offsite: 1
2-horse van/trailer with truck:
    1 Access offsite;
3-horse van/trailer with truck:
    1 Owned onsite  0 Access onsite but not owned  
4-horse van/trailer with truck:
    
6-horse van/trailer with truck:
    
8-horse van/trailer with truck:
    
10-horse van/trailer with truck:
    

GOVERNANCE, MANAGEMENT & FINANCIAL REPORTING

Financial Reporting
Budget:  $500K to $1M
Equine Budget:   $250K to $500K
Month Fiscal Year Ends: 12
Type of Financial Reporting (Audit, Review, Compilation): Compilation
Type of IRS Filing (990, 990-EZ, 990-N): 990
View the IRS Form 990/Pro Forma 990

Governing Body:
Board meetings per year:  12
Number of Board Members:  7  Number of Voting Board Members:  7

Board Compensation:
Is the Board Chair compensated?  Yes  Is the Treasurer compensated?  No

Are there any other Voting Board Members that are compensated?  No
If yes, provide the name, title and responsibility of each VOTING Board member who is compensated:
The President/Founder, Jen Straub, is a paid staff member and receives a salary for her work (40+ hours a week). She also serves as the board chair in a volunteer capacity (she is not compensated for her Board duties). She is excused during any votes related to her salary and compensation and has signed a conflict of interest policy.

Board/Staff Relationships:
Are any members of the Board, Staff or Program Participants related to each other through family or business relationships? Yes
If yes, provide the name, title, responsibility and family/business relationship of each Board, Staff member and/or Program Participant.
The President/Founder, Jen Straub is married to a founding board member, Chip Straub. Chip serves as a board member and not an officer. He is not compensated and he is excused during voting of Jen's salary. He has signed a conflict of interest policy.

Board/Staff Affiliations:
Are any Board members providing services to your organization or compensated by your organization, or are any Board members or staff members associated with and/or compensated by another organization with a relationship or business affiliation to your organization? Yes
If yes, provide the name, title, responsibility and family/business relationship of each Board and/or Staff member, and the name of the related organization.
The President/Founder of the organization owns the main facility where programs are conducted.

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:  No licenses are required at the local, state or federal level.
     
     We are accredited as of September 2021 by the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries.

Organization documents available on our website:
    None

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

Staff & Volunteers:
Chief Staff Officer (CSO):  Jennifer Straub
Employees/Independent Contractors:   Full-Time:  3  Part-Time:  3  Volunteers:  20
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 provide parent/guardian information if applicable
    Staff and/or contractors have a written job description
    Staff and/or contractors are evaluated on an annual and as needed basis or with any change in their job description
    Staff and/or contractors are updated on all the organization's policies and procedures on an annual and as needed basis or with any change in policy or procedure
    Staff and/or contractors receive training that includes safety guidelines, confidentiality, equine handling, equine identification, and emergency procedures; additional training is job specific
    Staff and/or contractors have a supervisor and is responsible for keeping their supervisor up to date on work related activities
    The organization provides a handbook ((available either online or in print) to every member of the staff, including employees and/or independent contractors serving in staff positions;
    The handbook includes information, such as hours of work, vacation, sick leave, dress code, cell phone usage, and the protocol for dismissal
    The handbook is reviewed annually and updated
    One or more staff members or contractors are trained in equine first aid

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

Additional explanation regarding governance, staffing and volunteer practices or further explanation of the answers above.
Our 990 is available on Guidestar, we do not provide on our web site but it is available online at Guidestar and on request we will email/mail it.