MISSION & PROGRAMS

Mission:
Ride On St. Louis promotes health and enriches lives through love, joy and holistic healing. Our credentialed staff have met rigorous criteria and standards of practice in the field, demonstrating a deep understanding of disabilities, equines, teaching methodologies and human-animal interactions, to provide equestrian instruction and therapeutic value to people, by ethically partnering with specifically selected and conditioned equine athletes and companions. Our programs focus on facilitating function, integration, and or increasing overall wellness to benefit people with mild to medically complex health challenges, and ensure the optimal wellbeing of the equines in our care and service.

Our organization conducts Equine Assisted Services in accordance with the EQUUS Foundation Guidelines on Qualifications of Organizations Conducting Equine Assisted Services (EAS).
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 does not CURRENTLY use satellite, overflow, foster, and/or outreach facilities.

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:

Our horses are respected as highly valued sentient partners whose physical, mental, and emotional well-being is foundational to every aspect of our work. Their comfort, autonomy, and enjoyment are central to all programmatic decisions, and their participation in equine-assisted services is always guided by choice, suitability, and welfare. We are committed to developing and maintaining horses who thrive both personally and professionally, engaging only in activities they are well-suited for and genuinely enjoy. This commitment is essential to sustaining ethical, mutually beneficial human–equine interactions.
     
     Our equine care and welfare program ensures that all equines in the care of the organization, and all equines participating in programming, consistently receive: Continuous access to clean, fresh drinking water (via automatic waterers or manually cleaned and filled troughs), available at all times; Nutritious food in sufficient quantity, including high-quality forage through pasture grazing and/or hay, supplemented individually as needed; Routine and preventive veterinary, farrier, and dental care; Shelter and protection from inclement weather; Ample, safe space for free movement and; Opportunities for voluntary social interaction and contact with other equines.
     
     Equine care and program oversight are provided by formally trained equine professionals whose responsibilities include daily health and husbandry, conditioning and training, session handling, staff and volunteer education, and the implementation of all safety and welfare protocols related to equine participation.
     
     Our new Forever Home facility was intentionally designed to enhance equine comfort, safety, and freedom of movement. The barn layout promotes increased airflow, minimizes dust accumulation, and allows each horse unobstructed visual access to herd mates and barn activity, reducing isolation and supporting psychological security. Stalls are equipped with automatic waterers, individual fans for temperature regulation, and mounted scratching brushes. The facility and property layout supports effective pest management and includes thoughtfully designed fencing that provides both secure containment and access to varied, natural turnout environments.
     
     Horses have access to 11 acres of grass pasture combined, allowing them to move freely across terrain, seek shade under tree lines, access water and manmade shelter as needed, and benefit from natural airflow and mounted fans for fly control and cooling. These features work collectively to augment physical health, mental well-being, and daily opportunities for choice and comfort.
     
     Ride On St. Louis employs a structured evaluation and integration process to ensure that our human–equine interactions are respectful. Prospective equines undergo a comprehensive assessment including verbal, written, hands-on, and practical considerations and evaluations. Criteria include health, conformation, movement, demeanor, temperament, reliability, history, adaptability, and demonstrated willingness, as well as the physical and mental capacity to condition comfortably for service.
     
     All prospective horses complete a veterinary pre-purchase examination prior to an initial trial period. During this phase, horses are handled exclusively by no more than two staff trainers, who develop an individualized training and acclimation plan. Horses are gradually and freely introduced to potential stimuli (e.g. mobility aids, adaptive tack, sidewalkers, props, and mounting equipment) using rewards-based, positive reinforcement and behavior-shaping techniques. Training sessions range from 1 to 45 minutes and are customized to the individual horse. No horse is rushed, no predetermined agenda is imposed, and progression is dictated solely by the horse’s behavior, comfort, and feedback. We remain vigilant against learned helplessness in all contexts. Horses express both comfort and discomfort freely, participate voluntarily, and make choices throughout their routines. A horse’s willingness to engage must reflect genuine interest and comfort, never conditioned suppression of stress responses.
     
     Equine specialists continuously assess each horse’s willingness, engagement, and physiological responses, developing a nuanced understanding of individual preferences, boundaries, and strengths. Once acclimated, a horse may begin service with one or two carefully selected clients during a controlled introduction period. The assigned equine specialist remains the horse’s dedicated handler and observer, monitoring for positive indicators (e.g., relaxed posture, attentiveness, soundness, licking and chewing) as well as early signs of discomfort or distress (e.g., bracing, agitation, tail swishing, grimacing, uneven sweat patterns, withdrawal). We utilize formal observation tools like the Equine Discomfort Ethogram and the Ridden Horse Pain Ethogram to assess equine well-being. Any indicators of pain or stress prompt immediate reassessment, intervention, and, when necessary, a discharge from service.
     
     Each horse is carefully matched with clients and scheduled according to their unique physical and mental attributes to maintain an appropriate balance between human benefit and equine welfare. Contraindications to continued participation are addressed promptly through collaborative review by equine specialists and program leadership. We routinely ask, “What is the horse gaining through this interaction?” and allow that question to guide decisions. Horses are never scheduled for back-to-back sessions, and all programming adheres to a strict “prevention-before-pain” philosophy. Adjustments may include changes to health care, nutrition, tack, volunteer or client assignments, scheduling, or environmental conditions. Veterinary, chiropractic, dental, and other qualified professionals are engaged as needed.
     
     Horses who do not demonstrate fulfillment or suitability for services are respectfully discharged during trial, transitioned into our Always Home retirement program under full organizational care, or in rare and carefully considered circumstances, placed into appropriate homes with knowledgeable equestrians where they may thrive in alternative, suitable lifestyles.
     
     Our herd is managed by senior staff with formal training, professional experience, and ongoing continuing education. Ancillary caretaking staff receive individualized instruction, ongoing evaluation, and adhere to detailed protocols governing water access, feeding, turnout, injury identification, environmental safety, fly and weather protection, and emergency response.
     
     Clean water is available at all times through large troughs and auto-fill stall waterers maintained daily. Horses receive ample daily turnout as a herd to support social interaction and natural behaviors, and are stalled individually overnight for rest and safety. Horses are not stalled for extended periods unless medically necessary or during emergency situations. In addition to pasture grazing, horses are fed individually twice daily in designated stalls, with feed, forage, and supplements tailored to their specific nutritional needs. Pastures and paddocks are routinely rotated and maintained to ensure safe footing, space, and access to natural forage.
     
     Shelter is available at all times with weather protection adjusted seasonally and medically. Veterinary, farrier, and dental services are scheduled for preventive and wellness care. Future facility enhancements, including outdoor arena footing, are planned with equine comfort and safety as guiding priorities.
     
     We recognize that human–equine activities inherently carry the potential for unintended welfare impacts. Ride On St. Louis maintains an equine-centered philosophy grounded in evidence-based practice, continuing education, and adaptive management. Our team regularly reviews and updates care protocols and curriculum to reflect evolving best practices in equine welfare science.
     
     We apply the Five Freedoms of animal welfare while also incorporating more contemporary models that address the complexity of equine emotional, social, and environmental needs. Horses remain in service for as long or as briefly as suits them as individuals and receive the same high standard of care and respect at every stage of their lives: trial candidate, active partner, or retired herd member.
     
     Although industry norms often cite an average service life of five to ten years for equine-assisted services horses, many Ride On St. Louis horses exceed these expectations. Through thoughtful selection, individualized care plans, careful workload management, and unwavering attention to physical and emotional well-being, several of our equine partners have contributed happily and healthfully for decades—an outcome we view as a direct reflection of our ethical, horse-centered model. Ride On St. Louis maintains comprehensive policies addressing equine selection, health and behavior monitoring, opt-out and discharge procedures, safety, emergency response, training, and individualized program alignment. Staff have the authority to remove horses from program participation at any time. Our approach to equine-assisted services is deliberate, responsive, and compassionate, to support meaningful outcomes for people through genuine, respectful partnerships with the horses who serve alongside us.

Equine Assisted Services (EAS) Overview:
Overview of our programs involved with providing EAS to individuals with special needs:
     Unmounted Activities with Barn Buddies is a skills-based program offering in-depth equine education, hands-on application, and structured accountability for individuals with disabilities, health-related challenges, or life-impacting hardships. The program is designed to build practical competencies rooted in the equine industry while supporting personal growth, confidence, and wellness. Participants engage in both study and performance-based learning across essential equine care and barn management domains, including husbandry, safe handling, grooming, sanitation and facility management, basic first aid, record keeping, and team-based work practices. Instruction emphasizes accuracy, consistency, and responsibility, mirroring real-world equine industry expectations. The primary goal of the program is to support participants in identifying, relating to, and achieving individualized personal objectives connected to skill development, recovery from accident or injury, adaptive coping strategies, and overall wellness improvement. Through this process, participants develop the knowledge, confidence, and practical ability to meaningfully assist with daily equine care and operational needs at Ride On St. Louis. Typical participants are adults who have previous professional or vocational experience and are experiencing difficulty returning to prior employment or meeting current job demands; individuals developing new vocational skills or rebuilding existing ones; and those who are able to perform barn-related tasks independently once competency has been demonstrated. All participants remain under direct staff supervision until individualized levels of proficiency, safety awareness, and reliability are clearly established. Participants are expected to be able to transport themselves to and from the facility. Instruction is primarily delivered in a one-to-one format to allow for individualized pacing, adaptation, and goal alignment. When appropriate, instruction may be provided in small groups of up to three participants to support collaborative learning while maintaining close staff oversight.
     
     Unmounted Activities with Sports Horsemanship provides structured, unmounted equestrian instruction for individuals who are seeking comprehensive education in horsemanship and equine care. Clients engage in purposeful activities that emphasize safe, ethical handling of horses and foundational equestrian practices essential to responsible equine interaction. Instruction supports the development of equestrian skills to the fullest extent of each participant’s abilities. Lessons address core topics including equine behavior and communication, basic anatomy, grooming and tack use, physical and mental health considerations, safe handling procedures, and overall foundational horsemanship. Through progressive, hands-on learning, participants gain a meaningful understanding of the equestrian world and develop confidence, competence, and connection with horses. This program is designed to expand access to equestrian education for individuals who might otherwise be excluded from traditional equestrian instruction due to physical, sensory, or health-related limitations. Typical participants range from adolescents through older adults with mild to moderate health conditions or diagnoses.
     
     Unmounted Activities with Helping Hands is an adaptive, community-integrated program created by Ride On St. Louis in collaboration with Pony Bird to advance personal development, social inclusion, and self-efficacy among individuals with disabilities. Designed for adults with a wide spectrum of support needs, the program provides meaningful engagement within a working barn environment, cultivating responsibility, teamwork, and self-worth through experiential activities and voluntary service. Participants attend in small, chaperoned groups to engage in tailored volunteer activities at the Ride On St. Louis facility. While tasks such as stable tidiness and equipment cleaning serve as the functional framework, the program’s core objectives are developmental and educational. Participants learn how their volunteer efforts directly support equine health and well-being, gaining an understanding of the essential role each task plays in horse care and barn operations. A key component of the program is intentional equine interaction paired with hands-on learning. For example, participants frequently clean and organize grooming tools while learning the purpose of each item, how it contributes to equine care and hygiene, and practicing appropriate use with staff guidance. Learning is scaffolded to support individual abilities while promoting accountability and pride in contribution. Through these experiences, participants deepen their understanding of equine care, safety, and respectful interaction, reinforcing the connection between their work and positive outcomes for the horses. The Helping Hands program model is deliberately inclusive and highly adaptive. Credentialed staff with experience in equine-assisted services and disability support oversee each session, providing chore design, individualized instruction, direct supervision, and functional adaptation of tasks. Lightweight or modified tools, adaptive carts, and environmental supports are used to increase accessibility and reduce barriers to participation. All activities, goals, and individual outcomes are documented. Helping Hands represents a meaningful opportunity for individuals with disabilities to serve as active contributors within their community and develop transferable life skills.
     
     Unmounted Activities with R.I.S.E. is a multi-day equine-assisted services program developed by Ride On St. Louis in collaboration with the Missouri Department of Corrections to support the well-being of veterans, correctional officers, and first responders serving in high-stress environments. The program provides intentional space for rest, reflection, and renewal through structured engagement with horses and the equine environment. R.I.S.E. is designed to offer participants a temporary pause from the demands of their professional roles, allowing them to reconnect with themselves and others in a calm, natural setting. Participants engage in guided, unmounted equine-assisted activities, outdoor learning, and facilitated discussions centered on presence and equine behavior. These experiences are intentionally paced to promote stillness, self-awareness, and restoration for individuals experiencing the cumulative effects of occupational stress, including correctional officers, first responders, veterans, and others in high-responsibility or high-risk professions. By prioritizing opportunities for reflection, skill-building, and meaningful social interaction in a restorative environment, R.I.S.E. revitalizes both mind and body. The program is not performance-based and carries no expectations beyond participation; rather, it offers a respectful, supportive space where individuals are invited to engage at their own pace and leave with strengthened connections, practical insight, and a renewed sense of well-being.
     
     Comment (2025–2026):
     Following the six-year campaign for the relocation of our center due to recurrent flooding, the Ride On St. Louis Board of Directors has continued to intentionally limit overall program volume during ongoing phased development of our new property. This strategic approach allows staff who maintain multifaceted roles across equine care, program delivery, development, and fundraising, the capacity necessary to advance critical infrastructure projects, steward equine welfare, and ensure operational stability.
     
     We are working towards several essential infrastructure priorities that are foundational to safe, accessible, and sustainable programming and operations. These include paved parking, upgrading the outdoor area into an arena and adding footing, construction of an elevated deck to support services and future mounting and dismounting needs, full renovation of an operations storehouse, final property acquisition, and completion of remaining fencing installation. Addressing these elements requires dedicated planning, fundraising, and implementation time, and remains a necessary focus during this phase. In 2025, Ride On St. Louis successfully launched new initiatives, including R.I.S.E. and Helping Hands, demonstrating our continued commitment to meaningful service delivery while building responsibly for the future. As we move through 2025 and into 2026, we are refining operational procedures and adapting to the unique logistics of the new property.

Equine Assisted Services (EAS) and Providers:
Our organization provides the following Equine Assisted Services (EAS):
    Adaptive/Therapeutic Unmounted Horsemanship

1: Total number of Equine Assisted Service Providers at Ride On St. Louis, Forever Home

     1 Marita Wassman, ATRI, CTRI

         FACILITY PARTICIPATION:

         Ride On St. Louis, Forever Home

         RELATIONSHIP: Employee

         SERVICES PROVIDED:

         Adaptive/Therapeutic Unmounted Horsemanship

         DEGREES, LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS

         Marita Wassman serves as the CEO and co-founder of Ride On St. Louis and is a Credentialed Advanced Therapeutic Riding Instructor through the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International (PATH). As a PATH Mentor and the organization’s lead for equine management, Wassman brings four decades of equine-assisted service experience and more than 46 years of professional involvement across multiple equestrian industries.

Wassman’s equestrian foundation was shaped through training and work with renowned professionals and facilities across the country, including Liz Young Millard of the 1968 U.S. Olympic Equestrian Team, Otis Brown Stables, Pecan Tree Stables, and the LePere Thoroughbred Training Center. Her professional expertise spans hunter/jumper, dressage, and thoroughbred breeding, foaling, breaking, and exercise conditioning, as well as the development of curriculum-based riding programs for youth and adults of all abilities.

In her role as CEO, Wassman guides the agency’s strategic direction, oversees financial and operational performance, leads fundraising and program development, and cultivates community partnerships in support of Ride On St. Louis’ mission and founding values. She is an active member of PATH Intl. and the American Hippotherapy Association and holds certification as an Applied Whole Horse Hoof-Care trimmer.

Overview of our programs involved with providing outreach and/or public education programs involving horses:
     Ride On St. Louis has relationships through research efforts, programming, education and outreach program partnerships with the exceptional institutions of Washington University School of Medicine Program in Occupational Therapy, Variety the Children's Charity of St. Louis, Research Center for Human Animal Interaction, Mizzou College of Veterinary Medicine, St. Margaret Mary Alacoque Parish and School, St. Pius X Highschool, Maryville University, St. Louis University, Pony Bird residential care facility, and other organized groups. Staff and equine ambassadors present topics of equine-assisted services through on-site tours, volunteer/community service programs, and off-site visits to schools, businesses, community events and other institutes to educate, bring awareness to, and inspire passions for horses, equine-assisted services, and helping others.
     
     Ride On St. Louis is a hosting site for a local parish school immersive faith and service activity. Through this collaboration Ride On St. Louis gives students preparing for their confirmation in the Catholic Church an important opportunity to engage in their community through learning, volunteering and discovery of new experiences. All youth have strengths and can contribute positively. Their time at Ride On St. Louis engages students emotionally, cognitively, and physically and inspires them to seek out projects and causes they are passionate about at this important life-stage. Through our participation we foster positive youth development to involve young people within their communities, schools, organizations, peer groups, and families in a manner that recognizes, utilizes, and enhances youths’ strengths. This outreach promotes positive outcomes by providing opportunities, fostering positive relationships, and adding to the support needed to build on character, values, and moral formation.
     
     Ride On St. Louis offers volunteer opportunities for all ages and abilities, for individuals, groups, scout troops, businesses, etc. Other specific volunteer activities may include academic students volunteering to fulfill community service projects, undergraduate experiential studies, and graduate practicums. Program volunteers who assist during sessions may receive 21+ hours of free educational training in safety and confidentiality, horsemanship and or disability best practices through Ride On St. Louis’s specific training courses. No-cost training sessions may include Program Volunteer Training, Leader Trainings I-IV, Advanced Leader Training, and Equine Caretaking Basics. Those interested may also observe and assist (if appropriate) during visits from the veterinarian, chiropractor, body worker, dentist, trimmer, and other equine professionals. Additional opportunities to observe or shadow equine-assisted services and or equine specialized care visits may be scheduled.
     
     All offerings and activities are scheduled and documented.

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 on trial for 60 or more days
    The trial period may be reduced based on the equine's progress
    During the trial period, the organization accepts total financial responsibility for the care of the equine, including board, feed, shoeing and any necessary veterinary care
    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
    The trial period may be terminated by either the organization or the owner for any reason

Upon intake, the organization has the following quarantine policy in place:
    The equine is confined to a designated and separate area for isolation and quarantine at the facility for a prescribed period of time

The typical length of quarantine is:   10 to 20 days

Following arrival of the equine at the facility, the following is performed:
    Physical examination to include temperature, pulse and respiration by a trained staff member upon arrival
    A Henneke Body Conditioning Score or other body conditioning score is assigned by a trained staff member 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

Horses are assessed for following skills and behaviors:
    Retrieval from a pasture/paddock
    Leading with a halter and lead rope
    Temperament, disposition and attitude, such as rated from very calm to very high spirited
    Saddling
    Bridling
    Lunging
    Loading onto and unloading off a trailer
    Mounting and dismounting
    Riding at the walk
    Riding at the trot
    Riding at the canter
    Riding by a beginner and/or unbalanced rider
    Tolerance to unusual objects and loud noises
    Known vices, i.e., cribbing, biting, kicking, weaving, stall walking, etc
    Grooming
    Bathing
    Tolerance to multiple handlers at the same time

Our organization has the following policies and procedures in place pertaining to the ongoing assessment of horses in its care:
    The Henneke Body Condition score or other body conditioning score is updated at least annually by a trained staff member
    Photographs are taken of each equine 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

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):   As needed; no set schedule

Additional information about our intake, assessment & training policies and practices:
We have not taken a horse on trial or acquired a new horse at our center for several years. Intakes have received a physical exam conducted by our veterinarian prior to arrival at the facility, included in the pre-purchase examination (PPE), as well as a chip scan, health record, or Coggins (as required). Our veterinarian conducts the PPE before a new horse is hauled onto our property; this examination takes place at the seller’s location (home, boarding facility, or current place of care). If the sale or transfer proceeds, the horse is then transported to our facility. Therefore, a veterinarian is not present at the time of arrival, as the PPE has already been completed in advance.
     
     Prior to or following arrival, vaccinations (as required/recommended) are delivered in accordance with state and regional requirements and as recommended by our veterinarian, and a fecal test is administered followed by de-worming protocols if recommended. Upon arrival, a trained staff member conducts a physical examination including temperature, heart rate, and respiration. Typical on-site quarantine is a minimum of 14 days with an average of 21 days.
     
     The trial period, when utilized, takes place at Ride On St. Louis following arrival at our facility. Separate contracts are established for each horse on trial, which may specify terms related to payment, transfer, trial duration, veterinary costs, hauling, and conditions under which a horse may be returned or discharged during the trial period.
     
     Physical examination by a veterinarian is performed as needed. Our veterinarian is scheduled for an annual dental exam, and all non-immediate questions and concerns are discussed at that time. A physical exam may be conducted at that time if necessary. All other veterinarian visits are scheduled as needed.
     
     Formal training is scheduled specific to the individual horse. Frequency, duration, and intent vary. Mounted and ground-driving exercises are in frequent as we work toward establishing a safe and appropriate arena with proper grading, footing, and fencing. We have begun necessary excavation work to ensure a stable and secure training environment, which is currently grass. Future plans include proper outdoor arena footing and the addition of dressage rails (within the already established fenced area). In the meantime, each horse continues to receive ongoing mental conditioning, enrichment, and positive behavior shaping. We continuously monitor their mental and physical conditions and tailor activities and program involvement accordingly to maintain their well-being. All equine involvement is thoughtfully assigned based on each horse’s current fitness and appropriateness for participation. Once the arena is fully prepared, mounted and or ground driven training (on lunge or long lines) will resume at an appropriate level on a structured schedule.
     
     Each horse in our care is evaluated for weight-carrying and workload limitations, regardless of the extent of their involvement in our programs. Some equines may or may not be ridden by qualified trainers and exercisers if it is suitable for that equine’s health, conditioning and training needs, but Ride On St. Louis does not currently offer or provide mounted programming for client services. Mounted client services are planned to resume following infrastructure improvements and needed construction.
     
     Sidewalker training includes components that would incorporate a mounted horse, either by volunteers and or staff, with respect to the equine’s carry-weight limit. Each potential sidewalker in training completes a liability and release waiver. We did not offer Sidewalker training with mounted components in 2025 due to our relocation. Ride On St. Louis currently utilizes portions of our Sidewalker training and Sidewalker training manual to train unmounted safety and best practices for volunteers and staff in roles outside the scope of Sidewalker.

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.
    The main facility where our organization conducts its programs does NOT breed equines.

POLICIES: EUTHANASIA

The organization has the following policies related to euthanasia:
    Our organization will never have an equine euthanized for space
    Our organization will have an equine euthanized upon the recommendation of the veterinarian 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

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 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 remain at our organization for their lifetimes
    Equines may be found suitable homes by our organization
    Equines may be returned to their owners
    In the case an equine is unmanageable and demonstrates repeated dangerous behaviors, the equine may be euthanized upon the recommendation of the veterinarian
    In the case an equine is unsound and/or unhealthy and cannot be treated to relieve suffering, the equine may be euthanized upon the recommendation of the veterinarian
    The organization will accept financial responsibility for equines in the current care of the organization that need to be retired or are no longer able to contribute to the mission of the organization if all alternatives have been explored to find the equine an appropriate placement and space is not available for the equine to remain at the organization.

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, the adopter must grant the organization first right of refusal prior to the equine being placed into the possession of any individual or organization intending to take possession of the equine for any reason.
    The agreement states that should the adopter decide to re-home the equine, our organization must be notified of the name, address, and telephone number of any individual or organization intending to take possession of the equine for any reason prior to the equine being placed into the possession of such individual or organization.
    The agreement states that should the adopter decide to re-home the equine, our organization must grant approval of any individual or organization intending to take possession of the equine for any reason prior to the equine being placed into the possession of such individual or organization, including being provided written notification of the name, address, and telephone number of any individual or organization intending to take possession of the equine for any reason.
    The agreement states that the terms of our organization's agreement will be binding on any future individual or organization taking and/or in possession of the equine for any reason.
    The agreement states that re-homed equines cannot be bred
    The agreement states that our organization reserves the right to make scheduled visits

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:
None received

Additional information about our rehoming policies and practices:
Horses generally remain at our facility and in our care while they are on-trial, training, actively serving, and retired from services. If a horse is being leased, he may return to his owner after he has been discharged from the program. In the past, some horses have been permanently retired to equine retirement home in Columbia, MO. Since 2020, our retired horses have entered into Ride On St. Louis's permanent retirement program Always Home, and remain on our property and in our care for the remainder of their life. In extremely rare cases, horses that our equine management team have determined unsuited to equine-assisted services, but may be suited for other careers or activities, are re-homed to appropriate individuals and or organizations with vetted and qualified owners/staff, caretaking protocol, and riders/trainers. Price is subject to vary with each individual case. New owners may sell the horse under circumstances outlined in our contract. Ride On St. Louis retains first right of refusal to re-possess the Equine, and a price from $0-TBD will be negotiated between both parties. If ownership is transferred, Ride On St. Louis will approve the transfer prior to the sale or transfer, and the subsequent owner will complete a copy of the Agreement, and be bound by the terms. Ride On St. Louis has never permitted and will never permit an equine to be sold, transferred, released, or placed in the possession of any individual or entity that could result in the horse being sent to auction for slaughter. Agreement also states that mares shall not be kept in proximity to a stud or non-gelded equine, either by accident or purposefully. Mares will not be transferred to an Adopter whose facility has a stud or non-gelded equine residence.

EQUINE CARE & SHELTER/FACILITY INFORMATION

Our organization does not CURRENTLY use satellite, overflow, foster, and/or outreach facilities.

Total facilities at which our organization cares for and shelters horses used in our programs: 1

---

Ride On St. Louis, Forever Home
9000 Grab Ln Hillsboro MO 63050
Currently operational
Total number of horses/equines currently involved with your programs, under your care, and/or owned by your organization at this facility: 4
Total number of horses at this facility NOT INCLUDING those counted above: 0
Maximum capacity of horses at this facility: 6

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 Jefferson County Animal Control Center 4848 State Hwy 30, House Springs, MO 63051 Phone: 636-797-5577 jcanimal@jeffcomo.org

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

Total number of Equine Assisted Service Providers AT THIS FACILITY, including instructors, specialists, therapists, counselors, coaches and/or facilitators (full-time, part-time, volunteer, independent contractors, and/or providers accompanying clients) that conduct Equine Assisted Services (EAS) in accordance with the EQUUS Foundation Guidelines on Qualifications of Organizations Conducting Equine Assisted Services (EAS) AT THIS FACILITY:  1

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

     1. Marita Wassman, ATRI, CTRI

Equines moved to this facility on February 10th, 2025.

Security: Ride On St. Louis plans to install security cameras in each stall, allowing for remote internal horse monitoring. A full-time caretaker resides on-site, just 60 feet from the barn, and is available for overnight care/checks.

Gates & Fencing: Active turnouts, pastures, and paddock fencing and gates are fully secured. The property is fully enclosed by a three-rail post and wire fence, except at the main entrance drive on the remote side of the property. Ride On St. Louis is actively fundraising to install an electric-assisted security gate at this entrance to fully enclose the perimeter.

Pastures & Arena Development: The fencing includes a 6-acre grass pasture a 0.5-acre sacrifice lot/paddock/outdoor arena with a 30-ft overhang for shelter, an a 4-acre grass pasture to allow for seasonal rotation. Future plans for the arena include upgrading outdoor footing from dirt/grass, and adding either safety railing and or dressage arena fencing. A three-sided run-in shed is planned for the 6-acre pasture, with installation to be determined. A mounting deck with a ramp and designated platforms for three distinct safe-interaction areas has been partially achieved. The deck and ramp were completed in fall 2025, with remaining portions scheduled for completion in spring 2026. Our programs are currently unmounted and operate in our barn and in the .5-acre area.

Horse Care & Facilities: Physical and visual checks are performed twice daily, at minimum, by a qualified staff member/caretaker. All horses are barefoot and receive trims every 1-2 weeks to better mimic natural wear. Fly- and pest-repellent plants will be planted around the barn once excavation and fencing projects are completed. Some equines are not ridden. We use temporary chalk labeling for stall identification. The portal response has been revised to reflect this. Heaters are only in use during daytime hours when staff are present and operating on the premises. Manure piles are composted and NOT spread on pastures.

Hay Storage & Future Plans: Hay is stored in a separate, attached building (former hog shelter). Future plans are being developed to renovate this area.

---

Veterinarian Information: Ride On St. Louis, Forever Home (*Main) Currently operational

Veterinarian: Dr. Jeffery Knibb
Clinic Name: Westover Ridge Equine Partners
PO Box 376
Union   MO   63084
Phone: 636-227-7880

---

Grounds: Ride On St. Louis, Forever Home (*Main) Currently operational
Total acreage dedicated specifically to the horses: 27
Our organization has use of the following at this facility:
Structures/Barns: 1  Run-in sheds: 0
Pastures: 2  Paddocks/Pens/Turnout Areas: 1
Uncovered Outdoor Rings: 0  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?    Yes    
How many hours per day, on average, are horses stalled or restricted to these sheltered exclusive shelter locations? 9-12
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

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)

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
    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 mechanism in place to monitor equines overnight
    By Appointment Only signs are posted.
    Hold Harmless signs are posted
    Authorized Personnel Only signs are posted
    Visitors are only permitted at specific times
    Visitors are only permitted in specific areas

---

Equine Care/Emergency Preparedness: Ride On St. Louis, Forever Home (*Main) 2026 and 2025 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
    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
    Feed plans are determined in consultation with a veterinarian
    Equines are fed grain in individual stalls
    Staff and/or volunteers are trained in proper feed measurements and protocols and observed periodically to ensure they are feeding correctly
    The feed chart is centrally located and updated as needed
    The area(s) where hay, feed, grain, and supplements are stored are kept clean, free of debris and chemicals, and protected from weather and other animals in rodent-proof and mold-proof containers and grain bins
    Feed, supplements and hay types are clearly labeled
    Water sources, i.e., buckets, troughs, automatic waterers, etc. are kept clean, free of contaminants, debris and chemicals, protected from weather and other animals, and be positioned or affixed to minimize spillage.
    Medications are kept in a secure area

Is clean, potable water available at all times for all equines?     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
    Feed Through Products
    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
    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 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:
Ride On St. Louis maintains a closed herd: No outside horses are allowed on the property unless undergoing quarantine procedures and are properly vetted. Thorough cleaning and disinfection of surfaces, equipment, and stalls/barn is performed regularly and outlined in our written daily maintenance and biosecurity plan. Hand sanitizers are available at the barn entrance and at the (feed and tool) storage entrance off the barn.

The following represent the manure removal practices in place at facility:
    Manure is piled in an area where equines are not located
    Manure is hauled, sold or given away
    Manure piles are composted or spread on pastures
    Our organization adheres to the manure management guidelines set by the state, local authorities, and/or our organization's veterinarian

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
    Equines wear halters with nametags
    A notebook or binder with photos and information on each equine is easily accessible
    A map/diagram is posted showing the location of each equine with equine names and photos
    Equine photos and profiles are available on the website
    Staff and volunteers are provided with an information packet with equine profiles, including photos and detailed descriptions
    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:
    All equines have specifically assigned apparel, equipment and tack (saddles/bridles if ridden) that is not shared
    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
    Riding Tack is always cleaned after each use
    Riding Tack is inspected for overall working condition before each use by trained personnel
    Riding Tack is assessed for fit before each use by trained personnel
    Riding Tack is assessed for fit by trained personnel when an equine's body condition changes
    Riding Tack is assessed for fit by trained personnel when an equine's disposition changes
    Assigned riding tack is clearly labeled
    Helmets are cleaned/disinfected after each use

---

Emergency Preparedness: Ride On St. Louis, Forever Home: *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
    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
    Power outages
    Fire
    Natural Disasters - thunderstorm, hurricanes, earthquakes, tornados, etc
    Terrorist attacks
    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: Annually
Smoke detectors are checked: Annually
Fence lines are checked: Daily
Turnout Areas are checked: Daily
Sprinkler systems are checked: Not at all/NA
Fire drills are conducted: Semi-annually
Review of safety protocols with staff are conducted: Semi-annually
Review of safety protocols with volunteers are conducted: Semi-annually
The Emergency Preparedness Plan is reviewed and updated: Annually

Equine Transportation: 6= Onsite: 1 (1 + 0) + Offsite: 5
2-horse van/trailer with truck:
    3 Access offsite;
3-horse van/trailer with truck:
    1 Owned onsite  2 Access offsite;