EQUUS Foundation

MISSION & PROGRAMS

Mission:
Our mission: To rescue, rehabilitate, and retrain horses facing neglect or abuse and provide them with the best opportunity for a permanent home and a lifetime of safety.

Our organization provides programs involved with equine rescue & adoption
Our organization provides outreach and/or public education programs involving horses.
Our organization is directly responsible for the care and shelter of equines involved in our programs.
100% of our total programs and services are equine-related.

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

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:
SAFE began the year with an unusually high number of horses, having taken in 27 horses seized by Pierce County Animal Control in late 2022. We were able to place 13 of those horses early in 2023, which gave us back the ability to respond to intake requests again.

     Over the course of the year, we took in 22 horses, including a group of 6 untouchable mares and a stallion from a neglect situation in Pierce County. SAFE has earned a reputation of being the go-to rescue for difficult, troubled horses through the success of our Horsemanship program. All of the effort we put into gentling, handling, and training each of our horses means that more horses are gaining the skills they need to stay out of the rescue pipeline and stay safe.

     Twenty-two SAFE horses were adopted in 2023, and the updates we get from their adopters indicate that these horses are doing great in their new lives. Our Alumni program gained new leaders in 2023, and the committee has greatly increased the number of in-person site visits with our adopted horses, with the goal of seeing all of our in-state alumni before the end of the year.

     We had another record-breaking year in terms of donations in 2023. Our gross earnings exceeded $1 million dollars. We have been able to grow our emergency cash reserves to over $750k, giving us stability and security in the face of potential natural disasters, economic downturns, or unexpected events like the pandemic.

     Goals for 2024 include:
     • Changing the perception of rescued horses as “broken” or somehow less than other horses
     • Getting more recognition for our horsemanship program and the well-trained horses we are offering for adoption
     • Continuing to build a strong, engaged, and diverse Board of Directors with a full membership of twelve individuals, with robust recruitment and effective onboarding of new members
     • Developing a program to de-stigmatize humane euthanasia, and help people see it as a kindness we can do for horses lacking quality of life

     Most of these goals will require us to improve our public relations and social media skills. Creating the content is the easy part. The challenge is getting it in front of people. Fortunately, there is a wealth of talent within our volunteer pool, so success is a matter of finding the right people and giving them ownership of these important tasks.

     This leads directly into the question of sustainability, with a very similar answer. Long term success for SAFE will result from bringing people from our volunteer pool into management roles, so they can learn from those of us doing the work now and be prepared to take over when we retire. We have already created detailed documentation of our work processes, and these are updated as we improve our horsekeeping practices. Our Board of Directors has recently reviewed and revised SAFE’s Succession Plan, which helped them start to think about what would happen if their Executive Director were not here to keep everything moving along smoothly. Sustainability has been a priority for SAFE for a number of years, and we will continue to plan, prepare, and fine-tune our processes to achieve that goal.

Please describe what steps your organization takes to ensure that:
1) the 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:

Interactions between humans and equines at SAFE are conducted with the utmost respect for the comfort and dignity of the horses in our care. Most of our horses come to us after suffering severe neglect, abuse, or starvation. Newcomers are housed in quiet and safe areas of the farm where they can always see other horses and they can get relaxation and rest. Once horses have fully recovered from neglect or abuse, they are brought into our horsemanship program. There they are given a solid education, using training methods pioneered by Buck Brannaman, Ray Hunt, and Tom Dorrance. Horses are taught to move away from pressure and not feel “stuck” which helps them gain confidence and feel more secure. They are taught boundaries – not by domination but by demonstrating that the desired behavior means that pressure goes away. They are always given the opportunity to find the right answer, and the smallest amount of “try” is rewarded with a release. Horses in our horsemanship program work on their own schedule: however long it takes it how long it takes. If all you get in a session is one tiny improvement or change, then that session is a success. Some of our horses cannot be ridden due to obvious physical or age-related issues, but others let us know in subtle ways that they are unable to tolerate more challenging levels of work. These horses become companions, and we find them homes where they can be happy and well cared for as pets and friends. But even our companions are given a solid education so that they can be safe and pleasant to be around. This is the best way we know to ensure that they will never end up back in the rescue pipeline.

     Horses at SAFE receive the very best of care. With three volunteer shifts every day of the week, our horses have clean drinking water, clean paddocks or stalls, nutritious hay to eat, and whatever they require in terms of grain and nutritional supplements every day. They are seen once a year by the vet for routine annual checkups including vaccinations and dental care, and if they display any signs of illness, injury, or lameness, we’ll have the vet out to figure out what is wrong. The majority of our horses are kept barefoot, and they are trimmed by a farrier every 5-6 weeks. Horses spend every day outside in paddocks and pastures where they have shelters to protect them from the sun or the rain, and sufficient space to move around and interact with their paddock mates. Most of our horses also participate in horsemanship sessions 3-5 days per week where they are either ridden or worked in a round pen for exercise, education, and stimulation. Our older horses are hand walked around the property by volunteers who have been trained to handle them safely, and many of our horses are groomed by volunteers daily as well. We are always striving to improve their quality of life in any way we can, and our annual budget reflects this. We have the financial stability and support to be able to do things like diagnostic vet care or minor surgical procedures when its appropriate. We also have a palliative care program so we can provide the care necessary to keep older horses healthy and comfortable with an understanding that heroic measures will not be taken to extend these horses’ lives. And we will not hesitate to humanely euthanize a horse that is in severe pain or distress.

     SAFE’s horses receive the absolute best care from hardworking staff and volunteers who love and respect them, and who will always put the horses’ best interests first.

Equine Transition Services:
Overview of our programs involved with rescue, rehabilitation, retraining, re-homing and/or retirement:
     Since 2005, Save a Forgotten Equine (SAFE) has been rescuing and rehabilitating horses that have been starved, neglected, abused or are unwanted. We have formal agreements in place with Animal Control agencies in King, Pierce, and Snohomish counties to support their fight to protect horses in this region. SAFE also provides assistance to horse owners struggling to care for their animals in the current economy.

     SAFE is deeply committed to its rescued horses. We have extensive experience in equine rehabilitation and have successfully brought many neglected horses back from the brink of starvation. All of our horses are provided with routine vet care, dental care, vaccinations, and farrier care. Once a horse has been successfully rehabilitated, we carefully evaluate them to discover their strengths and suitabilities, and we provide many of these horses with professional training to help ensure them a safe and productive future. While at SAFE, horses receive a lot of personal attention and handling. Our rideable horses are worked on a regular basis by our on-staff trainer and by qualified volunteer riders under her supervision.

     Once a horse is ready for a permanent home, SAFE undertakes a rigorous screening process to find the ideal placement. We carefully review applications, check references, and conduct site visits, with the goal of finding a long-term home that will benefit both horse and adopter. After a horse is placed into its forever home, annual follow-up visits are conducted to ensure the animal’s continued well-being and SAFE will take a horse back if its adopter can’t continue to care for it.

     Despite our years of success helping horses in the local area, SAFE remains a small, modest organization that operates on a shoestring budget and works hard to make every penny count. We rely on public donations to pay the majority of our operating expenses. The funds we raise are used to feed, house, care for and train our horses…essentially paying for everything needed to ensure them a safe and productive future. We have minimal management expenses, and only five paid full time employees. The heart of SAFE is our volunteers — from our Board of Directors to the more than 150 volunteers who handle the day to day care of the horses — an incredible group of people who believe in SAFE’s mission and give the best of their talents and energy to make it succeed.

Outreach and/or Public Education:

Overview of our programs involved with providing outreach and/or public education programs involving horses:
     Our Community Outreach Program offers short term assistance to horse owners facing difficulties caring for their horses. We will provide up to three months of hay and vet vouchers to owners who can demonstrate a reasonable plan to improve their situation. We also offer no-questions asked gelding vouchers, and through our Serenity Fund, we will assist with the costs of humane euthanasia and removal.

     For 2023, SAFE sponsored a Community Hay Bank to help horse owners who are struggling to feed their animals due to the COVID-19 crisis. This hay bank was created in 2020 following the start of the pandemic.

     Our Mayday Program is designed to help with emergency dispersal of large herds of neglected or abandoned horses.

     We are developing a formal program of public education through short videos that show our way of caring for our horses. These videos are available on our YouTube channel.

     Our Level Up Program for volunteers helps them learn more about horse care, vet care, and horsemanship, earning certification at each level. We encourage people who are new to horse ownership to take part in our volunteer program prior to adopting a horse, so they can get a better idea of what is involved with caring for a horse.

Research/Medical Use of Equines:
Our organization has never made, and would not ever consider making, equines available for research studies or medical training that involves invasive procedures and/or that which may cause pain or suffering to the equine.

Religious Affiliation:
Our organization does not promote religious education, religious purposes, or a specific religious faith or use donations for religious education or religious purposes; require participants to be of a certain faith; require participation in religious, instruction, activities or services; or require participation in prayer, worship, religious instruction or other religious activities as a condition of receiving social or secular services offered.

Auction Donation:
Our organization has never allowed, or would not consider allowing, an equine to be sold, transferred, released, or otherwise placed into possession of any person or organization that would cause or allow the equine to be sold at auction for slaughter.

Our Programs/Activities that are not equine-related and/or involving animals other than equines:
SAFE does not have non-horse related programs.

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 completes an application/contract which constitutes the agreement between the owner and our organization when the equine is acquired from the equine's owner other than by purchase from an auction or kill pen, or by seizure or by abandonment
If health records are not available or are out-of-date, our veterinarian will administer appropriate vaccinations

Not Checked:
    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 is financially responsible for the shipping of the equine to and from the organization
    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

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

The typical length of quarantine is:   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 trained staff member upon arrival
    A Henneke Body Conditioning Score or other body conditioning score is assigned
    Photographs are taken of each equine upon arrival at the facility and kept with the equine's health records
    Physical examination by a farrier
    Blood work other than Coggins
    Fecal test
    Vaccinations
    De-worming
    The equine is scanned to check for a microchip
    The equine is microchipped if the equine has not been microchipped

Not Checked:
    Physical examination to include temperature, pulse and respiration by a veterinarian upon arrival
    Physical examination by a dentist
    Coggins test

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
    Loading onto and unloading off a trailer
    Mounting and dismounting
    Riding at the walk
    Riding at the trot
    Riding at the canter
    Riding by a beginner and/or unbalanced rider
    Tolerance to unusual objects and loud noises
    Known vices, i.e., cribbing, biting, kicking, weaving, stall walking, etc
    Grooming
    Bathing
    Clipping

Not Checked:
    Lunging
    Jumping
    Driving (Pulling a carriage)
    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
    Equines at our facility may be treated by an equine chiropractor
    Equines at our facility may be treated by an equine acupuncturist
    Equines at our facility may be treated by an equine massage therapist
    Equines at our facility may be treated by an equine nutritionist

Not Checked:
    Photographs are taken of each equine monthly and kept with the equine's health records
    Photographs are taken of each equine annually and kept with the equine's health records

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

Not Checked:
Our organization does not evaluate the weight-carrying and workload limitations for each equine that is ridden
No equines are ridden; not applicable

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

Not Checked:
    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
    Our organization does not evaluate the weight-carrying and workload limitations for each equine that is ridden
    No equines are ridden; not applicable

Horses provided formal training (groundwork or riding): 2-3 times per week

POLICIES: BREEDING

The organization has the following policies related to breeding and stallions:
Our organization does not conduct breeding of equines owned or under the care of our organization.
Our main facility where our organization conducts its programs does NOT breed equines.

Not Checked:
One or more of the facilities where our organization conducts its programs, including foster facilities, breeds equines
One or more of the facilities where our organization conducts its programs, including foster facilities, are permitted to house stallions

POLICIES: EUTHANASIA

The organization has the following policies related to euthanasia:
    Our organization will never have an equine euthanized for space
    Our organization will have an equine euthanized upon the recommendation of the veterinarian if the equine is a threat to itself, other equines, or people
    Our organization will have an equine euthanized upon the recommendation of the veterinarian after all reasonable treatment options have been explored
    Euthanasia is done on site when possible to decrease trauma from transport
    Euthanasia is done at the veterinarian's facility
    Disposal of the carcass is handled within 24 hours

Not Checked:
Our organization will never have an equine euthanized under any circumstances

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

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

POLICIES: RE-HOMING

View Re-homing 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

Not Checked:
    Our organization does NOT re-home an equine to first time equine owners
    Potential adopters/purchasers are encouraged to do a short-term, on-site foster with the equine
    Adopters/purchasers are NOT required to provide updates

Our organization has the following policies and procedures related to horses that need to be retired, are no longer able to contribute to the mission of the organization, and/or are no longer manageable:
    Equines may be found suitable homes by our organization
    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

Not Checked:
    Equines may remain at our organization for their lifetimes
    Equines may be returned to their owners
    Equines may be sent to auction
    If a suitable home cannot be located within 12 months, the equine may be euthanized
    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, 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 unannounced visits
    The agreement states that our organization reserves the right to make scheduled visits
    The agreement states that adopters/purchasers can return an equine to our organization free of charge
    The agreement states that adopters/purchasers are required to provide updates (photos, vet records) for as long as the adopter/purchaser is responsible for the care of the equine

Not Checked:
    The agreement states that the re-homed equine CANNOT be sold, adopted, transferred, auctioned, released, given away, or otherwise placed into the possession of another individual or organization under any circumstances and must be returned to our organization should the adopter decide that he/she is no longer able, or no longer wishes, to care for the equine.
    The agreement states that should the adopter decide to re-home the equine, the adopter must grant the organization first right of refusal prior to the equine being placed into the possession of any individual or organization intending to take possession of the equine for any reason.
    The agreement states that should the adopter decide to re-home the equine, our organization must 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 adopters/purchasers can return an equine to our organization for a fee
    The agreement states that adopters/purchasers are required to provide updates (photos, vet records) for one year
    The agreement states that adopters/purchasers are required to provide updates (photos, vet records) for two years
    None of the statements are included.
    The organization does not re-home equines under any circumstances; our organization retains custody of our equines and ensures care of the equines for their lifetimes.
    Our organization does not have the authority to transfer ownership and/or does not own any of the equines involved with our programs.

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

Not Checked:
Not applicable or no references required.

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

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

Additional information about our rehoming policies and practices:
All horses are adopted with a minimum 30 day trial period in which the adopter can return the horse to SAFE with no restrictions and a refund of the adoption fee. After the trial period is over, the adoption is considered finalized. If the adopter cannot keep the horse at any point in the future, our contract stipulates that they must contact SAFE to discuss rehoming. We permit adopted horses to be rehomed provided that the new home meets our standards and signs a new contract. If we feel that the adopter cannot take responsibility for successful rehoming, we will accept the horse back into our rescue program.

EQUINE CARE & SHELTER/FACILITY INFORMATION

Total facilities at which our organization cares for and shelters horses used in our programs: 1
Our organization does not CURRENTLY use satellite, overflow, foster, and/or outreach facilities.

Safe Harbor Stables
10407 192nd Ave NE Redmond WA 98053
Currently operational
Total number of horses/equines currently involved with your programs, under your care, and/or owned by your organization at this facility: 33
Total number of horses at this facility INCLUDING those counted above: 33
Maximum capacity of horses at this facility: 45

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.
Regional Animal Services of King County 21615 64th Ave S Kent, WA 98032 (206) 296-7387 Tim Anderson, Interim Manager Tim.Anderson@kingcounty.gov

Does your organization conduct Equine Assisted Services (EAS) at this facility in accordance with the EQUUS Foundation Guidelines on Qualifications of Organizations Conducting Equine Assisted Services (EAS)? No

Additional information about this facility:
Some horses are stalled 16 hours per night and turned out 8 hours per day. Some horses are turned out 24/7. There is no discrepancy. Both things are true.

Safe Harbor Stables

Veterinarian Information
Veterinarian: Dr Robert Fleck, DVM
Clinic Name: Rainland Farm Equine Clinic
15418 168th Ave NE
Woodinville WA 98072
Phone: 425-483-2255

Overview: Safe Harbor Stables (*Main)
Total acreage dedicated specifically to the horses: 11.2
Our organization has use of the following at this facility:
Structures/Barns: 1  Run-in sheds: 22
Pastures: 13  Paddocks/Pens/Turnout Areas: 17
Uncovered Outdoor Rings: 1  Covered Outdoor Rings: 1  Indoor Rings: 1

Regarding structures/barns where horses are housed other than run-in sheds:
Do horses have assigned stalls in the structure(s)?    Yes
How many hours per day, on average, are horses stalled? 9-12

Regarding all shelters where horses are housed including run-in sheds:
How often are the stalls/shelters cleaned, i.e., kept in good repair and free of standing water, accumulated waste, sharp objects and debris? 6-7 Days a 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
Is there adequate ceiling & beam height (a minimum of 12 feet above the tip of the horse's ear) when standing in all stalls/shelters?    Yes
Are floors constructed and maintained for both good drainage and traction?    Yes
Is there a ventilation and circulation system in place to allow free flow of air to control temperature, and humidity, and to prevent air stagnation?    Yes

Is wiring inaccessible to horses and maintained for safety in all areas of facility?    Yes
Are fire prevention/protection measures (fire alarms, extinguishers and sprinkler systems) maintained and in good working order?     Yes
Is there adequate lighting to ensure safety in all areas of facility?     Yes
Are the organization's rules, restrictions and warnings (signage) and emergency contacts, including veterinarian contact information, conspicuously posted in easily accessible locations?    Yes
Are human and equine first aid kits easily accessible?     Yes
How many hours per day, on average, are horses turned out:
    Equines are out 4 to 8 hours per day
    Equines are out 24/7

The following describes the pastures at this facility:
    A dedicated staff person(s) is responsible for pasture management
    All pastures are fenced to prevent escape or injury
    Electric fencing is used; electric wires or tape fence are visibly marked
    Fencing checks, such as broken or missing planks, loose fence posts, exposed or loose nails, detached wires, etc., are done regularly
    Pastures are rotated
    Pastures have natural protection for equines (i.e., trees)
    Pastures have man-made protection for equines (i.e., shelters)

Not Checked:
    This facility does not have pastures where equines can graze on pasture grass
    This facility has a written plan in place for pasture management, which includes guidelines for seeding, fertilizing, irrigation, mowing, dragging, harrowing, manure removal, removal of debris, the control of poisonous plants, and a schedule for cleaning
    Barbed wire is used for fencing

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

Not Checked:
    This facility does not have turnout areas
    This facility has a written plan in place for the maintenance of turnout areas, which includes a schedule for cleaning, manure removal, and dragging
    Barbed wire is used for fencing

The following policies and procedures are in place at the facility to restrict public access and to keep horses safe:
    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.
    No Trespassing signs are posted
    Hold Harmless signs are posted
    Entrance gates are locked at night
    Visitors are only permitted at specific times
    Visitors are only permitted in specific areas
    The property is fitted with motion lights
    The property is fitted with a security system that is monitored internally by staff (or the property owner)
    The perimeter of the property is fully fenced

Not Checked:
    A security guard is present at night
    Authorized Personnel Only signs are posted
    The property is fitted with a security system monitored by police or a professional service

Equine Care/Emergency Preparedness: Safe Harbor Stables (*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 cloud-based backup storage system
    Our organization would use free cloud-based barn management software if available

The following items are consistent with our feed management plan and practices:
    Equines are provided with individualized feeding plans, including supplements, according to the equine's age, breed/type, condition, size, work level and any health issues, consisting of nutritious food provided in sufficient quantity and access to adequate natural forage, or be fed daily, or as recommended by the organization's veterinarian
    Feed plans are determined in consultation with a veterinarian
    Supplement plans are determined in consultation with a veterinarian
    Equines are fed grain in individual stalls
    Equines are fed grain in groups
    Staff and volunteers are trained in proper feed measurements and protocols and observed periodically to ensure they are feeding correctly
    The feed chart is centrally located and updated as needed
    The area(s) where hay, feed, grain, and supplements are stored are kept clean, free of debris and chemicals, and protected from weather and other animals in rodent-proof and mold-proof containers and grain bins
    Feed, supplements and hay types are clearly labeled
    Water sources, i.e., buckets, troughs, automatic waterers, etc. are kept clean, free of contaminants, debris and chemicals, protected from weather and other animals, and be positioned or affixed to minimize spillage.
    Medications are kept in a locked, climate-controlled area

Not Checked:

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
    Premise Sprays/Insecticides
    Fly Spray Repellent
    Fly Masks
    Fly Sheets

Not Checked:

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 and 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 disposed of in specific areas designated for infectious materials - not put in open air piles, and not spread on pastures
    Stalls, aisle ways, and common areas are disinfected after conclusion of the quarantine
    Trailers/vans used by sick, affected and/or quarantined equines are cleaned and disinfected after each use and cleaning takes place away from where equines are sheltered
    Equipment used by sick, affected and/or quarantined equines is not shared and is clearly labeled
    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
    Personnel are required to leave the facility (or shower and change clothing) after working with quarantined equines

Not Checked:
Equines are not quarantined on arrival.

The following represent the manure removal practices in place at facility:
    Manure is stored in dumpster(s)
    Manure is hauled, sold or given away
    Our organization adheres to the manure management guidelines set by the state, local authorities, and/or our organization's veterinarian

Not Checked:
    Manure is piled in an area where equines are not located
    Manure piles are covered
    Manure piles are composted or spread on pastures

The following steps are taken to help staff and volunteers readily identify each horse on the property:
    Equines are assigned the same exclusive stall each day
    Name plates are located on the stall
    Photos are located on the stall
    A map/diagram is posted showing the location of each equine with equine names and photos
    Equine photos and profiles are available on the website
    Team leaders work with new staff/volunteers until they are able to identify the equines

Not Checked:
    Equines wear halters with nametags
    A notebook or binder with photos and information on each equine is easily accessible
    Staff and volunteers are provided with an information packet with equine profiles, including photos and detailed descriptions
    Staff/volunteers are provided training on conformation, markings, colors, and breeds

Our organization has the following policies and procedures in place pertaining to tack, apparel and equipment:
    Saddles are shared
    Saddle pads are shared
    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 weekly
    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
    Assigned tack is clearly labeled
    Tack is stored in a climate-controlled location
    Helmets are replaced after a fall
    Helmets are replaced at least every five years.

Not Checked:
     All equines have specifically assigned tack, apparel and equipment that is not shared
    Bridles are shared
    Bits are shared
    Blankets are shared
    Sheets are shared
    Turnout apparel is shared
     Halters are shared
    Tack is cleaned after each use
    Tack is cleaned only when needed
    This facility enlists the services of a professional saddle fitter at least once a year
    Helmets are shared
    Helmets are cleaned/disinfected after each use
    No equines are ridden; not applicable.

Emergency Preparedness: Safe Harbor Stables: *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 maintains at least two weeks of hay, feed, shavings and medications
    The facility maintains appropriate liability and/or workers' compensation insurance
    The organization has a written emergency preparedness/safety plan (EPP)

Not Checked:
The facility owns or has access to a generator
The facility collects and maintains medical information from staff, volunteers, and clients

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

Not Checked:
Terrorist attacks

The facility follows the specific procedures to help PREVENT emergency situations:
    Smoking is strictly prohibited
    NO SMOKING signs are posted prominently
    Hay is stored away from permanent or temporary structures where equines are stalled
    Permanent or temporary structures where equines are stalled are kept free of dust, cobwebs, trash, cleaning rags, and other flammable items
    Aisles and doorways are kept clear
    Heaters with automatic shutoff settings are used

Not Checked:

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

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

GOVERNANCE, MANAGEMENT & FINANCIAL REPORTING

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

Governing Body:
Board meetings per year: 6
Number of Board Members: 11  Number of Voting Board Members: 9

Board Compensation:
Is the Board Chair compensated? No  Is the Treasurer compensated? No
Are there any other Voting Board Members that are compensated? No

Board/Staff Relationships:
Are any members of the Board, Staff or Program Participants related to each other through family or business relationships? No

Board Affiliations:
Are any Board members 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? No

Conflict of Interest:
Does your organization have a written conflict of interest policy that ensures that any compensated board member is a NON-VOTING (Independent) board member or that any compensated board member or any board member related to a compensated staff member, independent contractor, or any related board members, or any individual or organization that might benefit from a board decision, abstains from voting on issues impacting such compensation and requires officers, directors or trustees, and key employees to disclose at least annually in writing interests that could give rise to conflicts? Yes

Compliance:
Below is a list all local, state and federal licenses held by the organization, and/or accreditations or compliances with the published standards of an accrediting organization, if applicable: GFAS Accreditation

Organization documents available on our website:
    Most recent Financials
    Most recent IRS Form 990
    Most recent Annual Report
    Adoption/Foster Agreement
    Volunteer Handbook

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): Bonnie Hammond
Employees/Independent Contractors:   Full-Time: 5  Part-Time: 2  Volunteers: 150
Staff Recruitment, Screening and Training processes including employees and independent contractors:
    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 carry current health insurance
    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 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 CPR and human first aid
    One or more staff members or contractors are trained in equine first aid

Not Checked:
    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 sign a Photo Release
    Prospective staff/independent contractors are required to undergo a Background Check
    Staff and/or contractors are subject to Random Drug Screening

Volunteer Recruitment, Screening and Training processes:
    Prospective volunteers complete a written application/agreement
    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 includes volunteer-related information, such as hours of work, dress code, cell phone usage, and the protocol for dismissal
    The Volunteer Handbook is reviewed annually and updated
    The organization holds regular orientation sessions for volunteers and prospective volunteers that includes an overview of the organization, its mission, activities, volunteer responsibilities and expectations, safety guidelines, and a tour of the facility

Not Checked:
    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 are required to sign a Photo Release
    Prospective volunteers are required to undergo a Background Check
    Volunteers carry current health insurance
    Volunteers are subject to Random Drug Screening