MISSION & PROGRAMS

Mission:
To improve the mental health and well-being of military service members and family members, at-risk youth, and others with mental health needs through equine assisted mental health services including counseling and psychotherapy, therapeutic activities, education, community engagement, and research.

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

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


Equine Assisted Services (EAS):
Our organization provides the following Equine Assisted Services (EAS):
    Therapeutic Mounted Services
    Therapeutic Unmounted Services
    Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy/Counseling (Mental Health)
    Equine-Assisted Learning involving Personal and/or Professional Development

6: Total number of Equine Assisted Service Providers at STEPS With Horses

     1. Amara Yachimski

         FACILITY PARTICIPATION:

         STEPS With Horses

         RELATIONSHIP: Other

         SERVICES PROVIDED:

         Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy/Counseling (Mental Health)

         Equine-Assisted Learning involving Personal and/or Professional Development

         DEGREES, LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS

         Mx. Yachimski is currently a graduate student in the counseling program at Southern Methodist University and providing professional counseling services incorporating equines (equine assisted counseling) in the role of counselor for their internship. Mx. Yachimski works under the supervision Dr. Hallie Sheade, LPC-S in compliance with Texas state law.

     2. Brittany Briswalter Kuqi

         FACILITY PARTICIPATION:

         STEPS With Horses

         RELATIONSHIP: Employee

         SERVICES PROVIDED:

         Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy/Counseling (Mental Health)

         Equine-Assisted Learning involving Personal and/or Professional Development

         DEGREES, LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS

         Ms. Kuqi holds a Texas Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) Associate license to provide professional counseling services incorporating equines (equine assisted counseling) in the role of counselor. Ms. Kuqi works under the supervision Dr. Hallie Sheade, LPC-S.

Ms. Kuqi also serves as a PATH Intl. ESMHL for other counselors.

     3. Dr. Hallie Sheade

         FACILITY PARTICIPATION:

         STEPS With Horses

         RELATIONSHIP: Employee

         SERVICES PROVIDED:

         Therapeutic Mounted Services

         Therapeutic Unmounted Services

         Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy/Counseling (Mental Health)

         Equine-Assisted Learning involving Personal and/or Professional Development

         DEGREES, LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS

         Dr. Sheade holds a PhD in Counseling from the University of North Texas and a MS in Professional Counseling from Georgia State University. She is a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor (LPC-S #67848) in Texas and Registered Play Therapist Supervisor (RPT-S). She also holds credentials from Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International (PATH Intl.) as a Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor (CTRI-75331) and Equine Specialist in Mental Health and Learning (75331). Dr. Sheade is a qualified EAL provider as an LPC-S and as a PATH Intl. ESMHL. Dr. Sheade is endorsed by PATH Intl. as a PATH Intl. Associate Faculty Member (Mental Health) for the ESMHL Workshop and Certification.

     4. Laura Hamrin

         FACILITY PARTICIPATION:

         STEPS With Horses

         RELATIONSHIP: Employee

         SERVICES PROVIDED:

         Therapeutic Mounted Services

         Therapeutic Unmounted Services

         DEGREES, LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS

         Ms. Hamrin holds PATH Intl. credentials as a Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor and as an Equine Specialist in Mental Health and Learning. She is also CHA Standard Certified and serves as CHA Clinic Staff.

     5. Ruth Abigail O'Leary

         FACILITY PARTICIPATION:

         STEPS With Horses

         RELATIONSHIP: Other

         SERVICES PROVIDED:

         Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy/Counseling (Mental Health)

         Equine-Assisted Learning involving Personal and/or Professional Development

         DEGREES, LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS

         Ms. O'Leary is currently a graduate student in the counseling program at University of North Texas and providing professional counseling services incorporating equines (equine assisted counseling) in the role of counselor for her internship. Ms. O'Leary works under the supervision Dr. Hallie Sheade, LPC-S in compliance with Texas state law.

     6. Samantha Garrad

         FACILITY PARTICIPATION:

         STEPS With Horses

         RELATIONSHIP: Other

         SERVICES PROVIDED:

         Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy/Counseling (Mental Health)

         Equine-Assisted Learning involving Personal and/or Professional Development

         DEGREES, LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS

         Ms. Garrad is currently a graduate student in the counseling program at Nova Southeastern University and providing professional counseling services incorporating equines (equine assisted counseling) in the role of counselor for her internship. Ms. Garrad works under the supervision Dr. Hallie Sheade, LPC-S in compliance with Texas state law.

Overview of our programs involved with providing EAS to individuals with special needs:
     STEPS offers a spectrum of equine assisted mental health services including equine assisted counseling (EAC) and therapeutic riding. Equine assisted counseling is our cornerstone service and is form of professional counseling facilitated by licensed mental health professionals (or graduate interns supervised by licensed professionals) and equine professionals, such as PATH Intl. ESMHLs or ESMHLs-in-Training under the supervision of a PATH Intl. ESMHL. Just like other forms of counseling or psychotherapy, EAC focuses on lessening symptoms or disorders. It can also help people cope with life’s challenges and experience a greater sense of meaning in their lives. Interaction with equines is used in conjunction with a variety of best practice counseling techniques and interventions such as trauma processing, psychoeducation, cognitive behavioral strategies, behavioral interventions, problem exploration, motivational interviewing, mindfulness, and grounding skills, play therapy, and more. We offer a specialized form of play therapy which incorporates equines for young children. Equines notice many cues indicative of a person’s emotional state such as breathing rate, heart rate, body language, facial expressions, tone of voice, and even scent. The feedback they provide can assist clients in gaining insight into thoughts, feelings, and behaviors as they are happening in the moment. Our counselors help clients connect these experiences to challenges they may be facing. In addition, clients have the opportunity to practice different skills such as problem-solving, decision-making, calming skills, and communication skills that can be generalized and applied to increasing satisfaction in relationships and daily life.
     
     We serve adults, adolescents, and children starting at age 4. We work with both military and non-military clients to address concerns such as trauma, PTSD, anxiety and stress management, depression and mood disorders, bullying and self-esteem issues, grief and loss, military readjustment, school and work-related problems, attention deficit/hyperactivity, relationship problems, and child behavior issues. Our services may be especially beneficial for clients who are uncomfortable or dissatisfied with office-based approaches.
     
     After clients have met and/or made considerable progress towards treatment goals, they may have the opportunity to participate in our non-clinical therapeutic horsemanship services such as riding in order to build upon and maintain the gains made in counseling. Our non-clinical services shift the focus from therapy to learning horsemanship and riding in a therapeutic environment with our highly trained and certified equine professionals. Clients can also maintain contact with their counselor through engagement in quarterly mental health check-ins. STEPS equine professionals also regularly consult with STEPS licensed mental health professionals to provide horsemanship services that are responsive to client's needs and to identify early warning signs of client regression related to their mental health. All therapeutic horsemanship facilitators are PATH Intl. CTRI or CTRI-in-Training supervised by a PATH Intl. CTRI.
     
     Equine assisted learning (equine assisted wellness) services in personal and/or professional development are led by licensed mental health professionals and graduate-level counseling interns under supervision working with PATH Intl. ESMHLs (or ESMHLs-in-Training) to target social and emotional learning goals such as leadership skills, communication, confidence, emotional regulation, empathy, problem-solving skills, and stress management. These programs are conducted with youth and adult groups from local schools, agencies, corporations, and other nonprofits.

Overview of our programs involved with providing community outreach and/or public education programs involving horses:
     STEPS Executive Director, Dr. Hallie Sheade, frequently presents a local, state, national, and international events and professional conferences on topics related to equine assisted services. Dr. Sheade also serves as a guest lecturer for university courses. STEPS hosts groups onsite from local agencies, nonprofits, schools, and organizations to share information on STEPS’ equine assisted mental services through hands-on experiential activities with the equines. STEPS also hosts volunteer days for local schools and corporations to support STEPS through service activities. STEPS will bring out miniature equines for community outreach events, such as fundraisers, city events, and learning events. STEPS has a robust undergraduate and graduate-level internship program, hosting interns interested in learning about equine assisted mental health services from universities throughout the country. Finally, STEPS also hosts professional trainings for mental health professionals and equine professionals seeking to learn more about equine assisted mental health services.

Research/Medical Use of Equines:
Our organization has made equines available for research studies or medical training.
Please explain where and for what purpose equines are/were provided to use in research or medical training. 
     In the future, our equines may be considered for participation in research specifically focused on the human-animal bond and equine assisted mental health services. These studies would not involve any invasive procedures or procedures that would cause pain or suffering to the equines. The primary purpose of their participation would be to contribute valuable insights into the positive impacts of human-animal interactions on mental well-being.
     
     All proposed studies involving equines would be subject to rigorous ethical oversight. Prior to implementation, each study would undergo thorough review and approval by an Institutional Review Board (IRB) to ensure compliance with ethical standards and the protection of both human and equine participants. Additionally, the study protocols would be reviewed by a qualified equine veterinarian to ensure the well-being and humane treatment of the equines involved in the research. This commitment to ethical oversight and animal welfare aligns with our dedication to conducting responsible and impactful research in the field of the human-animal bond and equine assisted mental health services.

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: ACQUISITION

Our organization acquires horses/equines from the following source(s):
    Donation  
    Lease  
    Purchase from Owner  

Our organization does not acquire horses/equines from the following source(s):
    Auction  
    Kill pen/Feedlot  
    Return  
    Surrender  
    Seizure  
    Abandonment  

Our organization will accept the following:
    Geldings
    Mares

Not Checked:
    Pregnant Mares
    Foals
    Stallions
    Only Stallions to be castrated

Additional information about our acquisition policies and practices:
We also acquire equines through adoption from rescue organizations.

POLICIES: INTAKE, ASSESSMENT & TRAININING

Prior to a horse being accepted and/or arriving at the facility, the organization requires the following with respect to the health status of the horse:
    A current Coggins
    Vaccination records that have been administered within the last 12 months
    If health records are not available or are out-of-date, the owner is responsible for having vaccinations administered.
    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

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
    Equines are on trial up to 60 days
    The trial period may be reduced based on the equine's progress
    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

Following arrival of the equine at the facility, the following is performed:
    A Henneke Body Conditioning Score or other body conditioning score is assigned
    Physical examination by trained barn staff
    Photographs are taken of each equine upon arrival at the facility and kept with the equine's health records
    Coggins test
    Vaccinations
    De-worming

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

The typical length of quarantine is:   10 to 20 days

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:
    Physical examination by a veterinarian at least annually
    The Henneke Body Condition score or other body conditioning score is updated at least annually
    Photographs are taken of each equine annually and kept with the equine's health records
    Equines at our facility may be treated by an equine chiropractor
    Equines at our facility may be treated by an equine acupuncturist
    Equines at our facility may be treated by an equine massage therapist
    Equines at our facility may be treated by an equine nutritionist
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

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):   Weekly

Additional information about our intake, assessment & training policies and practices:
Quarantine is dependent upon where the equine is coming from and upon vet's recommendation. STEPS' agreement with owner donating an equine is that the owner agrees to take equine back during the trial period if equine is found to be unsuitable for STEPS.

POLICIES: BREEDING

The organization has the following policies related to breeding and stallions:
    Our main facility where our organization conducts its programs does NOT breed equines.
    One or more of the facilities where our organization conducts its programs, including foster facilities, are permitted to house stallions

Additional information about our breeding policies and practices:
The ranch where we board does board stallions. However, we do not include stallions in our program or in our pasture. Clients are not permitted to engage with any non-STEPS 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
    Employee of animal control shelter or humane society with appropriate training

Additional information about our euthanasia policies and practices:
Due to our extensive interviewing process for an equine to be accepted into the program, the only time a healthy equine, who becomes unsafe, would be euthanized is if there was not a safe home for it to go to. We would rather put an equine down that is unsafe, than have it end up in a slaughter house or hurt or kill a human. This would only be considered after all other resources for training and/or re-homing have been exhausted.

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

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, 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 three or more years

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:
Less than $200

Additional information about our rehoming policies and practices:
NA

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.

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STEPS With Horses
16151 US Hwy 377-South Fort Worth TX 76126
Contact: Hallie Thomas Martin
Contact's Phone: 970-580-0012
Contact's Email: hallie@4heartsranch.com
Currently operational
Total number of horses/equines currently involved with your programs, under your care, and/or owned by your organization at this facility: 11
Total number of horses at this facility INCLUDING those counted above: 100
Maximum capacity of horses at this facility: 110

Does your organization own, lease or use a part of this facility? Use

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.
     Texas Family Department of Family and Protective Services Region 3 Arlington, TX 1200 E. Copeland Rd., Arlington, TX 76011 817-792-4400 Contact Form website (no email): https://www.dfps.state.tx.us/Contact_Us/default.asp Weatherford/Parker County Animal Control 403 Hickory Lane Weatherford, TX 76086 animal.control@parkercountytx.com 817-598-4111 https://www.parkercountytx.com/96/Animal-Control-Lost-Pets-Notices-of-Estr

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:  6

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

     1. Amara Yachimski
     2. Brittany Briswalter Kuqi
     3. Dr. Hallie Sheade
     4. Laura Hamrin
     5. Ruth Abigail O'Leary
     6. Samantha Garrad

Additional information about this facility:
STEPS With Horses operates at a private boarding facility, 4 Hearts Ranch (a separate business entity with separate staffing). While in some instances, we maintain more stringent policies than the ranch does, we do not have control over certain aspects within the facility's control and/or their practices for their boarders.

We lease a private pasture space that we feed and share pasture maintenance with the ranch. We share space in the barn and arenas with the ranch and its boarders. STEPS equines live in our privately leased pasture in a closed herd at all times with fence lines that are not shared with other equines boarded at the facility. We reserve two stalls in the barn for STEPS' exclusive use in order to temporarily house any equines with illness, injury, or sensitivity to extreme weather conditions. These stalls have STEPS' information posted at all times and are updated with the name and feeding requirements for any specific equines housed in the stalls temporarily. Our reserved stalls (if used) have solid walls and do not allow for contact between our equines and other equines boarded at the facility.

STEPS With Horses maintains its own fire extinguishers in the shed adjacent to the pasture where our equines are kept, as well as a second fire extinguisher and smoke/carbon monoxide alarm in our office. These fire extinguishers were purchased and approved by an individual with advanced training in fire safety. The facility does not have its own fire extinguishers, alarms, or sprinkler systems.

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STEPS With Horses

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Veterinarian Information
Veterinarian: Dr. Ali Broyles
Clinic Name: Equine Sports Medicine & Surgeon
2991 West I20 South Frontage Rd
Weatherford   TX   76087
Phone: 817-596-2829

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Overview: STEPS With Horses (*Main)
Total number of horses/equines currently involved with your programs, under your care, and/or owned by your organization at this facility: 11
Total number of horses at this facility INCLUDING those counted above: 100
Maximum capacity of horses at this facility: 110
Total acreage dedicated specifically to the horses: 70

Our organization has use of the following at this facility:
Structures/Barns: 1  Run-in sheds: 2
Pastures: 1  Paddocks/Pens/Turnout Areas: 1
Uncovered Outdoor Rings: 1  Covered Outdoor Rings: 0  Indoor Rings: 1
















Regarding structures at this facility where horses are stalled:
Do horses have assigned stalls in the structure(s)?    No    
Do all stalls/enclosures allow horses to lie down, stand up and turn around?    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/enclosures?    Yes    
How often are the stalls/enclosures cleaned? 6-7 Days a Week
Are floors constructed and maintained for both good drainage and traction?    Yes    
Is there a ventilation and circulation system in place to control temperature and prevent buildup of toxic gases?    Yes    
Is wiring inaccessible to horses and maintained for safety?    Yes    
Are fire prevention/protection measures (fire alarms, extinguishers and sprinkler systems) maintained and in good working order?     No    
Is there adequate lighting to ensure safety in all areas of facility?     Yes    
Are 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 stalled? 4-8
How many hours per day, on average, are horses turned out:
    Equines are out 24/7 except they are brought in if there is inclement weather
    Equines are out 24/7 except when they are being trained
    Equines are out 24/7 except when they are used for the conduct of the organization's programs

The following describes the pastures at this facility:
    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 have natural protection for equines (i.e., trees)
    Pastures have man-made protection for equines (i.e., shelters)

The following describes the turnout areas other than pastures at this facility:
    This facility has a written plan in place for the maintenance of turnout areas, which includes a schedule for cleaning, manure removal, and dragging
    A dedicated staff person(s) is responsible for the maintenance of turnout areas
    All turnout areas are fenced to prevent escape or injury
    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
    Equines are checked overnight
    Hold Harmless signs are posted
    Entrance gates are locked at night
    Visitors are only permitted at specific times

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Equine Care/Emergency Preparedness: STEPS With Horses (*Main) 2024 and 2023 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 utilizes a software application to maintain records
    The organization utilizes its own system to maintain records
    Our organization would use free cloud-based barn management software if available

The following items are consistent with our feed management plan and practices:
    Equines are provided with individualized feeding plans, including supplements, according to age and any health issues
    Feed plans are determined in consultation with a veterinarian
    Supplement plans are determined in consultation with a veterinarian
    Equines are fed 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 debris and chemicals, and protected from weather and other animals
    Medications are kept in a locked, climate-controlled area

Do horses have access to clean drinking water at all times?     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


Parasite Control: Our organization has the following worming protocols in place: (Check all that apply
    The protocol for each equine is determined in consultation with a veterinarian
    A de-wormer is used without fecal testing

Fly/Insect Control: What remedies are used to control flies and insects?
    Fly Traps and Tapes
    Fly Spray Repellent
    Fly Masks
    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
    All staff are trained in best practices related to biosecurity
    All volunteers are trained in best practices related to biosecurity
    Sick, affected and/or quarantined equines are cared for last if the caretaker must also care for healthy equines
    Restricted access signs are posted at primary points of access to sick, affected and/or quarantined equines
    Hand sanitizers 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
    Shared equipment used by sick, affected and/or quarantined equines is cleaned of organic debris and disinfected after each use
    Latex 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

The following represent the manure removal practices in place at facility:
    Manure is piled in an area where equines are not located
    Manure piles are composted or spread on pastures

The following steps are taken to help staff and volunteers readily identify each horse on the property:
    A notebook or binder with photos and information on each equine is easily accessible
    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:
    Saddles are shared
    Saddle pads are shared
    Bridles are shared
    Bits are shared
    Blankets are shared
    Sheets are shared
    Turnout apparel is shared
    Blankets, sheets and turn out apparel are fitted and utilized for each equine appropriate to the equine's needs and the weather conditions
    Blankets, sheets and turn out apparel are cleaned regularly as needed
     Halters are shared
    Tack is cleaned only when needed
    Tack is inspected for overall working condition before each use by trained personnel
    Tack is assessed for fit before each use by trained personnel
    Tack is assessed for fit by trained personnel when an equine's body condition changes
    Tack is assessed for fit by trained personnel when an equine's disposition changes
    This facility enlists the services of a professional saddle fitter at least once a year
    Assigned tack is clearly labeled
    Helmets are shared
    Helmets are cleaned/disinfected after each use
    Helmets are replaced after a fall
    Helmets are replaced at least every five years.

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Emergency Preparedness: STEPS With Horses: *Main This section is required.
The following plans, policies, and procedures are in place at the facility to handle emergencies and address weather related issues, fire safety procedures, and/or any additional hazardous scenarios the facility could potentially experience:
    Emergency phone numbers are posted prominently
    The facility 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
    All staff/volunteers are briefed regularly on emergency preparedness/safety procedures
    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
    Hay is stored away from permanent or temporary structures where equines are stalled
    Aisles and doorways are kept clear

How often are the following checked or performed?
Fire Extinguishers are checked: Quarterly
Smoke detectors are checked: Quarterly
Electrical Systems are checked: Not at all/NA
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: Monthly
Review of safety protocols with volunteers are conducted: Monthly
The Emergency Preparedness Plan is reviewed and updated: Semi-annually

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