MISSION & PROGRAMS

Mission:
Our mission is to provide rescued horses with urgent medical attention and rehabilitation services and to provide a safe landing for horses to retire and live the rest of their lives safely and happy. Our focus is Off the Track racehorses and seniors.

Our organization provides programs involved with equine rescue, adoption & retirement
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.
Over 90% 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:
As we reflect on the remarkable year of 2023, we are thrilled to share the accomplishments and milestones that we have achieved together at Serenity Oaks Equine Sanctuary. It is through unwavering and dedication that we have made significant strides in our mission to provide a safe haven for equine residents, expand our programs, and create a lasting impact in our community.
     
     Property Expansion and Strategic Partnership Accomplishments in 2023:
     One of the highlights of 2023 was the purchase of our forever home, a significant milestone that allows us to accommodate more equine residents and expand our programming, particularly in the realm of Equine Assisted Services. This acquisition represents a crucial step towards our sustainability and continued growth.
     
     Additionally, in an effort to enhance our capacity for animal care, we established a strategic partnership with Bottle Babies Rescue, ensuring that a veterinarian is available on-site. This collaboration not only benefits our sanctuary but also assists Bottle Babies Rescue with overflow and placement when needed, reinforcing our commitment to the welfare of all animals involved.
     
     Horse Rescue and Rehabilitation Accomplishments in 2023:
     In 2023, we demonstrated our unwavering commitment to at-risk or medically fragile horses by accepting nine additional residents into our sanctuary. This was a significant undertaking, and it marked our biggest year in terms of acquiring and stabilizing these horses medically. We also celebrated the adoption of two horses, highlighting our dedication to finding loving forever homes for our equine friends.
     
     Equine-Assisted Services Accomplishments in 2023:
     Our journey towards launching the Equine-Assisted Services program took shape in 2023, and we officially started offering these valuable services in the fall of that year. Through this program, we witnessed tangible and positive changes in our clients, with measurable improvements in their PTSD, Anxiety, and Depression measures from October to December. These transformations underscore the power of equine therapy in healing and personal growth.
     
     Community Engagement and Education Accomplishments in 2023:
     Serenity Oaks is committed to engaging the community in learning about equines and offering safe interactions with our residents. In 2023, we hosted 11 programs designed to educate and connect individuals with our equine friends. These initiatives not only fostered a greater understanding of equine care but also allowed us to share the joy and therapeutic benefits that horses bring to our lives.
     
     Skilled Volunteer Team:
     Our dedicated and skilled volunteer team played a pivotal role in achieving our goals in 2023. Their commitment and consistency in handling our horses led to dramatic improvements in the behavior of our equine residents. From the pastures to the barn and interactions with humans, these positive changes demonstrated the profound impact that compassionate care and dedicated volunteers can have on the well-being of our horses.
     
     In closing, the year 2023 was a year of significant achievements and growth for Serenity Oaks Equine Sanctuary. We are deeply grateful to make a meaningful difference in the lives of our equine residents, clients seeking healing through Equine-Assisted Services, and our community as a whole.
     
     
     
     
     As we embark on the journey of 2024, we are excited to share our goals and aspirations for the year ahead. At Serenity Oaks, our commitment to the well-being of our beloved equine friends and our dedication to providing valuable Equine-Assisted Services remain at the core of our mission. We invite you to join us on this exciting path of growth and progress as we work towards making a lasting impact in the lives of both horses and the community. Our goals are as follows:
     
     Property Enhancement Goals for 2024:
     In 2024, we have several property-related objectives that will help us provide even better care for our horses and facilitate our Equine-Assisted Services. We plan to expand our facilities by adding a few additional stalls, sealing the arena roof, and carrying out necessary repairs to the arena and main barn. We will also focus on improving the safety of our property by removing and repairing one row of fencing and ensuring the proper functioning of our auto water system. To achieve these goals, we are thrilled to announce our partnerships with Lowes and Morgan Stanley. Additionally, we aim to foster community involvement by hosting a volunteer day, where individuals from all walks of life can come together to contribute their time and skills. To fund these property enhancements and secure skilled labor, we will be launching a fundraising campaign and we hope you will be part of this vital effort.
     
     Horse Welfare Goals for 2024:
     Our commitment to the welfare of our equine companions remains steadfast. In 2024, we have set ambitious goals for our horses, including preparing to take two retired broodmares to the Retired Racehorse Project in 2025. We are partnering with a dedicated volunteer trainer to prepare Bear for adoption and provide him with a loving forever home. Furthermore, we aim to get a few more horses ready to engage in equine-assisted therapy, enhancing the equine's overall well-being. Our primary focus continues to be stabilizing and caring for fragile or at-risk horses in our sanctuary, ensuring they receive the love and support they deserve. We will do this through ongoing care and partnership with our long-term veterinarian and farrier.
     
     Equine-Assisted Services Goals for 2024:
     Serenity Oaks is dedicated to providing valuable Equine-Assisted Services, and in 2024, we are taking steps to enhance our offerings. We are working to complete Natural Lifemanship training to integrate these skills into our unmounted sessions, enriching the therapeutic experience for our clients. With a strong commitment to expanding access to Equine-Assisted Services, we aim to increase our sessions to six per week, offering more opportunities for healing and personal growth. Moreover, we will be collaborating with our dedicated volunteer to resume structured recreation therapy programs in partnership with local universities, further broadening the horizons of equine assisted services.
     
     Educational Outreach and Media Exposure Goals for 2024:
     This year, we intend to increase public awareness and education on equine care and humane treatment. Through initiatives like "Read to a Horse," horse expos at Michigan State University, and Community Open Barns, we aim to engage with our local community and share our passion for equine welfare. Additionally, we are committed to focusing on media exposure in 2024, shedding light on the importance of equine care and humane treatment through various platforms.
     
     In conclusion, 2024 is a year filled with exciting prospects and growth opportunities for Serenity Oaks Equine Sanctuary. We are grateful for the ongoing support and encouragement in our community. We will continue to strive to make a meaningful difference in the lives of our horses and the individuals who benefit from our Equine-Assisted Services.

Equine Transition Services:
Overview of our programs involved with rescue, rehabilitation, retraining, re-homing and/or retirement:
     Serenity Oaks' primary focus is to rescue at-risk Off-Track Thoroughbreds (OTTB). We define at-risk OTTBs as those that may have injuries, broodmares no longer needed in breeding programs, or those of advanced age. We step in to provide these horses with a safe and nurturing sanctuary environment for retirement.
     
     Through long-term relationships with local and national equine rescue organizations, community contacts, and other sources, Serenity Oaks receives requests to support at-risk equines. Each case is reviewed to assess the level of risk in the current situation and the suitability of Serenity Oaks as a home. Once an equine is approved, Serenity Oaks works with multiple organizations and individuals to safely transport the horses to our property. Upon arrival, horses are immediately quarantined on-site to protect the health and welfare of all the equines present.
     
     Upon entering our program, we conduct a thorough evaluation to identify the equine's current needs and develop a Rehabilitation/Treatment Plan in collaboration with our veterinarian and farrier. Once the equine's Rehabilitation Plan/Treatment Plan has been successfully completed, we assess the equine for lifetime retirement, rehabilitation, or the possibility of adoption. If adoption is deemed the best choice for the equine, we explore applications that best suit its needs.
     
     Some of our sanctuary equines are also utilized in our unmounted equine-assisted therapy program. Additionally, several of our forever retirees participate in our community monthly events, such as Reading to Horses, Open Barn, and Holiday Photos.

Equine Assisted Services (EAS):
Our organization provides the following Equine Assisted Services (EAS):
    Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy/Counseling (Mental Health)

1: Total number of Equine Assisted Service Providers at Serenity Oaks Equine Sanctuary

     1. Ginger Houghton

         FACILITY PARTICIPATION:

         Serenity Oaks Equine Sanctuary

         RELATIONSHIP: Volunteer

         SERVICES PROVIDED:

         Therapeutic Unmounted Services

         Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy/Counseling (Mental Health)

         DEGREES, LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS

         Ginger Houghton:

Clinical Director and Owner of Director Bright Spot Counseling and EMDR Treatment Center

Master of Social Work, 2010
Bachelors Degree Women's Studies and Political Science, 2005

Full license to practice Social Work in Michigan (LMSW).
Certified Advanced Addiction and Drug Counselor (CAADC)

Heal Equine-Assisted Therapy Certification
Certified Clinical Trauma Professional

Overview of our programs involved with providing EAS to individuals with special needs:
     Serenity Oaks Equine Sanctuary has a strong partnership with Bright Spot Counseling to provide Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy/Counseling to special needs and at-risk individuals. Ginger Houghton, LMSW, CAADC, is the owner of Bright Spot Counseling and a long-time volunteer at the sanctuary. Ginger is certified in the HEAL Model of Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy. Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy services are targeted to teens and adults with a history of Complex Trauma (C-PTSD), Anxiety, Depression, and behavioral issues. The HEAL Model focuses on the Keys to Connection such as finding safety in the body/brain, co-regulation with the equine, boundaries, assertiveness, and finding connection after trauma. Additional therapeutic modalities implemented into sessions may include Mindfulness, Trauma-Informed Therapeutic Yoga skills for Grounding, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Flash Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Brainspotting, Polyvagal strategies and Forward-Facing Trauma skills.
     
     Initially, patients undergo a Biopsychosocial Assessment at Bright Spot Counseling's office or virtually to complete consent forms and waivers, assess symptoms, explore personal history, diagnose mental health conditions and develop a treatment plan for Equine-Facilitated Psychotherapy and adjunct services (ie- EMDR, Medication Management, etc...). Patients are screened for appropriateness of fit and safety at initial sessions and throughout the therapeutic process. A typical course of Equine-Facilitated Psychotherapy in the HEAL model is 6-8 sessions but varies based on complexity of presentation. All sessions are unmounted. Patients are supervised at all times while on site to ensure safety and therapeutic benefit. Horses are screened on an ongoing basis for safety, health and goodness of fit for engaging as a partner in Equine-Facilitated Psychotherapy.
     
     Proceeds from Equine-Facilitated Psychotherapy sessions provide consistent income to support daily operations costs at Serenity Oaks Equine Sanctuary. Ginger Houghton is licensed to provide services in Michigan and seeks appropriate supervision on complex Equine-Facilitated Psychotherapy cases as needed.

Overview of our programs involved with providing community outreach and/or public education programs involving horses:
     Serenity Oaks Equine Sanctuary offers several community outreach programs, including monthly Open Barn events for the public, a summer literary program called "Reading to Horses," and horse yoga. We maintain connections with numerous local schools and non-profit organizations to offer distinctive experiences for children, teenagers, and families. All of our programs share a common goal: to enhance public involvement, foster understanding, strengthen connections with equines, and promote greater awareness of equine welfare.
     
     SOES provides individuals with a physical limitation the ability to work with a Recreational Therapist using modalities to reach therapeutic goals. The Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist provides engaging and effective interventions for their clients while working on rehabilitative goals during engagement with the animals. For instance, brushing is a great modality for increasing range of motion in an individual’s upper extremities where weakness is present. SOES has identified a first quarter goal for 2024 to develop and implant a program for children that have a disability. The focus will be on psychosocial skills, socialization and life enrichment.

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:
 We own and lease out a veterinary clinic (located on our property) to Bottle Babies and from time to time we do take in unwanted puppies/dogs. We have them vetted, altered and microchipped. After vetting is completed, we place them up for adoption.

POLICIES: ACQUISITION

Our organization acquires horses/equines from the following source(s):
    Donation  
    Auction  
    Kill pen/Feedlot  
    Return  
    Surrender  
    Seizure  
    Abandonment  

Our organization does not acquire horses/equines from the following source(s):
    Lease  
    Purchase from Owner  

Our organization will accept the following:
    Geldings
    Mares
    Pregnant Mares
    Foals

Not Checked:
    Stallions
    Only Stallions to be castrated

Additional information about our acquisition policies and practices:
Serenity Oaks Equine Sanctuary has developed partnerships with both local and national rescues, animal control agencies, Canter of Michigan, and individuals dedicated to rescuing Off-the-Track Thoroughbreds (OTTBs). Typically, organizations reach out to our sanctuary when they become aware of an equine that is facing significant risk, such as being in a kill pen, and is unlikely to be adopted due to factors like age or health conditions.
     
     In general, our acquisition priorities are determined by the following criteria:
     
     1. The current level of risk the equine is facing.
     2. The likelihood of the equine being adopted, considering factors like age and health condition.
     3. The need for rehabilitation or permanent retirement.
     4. How well the equine aligns with our sanctuary's mission and vision, as well as the availability of resources.
     
     Please note that Serenity Oaks does not accept stallions as we do not breed or have any chance of accidental breeding. Additionally, Serenity Oaks does not accept equines with severe behavioral issues due to our limited resources and reliance on volunteers at this time.

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:
    If health records are not available or are out-of-date, our veterinarian will administer appropriate vaccinations

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
    Equines are not taken on trial

Following arrival of the equine at the facility, the following is performed:
    Physical examination by a veterinarian upon arrival
    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
    Physical examination by a farrier
    Physical examination by a dentist
    Coggins test
    Blood work other than Coggins
    Fecal test
    Vaccinations
    De-worming
    The equine is scanned to check for a microchip

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

The typical length of quarantine is:   20 to 30 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
    Lunging
    Loading onto and unloading off a trailer
    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 monthly and kept with the equine's health records
    Photographs are taken of each equine annually and kept with the equine's health records
    Equines at our facility may be treated by an equine chiropractor
    Equines at our facility may be treated by an equine massage therapist
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:
    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:
    No equines are ridden; not applicable


Horses provided formal training (groundwork or riding):   As needed; no set schedule

Additional information about our intake, assessment & training policies and practices:
Serenity Oaks Equine Sanctuary places a profound emphasis on the well-being of the equines under our care, as well as the safety of anyone who interacts with them. Upon their arrival, the equines are given time for decompression and undergo evaluations by the Founder, Co-Founder, veterinarian, and lead volunteers. The insights gained from these assessments are then shared with volunteers who will be working with the equines. We pay particular attention to safety concerns, especially in cases involving fearful or aggressive behavior, as it is crucial to develop positive strategies for addressing these behaviors post-decompression. We make every possible effort to employ positive reinforcement and engagement techniques to cultivate safe and dependable equine partners. In some instances, if necessary, Serenity Oaks Equine Sanctuary may seek external assistance to address behavioral issues.

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.

Additional information about our breeding policies and practices:
Serenity Oaks Equine Sanctuary adheres to our mission and vision, which expressly prohibits horse breeding. We also have a policy against allowing uncastrated horses on the premises.

POLICIES: EUTHANASIA

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

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

Additional information about our euthanasia policies and practices:
Serenity Oaks Equine Sanctuary maintains a positive and supportive relationship with our primary veterinarian, Dr. Lobar. Given our mission, which involves the rescue of horses with advanced age and complex medical conditions, we have consistently collaborated closely with Dr. Lobar to diagnose, monitor, treat, and manage these conditions. We diligently adhere to all of the veterinarian's recommendations and timeframes for euthanasia, ensuring that no equine under our care experiences uncontrolled pain or distress.

POLICIES: RE-HOMING

View Re-homing Agreement
Our organization has the following re-homing (adoption/purchase) policies and procedures in place:
    All potential adopters/purchasers complete a written contract which constitutes the agreement between our organization and the new owner
    Our organization will only re-home an equine to a location where another equine resides
    Potential adopters/purchasers must visit our organization and be observed with the equine on site
    The distance of a potential adopter/purchaser's home from our facility is a consideration for when re-homing an equine
    Our organization conducts a site visit of the adopter/purchaser's facility before the transfer of the equine to the adopter/purchaser's facility

Our organization has the following policies and procedures related to horses that need to be retired, are no longer able to contribute to the mission of the organization, and/or are no longer manageable:
    Equines may remain at our organization for their lifetimes
    Equines may be found suitable homes by our organization
    In the case an equine is unmanageable and demonstrates repeated dangerous behaviors, the equine may be euthanized upon the recommendation of the veterinarian
    In the case an equine is unsound and/or unhealthy and cannot be treated to relieve suffering, the equine may be euthanized upon the recommendation of the veterinarian
    The 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 be notified of the name, address, and telephone number of any individual or organization intending to take possession of the equine for any reason prior to the equine being placed into the possession of such individual or organization.
    The agreement states that should the adopter decide to re-home the equine, our organization must grant approval of any individual or organization intending to take possession of the equine for any reason prior to the equine being placed into the possession of such individual or organization, including being provided written notification of the name, address, and telephone number of any individual or organization intending to take possession of the equine for any reason.
    The agreement states that 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 adopters/purchasers are required to provide updates (photos, vet records) for one year

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

Transfer of ownership occurs:   After one year

The average equine re-homing (adoption/purchase) fee received by your organization:
$501 to $750

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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Serenity Oaks Equine Sanctuary
6279 N Territorial PLYMOUTH MI 48170
Contact: Nicole Paige
Contact's Phone: 586-864-3344
Contact's Email: serenityoakses@gmail.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: 16
Total number of horses at this facility INCLUDING those counted above: 16
Maximum capacity of horses at this facility: 27

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.
     Washtenaw county animal control 2201 Hogback road Ann Arbor MI 48105 734-971-8400

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

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

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

     1. Ginger Houghton

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Serenity Oaks Equine Sanctuary

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Veterinarian Information
Veterinarian: Dr Lobar
Clinic Name: Huron River equine Veterinary
376 Princeton dr
south Lyon   MI   48170
Phone: 248-707-1098

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Overview: Serenity Oaks Equine Sanctuary (*Main)
Total number of horses/equines currently involved with your programs, under your care, and/or owned by your organization at this facility: 16
Total number of horses at this facility INCLUDING those counted above: 16
Maximum capacity of horses at this facility: 27
Total acreage dedicated specifically to the horses: 25

Our organization has use of the following at this facility:
Structures/Barns: 3  Run-in sheds: 8
Pastures: 5   Paddocks/Pens/Turnout Areas: 3
Uncovered Outdoor Rings: 0   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)?    Yes    
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?     Yes    
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? 0-3;
How many hours per day, on average, are horses turned out:
    Equines are out 24/7 except they are brought in to feed
    Equines are out 24/7 except they are brought in if there is inclement weather
    Equines are out 24/7 except when they are being trained
    Equines are out 24/7 except when they are used for the conduct of the organization's programs

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

The following describes the turnout areas other than pastures at this facility:
    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
    By Appointment Only signs are posted.
    No Trespassing signs are posted
    Hold Harmless signs are posted
    Authorized Personnel Only signs are posted
    Entrance gates are locked at night
    Visitors are only permitted at specific times
    Visitors are only permitted in specific areas
    The property is fitted with 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

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Equine Care/Emergency Preparedness: Serenity Oaks Equine Sanctuary (*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?
    The organization utilizes its own system to maintain records

The following items are consistent with our feed management plan and practices:
    Equines are provided with individualized feeding plans, including supplements, according to 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 individual stalls
    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
    Fecal testing is performed prior to the use of a de-wormer.

Fly/Insect Control: What remedies are used to control flies and insects?
    Feed Through Products
    Fly Spray Repellent
    Fly Masks
    Fly Sheets
    Fans

The following represent the biosecurity practices in place at facility:
    Our organization follows the biosecurity guidelines of our veterinarian
    Sick, affected and/or quarantined equines do not have contact with other equines or other animals
    A specific individual is 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
    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 stored in dumpster(s)
    Our organization adheres to the manure management guidelines set by state and/or local authorities

The following steps are taken to help staff and volunteers readily identify each horse on the property:
    Equines are assigned the same stall/location each day
    Name plates are located on the stall
    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:
    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 inspected for overall working condition before each use by trained personnel
    No equines are ridden; not applicable.

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Emergency Preparedness: Serenity Oaks Equine Sanctuary: *Main This section is required.
The following plans, policies, and procedures are in place at the facility to handle emergencies and address weather related issues, fire safety procedures, and/or any additional hazardous scenarios the facility could potentially experience:
    Emergency procedures are posted prominently
    Emergency phone numbers are posted prominently
    The facility owns or has access to a generator
    The facility maintains at least two weeks of hay, feed, shavings and medications
    The facility collects and maintains medical information from staff, volunteers, and clients
    The facility maintains appropriate liability and/or workers' compensation insurance
    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
    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
    Permanent or temporary structures where equines are stalled are kept free of dust, cobwebs, trash, cleaning rags, and other flammable items
    Aisles and doorways are kept clear
    Heaters with automatic shutoff settings are used

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

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