EQUUS Foundation

MISSION & PROGRAMS

Mission:
Asheville Equine Therapy is driven by a single goal: to enhance community lives, including individuals with disabilities, special needs, PTSD, and trauma, through equine-assisted services. We empower people to achieve physical, emotional, psychological, and social growth through the healing power of horses while fully embracing the natural environment around us.

Our organization conducts Equine Assisted Services in accordance with the EQUUS Foundation Guidelines on Qualifications of Organizations Conducting Equine Assisted Services (EAS).
Our organization provides outreach and/or public education programs involving horses.
100% of our total programs and services are equine-related.
The programs our organization conducts involve the direct use, care, and/or shelter of equines to fulfill our mission.
Our organization DOES NOT CURRENTLY use satellite, support, overflow, foster, and/or outreach facilities.

EQUINE WELFARE OVERVIEW: Please describe what steps your organization takes to ensure that:
1) all interactions between your equines and people are mutually beneficial and conducted in accordance with the Guidelines for Human-Equine Interactions stated below;
2) all equines in the care of our organization and/or equines that participate in the organization's program have access to clean drinking water at all times; nutritious food in sufficient quantity, including natural forage such as pasture grass and/or hay; appropriate veterinary, farrier, and dental care; shelter and protection from the weather; sufficient safe space to move around comfortably on a daily basis; and daily opportunity to freely interact and have contact with other equines:

As a PATH Intl. Center Member, Asheville Equine Therapy is grounded in the belief that every interaction between horse and human must be mutually beneficial. We remain dedicated to upholding the physical comfort and emotional dignity of our equine partners, ensuring that their welfare is the cornerstone of our therapeutic mission. By strictly observing established standards for workloads, safety, and management, we create a sanctuary where both species can thrive through shared connection and respect.

     In accordance with PATH Intl. Standards, every equine partner undergoes a comprehensive screening process to ensure they are active and willing participants in our work. By evaluating temperament, health, and previous training through a lens of continual observation, we identify whose natural inclinations align with our programs. This careful selection ensures that the therapeutic relationship is rewarding for the equine, safeguarding their lasting well-being and enthusiasm for their role.

     The fundamental wellness of our equine partners is paramount to fostering healthy partnerships. Asheville Equine Therapy provides constant access to fresh water and a meticulous regimen of high-quality forage, ensuring our equine partners are physically prepared for meaningful engagement. By adhering to rigorous documentation for veterinary, dental, and farrier services, we maintain a proactive health schedule. Our equine partners enjoy the balance of protective 12x12 stalls and expansive grass pastures with run-in shelters, allowing them the social interaction and movement necessary to remain vibrant and engaged members of our community.

     By prioritizing equine welfare, we safeguard the emotional and physical equilibrium of both equine and human, creating a foundation for profound healing. Every staff member and volunteer is trained to interpret subtle equine body language, ensuring that interactions are defined by clear communication and positive reinforcement. Through our comprehensive library of equine resources, we empower our team to cultivate a deeper understanding of equine ethology. This knowledge allows us to honor the equine’s perspective, transforming every encounter into a dialogue of mutual consent and understanding.

     Equine Assisted Psychotherapy at our center is facilitated by a collaborative team that vigilantly monitors our equine partners for signs of comfort and engagement. Adhering to PATH Intl., EAGALA and/or ARCH standards, we conduct sessions in open environments (the field or arena) that prioritize equine autonomy. By providing ample space for our equine partners to choose their level of interaction, we ensure that their participation is voluntary. This commitment to free-choice fosters a therapeutic space where the equine’s natural presence becomes a catalyst for authentic human growth.

     Therapeutic Horsemanship and Riding sessions are led by PATH Intl. Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructors who champion a equine-centered philosophy. We prioritize balance and relaxation, focusing on the rider's posture and weight to elicit natural responses rather than utilizing forced cues. This approach fosters a genuine partnership where the equine is an equal participant, ensuring the riding experience is as enriching for the equine partner as it is for the participant.

     In summary, Asheville Equine Therapy maintains an unwavering commitment to a mutually beneficial partnership between horses and humans. By adhering to rigorous standards for care and integrating training with access to equine ethology resources, we ensure that every interaction is grounded in respect. Our focus on autonomy and responsive care prioritizes the well-being of our equine partners, creating a therapeutic environment where the bond between horse and human is truly transformative for both.

EQUINE ASSISTED SERVICES (EAS)
The purpose of this section is to outline the Equine Assisted Services that this organization conducts, however, the EQUUS Foundation does not evaluate and is not endorsing the quality or effectiveness of this organization's Equine Assisted Services or activities involving interactions between horses and people. The EQUUS Foundation relies on this organization's assertion that:
-- this organization abides by the EQUUS Foundation Guidelines for Human-Equine Interactions;
-- this organization abides by and utilizes the definitions outlined in the EQUUS Foundation Guidelines on Qualifications of Organizations Conducting Equine Assisted Services (EAS) and contained in the documents, Optimal Terminology for Services in the United States That Incorporate Horses to Benefit People: A Consensus Document and EAS-Definitions-Guide-for-Researchers, and the YouTube presentation of the Optimal Terminology Working Group, Equine-Assisted Services Terminology Overview;
-- the organization's description of the services provided is truthful and accurate;
-- the credentials of the providers meet the certification criteria to provide Equine Assisted Services (EAS) in accordance with the EQUUS Foundation Guidelines on Qualifications of Organizations Conducting Equine Assisted Services (EAS).

This organization provides the following Equine Assisted Services (EAS):
    Adaptive/Therapeutic Riding
    Adaptive/Therapeutic Unmounted Horsemanship
    Psychotherapy/Counseling
    Equine-assisted Learning in Education
    Equine-assisted Learning in Personal Development

Providers:
3: Total number of Providers at Keenan Hill Farm

Equine Assisted Services (EAS) Overview:
Overview of our programs involved with providing EAS to individuals with special needs:
     Our Equine Assisted Services programs, focused on personal growth and education, are championed by a collaborative team of PATH Intl. Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructors and Equine Specialists in Mental Health and Learning, complemented by retired educators and Horse Powered Reading® facilitators. We endeavor to cultivate vital life competencies, including adaptive leadership, authentic communication, and emotional regulation, while fostering confidence, empathy, and effective problem-solving. By engaging with youth and adult groups from local schools, agencies, and nonprofit organizations, we provide a transformative environment where these social and emotional proficiencies can be generalized into daily life, empowering participants to navigate stress with resilience.

     Therapeutic Horsemanship and Riding sessions are led by PATH Intl. Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructors who champion an equine-centered philosophy. We prioritize balance and relaxation, focusing on the rider's posture and weight to elicit natural responses rather than utilizing forced cues. This approach fosters a genuine partnership where the equine is an equal participant, ensuring the riding experience is as enriching for the equine partner as it is for the participant. Participants experience a holistic range of physical, cognitive, and emotional advancements, such as enhanced core stability and refined postural alignment. The rhythmic movement of the horse facilitates improved coordination and the relaxation of spastic musculature, while the therapeutic bond cultivates elevated self-esteem and a profound sense of personal pride. By fostering autonomy and emotional regulation, our programs empower individuals to mitigate stress and anxiety. Furthermore, the collaborative nature of horsemanship nurtures vital life competencies, including active listening, authentic communication, and the development of mutual trust and patience within a team environment.

     Equine Assisted Psychotherapy at our center is facilitated by a collaborative team that vigilantly monitors our equine partners for signs of comfort and engagement. All sessions are conducted by a licensed mental health professional and equine specialist, in which both professionals are PATH Intl., EAGALA and/or ARCH certified. Adhering to PATH Intl., EAGALA and/or ARCH standards, we conduct sessions in open environments (the field or arena) that prioritize equine autonomy. By providing ample space for our equine partners to choose their level of interaction, we ensure that their participation is voluntary. This commitment to free-choice fosters a therapeutic space where the equine’s natural presence becomes a catalyst for authentic human growth. Through the integration of evidence-based therapeutic modalities and clinical interventions alongside equine engagement, we endeavor to alleviate symptoms and mitigate psychological disorders.

     Our primary objective is to empower participants to navigate life’s complexities with resilience while cultivating a more profound and authentic sense of personal purpose. Through the guidance of our licensed mental health professionals and equine specialists, participants are empowered to bridge these transformative experiences with the specific complexities of their personal journeys. This collaborative process invites the mastery of vital life competencies—including adaptive problem-solving, decisive action, emotional regulation, and authentic communication. By cultivating these proficiencies within the therapeutic sanctuary, clients can effectively generalize and integrate these tools into their daily lives, fostering more resilient relationships and a profound sense of fulfillment.

     Our programs support a diverse population, encompassing children as young as age 4, adolescents, and adults. We partner with participants to navigate the complexities of trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, and the profound journey of grief and loss. Our collaborative approach effectively addresses self-esteem challenges, mood regulation, experiences with bullying, and difficulties within school or professional environments. Additionally, we provide specialized support for attention deficit/hyperactivity, interpersonal relationship dynamics, and developmental behavioral concerns. These therapeutic interventions offer a transformative alternative for individuals who find traditional clinical settings or telehealth platforms insufficient for their personal growth and healing.

Outreach and/or Public Education:

Overview of our programs involved with providing outreach and/or public education programs involving horses:
Through our community engagement initiatives, Asheville Equine Therapy facilitates educational farm tours designed to cultivate a more profound appreciation for the equine-human connection. These guided experiences are thoughtfully coordinated around our primary therapeutic sessions to maintain the tranquility of our sanctuary. Our tours empower the general public with essential knowledge regarding the transformative power of the equine bond, while simultaneously illuminating the systemic challenges and hardships facing horses across the United States today. We address the critical landscape of equine welfare, encompassing the repercussions of excessive breeding, uninformed ownership, and the absence of adequate education. By advocating against abandonment and neglect, we shed light on the harrowing journey through auctions and brokers toward the slaughter pipeline, an industry that persists in transporting American horses across international borders.

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

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

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

POLICIES: INTAKE, ASSESSMENT & TRAINING

Prior to a horse being accepted and/or arriving at the facility, the organization has the following policies in place:
    The owner completes an application/contract which constitutes the agreement between the owner and our organization when the equine is acquired from the equine's owner other than by seizure or by abandonment
    If health records are not available or are out-of-date, the veterinarian or a trained staff member under the direction of the 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

Not Checked:

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

Not Checked:
    A physical examination to include temperature, pulse and respiration is conducted by the veterinarian
    A Henneke Body Conditioning Score or other body conditioning score is assigned by a veterinarian
    The equine is microchipped if the organization has the authority to microchip the equine and the equine has not been microchipped

Our organization has the following policies and procedures in place pertaining to the ongoing assessment of horses in its care:
    A physical examination is conducted by the veterinarian at least annually
    The Henneke Body Condition score or other body conditioning score is updated at least annually by a trained staff member
    Vaccinations are administered by the veterinarian at least annually, or with the veterinarian's approval, vaccinations are administered by a trained staff member 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
    Equine massage therapist
    Equine nutritionist

Not Checked:
The Henneke Body Condition score or other body conditioning score is updated at least annually by the veterinarian
Equines at our facility may be treated by: Equine acupuncturist

The organization has a procedure in place to assess equines for the 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
    Clipping
    Tolerance to multiple handlers at the same time

Not Checked:
Jumping
Driving (Pulling a carriage)

Our organization has the following policies and procedures in place pertaining to the weight-carrying or workload capabilities of any horse/equine that is ridden in our care, including training:
Our organization evaluates the weight-carrying and workload limitations for each equine that is ridden at least annually and maintains a written record for each equine that is ridden that documents the results of each evaluation of the equine's weight-carrying and workload limitations

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
    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

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

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

POLICIES: BREEDING

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

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

POLICIES: EUTHANASIA

The organization has the following policies related to euthanasia:
    Our organization follows the euthanasia guidelines of our veterinarian and/or AAEP's Euthanasia Guidelines
    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
    Disposal of the carcass is handled in accordance with local guidelines

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

Re-homing Agreement not applicable.
Our organization has the following re-homing (adoption/purchase) policies and procedures in place:
    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 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:
    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.
    Equines may remain at our organization for their lifetimes
    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 be found suitable homes by our organization
    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 has a practice in place and the financial means to accept financial responsibility for equines in the current care of the organization should space not be available for the equine to remain at the organization and all alternatives have been explored to find the equine an appropriate placement, including those that need to be retired or are no longer able to contribute to the mission of the organization.

EQUINE CARE & SHELTER/FACILITY INFORMATION

Our organization DOES NOT CURRENTLY use satellite, support, overflow, foster, and/or outreach facilities.

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

Keenan Hill Farm
344 Merrill Farm Rd. LEICESTER NC 28748
Currently operational
Total number of horses/equines currently involved with your programs, under your care, and/or owned by your organization at this facility: 6
Total number of horses at this facility NOT INCLUDING those counted above: 0
Maximum capacity of horses at this facility: 20

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

Provide the contact information for the individual or organization responsible for investigating abuse in the county where the facility is located, including mailing address, email address, and phone information.
     Buncombe County Sheriff's Office Animal Crimes Unit 60 Court Plaza 4th Floor Asheville, NC 28801 (828) 250-6670 The Buncombe County Sheriff's Office does not publicize a direct email address for the Animal Crimes Unit. Instead, official reports, evidence, and tips must be submitted through their primary phone line or via their online reporting. https://buncombesheriff.com/submit-a-crime-tip/

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 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: 3

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

     1. Caitlin Nihart
     2. Dr. Heather Thompson Rainey
     3. Megan Hill

Veterinarian Information: Keenan Hill Farm (*Main) Currently operational

Veterinarian: Dr. Scott Lewis
Clinic Name: Mountain Equine Mobile Veterinary Service
15 Main St.
Asheville NC 28787
Phone: 828-545-1971

Grounds: Keenan Hill Farm (*Main) Currently operational
Total acreage dedicated specifically to the horses: 40
Our organization has use of the following at this facility:
Structures/Barns: 3  Run-in sheds: 1
Pastures: 5  Paddocks/Pens/Turnout Areas: 1
Uncovered Outdoor Rings: 1  Covered Outdoor Rings: 0  Indoor Rings: 0

Are the organization's rules, restrictions and warnings (signage) conspicuously posted in easily accessible locations?    Yes
Are the organization's emergency contacts, including veterinarian contact information, conspicuously posted in easily accessible locations?    Yes
Are human and equine first aid kits easily accessible?     Yes

Regarding all shelters where horses are housed including run-in sheds:
How many hours per day, on average, are horses stalled or penned where they are restricted from roaming freely? 4-8
Do horses have individually assigned stalls in the barn/structure(s) or individually assigned shelter locations where they are separated from other horses with a barrier?    Yes
How often are the stalls/shelters cleaned? 6-7 Days a Week
Do all stalls/shelters allow horses to lie down, stand up and turn around and provide protection from inclement weather (wind, sleet, rain, snow and extreme temperatures)?    Yes
Are stalls/shelters kept in good repair, with adequate ceiling height, and free of standing water, accumulated waste, sharp objects and debris?    Yes
Are floors constructed and maintained for both good drainage and traction?    Yes
Is there a ventilation and circulation system, or natural ventilation, 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

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

Not Checked:
    Name plates are located on the stall/shelter location
    Photos are located on the stall/shelter location
    A notebook or binder with photos and information on each equine is easily accessible
    A map/diagram is posted showing the location of each equine with equine names and photos

The following describes the pastures at this facility:
    This facility has a written plan in place for pasture management, such as guidelines for seeding, fertilizing, irrigation, mowing, dragging, harrowing, manure removal, removal of debris, the control of poisonous plants, and a schedule for cleaning
    A dedicated staff person(s) is responsible for pasture management
    All pastures are fenced to prevent escape or injury
    Electric fencing is used; electric wires or tape fence are visibly marked
    Fencing checks, such as broken or missing planks, loose fence posts, exposed or loose nails, detached wires, etc., are done regularly
    Pastures are rotated
    Pastures have natural protection for equines (i.e., trees)
    Pastures have man-made protection for equines (i.e., shelters)

Not Checked:
This facility does not have pastures where equines can graze on pasture grass
Barbed wire is used for fencing

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

Not Checked:
    This facility does not have turnout areas
    Barbed wire is used for fencing
    Electric fencing is used; electric wires or tape fence are visibly marked

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
    By Appointment Only signs are posted.
    No Trespassing signs are posted
    Hold Harmless signs are posted
    Authorized Personnel Only signs are posted
    Visitors are only permitted at specific times
    Visitors are only permitted in specific areas
    The perimeter of the property is fully fenced

Not Checked:
    A security guard is present at night
    Entrance gates are locked at night
    The property is fitted with motion lights
    The property is fitted with a security system monitored by police or a professional service
    The property is fitted with a security system that is monitored internally by staff (or the property owner)

Equine Care/Emergency Preparedness: Keenan Hill Farm (*Main) 2026 and 2025 This section is required.
Horse Health Care/Barn Management Records: What system is used to collect and store health/horse care records?
Notebook or equivalent (technology not utilized)
Onsite computer with cloud-based backup storage system

Not Checked:
Onsite computer with onsite backup storage system

The following items are consistent with our feed management plan and practices:
    The organization takes into consideration the equine's age, breed/type, condition, size, work level and any health issues in designing each equine’s individualized feeding plan including adequate natural forage and consults with the veterinarian as needed.
    The organization determines supplement plans in consultation with a veterinarian
    Staff and/or volunteers are trained in proper feed measurements and protocols and observed periodically to ensure they are feeding correctly
    The feed chart is centrally located and updated as needed
    The area(s) where hay, feed, grain, and supplements are stored are kept clean, free of debris and chemicals, and protected from weather and other animals in rodent-proof and mold-proof containers and grain bins
    Feed, supplements and hay types are clearly labeled
    Water sources, i.e., buckets, troughs, automatic waterers, etc. are kept clean, free of contaminants, debris and chemicals, protected from weather and other animals, and be positioned or affixed to minimize spillage.
    Medications are kept in a secure area

Not Checked:

Is clean, potable water available at all times for all equines?     Yes

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

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

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

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

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 and/or volunteers are trained in accordance with the General Biosecurity Guidelines of the American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP) and/or their veterinarian
    Restricted access signs are posted at primary points of access to sick, affected and/or quarantined equines
    Hand sanitizers are available at all primary points of access to sick, affected and/or quarantined equines
    Footbaths are available at all primary points of access to sick, affected and/or quarantined equines
    Manure and bedding from sick, affected and/or quarantined equines is removed from the facility - not put in open air piles or spread on pastures
    Quarantine areas, such as stalls, aisle ways, and paddocks, are cleaned (and needed, disinfected) after conclusion of the quarantine.
    Trailers/vans used by sick, affected and/or quarantined equines are cleaned and disinfected after each use and cleaning takes place away from where equines are sheltered
    Equipment used by sick, affected and/or quarantined equines is not shared and 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

Not Checked:
Equines are not quarantined on arrival.

The following represent the manure removal practices in place at facility:
    Manure is piled in an area which is a safe distance from equines and from where equines are sheltered
    Manure piles are composted or spread on pastures
    Our organization adheres to the manure management guidelines set by the state, local authorities, and/or our organization's veterinarian

Not Checked:
    Manure is stored in dumpster(s) which is a safe distance from equines and from where equines are sheltered
    Manure piles are covered
    Manure is hauled, sold or given away

Our organization has the following policies and procedures in place pertaining to tack, apparel and equipment:
    All equines have specifically assigned apparel, equipment and tack (saddles/bridles if ridden) that is not shared
    Blankets, sheets and turn out apparel are fitted and utilized for each equine appropriate to the equine's needs and the weather conditions
    Blankets, sheets and turn out apparel are cleaned regularly as needed
    Riding Tack is always cleaned at least weekly
    Riding Tack is inspected for overall working condition before each use by trained personnel
    Riding Tack is assessed for fit by trained personnel when an equine's body condition changes
    Riding Tack is assessed for fit by trained personnel when an equine's disposition changes
    This facility enlists the services of a professional saddle fitter at least once a year
    Assigned riding 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.

Not Checked:
    Saddles are shared
    Saddle pads are shared
    Bridles are shared
    Bits are shared
    Blankets are shared
    Sheets are shared
    Turnout apparel is shared
     Halters are shared
    Riding Tack is always cleaned after each use
    Riding Tack is cleaned only when needed
    Riding Tack is assessed for fit before each use by trained personnel
    No equines are ridden; saddles, bridles, etc. not applicable.

Emergency Preparedness: Keenan Hill Farm: *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:
    The facility owns or has access to a generator
    The facility maintains at least two weeks of hay, feed, shavings and medications
    The organization has a written emergency preparedness/safety plan (EPP)

Not Checked:

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
    Human and Equine Evacuation plans
    Power outages
    Fire
    Natural Disasters - thunderstorm, hurricanes, earthquakes, tornados, etc
    Protocols to notify emergency personnel
    Building/facility exit plans

Not Checked:
Active Shooter and/or Terrorist attacks

The facility follows the specific procedures to help PREVENT emergency situations:
    Smoking is strictly prohibited unless confined to designated areas.
    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 trash, cleaning rags, and other flammable items
    Aisles and doorways are kept clear

Not Checked:
Heaters with automatic shutoff settings are used

How often are the following checked or performed to ensure applicable working condition?
Fire Extinguishers are checked: Monthly
Smoke detectors are checked: Monthly
Fence lines are checked: Weekly
Turnout Areas are checked: Weekly
Sprinkler systems are checked: Not at all/NA
Fire drills are conducted: Quarterly
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

Functioning Equine Transportation: Onsite: 2 (Owned 1 +Access 1) + Offsite: 0 = Total: 2