MISSION & PROGRAMS

Mission:
The South Florida SPCA mission is to rescue and rehabilitate horses and other livestock in Miami-Dade County and safely rehome them across the country.

Since 1992, the SFSPCA has been the last line of defense for abused and abandoned horses and livestock in Miami-Dade County, Florida. We are the only thing standing between them and starvation, death, and even slaughter. SFSPCA works in cooperation with Miami-Dade Animal Services Department & Miami-Dade Agricultural Police Unit to respond 24/7 to investigate cruelty and abandonment cases, and to seize and care for those victims at our Homestead facility.

SFSPCA is the only organization qualified to rescue, rehabilitate, retrain and re-home horses in Miami-Dade County. The organization educates the public and promotes the humane treatment of equines through its outreach and volunteer programs, website and social media. Additionally SFSPCA attends community events to promote the mission. SFSPCA promotes the welfare of equines through local and national advocacy.

Our organization provides programs involved with equine rescue & adoption
Our organization provides outreach and/or public education programs involving horses.
Our organization is directly responsible for the care and shelter of equines involved in our programs.
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:
Our core values continue to be kept in focus, Gratitude, Accountability, Nobility, Compassion & Excellence.
     Our long term plan to sustain our program is to continue to create more awareness, continue to foster new relationships and opportunities for financial support, and have an engaged Board of Directors to support the efforts.
     
     The primary goal for South Florida SPCA is to always be able to provide rescue, rehabilitation and the opportunity to be adopted into a permanent and loving home, to all horses who would otherwise continue to suffer from cruelty or abandonment. We maintain our vision to be a “timeless organization” that continues to serve the community and the animals who need us.
     
     We have a specific goal of keeping abreast of the evolving science of veterinary medicine and behavior, so that we can provide the best opportunity for physical and mental rehabilitation for the horses in our care.
     
     We are committed to our goal of ongoing education and continued learning opportunities.
     
     We just hosted an educational opportunity for our staff and volunteers to attend an IAABC (International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants) instructor led, via zoom, from England, Horses and the Pain Ethos. A six-week course, approved for Veterinary Continuing Education credits, that explores the science of behavior and pain in the horse.
     
     We continue to foster educational growth for our staff and volunteers in the science of training and the emotional wellbeing of horses. We continue to expand our goal of utilizing positive reinforcement and collaborative training techniques.
     
     We created a part-time compensated position of Volunteer Coordinator. This position is in support of expanding opportunities for our volunteers, as well as outreach and community engagement.
     
     We have partnered with Purina to provide education on healthy weight and body condition scores of horses. We have ongoing monthly evaluations with Purina Nutrition representatives to help ensure that our horses are maintained at proper weight and body condition scores.
     
     We hired a professional horse trainer to come in twice a month, for 2-hour sessions, to work with our staff and our volunteers to expand their equine interaction skills.
     
     We have a specific goal of “weather mitigation” which has become a primary concern. While hurricanes were once our biggest challenge, the severe heat is an ongoing and primary concern, both as it relates to our staff, volunteers and animals in our care.
     
     When we updated our website in 2021, our goal was to have a website that was engaging, informative and evolving. In keeping with this goal, we continue to add content that we feel showcases our mission, our animals, and the quality and heart that our South Florida SPCA family brings to animal welfare.
     
     In 2024 we added a page about training and enrichment. We continue to ensure all our horses have adequate enrichment, particularly any horses that must endure stall rest.
     
     In keeping with our goal of expanding our community engagement and outreach program we have created a new page within our website specific to Community Engagement and Outreach opportunities.
     
     We are in the beginning stages of creating a new page within the website with testimonials and photos of successful adoptions so that we can showcase the value of adoption.
     
     We have embarked on creating our own Wikipedia page, to enhance awareness of our mission and the plight of animal welfare in general.
     
     We have been able to successfully meet our goal of pivoting our Open House event, which is a “fan favorite” into a fundraising event as well as an awareness event. Included within our pivot for Open House is the inclusion of other rescue organizations in attendance. We offer space to our local Animal Shelter, as well as some community-based dog and cat rescue organizations, and the local Veterinary Foundation, who offer free spay/neuter opportunities.
     
     In keeping with our commitment to transparency, and communication, we now produce a year end impact report that we provide to all donors who have donated within last three years of producing the impact report.
     
     We continue to meet our goal of maintaining Platinum Status with GuideStar/Candid.
     
     We continue to meet our goal of maintaining our Accreditation with the Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance.
     
     We continue achieve our goal of partnering with the Miami-Dade Police Agricultural Unit and the Miami-Dade Animal Services, Animal Cruelty Investigation department. We continue to seek prosecution for animal abuse and cruelty whenever circumstance allow for pursuit of charges.
     
     We have an ongoing goal of approaching new and novel, “outside the box” ideas for fundraising- such as Rescue Warrior T-shirt campaign, a direct mail piece with a “keep it for future reference list of all animal welfare & rescue organizations in our community” working with influencers to expand awareness and social media presence, as well as events and other opportunities to continue to expand our fundraising efforts.



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:

All our horses are evaluated by staff and or our trainer for the appropriate level of skill required to handle the horses from the ground. Generally, our horses are only ridden by our trainer or potential adopters. On occasion there may be a trail event where volunteers or staff may participate on one of our horses to showcase the horse available for adoption. (with appropriate skill set and waivers in place).
     
     As represented among our goals, we actively provide ongoing education to enhance skill and safety when handling horses. We also continue to educate on horses’ emotional welfare and behavioral communications.
     
     Typically, our volunteers only handle the horses for grooming, hand grazing, and if their skill set allows, and they are approved, to lunge them in the round pen.
     
     Our volunteer orientation booklet included specific safety information around horses, horses’ basic communication signals, and human safety in the heat.
     
     All horse stalls, pastures and paddocks have automatic waterers that are cleaned daily. Because we are on a well and pump, we have a back-up generator to ensure access to clean water is always available, should we lose power.
     
     Each horse, unless it is against veterinary advice, is given daily turn out time with other horses. Generally, due to extremely hot weather conditions, horses are in stalls under fans during the day, and out overnight. All paddocks and pastures have shelters from the elements as well as plenty of space for a buck, fart and some zoomies. Horses are always provided feed morning and evening, and hay morning, evening and throughout the day as appropriate or needed. Every horse is given a dental exam upon arrival and then an annual exam, unless more frequently is indicated on an individual basis.
     We provide veterinary care immediately upon intake, twice a year for routine vaccines and as needed.
     Our farrier is on a 5 week schedule for shoeing and trimming. If a horse is better served by 6 weeks, we will accommodate the horses need.
     
     We feed Purina Feed and Alfalfa hay. We clean our hay container routinely and rotate hay positions within the container to ensure the highest freshness. All unopened feed is kept on pallets and open feed is kept in waterproof pestilence proof containers. Feed containers are rotated and cleaned so ensure feed is feed in proper sequence of being opened and to verify that it is free of mold or foreign objects.

Equine Transition Services:
Overview of our programs involved with rescue, rehabilitation, retraining, re-homing and/or retirement:
     South Florida SPCA Horse Rescue (SFSPCA) is a rescue organization working in cooperation with local law enforcement to retrieve or seize horses and livestock that are stray/abandoned or abused/neglected in Miami-Dade County, Florida.
     
     All horses are placed in designated quarantine areas upon arrival for a minimum of 21 days, and are given veterinary and farrier care immediately upon arrival or shortly thereafter. After the quarantine period, horses are evaluated by our Equine Case Review Committee and placed in rehabilitation or retraining based on their physical condition and disposition.
     
     Horses being considered for retraining are given lameness assessments (as needed) to determine soundness. Other factors, such as their general health, body condition score, riding history (if known), and temperament are taken into consideration. This determines which level of retraining is appropriate, e.g., ground work/stable manners, round penning, or under saddle. Once retraining begins, logs are kept to monitor and document each horse’s progress. Photos and videos are taken of horses in retraining as well. SFSPCA's Equine Case Review Committee meets once per month to discuss horses' status, training, medical needs, etc.
     
     Once deemed in good health and trained to an acceptable level, horses are adopted out to those who have met the high criteria we set for adoption. Prospective adopters complete a detailed adoption application and are interviewed and evaluated on the ground and in the saddle by our Adoption Committee. We place horses of retirement age, pending available space, with Retirement Home for Horses at Mill Creek, in Alachua, Florida. When horses are placed with the RHFH they are owner transfers.
     
     When health, injury, or incapacity make it impossible for a horse to be sustained further, a program of humane euthanasia is performed by our veterinarian, with great reluctance and proper consideration for the animal.
Overview of our programs involved with providing outreach and/or public education programs involving horses:
     We host on-site informational and advocacy programs to educate young people on all aspects of horse care, ownership and humane treatment. Our staff and volunteers also attend community events in order to connect with the public and educate them about responsible equine ownership care and animal welfare. When invited we also provide speakers for Animal Welfare symposiums.

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:
 SFSPCA is primarily a horse rescue, however we are contracted by Miami-Dade County to rescue large farm animals/livestock as well.

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POLICIES: INTAKE, ASSESSMENT & TRAINING

Prior to a horse being accepted and/or arriving at the facility, the organization has the following policies in place:
    If health records are not available or are out-of-date, our veterinarian will administer appropriate vaccinations

Trial Period: Check all that apply:
    Equines are not taken on trial

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

The typical length of quarantine is:   20 to 30 days

Following arrival of the equine at the facility, the following is performed:
    Physical examination to include temperature, pulse and respiration by a trained staff member upon arrival
    A Henneke Body Conditioning Score or other body conditioning score is assigned by a trained staff member upon arrival
    Photographs are taken of each equine upon arrival at the facility and kept with the equine's health records
    Physical examination by a farrier
    Physical examination by a dentist
    The equine is scanned to check for a microchip
    The equine is microchipped if the equine has not been microchipped

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
    Clipping
    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 by the veterinarian
    Vaccinations are administered 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
    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


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

Additional information about our intake, assessment & training policies and practices:
It's extremely rare for us to receive health records for our rescued horses. Generally, all intakes are immediately de-wormed, vaccinated and a coggins pulled. If pregnancy is suspected, we order a pregnancy panel.
     
     Regarding the requirement for veterinary exams on arrival, not all equines receive a veterinary exam on arrival. If we have the intake of a rescue, we do have a veterinary assessment at intake as soon as the veterinary scheduling allows. However, having said that, we do receive returned horses, or horses that have been found at large in good shape, or Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance horses, that would not require an immediate veterinary assessment. Additionally, sometimes an intake requires emergency medical treatment, in which case we may have to seek an alternative Equine Veterinarian who is readily available to attend to the horse's immediate need.
     
     Generally we provide training 3 times a week for each horse that is in the retraining process. What the training consist of is determined by our trainer and suited specifically for the individual horse. We have added clicker training and enrichment to our rehabilitation process and to enhance our behavior training.

POLICIES: BREEDING

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

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

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 has the following policies and procedures related to horses that need to be retired, are no longer able to contribute to the mission of the organization, and/or are no longer manageable:
    Equines may be found suitable homes by our organization
    In the case an equine is unmanageable and demonstrates repeated dangerous behaviors, the equine may be euthanized upon the recommendation of the veterinarian
    In the case an equine is unsound and/or unhealthy and cannot be treated to relieve suffering, the equine may be euthanized upon the recommendation of the veterinarian

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 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

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:
$751 to $1,000


Additional information about our rehoming policies and practices:
At the advice of legal counsel, SFSPCA transfers ownership of horses at time of adoption, but thought the adoption agreement retains control of specific items, as listed, contractually.

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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South Florida Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) Horse Rescue
24650 SW 167 Avenue Homestead FL 33031
Currently operational
Total number of horses/equines currently involved with your programs, under your care, and/or owned by your organization at this facility: 15
Total number of horses at this facility NOT INCLUDING those counted above: 1
Maximum capacity of horses at this facility: 80

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

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.
     Miami Dade Animal Services (MDAS) Annette Jose, Director 3599 NW 79 Avenue, Doral, FL 33122 Annette.jose@miamidade.gov 305-418-7151

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

The one horse that is not under our care specifically is owned by the Director of Rescue Operations who also resides on the property. Diva is her personal senior horse.

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South Florida Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) Horse Rescue

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Veterinarian Information
Veterinarian: Richard S Templeton
Clinic Name: Richard S Templeton, DVM
9330 Sw 92nd St
Miami   FL   33176
Phone: 305-793-2336

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Overview: South Florida Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) Horse Rescue (*Main)
Total acreage dedicated specifically to the horses: 8
Our organization has use of the following at this facility:
Structures/Barns: 3  Run-in sheds: 29
Pastures: 2  Paddocks/Pens/Turnout Areas: 6
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:
Do horses have assigned stalls in the barn/structure(s) or exclusively assigned shelter locations where they are separated from other horses with a barrier?    Yes    
How many hours per day, on average, are horses stalled or restricted to these sheltered exclusive shelter locations? 4-8
How often are the stalls/shelters cleaned, i.e., kept in good repair and free of standing water, accumulated waste, sharp objects and debris? 6-7 Days a Week
Do all stalls/shelters allow horses to lie down, stand up and turn around and provide protection from inclement weather (wind, sleet, rain, snow and extreme temperatures)?    Yes    
Are stalls/shelters kept in good repair, with adequate ceiling height, and free of standing water, accumulated waste, sharp objects and debris?    Yes    
Are floors constructed and maintained for both good drainage and traction?    Yes    
Is there a ventilation and circulation system in place to allow free flow of air to control temperature, and humidity, and to prevent air stagnation?    Yes    
Is wiring inaccessible to horses and maintained for safety in all areas of facility?    Yes    
Are fire prevention/protection measures (fire alarms, extinguishers and sprinkler systems) maintained and in good working order?     Yes    
Is there adequate lighting to ensure safety in all areas of facility?     Yes    
How many hours per day, on average, are horses turned out:
    Equines are out 9 to 15 hours per day

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

The following policies and procedures are in place at the facility to restrict public access and to keep horses safe:
    The property owner, staff member or caretaker lives on the premises and ensures that public access is restricted and is responsible for the security of the facility and equines
    There is a practice in place to monitor equines overnight
    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: South Florida Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) Horse Rescue (*Main) 2025 and 2024 This section is required.

Horse Health Care/Barn Management Records: What system is used to collect and store health/horse care records?
    Onsite computer with cloud-based backup storage system
    Our organization utilizes a software application to maintain records

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

Is clean, potable water available at all times for all equines, or if not at all times, at least twice daily?     Yes    

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

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

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

Our organization has the following parasite and fly/insect control protocols in place, including remedies used to control flies and insects:
    Our organization follows the parasite control guidelines of our veterinarian, including fecal testing and de-worming
    Fly/Insect Control Remedies:
    Fly parasites
    Fly Traps and Tapes
    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
    The organization has a written biosecurity plan
    Staff are trained in best practices related to biosecurity
    Volunteers are trained in best practices related to biosecurity
    A specific individual is trained and assigned to care for sick, affected and/or quarantined equines
    Sick, affected and/or quarantined equines are cared for last if the caretaker must also care for healthy equines
    Restricted access signs are posted at primary points of access to sick, affected and/or quarantined equines
    Hand sanitizers are available at all primary points of access to sick, affected and/or quarantined equines
    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, and not spread on pastures
    Quarantine areas, such as stalls, aisle ways, paddocks, and common areas, are cleaned (and needed, disinfected) after conclusion of the quarantine.
    Trailers/vans used by sick, affected and/or quarantined equines are cleaned and disinfected after each use and cleaning takes place away from where equines are sheltered
    Equipment used by sick, affected and/or quarantined equines is not shared
    Equipment used by sick, affected and/or quarantined equines is cleaned of organic debris and disinfected after each use
    Latex gloves, or equivalent gloves, are worn when working with sick, affected and/or quarantined equines

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

The following steps are taken to help staff and volunteers readily identify each horse on the property:
    Equines are assigned the same exclusive stall/shelter location each day
    Name plates are located on the stall/shelter location
    Equines wear halters with nametags
    Equine photos and profiles are available on the website
    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
    Blankets, sheets and turn out apparel are fitted and utilized for each equine appropriate to the equine's needs and the weather conditions
    Blankets, sheets and turn out apparel are cleaned regularly as needed
    Tack is cleaned 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
    Assigned tack is clearly labeled
    Helmets are shared
    Helmets are replaced after a fall

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Emergency Preparedness: South Florida Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) Horse Rescue: *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
    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
    NO SMOKING signs are posted prominently
    Hay is stored away from permanent or temporary structures where equines are stalled
    Permanent or temporary structures where equines are stalled are kept free of dust, cobwebs, trash, cleaning rags, and other flammable items
    Aisles and doorways are kept clear

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

Equine Transportation: 5= Onsite: 1 (1 + 0) + Offsite: 4
2-horse van/trailer with truck:
    0 Owned onsite  0 Access onsite but not owned  2 Access offsite;
3-horse van/trailer with truck:
    0 Owned onsite  0 Access onsite but not owned  0 Access offsite;
4-horse van/trailer with truck:
    1 Owned onsite  0 Access onsite but not owned  1 Access offsite;
6-horse van/trailer with truck:
    0 Owned onsite  0 Access onsite but not owned  0 Access offsite;
8-horse van/trailer with truck:
    0 Owned onsite  0 Access onsite but not owned  1 Access offsite;
10-horse van/trailer with truck:
    0 Owned onsite  0 Access onsite but not owned  0 Access offsite;

GOVERNANCE, MANAGEMENT & FINANCIAL REPORTING

Financial Reporting
Budget:  $500K to $1M
Equine Budget:   $150K to $250K
Month Fiscal Year Ends: 12
Type of Financial Reporting (Audit, Review, Compilation): Audit
Type of IRS Filing (990, 990-EZ, 990-N): 990


Governing Body:
Board meetings per year:  12
Number of Board Members:  7  Number of Voting Board Members:  7

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

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

Board/Staff Affiliations:
Are any Board members providing services to your organization or compensated by your organization, or are any Board members or staff members associated with and/or compensated by another organization with a relationship or business affiliation to your organization? No

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


Compliance:
Below is a list all local, state and federal licenses held by the organization, and/or accreditations or compliances with the published standards of an accrediting organization, if applicable:  Accredited: Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries
     Accredited: 2023-2024 Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance
     
     License to solicit- State of Florida- CH961- Exp,. April 2025

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

Organization documents available on request:
    Most recent Financials
    Most recent IRS Form 990
    Equine Intake Guidelines
    Adoption/Foster Agreement
    Volunteer Handbook
    Staff Handbook
    Bylaws


Staff & Volunteers:
Chief Staff Officer (CSO):  Christine Septer, Executive Director
Employees/Independent Contractors:   Full-Time:  6  Part-Time:  1  Volunteers:  50
Staff Recruitment, Screening and Training processes including employees and independent contractors:
    Prospective staff/independent contractors complete a written application/agreement
    Our organization has a practice in place to ensure that the organization has sufficient knowledge of the background of prospective staff and independent contractors that may impact the safety of your clients and your horses, such as whether prospective staff/independent contractors serving in the capacity as staff have been convicted of a sexual offense or convicted for animal cruelty or neglect. Such practices must comply with local, state, and federal mandates.
    Staff and/or contractors are required to complete a Liability Release/Hold Harmless Agreement
    Staff and/or contractors are required to provide Emergency Medical Information
    Staff and/or contractors are required to sign a Photo Release
    Prospective staff/independent contractors are required to undergo a Background Check
    Staff and/or contractors have a written job description
    Staff and/or contractors are evaluated on an annual and as needed basis or with any change in their job description
    Staff and/or contractors are updated on all the organization's policies and procedures on an annual and as needed basis or with any change in policy or procedure
    Staff and/or contractors receive training that includes safety guidelines, confidentiality, equine handling, equine identification, and emergency procedures; additional training is job specific
    Staff and/or contractors have a supervisor and is responsible for keeping their supervisor up to date on work related activities
    The organization provides a handbook to every member of the staff, including employees and/or independent contractors serving in staff positions;
    The handbook includes information, such as hours of work, vacation, sick leave, dress code, cell phone usage, and the protocol for dismissal
    The handbook is reviewed annually and updated
    One or more staff members or contractors are trained in CPR and human first aid
    One or more staff members or contractors are trained in equine first aid
    Staff and/or contractors are subject to Random Drug Screening

Volunteer Recruitment, Screening and Training processes:
    Volunteers required to complete a Liability Release/Hold Harmless Agreement
    Volunteers are required to provide Emergency Medical Information
    Volunteers are required to sign a Photo Release
    Volunteers provide parent/guardian information if applicable
    Volunteers are updated on all the organization's policies and procedures on an annual and as needed basis or with any change in policy or procedure
    Volunteers receive training that includes safety guidelines, confidentiality, equine handling, equine identification, and emergency procedures; additional training is job specific
    Volunteers are assigned a supervisor (staff member and/or senior volunteer) and is responsible for keeping their supervisor up to date on work related activities
    The supervisor assesses the volunteer's abilities and assigns specific duties to the volunteer based on their skills
    The organization records and maintains written attendance information and hours on every volunteer
    The organization provides a Volunteer Handbook to every volunteer
    The Volunteer Handbook includes volunteer-related information, such as hours of work, dress code, cell phone usage, and the protocol for dismissal
    The Volunteer Handbook is reviewed annually and updated
    The organization holds regular orientation sessions for volunteers and prospective volunteers that includes an overview of the organization, its mission, activities, volunteer responsibilities and expectations, safety guidelines, and a tour of the facility

Additional explanation regarding governance, staffing and volunteer practices or further explanation of the answers above.
Rather than print an annual report, we now host an annual Zoom Annual Year End meeting that is open to all public.