EQUINE WELFARE NETWORK PROFILE
Riding To The Top Therapeutic Riding Center
Riding To The Top Therapeutic Riding Center
14 Lilac Dr.
Windham, ME 04062
Phone: 207-892-2813 MAKE AN INQUIRY
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EIN: 01-0482069Founded: 1993
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Profile Last Updated March 21, 2023Public Charity
AWARDED ANNUALLY
Effective Date
May 2022
Effective Date
May 2022
The Guardian Seal of Transparency is awarded annually to recognize an organization's commitment to transparency and accountability by their willingness to make comprehensive data about their programs, horse care practices, and governance available for public scrutiny. The Guardian Seal of Transparency is NOT an endorsement.
Awarded Annually
Effective Date: May 2022
Last Updated: June 03, 2022
Effective Date: May 2022
Last Updated: June 03, 2022
Riding To The Top Therapeutic Riding Center has not attained the Guardian designation for 2023. To view the 2022 Guardian information, click here.
MISSION & PROGRAMS
Mission:Riding To The Top Therapeutic Riding Center ("RTT") is a non profit, 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to enhancing health and wellness through equine-assisted services (EAS).
Our organization conducts Equine Assisted Services in accordance with the EQUUS Foundation Guidelines on Qualifications of Organizations Conducting Equine Assisted Services (EAS).
Our organization provides community outreach and/or public education programs involving horses.
Our organization is directly responsible for the care and shelter of equines involved in our programs.
100% of our total programs and services are horse-related.
Our organization does not use satellite, overflow, foster, and/or outreach facilities
Equine Assisted Services (EAS):
Our organization provides the following equine assisted services (EAS):
Therapeutic Mounted Services
Therapeutic Driving Services
Therapeutic Unmounted Services
Equine-Assisted Occupational Therapy/Physical Therapy/Speech-Language Pathology
Equine-Assisted Learning involving Academic Learning
Not Checked:
Therapeutic Vaulting Services
Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy/Counseling (Mental Health)
Equine-Assisted Learning involving Personal and/or Professional Development
Overview of our programs involved with providing EAS to individuals with special needs:
At Riding To The Top we provide services to individuals who have a wide range of diagnoses that include, but are not limited to, cerebral palsy, brain injury, autism, learning disabilities, multiple sclerosis, PTSD, depression, anxiety, ADHD, Down syndrome and developmental delays.
Typically over 250 people with disabilities, ages 3-85+ are served each year through individual and group lessons. Riding To The Top offers a variety of services for our clients depending on their individual needs. Services include therapeutic riding, Equine Assisted Learning programs, therapeutic carriage driving and PT/OT services utilizing equine movement In 2022, we provided 2,527 client visits (258 individual clients) in-person at the farm and with remote field trips where we traveled to area schools.
Therapeutic Horsemanship--Mounted (TR) and Unmounted (GW): Our TR/GW program is our largest program and serves children and adults of all ages. Activities include grooming, tacking and riding skills to help individuals improve their physical strength, cognitive and sequencing skills, and social interactions. For individuals who do not want to ride or are unable to ride, we offer unmounted ground work. We offer these services to individuals as well as groups from day programs and schools.
Equine Assisted Learning (EAL): RTT provides in-person learning working closely with school educators on student goals and areas of study. RTT has developed learning modules that complement school goals and shares equine-related learning with students in conjunction with their teachers and ed techs. In 2022, RTT worked in-person with students from area schools, in conjunction with school educators who attend the sessions with their students.
Therapeutic Carriage Driving (TCD): This program offers an option for clients who are unable to ride due to physical limitations or who may be fearful of heights. TCD offers clients an exciting activity where balance and visual-spatial relationships are challenged, while driving the horse from a cart. A PATH Intl. Certified Driving instructor and specially trained volunteers make up our driving teams. RTT’s Driving program became accredited by PATH Intl. in 2016 during our re-Accreditation site visit.
Occupational and Physical Therapy services utilizing equine movement are provided to a small population of clients at RTT who benefit from the physical and sensory input of the horse's movement to assist in neuro-developmental skills.
Between our lesson terms, we offer field trip experiences, staff and volunteer education related to EAS and equine related clinics that have benefit for our staff, horses and the general public. Educational offerings include:
• PATH Intl. mentoring program for Instructors In Training;
• Advanced program-specific volunteer trainings; and
• Clinics on equine topics including Natural Horsemanship, Acupressure/Reiki, Masterson Energy Work and Driving.
Community Outreach and/or Public Education:Overview of our programs involved with providing community outreach and/or public education programs involving horses:
We work to increase awareness about the benefits of EAS through community education, outreach and research opportunities such as:
• Forums, fairs, conferences and open houses;
• High School and College service learning programs;
• College level internships;
• Participation in NIH funded research on the effects of EAS;
• Staff presentations at PATH Intl. conferences; and
• Participation of RTT staff in volunteer roles with PATH Intl.
In 2022, we continued our participation in a NIH funded research study looking at the physiological changes in children with Autism during therapeutic riding compared to a "barn" (control) group. We are thrilled to be working with Univ. of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus and Maine Medical Center Research Institute on this exciting study. The Maine site completed data collection in 2022 and we hope to be presenting with the Colorado site at the 2023 PATH Intl. Annual Conference on how Therapeutic Riding Centers can collaborate with Researchers to further the body of knowledge in the our industry.
Research/Medical Use of Equines:
Our organization has made equines available for research studies or medical training.
Please explain where and for what purpose equines are/were provided to use in research or medical training.
We hosted in 2022 a practicum for Veterinary Tech students that involved observation, taking vitals and techniques for bloodwork and vaccinations (venipuncture and placebo IM injections). Horses were monitored closely by RTT staff and veterinarians who were instructing the class and were rotated to limit the number of "shots" or venipunctures. Given the veterinarian shortage we feel that this continues to be an important collaboration for students who will be assisting our equine veterinarians in the coming years.
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.
Equine Assisted Services (EAS):
Our organization provides the following Equine Assisted Services (EAS):
Therapeutic Mounted Services
Therapeutic Driving Services
Therapeutic Unmounted Services
Equine-Assisted Occupational Therapy/Physical Therapy/Speech-Language Pathology
Equine-Assisted Learning involving Academic Learning
10: Total number of Equine Assisted Service Providers at Riding To The Top Therapeutic Riding Center
1. Cynde Putney
2. Kate Jeton
3. Kristin Meaney
4. Lisa Messina
5. Mario Pascarelli
6. Marissa LaGassey
7. Marissa Stewart, DPT
8. Sara Gagliarducci, OTR/L
9. Sarah Bronson, PT
10. Tracy Sturtevant
Our organization acquires horses/equines from the following source(s):
Donation
Lease
Purchase/Adoption from Owner
Our organization does not acquire horses/equines from the following source(s):
Auction
Kill pen/Feedlot
Return
Surrender
Seizure
Abandonment
Our organization will accept the following:
Geldings
Mares
Not Checked:
Pregnant Mares
Foals
Stallions
Only Stallions to be castrated
Additional information about our acquisition policies and practices:
Riding To The Top is committed to offering equine-assisted services in a safe and nurturing environment for humans AND horses. As such, the characteristics of our horses are critical. Regardless of whether a prospective horse is a donation, free-lease or plans to be purchased by the organization, an adequate trial period is desired to ensure that the prospective equine will meet the needs of RTT, including specifically our programs’ and clients’ needs and that the horse is happy in the work and seems well suited for EAS. To assist in this decision making process, RTT utilizes our Trial Contract for Purchase/Lease, our Horse Profile form and our Equine Screening Assessment, to ensure the horse’s fit with RTT. In the case of a lease agreement or a donation, we actively encourage the owners to participate in the process, ensuring that they, too, are comfortable with the fit for their horse and our program’s needs.
The Equine Manager takes the lead role in screening prospective horses and making a decision whether a horse is appropriate for a trial. Once the horse is on RTT property, all program staff are involved in assessing the horse’s suitability for programming at RTT. Final decisions re: acceptance of the horse for RTT programs and details of any lease/purchase/donation agreements are made by the Equine Manager with input from the Program Director, program staff and the Executive Director.
A current Coggins
Vaccination records that have been administered within the last 12 months
If health records are not available or are out-of-date, the owner is responsible for having vaccinations administered.
If health records are not available or are out-of-date, our veterinarian will administer appropriate vaccinations
Prior to a horse being accepted and/or arriving at the facility, the organization has the following policies in place:
The owner of a potential equine is interviewed over the phone or in person prior to seeing the equine
The equine is evaluated at its place of residence
The owner completes an application/contract which constitutes the agreement between the owner and our organization
Equines are on trial for up to 30 days
Equines are on trial up to 60 days
Equines are on trial for 60 or more days
The trial period may be reduced based on the equine's progress
During the trial period, the organization accepts total financial responsibility for the care of the equine, including board, feed, shoeing and any necessary veterinary care
During the trial period, the owner/donor is financially responsible for the care of the equine, including board, feed, shoeing and any necessary veterinary care
The trial period may be terminated by either the organization or the owner for any reason
Following arrival of the equine at the facility, the following is performed:
Physical examination by a veterinarian upon arrival and/or prior to quarantine departure
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
A Henneke Body Conditioning Score or other body conditioning score is assigned
Fecal test
De-worming
Upon intake, the organization has the following quarantine policy in place:
The equine is confined to a designated and separate area for isolation and quarantine at the facility for a prescribed period of time
The typical length of quarantine is: 10 to 20 days
Horses are assessed for following skills and behaviors:
Retrieval from a pasture/paddock
Leading with a halter and lead rope
Temperament, disposition and attitude, such as rated from very calm to very high spirited
Saddling
Bridling
Lunging
Loading onto and unloading off a trailer
Mounting and dismounting
Riding at the walk
Riding at the trot
Riding at the canter
Riding by a beginner and/or unbalanced rider
Driving (Pulling a carriage)
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:
The Henneke Body Condition score or other body conditioning score is updated at least monthly
Photographs are taken of each equine monthly 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
Physical examination by a veterinarian at least annually
Our organization evaluates at least annually and maintains a written record of the weight-carrying and workload limitations for each equine that is ridden
The following variables are considered in determining the weight-carrying and workload limitations for each equine that is ridden:
Equine age, weight, breed, body condition, fitness, balance, health and soundness
Equine conformation to include the top line, length of back, strength and width of loin, bone density (measured by the circumference of the cannon bone just below the knee)
Size, shape, condition and angle of the hooves
Participant weight, height, body proportions, balance, fitness and riding skills as well as behavioral issues and safety concerns
Weight and proper fit of the saddle and other equipment
Terrain and footing in the working environment
Duration and frequency of working sessions, as the frequency with which an equine is subjected to maximum weight carrying and/or workload
Nature and pace of work, repetitive or varied, radius of turns, degree of incline and regularity of footing when equine is subject to maximum weight-carrying capacity
Temperature and/or weather conditions
Seasonal impact on the equines' workload and weight-carrying capabilities and limitations
Horses provided formal training (groundwork or riding): 2-3 times per week
Additional information about our intake, assessment & training policies and practices:
In several of the sections above, we checked off seemingly contradictory statements. This is because our trial period agreement may be tailored to the individual horse/owner situation re: length of trial and RTT covering the costs of care versus the owner. This often depends on the horse's most recent work history and whether we anticipate needing a longer period of time to get a horse into shape for our programs.
We also require that horses coming on trial have a current Lyme Test before coming to the farm and if it is positive, the owner is responsible for the cost of treatment.
Pre-purchase exams are conducted on any horses being purchased by RTT. In addition, our veterinarian checks any new horses at some point during their trial period if they are going to be either purchased or accepted as a donation. For free-leases, we are more lenient with the timing of our veterinary check. Farrier and dental checks are scheduled as needed for horses on trial.
We have a retired equine veterinarian who is on our Board who works with our Equine Manager and Equine Care Coordinator on at least a monthly basis, reviewing Body Condition Scores for our herd to help address their nutritional needs.
Lastly, schooling occurs 1-3 times per week depending on the horse and their needs. This may be a combination of ground and ridden work.
The facility or facilities where our organization conducts its programs, including foster facilities, does NOT breed equines.
Our organization will never have an equine euthanized for space
Our organization will never have a healthy equine euthanized under any circumstances
Our organization may 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:
In situations where a horse has chronic health issues that are painful or an acute situation arises (e.g. colic), consultation with our equine veterinarian will occur to discuss humane management of the horse considering pain and suffering, overall health and condition, potential for recovery, etc. In the event that pain and suffering will likely continue and/or treatment options are not prudent for the horse and/or organization, RTT will consider euthanasia in consultation with our veterinarian. In the event of a free-leased horse, this decision is made by the owner in conjunction with the veterinarian and RTT.
We do not have a policy related to Statement 2 above; however, we would consider all recommendations made by our veterinarian in the event of a horse at danger to itself, other horses and humans.
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
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
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.
Our organization requires references from the following:
Veterinarian
Farrier
Personal/Other
Transfer of ownership occurs: Immediately (at the time of adoption/purchase)
The average equine re-homing (adoption/purchase) fee received by your organization:
Over $1,500
Our organization has the following policies and procedures related to horses that need to be retired, are no longer useful, or are no longer manageable:
Equines may remain at our organization for their lifetimes
Equines may be found suitable homes by our organization
Equines may be returned to their owners
In the case an equine is unsound and/or unhealthy and cannot be treated to relieve suffering, the equine may be euthanized upon the recommendation of the veterinarian
Additional information about our rehoming policies and practices:
Our placement of horses includes those who are ready for retirement from EAS or those horses who we have purchased and after a period of time (usually up to a year) we determine that they are not well suited for EAS. In the case of retirement we are committed to finding forever homes for horses who have worked so hard for our program. In this situation, we generally transfer ownership to the person who is taking over care, but on occasion, we have done this as a free lease arrangement. For horses that we have purchased, we may choose to place them at no fee or sell them to a suitable owner. In all cases, references are checked. We agree that a "free horse" is not free; however the vast majority of our placements have been to homes where the standard of care is very high and the individuals have the financial capacity to care for the adoptee and are well-known horse owners.
Therapeutic Vaulting Services
Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy/Counseling (Mental Health)
Equine-Assisted Learning involving Personal and/or Professional Development
Overview of our programs involved with providing EAS to individuals with special needs:
At Riding To The Top we provide services to individuals who have a wide range of diagnoses that include, but are not limited to, cerebral palsy, brain injury, autism, learning disabilities, multiple sclerosis, PTSD, depression, anxiety, ADHD, Down syndrome and developmental delays.
Typically over 250 people with disabilities, ages 3-85+ are served each year through individual and group lessons. Riding To The Top offers a variety of services for our clients depending on their individual needs. Services include therapeutic riding, Equine Assisted Learning programs, therapeutic carriage driving and PT/OT services utilizing equine movement In 2022, we provided 2,527 client visits (258 individual clients) in-person at the farm and with remote field trips where we traveled to area schools.
Therapeutic Horsemanship--Mounted (TR) and Unmounted (GW): Our TR/GW program is our largest program and serves children and adults of all ages. Activities include grooming, tacking and riding skills to help individuals improve their physical strength, cognitive and sequencing skills, and social interactions. For individuals who do not want to ride or are unable to ride, we offer unmounted ground work. We offer these services to individuals as well as groups from day programs and schools.
Equine Assisted Learning (EAL): RTT provides in-person learning working closely with school educators on student goals and areas of study. RTT has developed learning modules that complement school goals and shares equine-related learning with students in conjunction with their teachers and ed techs. In 2022, RTT worked in-person with students from area schools, in conjunction with school educators who attend the sessions with their students.
Therapeutic Carriage Driving (TCD): This program offers an option for clients who are unable to ride due to physical limitations or who may be fearful of heights. TCD offers clients an exciting activity where balance and visual-spatial relationships are challenged, while driving the horse from a cart. A PATH Intl. Certified Driving instructor and specially trained volunteers make up our driving teams. RTT’s Driving program became accredited by PATH Intl. in 2016 during our re-Accreditation site visit.
Occupational and Physical Therapy services utilizing equine movement are provided to a small population of clients at RTT who benefit from the physical and sensory input of the horse's movement to assist in neuro-developmental skills.
Between our lesson terms, we offer field trip experiences, staff and volunteer education related to EAS and equine related clinics that have benefit for our staff, horses and the general public. Educational offerings include:
• PATH Intl. mentoring program for Instructors In Training;
• Advanced program-specific volunteer trainings; and
• Clinics on equine topics including Natural Horsemanship, Acupressure/Reiki, Masterson Energy Work and Driving.
Community Outreach and/or Public Education:
We work to increase awareness about the benefits of EAS through community education, outreach and research opportunities such as:
• Forums, fairs, conferences and open houses;
• High School and College service learning programs;
• College level internships;
• Participation in NIH funded research on the effects of EAS;
• Staff presentations at PATH Intl. conferences; and
• Participation of RTT staff in volunteer roles with PATH Intl.
In 2022, we continued our participation in a NIH funded research study looking at the physiological changes in children with Autism during therapeutic riding compared to a "barn" (control) group. We are thrilled to be working with Univ. of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus and Maine Medical Center Research Institute on this exciting study. The Maine site completed data collection in 2022 and we hope to be presenting with the Colorado site at the 2023 PATH Intl. Annual Conference on how Therapeutic Riding Centers can collaborate with Researchers to further the body of knowledge in the our industry.
Research/Medical Use of Equines:
Our organization has made equines available for research studies or medical training.
Please explain where and for what purpose equines are/were provided to use in research or medical training.
We hosted in 2022 a practicum for Veterinary Tech students that involved observation, taking vitals and techniques for bloodwork and vaccinations (venipuncture and placebo IM injections). Horses were monitored closely by RTT staff and veterinarians who were instructing the class and were rotated to limit the number of "shots" or venipunctures. Given the veterinarian shortage we feel that this continues to be an important collaboration for students who will be assisting our equine veterinarians in the coming years.
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.
EQUINE ASSISTED SERVICE PROVIDERS
Equine Assisted Services (EAS):
Our organization provides the following Equine Assisted Services (EAS):
Therapeutic Mounted Services
Therapeutic Driving Services
Therapeutic Unmounted Services
Equine-Assisted Occupational Therapy/Physical Therapy/Speech-Language Pathology
Equine-Assisted Learning involving Academic Learning
10: Total number of Equine Assisted Service Providers at Riding To The Top Therapeutic Riding Center
1. Cynde Putney
FACILITY PARTICIPATION:
Riding To The Top Therapeutic Riding Center
RELATIONSHIP: Employee
SERVICES PROVIDED:
Therapeutic Mounted Services
Therapeutic Unmounted Services
DEGREES, LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS
Cynde is a PATH Intl. CTRI (2013). In addition, she is a horse owner and takes regular lessons.
2. Kate Jeton
FACILITY PARTICIPATION:
Riding To The Top Therapeutic Riding Center
RELATIONSHIP: Employee
SERVICES PROVIDED:
Therapeutic Mounted Services
Therapeutic Unmounted Services
DEGREES, LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS
Kate is a life long horse woman who has competed in jumping and equitation. She is a PATH Intl. CTRI and an Equine Specialist in Mental Health and Learning. She has a background in education and administration. When she works with our school groups she collaborates with the teacher(s) from each classroom.
3. Kristin Meaney
FACILITY PARTICIPATION:
Riding To The Top Therapeutic Riding Center
RELATIONSHIP: Employee
SERVICES PROVIDED:
Therapeutic Mounted Services
Therapeutic Unmounted Services
DEGREES, LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS
Kristin has a degree in Equine Management and Business and is PATH Intl. CTRI and Mentor. She is RTT's Equine Manager and oversees the health and fitness of our horses and supervises RTT's Volunteer Schooling Team.
4. Lisa Messina
FACILITY PARTICIPATION:
Riding To The Top Therapeutic Riding Center
RELATIONSHIP: Employee
SERVICES PROVIDED:
Therapeutic Mounted Services
Therapeutic Unmounted Services
DEGREES, LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS
Lisa is a PATH Intl. CTRI. She has a long history of horse ownership and was a long time volunteer at Riding To The Top before becoming certified in 2021. She also has a background as a BHP and worked for organizations serving individuals with developmental disabilities.
5. Mario Pascarelli
FACILITY PARTICIPATION:
Riding To The Top Therapeutic Riding Center
RELATIONSHIP: Employee
SERVICES PROVIDED:
Therapeutic Driving Services
DEGREES, LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS
Mario is a retired teacher and is a PATH Intl. Level 1 Driving instructor.
6. Marissa LaGassey
FACILITY PARTICIPATION:
Riding To The Top Therapeutic Riding Center
RELATIONSHIP: Employee
SERVICES PROVIDED:
Therapeutic Mounted Services
Therapeutic Unmounted Services
Equine-Assisted Learning involving Academic Learning
DEGREES, LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS
Marissa is PATH Intl CTRI and Equine Specialist in Mental Health and Learning. In addition, she holds an education degree and is licensed in the state of Maine to teach secondary education (Math). She works full time teaching 9th grade mathematics at a local public school and is our Summer Camp Director.
7. Marissa Stewart, DPT
FACILITY PARTICIPATION:
Riding To The Top Therapeutic Riding Center
RELATIONSHIP: Employee
SERVICES PROVIDED:
Therapeutic Mounted Services
Therapeutic Unmounted Services
DEGREES, LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS
Marissa has a doctoral degree in physical therapy and is a PATH Intl. CTRI. In addition she holds an animal sciences bachelor's degree from UVM. She is a life long horse woman and combines her extensive knowledge of dressage, disabilities and working with people as a CTRI and therapist at RTT. She works under the supervision of Sarah Bronson, PT (PATH Intl. Registered Therapist) and is working towards becoming a PATH Intl. Registered Therapist.
8. Sara Gagliarducci, OTR/L
FACILITY PARTICIPATION:
Riding To The Top Therapeutic Riding Center
RELATIONSHIP: Employee
SERVICES PROVIDED:
Therapeutic Mounted Services
Therapeutic Unmounted Services
DEGREES, LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS
Sara is a PATH Intl. CTRI. She is a licensed OT in the state of Maine and she brings her skills and training as an Occupational Therapist to her therapeutic riding and unmounted horsemanship lessons at Riding To The Top. She works under the supervision of Sarah Bronson, PT (PATH Intl. Registered Therapist) and is working towards becoming a PATH Intl. Registered Therapist.
9. Sarah Bronson, PT
FACILITY PARTICIPATION:
Riding To The Top Therapeutic Riding Center
RELATIONSHIP: Employee
SERVICES PROVIDED:
Therapeutic Mounted Services
Therapeutic Unmounted Services
Equine-Assisted Occupational Therapy/Physical Therapy/Speech-Language Pathology
DEGREES, LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS
Sarah is a licensed physical therapist in the state of Maine and a PATH Intl. CTRI and Registered Therapist. She teaches therapeutic riding, equine assisted learning in collaboration with teachers from area school and physical therapy utilizing the movement of the horse.
10. Tracy Sturtevant
FACILITY PARTICIPATION:
Riding To The Top Therapeutic Riding Center
RELATIONSHIP: Employee
SERVICES PROVIDED:
Therapeutic Mounted Services
Therapeutic Unmounted Services
Equine-Assisted Learning involving Academic Learning
DEGREES, LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS
Tracy is a PATH Intl. CTRI and holds a degree in Special Education. At RTT she combines her love of horses and educating children (and adults) with disabilities. She teaches both mounted and unmounted lessons and is the lead instructor for our Barn Activity group.
POLICIES: ACQUISITION
Our organization acquires horses/equines from the following source(s):
Donation
Lease
Purchase/Adoption from Owner
Our organization does not acquire horses/equines from the following source(s):
Auction
Kill pen/Feedlot
Return
Surrender
Seizure
Abandonment
Our organization will accept the following:
Geldings
Mares
Not Checked:
Pregnant Mares
Foals
Stallions
Only Stallions to be castrated
Additional information about our acquisition policies and practices:
Riding To The Top is committed to offering equine-assisted services in a safe and nurturing environment for humans AND horses. As such, the characteristics of our horses are critical. Regardless of whether a prospective horse is a donation, free-lease or plans to be purchased by the organization, an adequate trial period is desired to ensure that the prospective equine will meet the needs of RTT, including specifically our programs’ and clients’ needs and that the horse is happy in the work and seems well suited for EAS. To assist in this decision making process, RTT utilizes our Trial Contract for Purchase/Lease, our Horse Profile form and our Equine Screening Assessment, to ensure the horse’s fit with RTT. In the case of a lease agreement or a donation, we actively encourage the owners to participate in the process, ensuring that they, too, are comfortable with the fit for their horse and our program’s needs.
The Equine Manager takes the lead role in screening prospective horses and making a decision whether a horse is appropriate for a trial. Once the horse is on RTT property, all program staff are involved in assessing the horse’s suitability for programming at RTT. Final decisions re: acceptance of the horse for RTT programs and details of any lease/purchase/donation agreements are made by the Equine Manager with input from the Program Director, program staff and the Executive Director.
POLICIES: INTAKE, ASSESSMENT & TRAININING
Prior to a horse being accepted and/or arriving at the facility, the organization requires the following with respect to the health status of the horse:A current Coggins
Vaccination records that have been administered within the last 12 months
If health records are not available or are out-of-date, the owner is responsible for having vaccinations administered.
If health records are not available or are out-of-date, our veterinarian will administer appropriate vaccinations
Not Checked:
A health certificate signed by a veterinarian and dated no more than seven days prior to arrival attesting to the health status of the equine is provided to our organization either prior to or upon arrival of the equine
A health certificate signed by a veterinarian and dated no more than seven days prior to arrival attesting to the health status of the equine is provided to our organization either prior to or upon arrival of the equine
Prior to a horse being accepted and/or arriving at the facility, the organization has the following policies in place:
The owner of a potential equine is interviewed over the phone or in person prior to seeing the equine
The equine is evaluated at its place of residence
The owner completes an application/contract which constitutes the agreement between the owner and our organization
Equines are on trial for up to 30 days
Equines are on trial up to 60 days
Equines are on trial for 60 or more days
The trial period may be reduced based on the equine's progress
During the trial period, the organization accepts total financial responsibility for the care of the equine, including board, feed, shoeing and any necessary veterinary care
During the trial period, the owner/donor is financially responsible for the care of the equine, including board, feed, shoeing and any necessary veterinary care
The trial period may be terminated by either the organization or the owner for any reason
Not Checked:
The owner is financially responsible for the shipping of the equine to and from the organization
Equines are not taken on trial
During the trial period, the organization accepts financial responsibility for the care of the equine, including board, feed, shoeing and any necessary veterinary care, up to a fixed amount agreed upon by the organization and the owner
The owner is financially responsible for the shipping of the equine to and from the organization
Equines are not taken on trial
During the trial period, the organization accepts financial responsibility for the care of the equine, including board, feed, shoeing and any necessary veterinary care, up to a fixed amount agreed upon by the organization and the owner
Following arrival of the equine at the facility, the following is performed:
Physical examination by a veterinarian upon arrival and/or prior to quarantine departure
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
A Henneke Body Conditioning Score or other body conditioning score is assigned
Fecal test
De-worming
Not Checked:
Physical examination by a farrier
Physical examination by a dentist
Coggins test
Blood work other than Coggins
Vaccinations
The equine is scanned to check for a microchip
The equine is microchipped if the scan indicates that there is no microchip
Physical examination by a farrier
Physical examination by a dentist
Coggins test
Blood work other than Coggins
Vaccinations
The equine is scanned to check for a microchip
The equine is microchipped if the scan indicates that there is no 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
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 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: 10 to 20 days
Horses are assessed for following skills and behaviors:
Retrieval from a pasture/paddock
Leading with a halter and lead rope
Temperament, disposition and attitude, such as rated from very calm to very high spirited
Saddling
Bridling
Lunging
Loading onto and unloading off a trailer
Mounting and dismounting
Riding at the walk
Riding at the trot
Riding at the canter
Riding by a beginner and/or unbalanced rider
Driving (Pulling a carriage)
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
Not Checked:
Jumping
Clipping
Jumping
Clipping
Our organization has the following policies and procedures in place pertaining to the ongoing assessment of horses in its care:
The Henneke Body Condition score or other body conditioning score is updated at least monthly
Photographs are taken of each equine monthly 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
Physical examination by a veterinarian at least annually
Not Checked:
The Henneke Body Condition score or other body conditioning score is updated at least annually
Photographs are taken of each equine annually and kept with the equine's health records
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: The Henneke Body Condition score or other body conditioning score is updated at least annually
Photographs are taken of each equine annually and kept with the equine's health records
Our organization evaluates at least annually and maintains a written record of the weight-carrying and workload limitations for each equine that is ridden
Not Checked:
Our organization does not evaluate the weight-carrying and workload limitations for each equine that is ridden
No equines are ridden; not applicable
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
Our organization does not evaluate the weight-carrying and workload limitations for each equine that is ridden
No equines are ridden; not applicable
Horses provided formal training (groundwork or riding): 2-3 times per week
Additional information about our intake, assessment & training policies and practices:
In several of the sections above, we checked off seemingly contradictory statements. This is because our trial period agreement may be tailored to the individual horse/owner situation re: length of trial and RTT covering the costs of care versus the owner. This often depends on the horse's most recent work history and whether we anticipate needing a longer period of time to get a horse into shape for our programs.
We also require that horses coming on trial have a current Lyme Test before coming to the farm and if it is positive, the owner is responsible for the cost of treatment.
Pre-purchase exams are conducted on any horses being purchased by RTT. In addition, our veterinarian checks any new horses at some point during their trial period if they are going to be either purchased or accepted as a donation. For free-leases, we are more lenient with the timing of our veterinary check. Farrier and dental checks are scheduled as needed for horses on trial.
We have a retired equine veterinarian who is on our Board who works with our Equine Manager and Equine Care Coordinator on at least a monthly basis, reviewing Body Condition Scores for our herd to help address their nutritional needs.
Lastly, schooling occurs 1-3 times per week depending on the horse and their needs. This may be a combination of ground and ridden work.
POLICIES: BREEDING
The organization has the following policies related to breeding and stallions:The facility or facilities where our organization conducts its programs, including foster facilities, does NOT breed equines.
Not Checked:
The facility or facilities where our organization conducts its programs, including foster facilities, breeds equines
The facility or facilities where our organization conducts its programs, including foster facilities, are permitted to house stallions
The facility or facilities where our organization conducts its programs, including foster facilities, breeds equines
The facility or facilities where our organization conducts its programs, including foster facilities, are permitted to house stallions
POLICIES: EUTHANASIA
The organization has the following policies related to euthanasia:Our organization will never have an equine euthanized for space
Our organization will never have a healthy equine euthanized under any circumstances
Our organization may 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
Not Checked:
Our organization may have a healthy equine euthanized if it is a threat to itself, other equines, or people and euthanasia is recommended by a veterinarian
Euthanasia is done at the veterinarian's facility
Our organization may have a healthy equine euthanized if it is a threat to itself, other equines, or people and euthanasia is recommended by a veterinarian
Euthanasia is done at the veterinarian's facility
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
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
Additional information about our euthanasia policies and practices:
In situations where a horse has chronic health issues that are painful or an acute situation arises (e.g. colic), consultation with our equine veterinarian will occur to discuss humane management of the horse considering pain and suffering, overall health and condition, potential for recovery, etc. In the event that pain and suffering will likely continue and/or treatment options are not prudent for the horse and/or organization, RTT will consider euthanasia in consultation with our veterinarian. In the event of a free-leased horse, this decision is made by the owner in conjunction with the veterinarian and RTT.
We do not have a policy related to Statement 2 above; however, we would consider all recommendations made by our veterinarian in the event of a horse at danger to itself, other horses and humans.
POLICIES: RE-HOMING
View Re-homing AgreementOur 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
Potential adopters/purchasers must visit our organization and be observed with the equine on site
The distance of a potential adopter/purchaser's home from our facility is a consideration for when re-homing an equine
Our organization conducts a site visit of the adopter/purchaser's facility before the transfer of the equine to the adopter/purchaser's facility
Not Checked:
Our organization does NOT re-home an equine to first time equine owners
Our organization will only re-home an equine to a location where another equine resides
Potential adopters/purchasers are encouraged to do a short-term, on-site foster with the equine
Adopters/purchasers are NOT required to provide updates
Our organization does NOT re-home an equine to first time equine owners
Our organization will only re-home an equine to a location where another equine resides
Potential adopters/purchasers are encouraged to do a short-term, on-site foster with the equine
Adopters/purchasers are NOT required to provide updates
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.
Not Checked:
The agreement states that re-homed equines CANNOT be sold, adopted, transferred, auctioned, released, given away, or otherwise placed into the possession of another individual or organization under any circumstances.
The agreement states that the terms of our organization's agreement will be binding on any future individual or organization taking and/or in possession of the equine for any reason.
The agreement states that re-homed equines cannot be bred
The agreement states that if there is any breach of contract the equine must be returned to our organization
The agreement states that our organization reserves the right to make unannounced visits
The agreement states that our organization reserves the right to make scheduled visits
The agreement states that adopters/purchasers can return an equine to our organization free of charge
The agreement states that adopters/purchasers can return an equine to our organization for a fee
The agreement states that adopters/purchasers are required to provide updates (photos, vet records) for one year
The agreement states that adopters/purchasers are required to provide updates (photos, vet records) for two years
The agreement states that adopters/purchasers are required to provide updates (photos, vet records) for three or more years
None of the statements are included.
The organization does not re-home equines under any circumstances; our organization retains custody of our equines and ensures care of the equines for their lifetimes.
Our organization does not have the authority to transfer ownership and/or does not own any of the equines involved with our programs.
The agreement states that re-homed equines CANNOT be sold, adopted, transferred, auctioned, released, given away, or otherwise placed into the possession of another individual or organization under any circumstances.
The agreement states that the terms of our organization's agreement will be binding on any future individual or organization taking and/or in possession of the equine for any reason.
The agreement states that re-homed equines cannot be bred
The agreement states that if there is any breach of contract the equine must be returned to our organization
The agreement states that our organization reserves the right to make unannounced visits
The agreement states that our organization reserves the right to make scheduled visits
The agreement states that adopters/purchasers can return an equine to our organization free of charge
The agreement states that adopters/purchasers can return an equine to our organization for a fee
The agreement states that adopters/purchasers are required to provide updates (photos, vet records) for one year
The agreement states that adopters/purchasers are required to provide updates (photos, vet records) for two years
The agreement states that adopters/purchasers are required to provide updates (photos, vet records) for three or more years
None of the statements are included.
The organization does not re-home equines under any circumstances; our organization retains custody of our equines and ensures care of the equines for their lifetimes.
Our organization does not have the authority to transfer ownership and/or does not own any of the equines involved with our programs.
Our organization requires references from the following:
Veterinarian
Farrier
Personal/Other
Not Checked:
Not applicable or no references required.
Not applicable or no references required.
Transfer of ownership occurs: Immediately (at the time of adoption/purchase)
The average equine re-homing (adoption/purchase) fee received by your organization:
Over $1,500
Our organization has the following policies and procedures related to horses that need to be retired, are no longer useful, or are no longer manageable:
Equines may remain at our organization for their lifetimes
Equines may be found suitable homes by our organization
Equines may be returned to their owners
In the case an equine is 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 sent to auction
In the case an equine is unmanageable and demonstrates repeated dangerous behaviors, the equine may be euthanized upon the recommendation of the veterinarian
If a suitable home cannot be located within 12 months, the equine may be euthanized
If a suitable home cannot be located, and space is not available for the equine to remain at the organization, the organization will secure a suitable home for the equine and accept financial responsibility for the lifetime of the equine
Equines may be sent to auction
In the case an equine is unmanageable and demonstrates repeated dangerous behaviors, the equine may be euthanized upon the recommendation of the veterinarian
If a suitable home cannot be located within 12 months, the equine may be euthanized
If a suitable home cannot be located, and space is not available for the equine to remain at the organization, the organization will secure a suitable home for the equine and accept financial responsibility for the lifetime of the equine
Additional information about our rehoming policies and practices:
Our placement of horses includes those who are ready for retirement from EAS or those horses who we have purchased and after a period of time (usually up to a year) we determine that they are not well suited for EAS. In the case of retirement we are committed to finding forever homes for horses who have worked so hard for our program. In this situation, we generally transfer ownership to the person who is taking over care, but on occasion, we have done this as a free lease arrangement. For horses that we have purchased, we may choose to place them at no fee or sell them to a suitable owner. In all cases, references are checked. We agree that a "free horse" is not free; however the vast majority of our placements have been to homes where the standard of care is very high and the individuals have the financial capacity to care for the adoptee and are well-known horse owners.