MISSION & PROGRAMS

Mission:
Little Bit Therapeutic Riding Center is a community where horses transform the bodies, minds, and spirits of people with disabilities.

Our purpose is to help participants build skills for independence, improve daily functioning, and overcome physical and emotional health challenges.

Our organization conducts Equine Assisted Services in accordance with the EQUUS Foundation Guidelines on Qualifications of Organizations Conducting Equine Assisted Services (EAS).
Our organization does not provide outreach and/or public education programs involving horses.
100% of our total programs and services are equine-related.
Our organization is directly responsible for the care and shelter of equines involved in our programs.
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:
Little Bit Therapeutic Riding Center is a community where horses transform the bodies, minds, and spirits of people with disabilities. Our purpose is to help children and adults with disabilities build skills for independence, improve daily functioning, and overcome physical, emotional, and cognitive health challenges. In 2024, Little Bit served over 500 participants through our Therapy (physical, occupational, and speech-language therapy), Adaptive Riding, Equine-Assisted Learning, inclusive Summer Day Camps, mental health, and Horsemanship programming.
     
     Little Bit operates year-round, six days per week, with the support of over 30 specially selected and trained horses and over 1,300 volunteers. Participants represent all ages and nearly 100 different diagnoses, with over 60 percent having more than one diagnosis. The most commonly seen diagnoses include: autism spectrum disorders, cerebral palsy, speech and developmental delays, attention deficit disorders, and Down syndrome.
     
     Our goals, created in 2024 as part of a three-year strategic plan for sustainable growth, include:
     
      1) Diversify programming and client base:
      a. Survey and research efforts to identify diversification levers;
      b. Evolve programming to include additional populations;
      c. Identify strategies to address climate impacts on programs.
     
      2) Grow community engagement:
      a. Evolve volunteer engagement priorities and outcomes;
      b. Develop stakeholder map, including channels, contacts, and relationships;
      c. Establish innovative community outreach processes.
     
      3) Increase operational capacity and efficiency:
      a. Identify and establish recruiting/hiring/training/retention practices for staff;
      b. Develop a plan for facilities and technology efficiencies that impact program operations;
      c. Establish a herd management plan that balances program and equine needs.


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:

The wellbeing of the equine members of the Little Bit team is vital and enables them to successfully provide the high-quality services we are committed to delivering to our clients. Little Bit is committed to its Equine Standards of Care that provide the minimum care requirements of horses owned by Little Bit, these can be viewed here: https://www.littlebit.org/equinestandards
     
     Each program horse has its own parameters set which include (but are not limited to) rider weight limits; number of mounted and/or unmounted activities a particular horse can undertake per day and per week; and the types of activities a particular horse can participate in including the location, type of tack, riding activity, and level of support from staff. As a Premier Accredited center through the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship (PATH) International, we meet or exceed PATH standards for horse care; this includes the provision of trained, certified staff members supervising all activities – who are able to stop an activity, or remove an equine from an activity, should the need arise for any reason, of which horse health is a major consideration.
     
     Our horses are monitored for their weight, health, and body condition on an ongoing basis; their documented workload and work type is reviewed on a weekly basis by our Equine team and adjusted as necessary. The Equine team is supported by a large team of equine professionals including veterinarians, farriers and trimmers, saddle fitters, chiropractors, and bodyworkers.
     
     We have a team of 15 barn staff, plus a large volunteer team, who, under the supervision of our Equine Director and Equine team, are responsible for day-to-day care of the horses, of which clean water is of the highest importance. Our horses’ nutritional needs are assessed based on their body weight, workload, body condition, and other factors (for example age and medical conditions such as metabolic issues), and each horse has a detailed feeding plan. We feed a minimum of three times daily and each horse has an individual feed plan including their hay amount and type, “grain” or pelleted feed such as ration balancers, and supplements. Each of our horses have a large individual paddock, with loafing shed. Some of our herd live out 24/7 and some come into the barn into a stall at night; this is based on the horse’s history and health issues, and they are housed where they are the most comfortable.
     
     Our horses are housed in individual paddocks, which is part of our land management strategy. They can, however, interact over the fence lines. We also have some grass pastures and encourage the turnout of horses in pairs or small groups when the ground conditions are suitable.

Equine Assisted Services (EAS):
Our organization provides the following Equine Assisted Services (EAS):
    Therapeutic/Adaptive Riding
    Therapeutic/Adaptive Unmounted Horsemanship
    Psychotherapy/Counseling
    Occupational Therapy/Physical Therapy/Speech-Language Pathology
    Personal Development Learning

19: Total number of Equine Assisted Service Providers at Dunmire Stables

     1 Abigail Crickmore

         FACILITY PARTICIPATION:

         Dunmire Stables

         RELATIONSHIP: Independent Contractor

         SERVICES PROVIDED:

         Psychotherapy/Counseling

         DEGREES, LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS

         LMHC, CCTP

     2 Casey Mendoza

         FACILITY PARTICIPATION:

         Dunmire Stables

         RELATIONSHIP: Employee

         SERVICES PROVIDED:

         Occupational Therapy/Physical Therapy/Speech-Language Pathology

         DEGREES, LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS

         State of WA Licensed Occupational Therapist
MS, OTR/L
PATH Registered Therapist

     3 Christina Reyer

         FACILITY PARTICIPATION:

         Dunmire Stables

         RELATIONSHIP: Employee

         SERVICES PROVIDED:

         Occupational Therapy/Physical Therapy/Speech-Language Pathology

         DEGREES, LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS

         State of WA Licensed Occupational Therapist
MOT, OTR/L, C/NDT
PATH Registered Therapist

     4 Devin Kubat

         FACILITY PARTICIPATION:

         Dunmire Stables

         RELATIONSHIP: Employee

         SERVICES PROVIDED:

         Occupational Therapy/Physical Therapy/Speech-Language Pathology

         DEGREES, LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS

         M.A. CCC-SLP

     5 Devon Stone

         FACILITY PARTICIPATION:

         Dunmire Stables

         RELATIONSHIP: Employee

         SERVICES PROVIDED:

         Therapeutic/Adaptive Riding

         Therapeutic/Adaptive Unmounted Horsemanship

         DEGREES, LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS

         PATH International CTRI
PATH International RI
PATH International ESMHL
PATH International Mentor

     6 Diane Bartels

         FACILITY PARTICIPATION:

         Dunmire Stables

         RELATIONSHIP: Employee

         SERVICES PROVIDED:

         Therapeutic/Adaptive Riding

         Therapeutic/Adaptive Unmounted Horsemanship

         DEGREES, LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS

         PATH International CTRI
PATH International ESMHL

     7 Isabelle Minasian

         FACILITY PARTICIPATION:

         Dunmire Stables

         RELATIONSHIP: Employee

         SERVICES PROVIDED:

         Therapeutic/Adaptive Riding

         DEGREES, LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS

         PATH International CTRI

     8 Jenny Slack

         FACILITY PARTICIPATION:

         Dunmire Stables

         RELATIONSHIP: Employee

         SERVICES PROVIDED:

         Therapeutic/Adaptive Riding

         Therapeutic/Adaptive Unmounted Horsemanship

         DEGREES, LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS

         PATH International CTRI

     9 Joan Myers

         FACILITY PARTICIPATION:

         Dunmire Stables

         RELATIONSHIP: Employee

         SERVICES PROVIDED:

         Therapeutic/Adaptive Riding

         Therapeutic/Adaptive Unmounted Horsemanship

         DEGREES, LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS

         PATH International CTRI
PATH International ESMHL
BS Recreation and Leisure Studies with Therapeutic emphasis

     10 Joelle Delettrez

         FACILITY PARTICIPATION:

         Dunmire Stables

         RELATIONSHIP: Employee

         SERVICES PROVIDED:

         Therapeutic/Adaptive Riding

         DEGREES, LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS

         PATH International CTRI

     11 Kelly Doody

         FACILITY PARTICIPATION:

         Dunmire Stables

         RELATIONSHIP: Employee

         SERVICES PROVIDED:

         Therapeutic/Adaptive Riding

         DEGREES, LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS

         PATH International CTRI

     12 Kelsie McGladrey

         FACILITY PARTICIPATION:

         Dunmire Stables

         RELATIONSHIP: Employee

         SERVICES PROVIDED:

         Occupational Therapy/Physical Therapy/Speech-Language Pathology

         DEGREES, LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS

         State of WA Licensed Physical Therapist
PT, DPT
PATH Registered Therapist

     13 Maddy DeMaris

         FACILITY PARTICIPATION:

         Dunmire Stables

         RELATIONSHIP: Employee

         SERVICES PROVIDED:

         Therapeutic/Adaptive Riding

         DEGREES, LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS

         PATH International CTRI

     14 Melissa Cope

         FACILITY PARTICIPATION:

         Dunmire Stables

         RELATIONSHIP: Independent Contractor

         SERVICES PROVIDED:

         Psychotherapy/Counseling

         Personal Development Learning

         DEGREES, LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS

         State of WA Licensed Social Worker
Master of Social Work

     15 Mindi Bohrer

         FACILITY PARTICIPATION:

         Dunmire Stables

         RELATIONSHIP: Employee

         SERVICES PROVIDED:

         Occupational Therapy/Physical Therapy/Speech-Language Pathology

         DEGREES, LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS

         PT, OTR/L

     16 Sandy Jones

         FACILITY PARTICIPATION:

         Dunmire Stables

         RELATIONSHIP: Employee

         SERVICES PROVIDED:

         Therapeutic/Adaptive Riding

         Therapeutic/Adaptive Unmounted Horsemanship

         Occupational Therapy/Physical Therapy/Speech-Language Pathology

         DEGREES, LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS

         PTA
PATH Registered Instructor and Therapist

     17 Sara Vowels

         FACILITY PARTICIPATION:

         Dunmire Stables

         RELATIONSHIP: Employee

         SERVICES PROVIDED:

         Therapeutic/Adaptive Riding

         Therapeutic/Adaptive Unmounted Horsemanship

         DEGREES, LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS

         PATH International CTRI

     18 Sarah Squires

         FACILITY PARTICIPATION:

         Dunmire Stables

         RELATIONSHIP: Employee

         SERVICES PROVIDED:

         Therapeutic/Adaptive Riding

         Therapeutic/Adaptive Unmounted Horsemanship

         Occupational Therapy/Physical Therapy/Speech-Language Pathology

         DEGREES, LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS

         COTA
PATH Registered Therapist
PATH Registered Instructor

     19 Zoe Trager

         FACILITY PARTICIPATION:

         Dunmire Stables

         RELATIONSHIP: Employee

         SERVICES PROVIDED:

         Therapeutic/Adaptive Riding

         Therapeutic/Adaptive Unmounted Horsemanship

         DEGREES, LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS

         PATH International CTRI
PATH International ESMHL
PATH International Mentor
WA State Certified Special Educator K-12

Overview of our programs involved with providing EAS to individuals with special needs:
     Our primary programs include Therapy, Adaptive Riding, Equine-Facilitated Psychotherapy (EFP), and Equine-Assisted Learning (EAL).
     
     Therapy (physical, occupational, or speech-language therapy) utilizes the movement of the horse as a treatment tool. Because the horse moves in a three-dimensional pattern like the action of the human pelvis during normal, upright movement, being on horseback helps achieve optimal spinal alignment for participants. Patients receive 30-45 minutes of weekly therapy plus 15-30 minutes of traditional therapy in our treatment rooms. All treatments are provided by a licensed therapist, assisted by one to three volunteers, a trained horse handler, and the horse.
     
     Adaptive Riding focuses on increasing individual riding skills while gaining a therapeutic benefit. The goals set for each rider vary as much as the riders do. The individualized lesson plans consider the rider's physical, emotional, and mental strengths and limitations. Riders receive 60 minutes of weekly adaptive riding time with small groups of three to five riders per class. Each class is led by a PATH International certified instructor, and riders are assisted by one to three volunteers for safety and stability on the horse.
     
     Equine-Facilitated Psychotherapy (EFP) and Equine-Assisted Learning involving Personal and/or Professional Development (EAL) involve partnerships with local mental health therapists to provide services at our facility. Therapists work with a staff equine specialist certified by PATH International. Horses are uniquely suited to this kind of therapy because they are intuitive and will react to behavior patterns and cues that people might miss, allowing the therapists to interact on a deeper level with their participants and address issues that might otherwise go unnoticed.


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:
 Our focus is on Therapy, Adaptive Riding, Equine-Facilitated Psychotherapy, and Equine-Assisted Learning. We also have one barn cat that is a big hit with the majority of our participants, and we have an Office Dog program as well. Office dogs do not interact with our horses.

POLICIES: INTAKE, ASSESSMENT & TRAINING

Prior to a horse being accepted and/or arriving at the facility, the organization has the following policies in place:
    The owner 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 when the equine is acquired from the equine's owner other than by purchase from an auction or kill pen, or by seizure or by abandonment
    The owner is financially responsible for the shipping of the equine to and from the organization
    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 on trial up to 60 days
    The trial period may be reduced based on the equine's progress
    The trial period may be terminated by either the organization or the owner for any reason

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

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

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
    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
    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:
When we are looking for new horses for our therapeutic riding program, we are looking for sound, healthy, well cared for horses that can be successful in our program. Prior to a new horse coming to our property, we will first review photos and video of the horse, to check its current state of health. We will then go and visit the horse at its current location, during which time we will also check for signs of health of the horse. Prior to coming to the site, the current owner of the horse must provide information on the horse's vaccination record, deworming schedule, and other health/veterinary records as requested. These are reviewed. Should the horse's medical records not be up to date or available, the horse will not be allowed onto our property.
     
     We have the capacity to quarantine horses on property, by isolating a stall and/or paddock should one of our horses be suspect or be known to come down with an illness, for example a virus that may pose a risk to the rest of the herd. This would be set up as needed and following the advice of our veterinary team. New horses arriving on the property are quarantined for a minimum of 7 days (if they have a full health history including vaccine records and have had a pre/purchase exam/health assessment), or 2 weeks should a less complete health history be provided. All horses must have a vaccine record prior to coming to the property.
     
     Horses arriving at our facility will be sound and in good condition so as to be viable horses for supporting our programs. Before arriving, they are checked for their body condition to make sure they are in a healthy range, but we do not formally assign a body condition score at that time.
     
     The Henneke Body Condition scoring system includes specific schedules that do not align to our process. We tape and measure our horses and check their body conditions four times per year. This schedule is not determined by the date of arrival. This is performed by our Equine Nutritional Advisor and is used to provide quantitative information used for tracking our horses' conditions and weights. The following policy is included in our Equine Standards of Care Statement: Horses must be provided with a diet to maintain proper body condition or weight to ensure a body condition score of a minimum of 4, with an ideal range of 4.5-5.5, unless a medical condition or old age is confirmed by a veterinarian to prevent this, despite adequate nutrition.
     
     All of our horses have a physical exam before entering our property, conducted by a Little Bit staff member. All horses have a physical exam by our vet at some point during their 30-day trial including TPR. So, all horses do receive an examination by a vet at some point within 30 days of arriving on site, but not immediately upon arrival, and all horses are examined before arrival, but not by a veterinarian.

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
    Euthanasia is done at the veterinarian's facility
    Disposal of the carcass is handled within 24 hours

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

POLICIES: RE-HOMING

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

Our organization has the following policies and procedures related to horses that need to be retired, are no longer able to contribute to the mission of the organization, and/or are no longer manageable:
    Equines may remain at our organization for their lifetimes
    Equines may be found suitable homes by our organization
    Equines may be returned to their owners
    In the case an equine is unmanageable and demonstrates repeated dangerous behaviors, the equine may be euthanized upon the recommendation of the veterinarian
    In the case an equine is unsound and/or unhealthy and cannot be treated to relieve suffering, the equine may be euthanized upon the recommendation of the veterinarian
    The organization will accept financial responsibility for equines in the current care of the organization that need to be retired or are no longer able to contribute to the mission of the organization if all alternatives have been explored to find the equine an appropriate placement and space is not available for the equine to remain at the organization.

The uploaded Re-homing agreement includes the following re-homing (adoption/purchase) statements:
    The agreement reflects that any individual or organization in possession of the equine as of the date of the agreement and any time thereafter is bound to not sell the equine at auction for slaughter or allow the equine to be sold, transferred, released, or otherwise placed into possession of any person or organization that will cause or allow the equine to be sold at auction for slaughter.
    The agreement states that re-homed equines cannot be bred

Our organization requires references from the following:
    Not applicable or no references required.

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:
$1,001 to $1,500

Additional information about our rehoming policies and practices:
Once a decision is made to retire a horse from the program, care will be taken to place that horse in a suitable home with knowledgeable individuals able to provide appropriate care. Finding that home will take priority over selling the horse. Horses may be rehomed for $1 if this is the best option, however we also will rehome horses at market rates, although we are flexible on this prioritizing the right home with appropriately skilled new owners.
     
     Should physical or behavioral issues dictate that a horse cannot safely be rehomed, Little Bit will determine if placement in a full care facility with frequent staff visits, or humane euthanasia is most appropriate. Horses retired from the program will not be taken to any type of auction.

EQUINE CARE & SHELTER/FACILITY INFORMATION

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

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

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Dunmire Stables
18675 NE 106th St Redmond WA 98052
Currently operational
Total number of horses/equines currently involved with your programs, under your care, and/or owned by your organization at this facility: 32

Maximum capacity of horses at this facility: 39

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.
     Regional Animal Services of King County (RASKC) 21615 64th Ave. S. Kent, WA 98032 206-296-7387 General email: pets@kingcounty.gov Tim Anderson, Head of the RASKC Tim.Anderson@kingcounty.gov

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

Total number of Equine Assisted Service Providers AT THIS FACILITY, including instructors, specialists, therapists, counselors, coaches and/or facilitators (full-time, part-time, volunteer, independent contractors, and/or providers accompanying clients) that conduct Equine Assisted Services (EAS) in accordance with the EQUUS Foundation Guidelines on Qualifications of Organizations Conducting Equine Assisted Services (EAS) AT THIS FACILITY:  19

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

     1. Abigail Crickmore
     2. Casey Mendoza
     3. Christina Reyer
     4. Devin Kubat
     5. Devon Stone
     6. Diane Bartels
     7. Isabelle Minasian
     8. Jenny Slack
     9. Joan Myers
     10. Joelle Delettrez
     11. Kelly Doody
     12. Kelsie McGladrey
     13. Maddy DeMaris
     14. Melissa Cope
     15. Mindi Bohrer
     16. Sandy Jones
     17. Sara Vowels
     18. Sarah Squires
     19. Zoe Trager

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Grounds: Dunmire Stables (*Main) Currently operational This section is required.
Total acreage dedicated specifically to the horses: 9
Our organization has use of the following at this facility:
Structures/Barns: 1  Run-in sheds: 35
Pastures: 4  Paddocks/Pens/Turnout Areas: 39
Uncovered Outdoor Rings: 1  Covered Outdoor Rings: 1  Indoor Rings: 2


















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? 13-16
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 4 to 8 hours per day
    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
    Electric fencing is used; electric wires or tape fence are visibly marked
    Fencing checks, such as broken or missing planks, loose fence posts, exposed or loose nails, detached wires, etc., are done regularly
    Pastures are rotated

The following describes the turnout areas other than pastures at this facility:
    This facility has a written plan in place for the maintenance of turnout areas, which includes a schedule for cleaning, manure removal, and dragging
    A dedicated staff person(s) is responsible for the maintenance of turnout areas
    All turnout areas are fenced to prevent escape or injury
    Electric fencing is used; electric wires or tape fence are visibly marked
    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
    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 perimeter of the property is fully fenced

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Equine Care/Emergency Preparedness: Dunmire Stables (*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?
    Notebook or equivalent (technology not utilized)
    Onsite computer with onsite backup storage system
    Onsite computer with cloud-based backup storage system
    Our organization utilizes a software application to maintain records
    The organization utilizes its own system to maintain records

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
    Feed Through Products
    Fly Traps and Tapes
    Fly Spray Repellent
    Fly Masks
    Fly Sheets
    Fans

The following represent the biosecurity practices in place at facility:
    Our organization follows the biosecurity guidelines of our veterinarian
    Sick, affected and/or quarantined equines do not have contact with other equines or other animals
    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

Additional information on biosecurity:
In the event of a biosecurity risk, a specific written biosecurity plan is developed based on the nature of the risk at the time. This is done in consultation with our veterinary team.

The following represent the manure removal practices in place at facility:
    Manure is stored in dumpster(s)
    Manure is piled in an area where equines are not located
    Manure is hauled, sold or given away
    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
    Photos are located on the stall/shelter location
    Equines wear halters with nametags
    A notebook or binder with photos and information on each equine is easily accessible
    A map/diagram is posted showing the location of each equine with equine names and photos
    Equine photos and profiles are available on the website
    Staff and volunteers are provided with an information packet with equine profiles, including photos and detailed descriptions
    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
    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
    This facility enlists the services of a professional saddle fitter at least once a year
    Assigned tack is clearly labeled
    Tack is stored in a climate-controlled location
    Helmets are shared
    Helmets are cleaned/disinfected after each use
    Helmets are replaced after a fall
    Helmets are replaced at least every five years.

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Emergency Preparedness: Dunmire Stables: *Main This section is required.
The following plans, policies, and procedures are in place at the facility to handle emergencies and address weather related issues, fire safety procedures, and/or any additional hazardous scenarios the facility could potentially experience:
    Emergency procedures are posted prominently
    Emergency phone numbers are posted prominently
    The facility owns or has access to a generator
    The facility maintains at least two weeks of hay, feed, shavings and medications
    The facility collects and maintains medical information from staff, volunteers, and clients
    The facility maintains appropriate liability and/or workers' compensation insurance
    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: Annually
Fence lines are checked: Daily
Turnout Areas are checked: Daily
Sprinkler systems are checked: Semi-annually
Fire drills are conducted: Not at all/NA
Review of safety protocols with staff are conducted: Annually
Review of safety protocols with volunteers are conducted: Annually
The Emergency Preparedness Plan is reviewed and updated: Annually

Equine Transportation: 4= Onsite: 1 (1 + 0) + Offsite: 3
2-horse van/trailer with truck:
    0 Owned onsite  0 Access onsite but not owned  2 Access offsite;
3-horse van/trailer with truck:
    1 Owned onsite  0 Access onsite but not owned  1 Access offsite;
4-horse van/trailer with truck:
    0 Owned onsite  0 Access onsite but not owned  0 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  0 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:  $2M to $5M
Equine Budget:   $500K to $1M
Month Fiscal Year Ends: 12
Type of Financial Reporting (Audit, Review, Compilation): Audit
Type of IRS Filing (990, 990-EZ, 990-N): 990
View the IRS Form 990/Pro Forma 990

Governing Body:
Board meetings per year:  11
Number of Board Members:  15  Number of Voting Board Members:  15

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? Yes
If yes, provide the name, title, responsibility and family/business relationship of each Board, Staff member and/or Program Participant.
Colleen Willis, Trustee - parent of program participant.
     Magdalena Bargero, Trustee - parent of program participant.
     Ana Leite, Trustee - parent of program participant.
     Swati Parekh, Trustee - parent of staff member.

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? Yes
If yes, provide the name, title, responsibility and family/business relationship of each Board and/or Staff member, and the name of the related organization.
Christine Hawkins, Trustee - employed by Little Bit's pro bono attorneys.
     Matthew Widmyer, Trustee - employed by Little Bit's pro bono attorneys.

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:  Little Bit is a Premier Accredited Center by PATH International and follows PATH guidelines.

Organization documents available on our website:
    Most recent Financials
    Most recent IRS Form 990
    Most recent Annual Report
    Volunteer Handbook

Organization documents available on request:
    Most recent Financials
    Most recent IRS Form 990
    Most recent Annual Report
    Equine Intake Guidelines
    Volunteer Handbook
    Staff Handbook
    Bylaws

Staff & Volunteers:
Chief Staff Officer (CSO):  Paula J. Del Giudice, Executive Director
Employees/Independent Contractors:   Full-Time:  22  Part-Time:  45  Volunteers:  1200
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 provide parent/guardian information if applicable
    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 ((available either online or in print) 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

Volunteer Recruitment, Screening and Training processes:
    Prospective volunteers 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 volunteers that may impact the safety of your clients and your horses, such as whether prospective volunteers have been convicted of a sexual offense or convicted for animal cruelty or neglect. Such practices must comply with local, state, and federal mandates.
    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
    Prospective volunteers are required to undergo a Background Check
    Volunteers provide parent/guardian information if applicable
    Volunteers have written job descriptions
    Volunteers are evaluated on an annual and as needed basis or with any change in their job description
    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 (available either online or in print) 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