MISSION & PROGRAMS

Mission:
Beyond The Roses Equine is an all volunteer group whose mission is to provide racing thoroughbreds, and other breeds of horses, an alternative to being sent to slaughter for human consumption or ending their careers being abandoned or neglected and to educate people in their care and welfare. Beyond The Roses Equine offers horses of all age's rehabilitation, retraining and placement into approved homes that will offer them second careers.

Our organization provides programs involved with equine rescue, adoption & retirement
Our organization does not provide 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 uses satellite, overflow, foster, and/or outreach facilities which adhere to all the policies, procedures and practices of our organization

Horse Rescue, Rehabilitation, Retraining & Re-homing:
Overview of our programs involved with rescue, rehabilitation, retraining, re-homing and/or retirement:
     Beyond The Roses Equine Rescue and Retirement, aka BTRE, is an ALL VOLUNTEER organization that transitions thoroughbreds off the racetrack into new careers and all other breeds of horses, into approved, loving homes from all over the United States. Beyond The Roses Equine Rescue and Retirement’s has many volunteers that have been, in the past, been involved in horse rescue and have years of experience rehabilitating, retraining and marketing thoroughbreds and other horses into new homes and careers. Without the help of BTRE, many of these horses would be sent to auctions where they would be picked up by kill buyers and sent to slaughter.
     
     This group has been involved with thoroughbred and horse rescue with other 501c3 groups and each other. Racing trainers approach us when they don’t have the time or they are unable to find homes for their horses, when they can no longer compete in racing. We also help horses that have been neglected, abused or unwanted. Many of these horses come to us severely underweight and in need of medical care. Veterinarians work with us to evaluate medical conditions when they first arrive at our farms.
     
     While building the horses up to good condition, experienced horse people work with them to evaluate their abilities to be riding horses. Many can be used for trail, dressage, jumping or for pasture companions. In the mean time, BTRE markets to fine them suitable homes.
     
     Beyond The Roses Equine Rescue and Retirement also assists racing owners and trainers and other people in need of help, in finding homes themselves, by listing horses on Beyond The Roses Equine Rescue and Retirement’s website at www.beyondtherosesequine.org . Beyond The Roses Equine Rescue and Retirement volunteers talk with trainers and owners and take pictures and descriptions of horses they wish to sell. Often, if homes cannot be found, Beyond The Roses Equine Rescue and Retirement is asked to take the horse into our program. These horses are taken to one of our farms or foster homes, where the horses are photographed with pictures and descriptions immediately posted to Beyond The Roses Equine Rescue and Retirement’s website. Funds for veterinary care and feed and general care are provided for by Beyond The Roses Equine Rescue and Retirement.
     
     Beyond The Roses Equine Rescue and Retirement uses the internet, using Facebook and other horse rescue forums and blogs, to fundraise to help these horses. The internet resources are also used for marketing to find them homes. BTRE also applies to other organizations and foundations that provide grants to help these horses.
Overview of our programs involved with providing community outreach and/or public education programs involving horses:
     Educate the public on social media in horse care. Also attend and display at Expos to extend our knowledge to the public.

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. 
     Occasionally Michigan State University will euthanize a horse for us. In these cases, they have our permission to use the carcasses, after euthanizing, to use for training purposes for the students in their veterinary program.

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

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

POLICIES: ACQUISITION

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

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

Our organization will accept the following:
    Geldings
    Mares
    Pregnant Mares
    Foals
    Only Stallions to be castrated

Not Checked:
    Stallions

Additional information about our acquisition policies and practices:
Our rescue farms are not set up to accept stallions.

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, 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 owner completes an application/contract which constitutes the agreement between the owner and our organization
    Equines are not taken on trial

Following arrival of the equine at the facility, the following is performed:
    Physical examination by a veterinarian upon arrival 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
    Physical examination by a farrier
    Physical examination by a dentist
    Coggins test
    Blood work other than Coggins
    Fecal test
    Vaccinations
    De-worming
    The equine is scanned to check for a microchip
    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
    The equine is confined to a designated and separate area for isolation and quarantine off-site for a prescribed period of time

The typical length of quarantine is:   20 to 30 days

Horses are assessed for following skills and behaviors:
    Retrieval from a pasture/paddock
    Leading with a halter and lead rope
    Temperament, disposition and attitude, such as rated from very calm to very high spirited
    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
    Jumping
    Tolerance to unusual objects and loud noises
    Known vices, i.e., cribbing, biting, kicking, weaving, stall walking, etc
    Grooming
    Bathing
    Clipping
    Tolerance to multiple handlers at the same time

Our organization has the following policies and procedures in place pertaining to the ongoing assessment of horses in its care:
    The Henneke Body Condition score or other body conditioning score is updated at least monthly
    The Henneke Body Condition score or other body conditioning score is updated at least annually
    Photographs are taken of each equine monthly and kept with the equine's health records
    Photographs are taken of each equine annually and kept with the equine's health records
    Equines at our facility may be treated by an equine chiropractor
    Equines at our facility may be treated by an equine 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 has the following policies and procedures in place pertaining to the weight-carrying or workload capabilities of horses/equines that are ridden in our care:
    Our organization evaluates at least annually and maintains a written record of the weight-carrying and workload limitations for each equine that is ridden

The following variables are considered in determining the weight-carrying and workload limitations for each equine that is ridden:
    Equine age, weight, breed, body condition, fitness, balance, health and soundness
    Equine conformation to include the top line, length of back, strength and width of loin, bone density (measured by the circumference of the cannon bone just below the knee)
    Size, shape, condition and angle of the hooves
    Participant weight, height, body proportions, balance, fitness and riding skills as well as behavioral issues and safety concerns
    Weight and proper fit of the saddle and other equipment
    Duration and frequency of working sessions, as the frequency with which an equine is subjected to maximum weight carrying and/or workload
    Nature and pace of work, repetitive or varied, radius of turns, degree of incline and regularity of footing when equine is subject to maximum weight-carrying capacity
    Temperature and/or weather conditions
    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 picking up a horse from and owner or trainer, a BTRE Donation Agreement and Release Form. If Jockey Club Registration Papers or other registration papers are available, they must be signed by the owner and released to the rescue. A current coggins must also be relinquished with the horse. When picking up the horse, attempt to collect as much information on the horse as possible, including but not limited to, soundness, recent vaccinations, type of feed being fed and how much and any medical history or conditions. If the horse is being transported over state lines, a Health Certificate shall be completed, signed by a veterinarian and accompany the horse. If the horse is being donated, a donation receipt from BTRE shall be supplied to the owner. Before loading the horse for transporting, verify that the horse is fit for travel. If a horse is not fit for travel, call the Executive Director for instructions on how to proceed. If a veterinarian is needed, one will be contacted.
     
     All horses coming into the BTRE program will be placed into quarantine for 2 to 3 weeks to avoid spreading any disease the horse may be carrying. Please follow the Quarantine Procedures written for the rescue. This time is also taken to evaluate the horse. Upon arrival, arrangements will be made with the veterinarian to have the horse examined as soon as possible.
     
     Records for the individual horse shall be kept for management and veterinary care of the horse. This information will be documented on the Basic Intake Information Form. These forms will be kept in a binder at the farm where the horse is located. These forms will be maintained and kept up to date by the caretaker of the horse.
     
     Much of the information to be provided on the forms included:
      Individual animal records showing origin, age, species, gender, Microchip number, tattoo or brand and registration papers.
      A complete set of photos (front, both sides and rear) of each horse on intake and periodically as needed.
      Transport records to and from the rescue shall be maintained which includes: health certificate, current negative coggins test, date of transportation, transfer method, euthanasia or other disposition of the animal.
      Documentation of condition such as a body condition score.
     • Individual veterinary record including medical history, vaccination, coggins tests, deworming schedule, dental health, fecal counts and treatments.
     • Hoof condition and farrier appointments.
     • Perform a simple soundness exam and document your findings for the veterinarian.
     • Observe behavioral and physical assessment and measures taken to ensure well-being.
     • Reproductive status and history, if known.
     • Weight and weight history, current diet and record of diet changes
     • Training and rehabilitation records showing completed objectives and those in development.
     • Acquisition documents, as required by law or documented evidence of acquisition when equine obtained from such sources as auctions, law enforcement or other government official.
     
     After the horse has been examined by a veterinarian, arrangements should be made to remove racing plates and have the horse’s hooves trimmed and place shoes on, if needed.
     
     Many thoroughbreds coming into our program directly from the track have been retired for numerous reasons, including injuries. Before turning the horse out into a paddock, it shall be examined by a veterinarian to make sure there are no underlying problems, such as soundness. Do not give any horse medications without being advised by a veterinarian.
     
     During the first few weeks the horse is with the rescue, observe the horse for disposition and handling. This will help with determining what other horses it will be able to be turned out with in the future.
     
     Thoroughbreds on the track are used to have a daily routine. BTRE likes to give thoroughbreds coming into our program directly off the track a few weeks off to learn how to be a “horse” again. Let the horse adjust to his new surroundings and paddock before introducing him/her to a new pasture mate. Many of these horses have not been turned out with other horses or in a paddock for many years. It will take patience and time for many of them to adjust. Being turned out with a companion will help them to make this transition.
     
     Regarding our policies and procedures in place pertaining to the weight-carrying or workload capabilities of horses/equines that are ridden in our care, some horses are not ridden.

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.

POLICIES: EUTHANASIA

The organization has the following policies related to euthanasia:
    Our organization will never have an equine euthanized for space
    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
    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
    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

Additional information about our euthanasia policies and practices:
Beyond The Roses Equine Rescue and Retirement (BTRE) will give every horse a chance at life. There are circumstances where, sometimes, a decision will need to be made as to whether a horse is living a quality life or unfit for adoption. Humane euthanasia will only be performed by a licensed veterinarian.
     
     Our policy in making a humane decision regarding euthanasia as follows.
     
     • The horse is seriously ill, incurable and resulting in unnecessary pain and suffering.
     • The horse’s present condition is a hopeless prognosis for life.
     • If the horse is suffering but treatable, is the proper and recommended care of the horse within the means of the rescue facility, such that the health and safety of the other horses are not compromised.
     • If the horse is constantly and in the foreseeable future unable to move unassisted, interact with other horses, or is exhibiting behaviors which may be considered essential for a decent quality live.
     • The horse is human aggressive. These horses are humanely euthanized.
     • Aggression toward other horses is considered, on an individual basis, as a factor in deciding whether a horse is adoptable. If deemed dangerous to other horses, this horse may be euthanized to protect the other horses.

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

The uploaded Re-homing agreement includes the following re-homing (adoption/purchase) statements:
    The agreement reflects that any individual or organization in possession of the equine as of the date of the agreement and any time thereafter is bound to not sell the equine at auction for slaughter or allow the equine to be sold, transferred, released, or otherwise placed into possession of any person or organization that will cause or allow the equine to be sold at auction for slaughter.
    The agreement states that should the adopter decide to re-home the equine, our organization must grant approval of any individual or organization intending to take possession of the equine for any reason prior to the equine being placed into the possession of such individual or organization, including being provided written notification of the name, address, and telephone number of any individual or organization intending to take possession of the equine for any reason.
    The agreement states that re-homed equines cannot be bred
    The agreement states that if there is any breach of contract the equine must be returned to our organization
    The agreement states that our organization reserves the right to make unannounced visits
    The agreement states that our organization reserves the right to make scheduled visits
    The agreement states that adopters/purchasers can return an equine to our organization free of charge
    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

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:
$1,001 to $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
    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

Additional information about our rehoming policies and practices:
1. Upon arrival into Beyond The Roses Equine Rescue & Retirement (BTRE) horses are evaluated for soundness, disposition and temperament. When the horse is ready he/she is placed up for adoption on the BTRE Website and on the BTRE facebook page.
     2. While the horse begins training to transition to a second career, horses are evaluated for their abilities.
     3. Anyone wishing to adopt a horse through BTRE must go through the adoption process.
     a. The Pre-purchase Approval Questionaire shall be completed by the intended purchaser.
     i. If the person wishing to adopt a BTRE horses is under 18 years of age, the questionnaire shall be filled out by a parent or guardian.
     ii. The questionnaire is available on the BTRE website and will be directly sent for approval to the approval chairperson.
     iii. The questionnaire may be printed out from the website, completed and mailed to the approval chairperson.
     b. If questions arise during the application process, the approval chairperson will follow-up with appropriate action. All references will be verified. If there are concerns a farm visit may be arranged.
     c. Applicants should notify their veterinarians in advance that they will be contacted by a BTRE representative by fax or phone for a reference and completion of the Veterinary Reference Form.
     d. Upon receiving all the references, the prospective adopter may then be considered for approval.
     e. An email is sent to the prospective adopter stating whether they have or have not been approved.
     4. BTRE makes every attempt to match up the right horse with the rider according to abilities and disposition of the horse.
     5. Prospective adopters shall sign a Release of Liability Form before riding a horse belonging to BTRE.
     6. Prospective adopters are encouraged to bring an experienced rider with them as many of the horses are still in training.
     7. Appointments shall me pre-arranged to view the horses
     8. Adoption prices for the BTRE horses vary as to the ability of the horses.
     9. When an adopter has determined that they would like to adopt a horse, they shall sign the BTRE Adoption Certificate and Bill of Sale Agreement.
     10. Adopters are to follow the BTRE Adoption Agreement and send in pictures and updates on the horse at 3 months, 6 months and 12 months after the adoption.