EQUUS Foundation

New Mexico Horse Rescue at Walkin N Circles Ranch
198 Weimer Road N
Stanley, NM 87056

Mailing Address:
PO Box 626
Edgewood, NM 87015

Phone: 505-286-0779
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EIN: 04-3619624
Founded: 2002

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Profile Last Updated March 18, 2024

Public Charity

NEXT CHAPTERS! Click here to view listings of our adoptable equines: Aretha - Arion - Cheyenne - Deacon - Franklin - Guinevere - Gypsy - Indy - Jennyfur - Lancelot - Natache - Nova - Onyx - Ransom - Reba - Rita - Rosebud - Roy - Tilly

2024

The Mentor Accreditation is awarded annually to an organization that operates at the highest standards for business and equine welfare practices in accordance with EQUUS Foundation guidelines for business and equine welfare practices outlined here.

We welcome you to donate directly to New Mexico Horse Rescue at Walkin N Circles Ranch; New Mexico Horse Rescue at Walkin N Circles Ranch will receive 100% of your donation made here. However, before making a donation, we encourage you to review this organization's Mentor information.

Awarded Annually
Last Updated: August 30, 2024

Armando

Our Equine Ambassador

In 2021, we received an emergency call to help rescue two young colts found near us. One colt could no longer stand on his own, and we feared he wouldn’t live through the night despite all our attempts to help him. His devoted buddy kept vigil over him, giving us hope for a good outcome. We named the sick colt’s friend Armando which means a strong protector or soldier. Both horses are now healthy and thriving. While Armando’s friend has since been adopted, we selected Armando to serve as our permanent ranch ambassador not only due to his intelligence and willingness to learn but also because of his intense devotion to a friend in need. Now fully trained under saddle, Armando helps other horses in training with his calmness and steadfastness when paired with other nervous horses during training sessions. We believe Armando emulates the qualities of our organization through his tenacity, devotion and bravery.

MISSION & PROGRAMS

Mission:
New Mexico Horse Rescue at Walkin N Circles Ranch (WCNR) exists to provide all rescued equines with new beginnings and productive lives with loving adoptive families. We rehabilitate and retrain horses by working in close partnership with veterinarians, farriers, trainers, and other professionals, and we use natural horsemanship to guide our work.

Our organization provides programs involved with equine rescue & adoption
Our organization provides outreach and/or public education programs involving horses.
Our organization is directly responsible for the care and shelter of equines involved in our programs.
100% of our total programs and services are equine-related.

Our organization CURRENTLY uses satellite, overflow, foster, and/or outreach facilities which adhere to all the policies, procedures and practices of our organization. Facility information is provided for the organization's main, satellite and overflow 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:
Most of our core goals for 2023 last year were realized thank to incredibly generous grants and individual donations. Our more notable achievements of last year include:

     - RESCUED 42 horses and donkeys and found adoptive homes for 26 of our equines.
     - REPLACED our 20-year-old water pipe system throughout our 30-acre property.
     - REPAIRED and repainted our two barns and renovated the ranch caretaker house and yard.
     - DEVELOPED our back ten acres to accommodate more neglected equines.
     - CONDUCTED orientations and training classes for 70 new volunteers, and 170 new and former volunteers collectively worked 11,400 hours.

     One of our most noteworthy accomplishments for 2023 was our expansion to accommodate the growing needs of estray and seized equines. This expansion includes the construction of four large paddocks within our previously undeveloped ten acres, which has allowed us to increase our herd capacity in cases of current emergency situations and future needs. Specifically, these additional paddocks allow us to hold up to 100 equines permanently and up to 40 more temporarily.

     We also began a new program last year to encourage adoptions of our smaller horses. Smaller stature equines have a less likely chance of being adopted because the adopter pool is reduced (due to rider size requirements). Because New Mexico has several cart driving groups, we believe training horses to drive will open many more adoption opportunities for our small horses. Of our 26 adopted equines we celebrated in 2023, 13 of those were already started in the cart training program or were prepared enough to begin. We believe that training horses to drive (to eventually pull a cart) made these horses much more adoptable and that’s why they were adopted so quickly.

     We ended the year financially sound with retained earnings to apply toward 2024 initiatives. We were also recently awarded the 2024 Platinum Seal of Transparency through GuideStar/Candid.

     Our long-term goals continue to be: (1) remain financially self-sufficient by successfully obtaining private donations and grants via targeted fundraising activities (2) continue to recruit interested volunteers to assist with ranch operations and horse training, and (3) provide educational opportunities for the community with a focus on proper horse care and training. The more horses we adopt, the more we can take in.

Please describe what steps your organization takes to ensure that:
1) the 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:

Our organization uses Barn Manager, a web-based organizational program, to record and monitor feeding protocols and medications, as well as vet and farrier procedures for each horse. All care is evaluated by our veterinarian and farrier, and changes are made per their professional recommendations. To complement these efforts, a Horse Health team of specially trained volunteers also help visually monitor all equines on property each day. Volunteer teams provide feed and water daily under the guidance of our Ranch Operations Specialist. All equines have the shelter of barn stalls or three-sided metal shelter in pipe-fenced paddocks with other equines.
     Our extensive hands-on volunteer training program ensures uniform handling for all our equines and offers our volunteers training in natural horsemanship methods through monthly orientations and advanced clinics. When horses are trained the same way by everyone, it helps ease their anxiety and they learn much more quickly. Each of our equines is assigned a level of training* and is paired with a volunteer who has been trained to work with that horse’s level of training. As a horse improves, the level to which they are assigned lowers. Once volunteers complete our basic horse handling course, they have the option to attend advanced training classes to further their skills and work with higher level horses.
     We utilize University of California, Davis Best Practices for Horse Rescues to guide our work.
      *HORSE LEVELS
     Level 1: Can be easily caught, haltered, groomed, and led around the ranch.
     Level 2: Can be easily caught, haltered, groomed, and led around the ranch. Does the Ground Games in the round pen very well.
     Level 3: May be more difficult to catch, halter, groom and clean hooves. May spook more easily and push boundaries but can perform the Ground Games in the round pen.
     Level 4: Very difficult to catch and halter. Will spook easily and push boundaries. Is in the process of learning the Ground Games.
     Level 5: Cannot be caught or haltered and should not be approached by volunteers while doing chores. Handled by staff trainers only.

Equine Transition Services:
Overview of our programs involved with rescue, rehabilitation, retraining, re-homing and/or retirement:
     We are licensed, regulated and inspected annually by the New Mexico Livestock Board and accredited by the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS).

     Our herd number can vary, but we generally care for about 50 horses on the ranch, and several more in foster care. The majority of horses that come to us have been seized by the Livestock Board due to abuse, neglect or abandonment. We also occasionally take horses surrendered by individuals who can no longer care for their horse(s).

     The ranch is governed by a board of directors who oversees day-to-day operations with the assistance of an on-site caretaker and the help of more than 100 volunteers who go through in-hand training of equines if they desire to work with horses. Ranch team members volunteer their experience, skills, talents and time to care for horses, maintain the facilities and fund the ranch. We utilize University of California, Davis Best Practices for Horse Rescues and natural horsemanship to guide our work.

Outreach and/or Public Education:

Overview of our programs involved with providing outreach and/or public education programs involving horses:
     We offer monthly volunteer orientation and education classes to include hands-on training for all levels of horse lovers.

     We also host an annual community horse show for all levels and all ages of horse owners.

     And finally, our annual Adopt-a-thon is designed as a community festival which showcases adoptable horses and offers a silent auction, food and music. Our volunteer trainers train up to 20 horses for 12 weeks to prepare them to compete in this event.

     Our social media has grown to a combined 7,000+ followers and serves as our primary marketing medium. Additionally, our marketing team works with local media outlets such as TV, print and radio to earn valuable coverage to promote all of these events and our rescue efforts.

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

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

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

POLICIES: INTAKE, ASSESSMENT & TRAINING

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

Not Checked:
The owner is financially responsible for the shipping of the equine to and from the organization
A health certificate signed by a veterinarian and dated no more than seven days prior to arrival is provided to our organization either prior to or upon arrival of the equine attesting to the health status of the equine

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

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

Not Checked:
The equine is confined to a designated and separate area for isolation and quarantine off-site for a prescribed period of time
The equine is not quarantined

The typical length of quarantine is:   Up to 10 days

Following arrival of the equine at the facility, the following is performed:
    Physical examination to include temperature, pulse and respiration by a veterinarian upon arrival
    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
    Photographs are taken of each equine upon arrival at the facility and kept with the equine's health records
    Physical examination by a farrier
    Coggins test
    Vaccinations
    De-worming
    The equine is scanned to check for a microchip
    The equine is microchipped if the equine has not been microchipped

Not Checked:
    Physical examination by a dentist
    Blood work other than Coggins
    Fecal test

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
    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:
    Riding by a beginner and/or unbalanced rider
    Jumping
    Clipping

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
    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

Not Checked:
    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 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

Not Checked:
Our organization does not evaluate the weight-carrying and workload limitations for each equine that is ridden
No equines are ridden; not applicable

The following variables are considered in determining the weight-carrying and workload limitations for each equine that is ridden:
    Equine age, weight, breed, body condition, fitness, balance, health and soundness
    Equine conformation to include the top line, length of back, strength and width of loin, bone density (measured by the circumference of the cannon bone just below the knee)
    Size, shape, condition and angle of the hooves
    Participant weight, height, body proportions, balance, fitness and riding skills as well as behavioral issues and safety concerns
    Weight and proper fit of the saddle and other equipment
    Terrain and footing in the working environment
    Duration and frequency of working sessions, as the frequency with which an equine is subjected to maximum weight carrying and/or workload

Not Checked:
    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
    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): Weekly

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.

Not Checked:
One or more of the facilities where our organization conducts its programs, including foster facilities, breeds equines
One or more of the 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 have an equine euthanized upon the recommendation of the veterinarian if the equine is a threat to itself, other equines, or people
    Our organization will have an equine euthanized upon the recommendation of the veterinarian after all reasonable treatment options have been explored
    Euthanasia is done on site when possible to decrease trauma from transport
    Disposal of the carcass is handled within 24 hours

Not Checked:
Our organization will never have an equine euthanized under any circumstances
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
    A certified euthanasia technician
    Senior staff with appropriate training

Not Checked:
    Employee of animal control shelter or humane society with appropriate training
    Veterinary student under the supervision of a licensed veterinarian
    Not applicable. Our organization prohibits euthanasia under any circumstances

POLICIES: RE-HOMING

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
    Potential adopters/purchasers must visit our organization and be observed with the equine on site
    Our organization conducts a site visit of the adopter/purchaser's facility before the transfer of the equine to the adopter/purchaser's facility
    Adopters/purchasers are NOT required to provide updates

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
    The distance of a potential adopter/purchaser's home from our facility is a consideration for when re-homing an equine
    Potential adopters/purchasers are encouraged to do a short-term, on-site foster with the equine

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

Not Checked:
    Equines may be returned to their owners
    Equines may be sent to auction
    If a suitable home cannot be located within 12 months, the equine may be euthanized
    The organization 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
    The agreement states that if there is any breach of contract the equine must be returned to our organization
    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

Not Checked:
    The agreement states that the re-homed equine CANNOT be sold, adopted, transferred, auctioned, released, given away, or otherwise placed into the possession of another individual or organization under any circumstances and must be returned to our organization should the adopter decide that he/she is no longer able, or no longer wishes, to care for the equine.
    The agreement states that should the adopter decide to re-home the equine, the adopter must grant the organization first right of refusal prior to the equine being placed into the possession of any individual or organization intending to take possession of the equine for any reason.
    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.
    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 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 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 as long as the adopter/purchaser is responsible for the care of the equine
    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.

Transfer of ownership occurs: Immediately (at the time of adoption/purchase) or less than one year

The average equine re-homing (adoption/purchase) fee received by your organization:
$751 to $1,000

Additional information about our rehoming policies and practices:
NA

EQUINE CARE & SHELTER/FACILITY INFORMATION

Total facilities at which our organization cares for and shelters horses used in our programs: 5
Our organization CURRENTLY uses satellite, overflow, foster, and/or outreach facilities which adhere to all the policies, procedures and practices of our organization. Facility information is provided for the organization's main, satellite and overflow facilities.

New Mexico Horse Rescue at Walkin N Circles Ranch
198 Weimer Road N. Stanley NM 87056
Currently operational
Total number of horses/equines currently involved with your programs, under your care, and/or owned by your organization at this facility: 47
Total number of horses at this facility INCLUDING those counted above: 72
Maximum capacity of horses at this facility: 100

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.
New Mexico Livestock Board 300 San Mateo Blvd NE #1000 Albuquerque, NM 87108 (505)841-6161 www.nmlbonline.com recordsrequests@nmlbonline.com

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

Additional information about this facility:
Each of our 28 paddocks has its own run-in shed so they would be considered the same - paddock with shed.

Our barn stalls are devoted to horses who need special attention or are very difficult to catch because they are feral. Depending on the reason, stalled horses are rotated between stalls and paddocks, and their time in the barn varies depending on the reason. When horses are in stalls, temporary name plates are added for identification.

When they are stalled, it would be for 17+ hours per day but do have a run out area.

The additional equines are boarded horses not owned by our organization. Most of the boarded horses were adopted from us, and the boarding income helps supplement our annual revenue to care for our rescue horses. At times the New Mexico Livestock board also homes confiscated equines temporarily at our facility.

New Mexico Horse Rescue at Walkin N Circles Ranch

Veterinarian Information
Veterinarian: Dr. Harold Bobbitt
Clinic Name: East Mountain Equine
1689 NM 333
Edgewood NM 87015
Phone: 505-281-2368

Overview: New Mexico Horse Rescue at Walkin N Circles Ranch (*Main)
Total acreage dedicated specifically to the horses: 20
Our organization has use of the following at this facility:
Structures/Barns: 2  Run-in sheds: 28
Pastures: 0  Paddocks/Pens/Turnout Areas: 28
Uncovered Outdoor Rings: 3  Covered Outdoor Rings: 1  Indoor Rings: 0

Regarding structures/barns where horses are housed other than run-in sheds:
Do horses have assigned stalls in the structure(s)?    No
How many hours per day, on average, are horses stalled? 17+

Regarding all shelters where horses are housed including run-in sheds:
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
Is there adequate ceiling & beam height (a minimum of 12 feet above the tip of the horse's ear) when standing in all stalls/shelters?    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
Are the organization's rules, restrictions and warnings (signage) and emergency contacts, including veterinarian contact information, conspicuously posted in easily accessible locations?    Yes
Are human and equine first aid kits easily accessible?     Yes
How many hours per day, on average, are horses turned out:
    Equines are out 1 to 3 hours per day
    Equines are out 4 to 8 hours per day
    Equines are out 9 to 15 hours per day
    Equines are out 16+ hours per day
    Equines are out 24/7
    Equines are out 24/7 except when they are being trained
    Equines are out 24/7 except when they are used for the conduct of the organization's programs

The following describes the pastures at this facility:
    This facility does not have pastures where equines can graze on pasture grass

Not Checked:
    This facility has a written plan in place for pasture management, which includes guidelines for seeding, fertilizing, irrigation, mowing, dragging, harrowing, manure removal, removal of debris, the control of poisonous plants, and a schedule for cleaning
    A dedicated staff person(s) is responsible for pasture management
    All pastures are fenced to prevent escape or injury
    Barbed wire is used for fencing
    Electric fencing is used; electric wires or tape fence are visibly marked
    Fencing checks, such as broken or missing planks, loose fence posts, exposed or loose nails, detached wires, etc., are done regularly
    Pastures are rotated
    Pastures have natural protection for equines (i.e., trees)
    Pastures have man-made protection for equines (i.e., shelters)

The following describes the turnout areas other than pastures at this facility:
    This facility has a written plan in place for the maintenance of turnout areas, which includes a schedule for cleaning, manure removal, and dragging
    A dedicated staff person(s) is responsible for the maintenance of turnout areas
    All turnout areas are fenced to prevent escape or injury
    Turnout areas have man-made protection for equines (i.e., shelters)
    Fencing checks, such as broken or missing planks, loose fence posts, exposed or loose nails, detached wires, etc., are done regularly

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

The following policies and procedures are in place at the facility to restrict public access and to keep horses safe:
    The property owner, staff member or caretaker lives on the premises and ensures that public access is restricted and is responsible for the security of the facility and equines
    There is a practice in place to monitor equines overnight
    By Appointment Only signs are posted.
    No Trespassing signs are posted
    Hold Harmless signs are posted
    Authorized Personnel Only signs are posted
    Entrance gates are locked at night
    Visitors are only permitted at specific times
    The property is fitted with a security system that is monitored internally by staff (or the property owner)
    The perimeter of the property is fully fenced

Not Checked:
    A security guard is present at night
    Visitors are only permitted in specific areas
    The property is fitted with motion lights
    The property is fitted with a security system monitored by police or a professional service

Equine Care/Emergency Preparedness: New Mexico Horse Rescue at Walkin N Circles Ranch (*Main) 2025 and 2024 This section is required.

Horse Health Care/Barn Management Records: What system is used to collect and store health/horse care records?
    Onsite computer with cloud-based backup storage system
    Our organization utilizes a software application to maintain records
    The organization utilizes its own system to maintain records
    Our organization would use free cloud-based barn management software if available

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
    Equines are fed grain in groups
    Staff and 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 locked, climate-controlled area

Not Checked:

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
    Fans

Not Checked:

The following represent the biosecurity practices in place at facility:
    Our organization follows the biosecurity guidelines of our veterinarian
    Sick, affected and/or quarantined equines do not have contact with other equines or other animals
    The organization has a written biosecurity plan
    Staff are trained in best practices related to biosecurity
    Volunteers are trained in best practices related to biosecurity
    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 and 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 disposed of in specific areas designated for infectious materials - not put in open air piles, and not spread on pastures
    Stalls, aisle ways, and common areas are disinfected after conclusion of the quarantine
    Trailers/vans used by sick, affected and/or quarantined equines are cleaned and disinfected after each use and cleaning takes place away from where equines are sheltered
    Equipment used by sick, affected and/or quarantined equines is not shared and is clearly labeled
    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
    Personnel are required to leave the facility (or shower and change clothing) after working with quarantined equines

Not Checked:
A specific individual is trained and assigned to care for sick, affected and/or quarantined equines
Equines are not quarantined on arrival.

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
    Manure piles are composted or spread on pastures
    Our organization adheres to the manure management guidelines set by the state, local authorities, and/or our organization's veterinarian

Not Checked:
Manure piles are covered

The following steps are taken to help staff and volunteers readily identify each horse on the property:
    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

Not Checked:
    Equines are assigned the same exclusive stall each day
    Name plates are located on the stall
    Photos are located on the stall
    Equines wear halters with nametags
    Staff and volunteers are provided with an information packet with equine profiles, including photos and detailed descriptions
    Staff/volunteers are provided training on conformation, markings, colors, and breeds
    Equines are assigned the same exclusive stall each day

Our organization has the following policies and procedures in place pertaining to tack, apparel and equipment:
    Saddles are shared
    Saddle pads are shared
    Bridles are shared
    Bits are shared
    Blankets are shared
    Sheets are shared
    Turnout apparel is shared
    Blankets, sheets and turn out apparel are cleaned regularly as needed
     Halters are shared
    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
    Tack is stored in a climate-controlled location

Not Checked:
     All equines have specifically assigned tack, apparel and equipment that is not shared
    Blankets, sheets and turn out apparel are fitted and utilized for each equine appropriate to the equine's needs and the weather conditions
    Tack is cleaned after each use
    Tack is cleaned weekly
    This facility enlists the services of a professional saddle fitter at least once a year
    Assigned tack is clearly labeled
    Helmets are shared
    Helmets are cleaned/disinfected after each use
    Helmets are replaced after a fall
    Helmets are replaced at least every five years.
    No equines are ridden; not applicable.

Emergency Preparedness: New Mexico Horse Rescue at Walkin N Circles Ranch: *Main This section is required.
The following plans, policies, and procedures are in place at the facility to handle emergencies and address weather related issues, fire safety procedures, and/or any additional hazardous scenarios the facility could potentially experience:
    Emergency phone numbers are posted prominently
    The facility owns or has access to a generator
    The facility maintains at least two weeks of hay, feed, shavings and medications
    The facility collects and maintains medical information from staff, volunteers, and clients
    The facility maintains appropriate liability and/or workers' compensation insurance
    The organization has a written emergency preparedness/safety plan (EPP)

Not Checked:
Emergency procedures are posted prominently

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
    Fire
    Natural Disasters - thunderstorm, hurricanes, earthquakes, tornados, etc
    Protocols to notify emergency personnel

Not Checked:
    Power outages
    Terrorist attacks
    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

Not Checked:
Heaters with automatic shutoff settings are used

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

Equine Transportation
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  2 Access offsite;
4-horse van/trailer with truck:
    2 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:  $500K to $1M
Equine Budget:   $150K to $250K
Month Fiscal Year Ends: 12
Type of Financial Reporting (Audit, Review, Compilation): Audit
Type of IRS Filing (990, 990-EZ, 990-N): 990
View The IRS Form 990/Pro Forma 990

Governing Body:
Board meetings per year: 4
Number of Board Members: 4  Number of Voting Board Members: 4

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.
Our Vice President's wife is a part-time horse trainer for us. The son of our Executive Director (non-voting staff member) is a part-time horse trainer for us.

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

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

Compliance:
Below is a list all local, state and federal licenses held by the organization, and/or accreditations or compliances with the published standards of an accrediting organization, if applicable: Licensed, regulated and inspected annually by the:
     New Mexico Livestock Board
     300 San Mateo Blvd NE #1000
     Albuquerque, NM 87108
     (505)841-6161, www.nmlbonline.com
     recordsrequests@nmlbonline.com

     Accredited by the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS) 2018

Organization documents available on our website:
    Equine Intake Guidelines
    Adoption/Foster Agreement

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

Staff & Volunteers:
Chief Staff Officer (CSO): Larry Smyth, Executive Director
Employees/Independent Contractors:   Full-Time: 3  Part-Time: 5  Volunteers: 100
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
    Staff and/or contractors provide parent/guardian information if applicable
    Staff and/or contractors carry current health insurance
    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
    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

Not Checked:
    Prospective staff/independent contractors are required to undergo a Background Check
    The organization provides a handbook to every member of the staff, including employees and/or independent contractors serving in staff positions;
    The handbook includes information, such as hours of work, vacation, sick leave, dress code, cell phone usage, and the protocol for dismissal
    The handbook is reviewed annually and updated
    Staff and/or contractors are subject to Random Drug Screening

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
    Volunteers provide parent/guardian information if applicable
    Volunteers carry current health insurance
    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 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

Not Checked:
    Prospective volunteers are required to undergo a Background Check
    Volunteers have written job descriptions
    Volunteers are evaluated on an annual and as needed basis or with any change in their job description
    The organization provides a Volunteer Handbook to every volunteer
    The Volunteer Handbook includes volunteer-related information, such as hours of work, dress code, cell phone usage, and the protocol for dismissal
    The Volunteer Handbook is reviewed annually and updated
    Volunteers are subject to Random Drug Screening

Additional explanation regarding governance, staffing and volunteer practices or further explanation of the answers above.
The link on our website showing the Board of Directors includes the Executive Director who participates at meetings of the Board and Executive Committee but is not a voting member. The link on our website showing our team includes both staff and volunteers.