MISSION & PROGRAMS
Mission:Mission Statement: Happy Trails Farm Animal Sanctuary rescues, rehabilitates and re-homes criminally abused, neglected and abandoned equine and farm animals.
Rescue – working in cooperation with law enforcement and county humane organizations, we provide our service to Ohio and any state beyond requesting assistance.
Rehabilitation – providing the veterinary attention, nutrition and maintenance care and nurture to each animal who enters the sanctuary.
Re-home – networking to find loving and forever homes for each animal based on the best match of people, personalities and facilities.
Our organization provides programs involved with equine rescue, adoption & retirement
Our organization provides outreach and/or public education programs involving horses.
Our organization is directly responsible for the care and shelter of equines involved in our programs.
Over 50% of our total programs and services are equine-related.
Our organization does not
CURRENTLY use satellite, overflow, foster, and/or outreach facilities.
Summary of organization's recent accomplishments, goals, strategies to achieve the goals, and capabilities to meet the goals, including its long-term plans to sustain its programs:HTFAS is the largest farm animal sanctuary/rescue facility in the state of Ohio and has assisted in criminal cases involving farm animals in 40 counties throughout the state of Ohio as well as in Pennsylvania, Indiana, Illinois, Michigan, West Virginia, Kentucky, New York, California, Massachusetts and Montana. Gaining traction and experience, HTFAS has facilitated a successful transition of 555 horses over the last decade. In 2024, we took in a record 90 equines and adopted out an equally impressive record of 80 equines who found their new forever homes.
Along with our very popular and needed relinquishment program, HTFAS continues to offer safety net services to area equine owners.
We continue to be rescue partners with area humane societies and law enforcement agencies in the cases of abuse and neglect. HTFAS collaborates with a record number of law enforcement and humane societies to achieve our goal of rehabilitating and rehoming our animals. Our partners from 2024 include:
Animal Welfare League of Trumbull County
ASPCA
Brooklyn and Parma Heights Animal Shelter
Campbell Police Department
Cleveland Animal Care and Control
Cleveland APL
Columbus Humane
Friendship APL
Horses’ Haven
Lake Humane Society
Lawrence County Animal Shelter
Maggie’s Mission
Pennsylvania SPCA
Portage APL
Standardbred Transition Alliance
Summit County Humane Society
West Virginia Horse Network
Our goal will always remain to rescue, rehabilitate and rehome (as appropriate) all equines who enter into our care.
Please describe what steps your organization takes to ensure that:
1) all interactions between your equines and people are mutually beneficial and conducted in accordance with the
Guidelines for Human-Equine Interactions stated below;
2) all equines in the care of our organization and/or equines that participate in the organization's program have access to clean drinking water at all times; nutritious food in sufficient quantity, including natural forage such as pasture grass and/or hay; appropriate veterinary, farrier, and dental care; shelter and protection from the weather; sufficient safe space to move around comfortably on a daily basis; and daily opportunity to freely interact and have contact with other equines:
All horses arrive at HTFAS in need of medical, dental and farrier care, and some need supplements and other specialized nutrition due to inadequate care in their previous situation. All horses receive intake vetting which includes: Coggins (EIA) test, fecal, dental exam and teeth float w/ sedation, *metabolic panel (ACTH, T4, Insulin) *13yo and up to diagnose issues such as PPID (Equine Cushings), weight measured by tape, BCS (body condition score) assessment, basic assessment - eyes, heart/lungs, ears, eyes direct exam, hoof-to-poll visual exam, and approved at veterinary discretion: lameness exam/flexion test, radiograph (x-ray) front feet, fetlocks, hocks, stifles. We have found that providing this extensive veterinary care up front translates to a more expeditious and successful adoption process which in turn means more horses impacted by the mission work of HTFAS.
For equines in our program, a basic behavioral profile (BBP) is completed to evaluate 14 common interactions between horses and humans on the ground. Our placement coordinator collaborates with our veterinary team and equine support staff to determine a scenario for placement for each horse in our program. While some horses will enjoy riding or showing, others may rather be suitable for placement as a companion for horses and humans; both equally important.
All horses have access to clean water, natural forage and nutritionally appropriate grain and hay. Horses are turned out in appropriate social groupings in pastures.
Equine Transition Services:Overview of our programs involved with rescue, rehabilitation, retraining, re-homing and/or retirement:
Rescue – working in cooperation with law enforcement and county humane organizations, we provide our service to Ohio and any state beyond requesting assistance.
Rehabilitation – providing veterinary attention, nutrition and maintenance care and nurture to each animal who enters the sanctuary.
Re-home – networking to find loving and forever homes for each animal based on the best match of people, personalities and facilities.
Happy Trails handles the recovery and rehabilitation of the rescued animals, and also provides educational and community outreach programs. Since its incorporation in 2001, Happy Trails has accepted responsibility for the rehabilitation, daily care, veterinary and other health care expenses, retraining and re-homing of more than 3,000 farm animals and horses. Happy Trails has several equine (horse) specific programs, which include the Amish Horse Initiative, Owner Relinquish Initiative and the Pasture Pals Program. In these programs, horses are rehabilitated appropriately and adopted out accordingly so that they may live out the remainder of their lives comfortably. Happy Trails has had a dedicated Equine Placement Coordinator since 2018 to honor our commitment to rescuing and re-homing equine.
In 2024, HTFAS officially launched its STAI program (Solutions to Avoid Intake) which will provide financial assistance to area horse owners in need of safety net services.
Outreach and/or Public Education:
Overview of our programs involved with providing outreach and/or public education programs involving horses:
Educational Collaborations
HTFAS hosts a variety of professional development programming for area veterinary professionals. Registered Veterinary Technicians attend these seminars for CEUs and accompanying practicum with our animals at the facility. Because HTFAS has a variety of species available for these practices, it is a popular location for this educational opportunity.
HTFAS collaborates with Kent State University in several areas. We have had many students satisfy their internship requirements at HTFAS from a variety of majors including biology, zoology, business and non-profit management. Kent State sends Registered Veterinary Technician students in their final semester from their Trumbull County campus to fulfill AVMA (American Veterinary Medical Association) requirements for large animal experience. Kent State also has a Pre-Veterinary Club for aspiring veterinary students. The Club visits HTFAS annually for large animal experience. Finally, Kent State’s Biology Club is one of our regular volunteer groups who come to HTFAS to assist with various projects.
HTFAS also hosts interns from The Ohio State University and Cuyahoga Community College.
Additional Collaborative Opportunities Provided by HTFAS
HTFAS provides internships for students from Bio-Med Science Academy in Rootstown. Each year, one student is selected to spend 180 hours at HTFAS. The Academy also sends various clubs and groups for volunteer projects throughout the year.
Hudson City Schools has a service-learning program through which HTFAS provides animal care experience to two students per semester. These students are at the facility 3-4 days a week.
Animal Welfare/Law Enforcement Collaborations
Due to the nature of our work, HTFAS collaborates with several area humane societies and county and municipal law enforcement agencies. We anticipate using the meeting space to further our work with our surrounding rescue partners.
Our efforts to remain a leading and accredited organization in the animal welfare field require hosting leaders of foundations who are considering HTFAS for funding opportunities, directors of accreditation organizations such as the ASCPA, Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries and the Standardbred Transition Alliance along with the BBB of Ohio.
Humane Education
HTFAS offers a variety of humane education initiatives throughout the community. Each year, we offer programming that touches tens of thousands of individuals annually including children, the elderly and people with disabilities. Humane Education is an essential tool in the campaign to alleviate animal suffering and can help children grow into caring, compassionate human beings. Studies have shown that cruelty toward animals can lead to violent behavior toward people. This link underscores the importance of humane teachings for the benefit of animals and people.
Through humane education programs and by example, HTFAS strives to teach compassion for all animals including the unwanted, the abandoned and the neglected. We offer a variety of interactive educational programs in school classrooms to students in grades PreK-12 and after-school enrichment clubs, scout troops, youth groups and other community organizations.
Additionally, we participate in several community outreach events, which help us spread our mission. Our annual Open House is attended by more than 500 guests who experience our program firsthand. Our programs are designed to develop the understanding that animals are living, feeling beings to be treated with respect and compassion.
Farm Animal Visitation Program
HTFAS gives back to Northeast Ohio by taking rescued farm animals into nursing homes and residential facilities for disabled individuals. In this program, residents and rescued animals safely visit with one another. Weather permitting, HTFAS also brings seniors and the disabled to the facility to visit with the entire animal population. Furthermore, HTFAS has taken animals to visit with terminally ill patients in private homes.
HTFAS is proud to promote our mission in full color, hard copy newsletters that are published quarterly. Our newsletters reach approximately 6,000 households via direct mail as well as thousands more when we are able to attend community events. Further promotions are distributed via social media with more than 28,000 followers (22K Facebook and 4.3K Instagram and 2.5K+ TikTok) and mass email to an email list of approximately 5,000 people.
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 organization also rescues criminally neglected and abused farm animals. So, in addition to equine, we also rescue, rehabilitate and re-home cows, sheep, goats, chickens, alpacas, and pigs (farm and potbelly).
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:
20 to 30 days
Following arrival of the equine at the facility, the following is performed:
Physical examination to include temperature, pulse and respiration by a 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 by a veterinarian upon arrival
Photographs are taken of each equine upon arrival at the facility and kept with the equine's health records
Physical examination by a farrier
Physical examination by a dentist
The equine is scanned to check for a microchip
The equine is microchipped if the equine has not been microchipped
Not Checked:
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
Bathing
Clipping
Tolerance to multiple handlers at the same time
Not Checked:
Jumping
Driving (Pulling a carriage)
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
Equines at our facility may be treated by an equine chiropractor
Equines at our facility may be treated by an equine massage therapist
Equines at our facility may be treated by an equine nutritionist
Not Checked:
The Henneke Body Condition score or other body conditioning score is updated at least annually by a trained staff member
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 acupuncturist
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
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
Not Checked:
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):
As needed; no set schedule
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.
One or more of the facilities where our organization conducts its programs, including foster/temporary care facilities, are permitted to house stallions
Not Checked:
One or more of the facilities where our organization conducts its programs, including foster/temporary care facilities, breeds equines
Additional information about our breeding policies and practices:
All stallions are gelded prior to rehoming.
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
Not Checked:
Our organization will never have an equine euthanized under any circumstances
The following are authorized to administer the procedure for your organization in accordance with state laws:
Veterinarian
Not Checked:
A certified euthanasia technician
Senior staff with appropriate training
Employee of animal control shelter or humane society with appropriate training
Veterinary student under the supervision of a licensed veterinarian
Not applicable. Our organization prohibits euthanasia under any circumstances
POLICIES: RE-HOMING
View Re-homing AgreementOur organization has the following re-homing (adoption/purchase) policies and procedures in place:
All potential adopters/purchasers complete a written contract which constitutes the agreement between our organization and the new owner
Potential adopters/purchasers must visit our organization and be observed with the equine on site
Our organization conducts a site visit of the adopter/purchaser's facility before the transfer of the equine to the adopter/purchaser's facility
Not Checked:
Our organization does NOT re-home an equine to first time equine owners
Our organization will only re-home an equine to a location where another equine resides
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
Adopters/purchasers are NOT required to provide updates
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.
Not Checked:
Equines may be sent to auction
If a suitable home cannot be located within 12 months, the equine may be euthanized
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 our organization reserves the right to make scheduled visits
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 adopters/purchasers can return an equine to our organization free of charge
The agreement states that adopters/purchasers can return an equine to our organization for a fee
The agreement states that adopters/purchasers are required to provide updates (photos, vet records) for one year
The agreement states that adopters/purchasers are required to provide updates (photos, vet records) for two years
The agreement states that adopters/purchasers are required to provide updates (photos, vet records) for 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:
$201 to $500
Additional information about our rehoming policies and practices:
Our agreement states: Adopter agrees to not transfer the adopted animal on to another party without the prior written permission of HTFAS for a term of six (6) months. Adopter agrees they are in no way connected and will have no contact with defendant of the cruelty/neglect case under which this animal was surrendered. Upon successful completion of a term of adoption ending six (6) months from the date of adoption, Adopter is awarded sole legal ownership and custody at which time ownership can be transferred if desired.
EQUINE CARE & SHELTER/FACILITY INFORMATION
Total facilities at which our organization cares for and shelters horses used in our programs:
1Our organization does not
CURRENTLY use satellite, overflow, foster, and/or outreach facilities.
Happy Trails Farm Animal Sanctuary
5623 New Milford Road Ravenna OH 44266
Currently operational
Total number of horses/equines currently involved with your programs, under your care, and/or owned by your organization at this facility: 10
Total number of horses at this facility NOT INCLUDING those counted above: 10
Maximum capacity of horses at this facility: 24
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.
Portage APL
8122 Infirmary Road
Ravenna, OH 44266
330-296-4022 ext. 102
Holly Ebner, Humane Officer
humaneofficer@portageapl.org
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:
We have installed a sanctuary-wide security camera system.
Happy Trails Farm Animal Sanctuary
Veterinarian InformationVeterinarian: Thomas Shaw
Clinic Name: Buckeye Veterinary Service
16295 Claridon Troy Road
Burton OH 44021
Phone: 440-834-8821
Overview: Happy Trails Farm Animal Sanctuary (*Main)
Total acreage dedicated specifically to the horses: 6
Our organization has use of the following at this facility:
Structures/Barns: 2 Run-in sheds: 4
Pastures: 4 Paddocks/Pens/Turnout Areas: 1
Uncovered Outdoor Rings: 0 Covered Outdoor Rings: 0 Indoor Rings: 1
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? 0-3;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 WeekDo 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 24/7 except they are brought in to feed
Equines are out 24/7 except they are brought in if there is inclement weather
Equines are out 24/7 except when they are being trained
The following describes the pastures at this facility:
This facility does not have pastures where equines can graze on pasture grass
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
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)
Not Checked:
Barbed wire is used for fencing
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
Not Checked:
This facility does not have turnout areas
Barbed wire is used for fencing
The following policies and procedures are in place at the facility to restrict public access and to keep horses safe:
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
Visitors are only permitted in specific areas
The property is fitted with motion lights
The property is fitted with a security system that is monitored internally by staff (or the property owner)
The perimeter of the property is fully fenced
Not Checked:
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
A security guard is present at night
There is a practice in place to monitor equines overnight
The property is fitted with a security system monitored by police or a professional service
Equine Care/Emergency Preparedness: Happy Trails Farm Animal Sanctuary (*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
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/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
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:
Fly/Insect Control Remedies:
Fly parasites
Fly Traps and Tapes
Fly Spray Repellent
Fly Masks
Fly Sheets
Fans
Not Checked:
Our organization follows the parasite control guidelines of our veterinarian, including fecal testing and de-worming
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
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
Not Checked:
The organization has a written biosecurity plan
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
Not Checked:
Manure piles are covered
Manure piles are composted or spread on pastures
Our organization adheres to the manure management guidelines set by the state, local authorities, and/or our organization's veterinarian
The following steps are taken to help staff and volunteers readily identify each horse on the property:
Equines are assigned the same exclusive stall/shelter location each day
Name plates are located on the stall/shelter location
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/volunteers are provided training on conformation, markings, colors, and breeds
Team leaders work with new staff/volunteers until they are able to identify the equines
Not Checked:
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
Staff and volunteers are provided with an information packet with equine profiles, including photos and detailed descriptions
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 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
Helmets are shared
Helmets are cleaned/disinfected after each use
Helmets are replaced after a fall
Helmets are replaced at least every five years.
Not Checked:
All equines have specifically assigned tack, apparel and equipment that is not shared
Halters are shared
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
Tack is stored in a climate-controlled location
No equines are ridden; not applicable.
Emergency Preparedness: Happy Trails Farm Animal Sanctuary: *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)
Not Checked:
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
Not Checked:
Terrorist attacks
The facility follows the specific procedures to help PREVENT emergency situations:
Smoking is strictly prohibited
NO SMOKING signs are posted prominently
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:
Hay is stored away from permanent or temporary structures where equines are stalled
Heaters with automatic shutoff settings are used
How often are the following checked or performed?
Fire Extinguishers are checked: MonthlySmoke detectors are checked: MonthlyFence lines are checked: DailyTurnout Areas are checked: DailySprinkler systems are checked: Not at all/NAFire drills are conducted: Not at all/NAReview of safety protocols with staff are conducted: QuarterlyReview of safety protocols with volunteers are conducted: MonthlyThe Emergency Preparedness Plan is reviewed and updated: QuarterlyEquine Transportation: 4= Onsite: 2 (2 + 0) + Offsite: 2
2-horse van/trailer with truck:
1 Owned onsite 1 Access offsite;
3-horse van/trailer with truck:
4-horse van/trailer with truck:
1 Access offsite;
6-horse van/trailer with truck:
1 Owned onsite
8-horse van/trailer with truck:
10-horse van/trailer with truck: