Post by Synthia on May 20, 2007 7:49:21 GMT -8
Basic Guidelines for Operating an Equine Rescue
or Retirement Facility
INTRODUCTION
There are all types of equine management facilities, from state-of-the-art complexes with individual stalls and caretakers for each horse to more basic operations where horses are pastured year-round with access to simple run-ins for shelter. Depending on the resources available including acreage, quantity and quality of forage, staff levels, management preferences, numbers of equines and a variety of other factors (including financial considerations), management practices can vary widely. However, with a sound knowledge of equine management, good planning and some creativity, equines can be kept healthy and happy relatively inexpensively.
Caring for a horse or other equine (and the broader term of equine is used throughout this document) is a significant, time consuming, and long-term commitment not to be entered into lightly. No organization or facility should house more equines than can be managed with available resources, particularly where the health and condition of the equines and sanitation of the facility are concerned. Taking in more animals than can reasonably be cared for endangers the welfare of the animals and their caretakers.
Equine rescue and retirement facilities must have a good working relationship with a local licensed veterinarian and should consult with him or her as needed on various matters including routine health maintenance, emergency veterinary care and evaluation of incoming equines. Facilities also should have a good working relationship with a local farrier. Forging a relationship with local law enforcement, humane organizations and other equine rescue organizations is also encouraged.
Telephone numbers for veterinarians, farriers and other professional service providers should be prominently displayed at the facility in case of an emergency. Written documentation on matters such as feeding, schedules and medications should be kept in a central location so that more than one person is aware of and has access to the facility’s standard operating procedures. Developing and practicing an emergency preparedness plan, including an evacuation routine for both people and animals, is also highly recommended.
These guidelines, while applicable to general equine management, are designed especially for use by non-profit equine rescue and retirement facilities. While not exhaustive, they offer basic parameters for operating such a facility. In addition, any facility or individual keeping equines must comply with all relevant federal, state and local laws and zoning ordinances.
ENCLOSURES, SHELTER & FENCING
Various types of enclosure are available for keeping equines including stalls, drylots and pastures. Regardless of what type is employed, unless otherwise directed by a veterinarian, equines shall be provided sufficient opportunity and space to exercise daily and have freedom of movement so as to reduce stress and maintain good physical condition. Space and provisions for exercise shall be appropriate for the age, breed/type, condition and size of the equine.
Provided the health and safety of any equine is not compromised, compatible equines shall be group pastured to allow social interaction. Equines pastured together shall be monitored to ensure that more dominant equines do not prevent others from accessing shelters. If this occurs, the animals shall be separated as necessary to ensure the safety and welfare of each equine.
Equines shall be provided with natural or man-made shelter which provides each equine protection from extreme weather (including but not limited to prevailing wind, snow, sleet, rain, sun and temperature extremes). Run-in shelters consisting of a roof and three sides are relatively easy and inexpensive to construct, and are versatile: in times of inclement weather they allow equines shelter from the elements, while sides may be removed as needed in warmer weather with the remaining structure offering shelter from the sun.
Shelters shall be constructed to provide sufficient space for each equine to turn around, lie down, move his/her head freely, etc. For instance, a stall measuring 10 ½’ x 10 ½’ is the recommended minimum for the average 1,200 lb. horse.
Shelters shall be constructed or modified to allow free air flow to control humidity, avoid temperature extremes, reduce airborne contaminants, and prevent air stagnation. As a general rule, ventilation shall not be sacrificed for warmth.
All enclosures and shelters shall be kept in good repair and free of standing water, accumulated waste, sharp objects and debris.
Fencing shall be of solid construction, without sharp edges, and visible to equines. Electric fencing may be used, but shall be visibly marked for horses (via brightly colored hanging streamers or ties) and humans (via signage). Use of barbed wire and high tensile wire fencing is provisionally acceptable though not encouraged, and should never be used in pastures of less than 5 acres. If barbed wire is used in smaller pastures (5-10 acres), an electric wire should be run along the top wire. When using barbed and high tensile wire, it is especially important to remove aggressive horses and to maintain a low stocking rate. Like electric fencing, barbed wire and high tensile wire fencing shall be visibly marked for horses. All fencing shall be monitored on a regular basis to ensure its safety and effectiveness is maintained.
FEED
Under normal circumstances, equines shall receive at a minimum the equivalent of 1.5%-2% of their body weight in high quality forage per day, unless otherwise directed by a veterinarian. If natural forage is insufficient in quality or quantity, quality hay shall supplement the diet. Nutritious grain may also be used to supplement the diet.
Diet shall be planned with consideration for the age, breed/type, condition, size and activity level of the equine. Pregnant or lactating mares require significantly more feed to meet their nutritional needs, and their diet shall be adjusted accordingly. Starved equines shall receive a starvation refeeding diet, as directed by a veterinarian.
If more than one equine is fed at the same place and time, it shall be the responsibility of the owner, manager or caretaker to ensure that each equine receives nutrition in sufficient quantity. If necessary, equines shall be separated during feeding to ensure each has access to adequate nutrition without interference from more dominant individuals.
Equines shall have access to salt and trace mineralized salt formulated for equines. Both block and loose form work well.
All feeding receptacles shall be kept clean and free of contaminants, such as feces, mold, mildew and insects. Grain shall be kept in closable containers to prevent infestation by insects and rodents. Hay shall be kept dry and free of mold and mildew.
WATER
Pastured or stalled equines shall have access to clean, potable water at all times.
Equines who are being trained, worked, ridden or transported shall be provided water as often as necessary for their health and comfort. Activity levels and climatic conditions such as relative humidity and air movement must also be considered.
All water receptacles shall be inspected daily, kept clean and free of hazardous contaminants and be positioned or affixed to minimize spillage.
Where possible, water receptacles shall be placed in shaded areas in warm climates.
Use of defrosters to prevent possible freezing of drinking water in inclement weather is recommended, although wiring should be secured out of any equine’s reach. Any ice that forms must be broken and/or removed regularly so as to allow equines constant access to water.
GENERAL EQUINE HEALTH & VETERINARY CARE
Each equine shall be observed for illness and/or injury at least once every 24 hours, and a veterinary professional shall be contacted if an equine is known or suspected to have experienced injury or illness or displays abnormal behavior attributable to injury or illness.
All equines shall maintain a body condition of no less than a score 4 on the Henneke Body Condition Scoring System (see Appendix A). Exceptions shall be made for equines having been at the facility for less than 6 months and showing continued and documented improvements and for equines under the regular care of a veterinarian. Photographic and written records of the animal’s condition over time should include body condition, weight fluctuations, feeding program and veterinary care. This documentation is strongly recommended for any equine arriving at the facility in a poor condition or for any equine failing to reach a score 4 on the Henneke Body Condition Scoring System within 6 months of arrival at the facility.
Quantitative fecal exams shall be performed as recommended by a veterinarian and equines shall be treated for parasites as needed or as otherwise directed by a veterinarian. Control of insects and parasites also can be assisted through manure management. Dry lots, paddocks and relatively small pastures shall be picked of manure on a regular basis, and stalls shall be cleared of manure every 24 hours. Manure shall be disposed of properly and can be spread onto empty pastures during hot, dry weather. Removal of standing water, where applicable, also can assist in controlling insects. Use of fly sprays, masks and other methods may also be used to control insects, particularly in summer months.
Equines shall receive vaccinations as recommended by a veterinarian including but not limited to Eastern and Western Encephalomyelitis (Sleeping Sickness), West Nile Virus and Tetanus. Other vaccinations to consider in consultation with a veterinarian include but are not limited to Rabies, Influenza, Rhino and Strangles.
Requirements for screening for Equine Infectious Anemia (via Coggins Test) vary from state to state and facilities must comply with all relevant laws. In addition to being required when moving horses across state lines, a Coggins Test is recommended for all new equine arrivals and when equines are being adopted out to new homes or are being taken to shows or other gatherings.
The facility shall maintain and have clearly posted for all staff and volunteers the name and telephone number of a veterinarian able to make emergency calls to the facility. If foster facilities/homes are used to board equines, those caretakers shall have access to veterinarians able to make emergency calls, and the names and telephone numbers of those veterinarians shall be kept on file with the primary rescue or retirement facility.
DENTAL CARE
Equines shall receive regular dental check-ups and treatment as necessary to facilitate proper and adequate food digestion. It is recommended that equines up to 5 years of age and over 15 years of age receive dental check-ups twice annually, while equines 5-15 years shall receive dental check-ups once a year. Equines with dental problems shall be examined by a veterinarian and receive treatment as needed.
HOOF CARE
Equines shall receive hoof care/maintenance and trimming every 6 to 8 weeks, or as directed by a veterinarian or qualified farrier. Hoof care shall be performed by a qualified farrier or other experienced person knowledgeable in farrier practice. Exceptions may be made when a veterinarian determines that such care would endanger the equine and/or his caretaker(s), i.e., in the case of a newly arrived equine (see “NEW ARRIVALS”), or in the case of a wild equine who is pastured in sufficiently rocky or rough terrain so as to be able to virtually self-maintain his/her hooves. Whenever such exceptions are made, regular photographic and written documentation of hoof condition is recommended.
NEW ARRIVALS
Unless accompanied by veterinary records, and provided the health and safety of the equine, veterinarian and caretakers is not compromised, it is recommended that all new equines arriving at the facility undergo a physical examination by a veterinarian and be quarantined for at least two weeks. Where a full physical is not possible, a veterinarian shall at least observe and make recommendations on the equine.
If emaciated, the equine shall receive a starvation refeeding diet along with other necessary veterinary care. One suggested refeeding program is that developed by Dr. Carolyn Stull.
New arrivals who are debilitated, untamed or otherwise difficult to handle need not be vaccinated immediately, nor should they be bathed, groomed or have their hooves trimmed unless they have a medical condition for which these are treatments prescribed by a veterinarian. Such equines are often best cared for through relative isolation, rest and care from one or two people.
Deworming of an equine with unknown deworming history and who is in a debilitated state shall be performed according to the direction of a veterinarian.
ADOPTIONS
It is suggested that all adoptions be accompanied by a legally binding document prohibiting the adopter from selling or placing the equine in question with another owner or facility without first contacting the facility from which the equine was adopted to allow said facility the opportunity to assume possession of the equine.
BREEDING
No breeding of equines is permissible. All studs shall be gelded, except when determined by a veterinarian to be medically dangerous for the equine. Studs unable to be gelded shall be kept separate from mares. If pastured, studs shall be physically separated from pastured mares by a buffer zone or aisle between each pasture wide enough to prevent nose-to-nose contact and/or fighting.
If mares arrive at the facility pregnant, a veterinarian shall provide necessary care. Following birth, it is recommended that mother and foal shall be allowed to stay together for a minimum of 4 months, unless otherwise directed by a veterinarian. A veterinarian shall be consulted in any event and can offer advice on safe weaning to minimize stress and digestive upset, and sound nutritional advice for pregnant or lactating mares, who require sufficiently more forage than normal.
HUMANE EUTHANASIA
Humane euthanasia shall be employed:
When an equine is not mobile and a veterinarian is of the opinion that mobility will not return;
When the equine’s quality of life is deemed, with veterinary guidance, so poor that euthanasia is the most humane option within the means of the organization;
When an equine is experiencing continual pain for which there is no medical relief or the relief is not within the financial capability of the facility;
When an equine is affected by a degenerative medical condition for which there is no cure; or
When an equine is dangerous to him/herself or other animals or humans.
Euthanasia shall only be administered by a licensed veterinarian, except in emergency circumstances where the equine is injured beyond recovery and is suffering irreversibly. Carcass shall be disposed of in compliance with all relevant laws.
or Retirement Facility
INTRODUCTION
There are all types of equine management facilities, from state-of-the-art complexes with individual stalls and caretakers for each horse to more basic operations where horses are pastured year-round with access to simple run-ins for shelter. Depending on the resources available including acreage, quantity and quality of forage, staff levels, management preferences, numbers of equines and a variety of other factors (including financial considerations), management practices can vary widely. However, with a sound knowledge of equine management, good planning and some creativity, equines can be kept healthy and happy relatively inexpensively.
Caring for a horse or other equine (and the broader term of equine is used throughout this document) is a significant, time consuming, and long-term commitment not to be entered into lightly. No organization or facility should house more equines than can be managed with available resources, particularly where the health and condition of the equines and sanitation of the facility are concerned. Taking in more animals than can reasonably be cared for endangers the welfare of the animals and their caretakers.
Equine rescue and retirement facilities must have a good working relationship with a local licensed veterinarian and should consult with him or her as needed on various matters including routine health maintenance, emergency veterinary care and evaluation of incoming equines. Facilities also should have a good working relationship with a local farrier. Forging a relationship with local law enforcement, humane organizations and other equine rescue organizations is also encouraged.
Telephone numbers for veterinarians, farriers and other professional service providers should be prominently displayed at the facility in case of an emergency. Written documentation on matters such as feeding, schedules and medications should be kept in a central location so that more than one person is aware of and has access to the facility’s standard operating procedures. Developing and practicing an emergency preparedness plan, including an evacuation routine for both people and animals, is also highly recommended.
These guidelines, while applicable to general equine management, are designed especially for use by non-profit equine rescue and retirement facilities. While not exhaustive, they offer basic parameters for operating such a facility. In addition, any facility or individual keeping equines must comply with all relevant federal, state and local laws and zoning ordinances.
ENCLOSURES, SHELTER & FENCING
Various types of enclosure are available for keeping equines including stalls, drylots and pastures. Regardless of what type is employed, unless otherwise directed by a veterinarian, equines shall be provided sufficient opportunity and space to exercise daily and have freedom of movement so as to reduce stress and maintain good physical condition. Space and provisions for exercise shall be appropriate for the age, breed/type, condition and size of the equine.
Provided the health and safety of any equine is not compromised, compatible equines shall be group pastured to allow social interaction. Equines pastured together shall be monitored to ensure that more dominant equines do not prevent others from accessing shelters. If this occurs, the animals shall be separated as necessary to ensure the safety and welfare of each equine.
Equines shall be provided with natural or man-made shelter which provides each equine protection from extreme weather (including but not limited to prevailing wind, snow, sleet, rain, sun and temperature extremes). Run-in shelters consisting of a roof and three sides are relatively easy and inexpensive to construct, and are versatile: in times of inclement weather they allow equines shelter from the elements, while sides may be removed as needed in warmer weather with the remaining structure offering shelter from the sun.
Shelters shall be constructed to provide sufficient space for each equine to turn around, lie down, move his/her head freely, etc. For instance, a stall measuring 10 ½’ x 10 ½’ is the recommended minimum for the average 1,200 lb. horse.
Shelters shall be constructed or modified to allow free air flow to control humidity, avoid temperature extremes, reduce airborne contaminants, and prevent air stagnation. As a general rule, ventilation shall not be sacrificed for warmth.
All enclosures and shelters shall be kept in good repair and free of standing water, accumulated waste, sharp objects and debris.
Fencing shall be of solid construction, without sharp edges, and visible to equines. Electric fencing may be used, but shall be visibly marked for horses (via brightly colored hanging streamers or ties) and humans (via signage). Use of barbed wire and high tensile wire fencing is provisionally acceptable though not encouraged, and should never be used in pastures of less than 5 acres. If barbed wire is used in smaller pastures (5-10 acres), an electric wire should be run along the top wire. When using barbed and high tensile wire, it is especially important to remove aggressive horses and to maintain a low stocking rate. Like electric fencing, barbed wire and high tensile wire fencing shall be visibly marked for horses. All fencing shall be monitored on a regular basis to ensure its safety and effectiveness is maintained.
FEED
Under normal circumstances, equines shall receive at a minimum the equivalent of 1.5%-2% of their body weight in high quality forage per day, unless otherwise directed by a veterinarian. If natural forage is insufficient in quality or quantity, quality hay shall supplement the diet. Nutritious grain may also be used to supplement the diet.
Diet shall be planned with consideration for the age, breed/type, condition, size and activity level of the equine. Pregnant or lactating mares require significantly more feed to meet their nutritional needs, and their diet shall be adjusted accordingly. Starved equines shall receive a starvation refeeding diet, as directed by a veterinarian.
If more than one equine is fed at the same place and time, it shall be the responsibility of the owner, manager or caretaker to ensure that each equine receives nutrition in sufficient quantity. If necessary, equines shall be separated during feeding to ensure each has access to adequate nutrition without interference from more dominant individuals.
Equines shall have access to salt and trace mineralized salt formulated for equines. Both block and loose form work well.
All feeding receptacles shall be kept clean and free of contaminants, such as feces, mold, mildew and insects. Grain shall be kept in closable containers to prevent infestation by insects and rodents. Hay shall be kept dry and free of mold and mildew.
WATER
Pastured or stalled equines shall have access to clean, potable water at all times.
Equines who are being trained, worked, ridden or transported shall be provided water as often as necessary for their health and comfort. Activity levels and climatic conditions such as relative humidity and air movement must also be considered.
All water receptacles shall be inspected daily, kept clean and free of hazardous contaminants and be positioned or affixed to minimize spillage.
Where possible, water receptacles shall be placed in shaded areas in warm climates.
Use of defrosters to prevent possible freezing of drinking water in inclement weather is recommended, although wiring should be secured out of any equine’s reach. Any ice that forms must be broken and/or removed regularly so as to allow equines constant access to water.
GENERAL EQUINE HEALTH & VETERINARY CARE
Each equine shall be observed for illness and/or injury at least once every 24 hours, and a veterinary professional shall be contacted if an equine is known or suspected to have experienced injury or illness or displays abnormal behavior attributable to injury or illness.
All equines shall maintain a body condition of no less than a score 4 on the Henneke Body Condition Scoring System (see Appendix A). Exceptions shall be made for equines having been at the facility for less than 6 months and showing continued and documented improvements and for equines under the regular care of a veterinarian. Photographic and written records of the animal’s condition over time should include body condition, weight fluctuations, feeding program and veterinary care. This documentation is strongly recommended for any equine arriving at the facility in a poor condition or for any equine failing to reach a score 4 on the Henneke Body Condition Scoring System within 6 months of arrival at the facility.
Quantitative fecal exams shall be performed as recommended by a veterinarian and equines shall be treated for parasites as needed or as otherwise directed by a veterinarian. Control of insects and parasites also can be assisted through manure management. Dry lots, paddocks and relatively small pastures shall be picked of manure on a regular basis, and stalls shall be cleared of manure every 24 hours. Manure shall be disposed of properly and can be spread onto empty pastures during hot, dry weather. Removal of standing water, where applicable, also can assist in controlling insects. Use of fly sprays, masks and other methods may also be used to control insects, particularly in summer months.
Equines shall receive vaccinations as recommended by a veterinarian including but not limited to Eastern and Western Encephalomyelitis (Sleeping Sickness), West Nile Virus and Tetanus. Other vaccinations to consider in consultation with a veterinarian include but are not limited to Rabies, Influenza, Rhino and Strangles.
Requirements for screening for Equine Infectious Anemia (via Coggins Test) vary from state to state and facilities must comply with all relevant laws. In addition to being required when moving horses across state lines, a Coggins Test is recommended for all new equine arrivals and when equines are being adopted out to new homes or are being taken to shows or other gatherings.
The facility shall maintain and have clearly posted for all staff and volunteers the name and telephone number of a veterinarian able to make emergency calls to the facility. If foster facilities/homes are used to board equines, those caretakers shall have access to veterinarians able to make emergency calls, and the names and telephone numbers of those veterinarians shall be kept on file with the primary rescue or retirement facility.
DENTAL CARE
Equines shall receive regular dental check-ups and treatment as necessary to facilitate proper and adequate food digestion. It is recommended that equines up to 5 years of age and over 15 years of age receive dental check-ups twice annually, while equines 5-15 years shall receive dental check-ups once a year. Equines with dental problems shall be examined by a veterinarian and receive treatment as needed.
HOOF CARE
Equines shall receive hoof care/maintenance and trimming every 6 to 8 weeks, or as directed by a veterinarian or qualified farrier. Hoof care shall be performed by a qualified farrier or other experienced person knowledgeable in farrier practice. Exceptions may be made when a veterinarian determines that such care would endanger the equine and/or his caretaker(s), i.e., in the case of a newly arrived equine (see “NEW ARRIVALS”), or in the case of a wild equine who is pastured in sufficiently rocky or rough terrain so as to be able to virtually self-maintain his/her hooves. Whenever such exceptions are made, regular photographic and written documentation of hoof condition is recommended.
NEW ARRIVALS
Unless accompanied by veterinary records, and provided the health and safety of the equine, veterinarian and caretakers is not compromised, it is recommended that all new equines arriving at the facility undergo a physical examination by a veterinarian and be quarantined for at least two weeks. Where a full physical is not possible, a veterinarian shall at least observe and make recommendations on the equine.
If emaciated, the equine shall receive a starvation refeeding diet along with other necessary veterinary care. One suggested refeeding program is that developed by Dr. Carolyn Stull.
New arrivals who are debilitated, untamed or otherwise difficult to handle need not be vaccinated immediately, nor should they be bathed, groomed or have their hooves trimmed unless they have a medical condition for which these are treatments prescribed by a veterinarian. Such equines are often best cared for through relative isolation, rest and care from one or two people.
Deworming of an equine with unknown deworming history and who is in a debilitated state shall be performed according to the direction of a veterinarian.
ADOPTIONS
It is suggested that all adoptions be accompanied by a legally binding document prohibiting the adopter from selling or placing the equine in question with another owner or facility without first contacting the facility from which the equine was adopted to allow said facility the opportunity to assume possession of the equine.
BREEDING
No breeding of equines is permissible. All studs shall be gelded, except when determined by a veterinarian to be medically dangerous for the equine. Studs unable to be gelded shall be kept separate from mares. If pastured, studs shall be physically separated from pastured mares by a buffer zone or aisle between each pasture wide enough to prevent nose-to-nose contact and/or fighting.
If mares arrive at the facility pregnant, a veterinarian shall provide necessary care. Following birth, it is recommended that mother and foal shall be allowed to stay together for a minimum of 4 months, unless otherwise directed by a veterinarian. A veterinarian shall be consulted in any event and can offer advice on safe weaning to minimize stress and digestive upset, and sound nutritional advice for pregnant or lactating mares, who require sufficiently more forage than normal.
HUMANE EUTHANASIA
Humane euthanasia shall be employed:
When an equine is not mobile and a veterinarian is of the opinion that mobility will not return;
When the equine’s quality of life is deemed, with veterinary guidance, so poor that euthanasia is the most humane option within the means of the organization;
When an equine is experiencing continual pain for which there is no medical relief or the relief is not within the financial capability of the facility;
When an equine is affected by a degenerative medical condition for which there is no cure; or
When an equine is dangerous to him/herself or other animals or humans.
Euthanasia shall only be administered by a licensed veterinarian, except in emergency circumstances where the equine is injured beyond recovery and is suffering irreversibly. Carcass shall be disposed of in compliance with all relevant laws.