farm visit guidelines
Each potential adopter must allow an agent of Equine Welfare Society to inspect the farm where the horse will be living during the first year. This is simply a precautionary step to insure the well being and safety of each horse.
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Farm visits help us learn more about the environment of the horse and the potential success of the match.
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Using guidelines set up by the Maryland Horse Council, here are a few things that we look for in a suitable farm:
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SHELTER
Farms should have at least one shelter that constitutes a roof and three sides at minimum. This shelter should be kept in good repair and free of standing water, accumulated waste, sharp objects and debris. Proper shelter provides protection from inclement weather and insects.
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FENCING
Fencing shall be well maintained and in good repair at all times. It should be highly visible and not provide any opportunity for a horse to become entangled in a dangerous way.
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SPACE
Space available to the horse must be usable and safe (an area free of standing water, accumulated waste, sharp objects and debris and maintained in a safe and healthful manner). Horses shall be allowed to exercise and have freedom of movement as necessary to reduce stress and maintain good physical condition. Space and provisions for exercise must be appropriate and sufficient for the age, breed/type, quantity, condition and size of the horse(s).
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ACCESS TO CLEAN WATER
Horses should have access to clean, potable water at all times.
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NUTRITIOUS FOOD IN SUFFICIENT QUANTITY
Food shall be provided in sufficient quantity and be of adequate and appropriate nutritive value. Nutritious food of sufficient quality, i.e., wholesome, palatable and free from contamination, such as feces, mold, mildew, insects, etc. Diet shall be prepared with consideration for the age, breed/type, condition, size, work level and quantity of equine(s). Equines should score, by veterinarian, no less than a body condition score of 3 on the Henneke Condition Scoring Chart to be considered of adequate weight. Equines shall have access to adequate natural forage or be fed daily or as recommended by a veterinarian. All storage and feeding receptacles shall be kept clean and free from contaminants, such as feces, mold, mildew, insects, etc. If more than one animal is fed at one time or in one place, it shall be the responsibility of the owner/custodian to ensure that each animal receives nutrition in sufficient quantity.
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EVIDENCE OF PROPER CARE OF OTHER HORSES ON THE FARM
Hoof care maintenance and trimming every six to eight weeks or as directed by a veterinarian or a farrier. Parasites kept under control through worming every six to eight weeks or as directed by your veterinarian. Annual dental check-up and necessary treatment to ensure proper and adequate food digestion. Vaccinations as recommended by your veterinarian.