Katie Merwick
Executive Director, Second Chance Ranch

Second Chance Ranch is a nonprofit that I founded in 1999. I have enjoyed a 44 year career as an animal behaviorist, trainer/animal actor trainer and published writer Prior to forming SCR, I worked in the Executive offices of Microsoft.

Proposal For Property Lease

Second Chance Ranch is an award-winning nonprofit in its 27th year, built on an impactful mission. More than just a sanctuary for a select group of retired sport horses, SCR is a dedicated space that enriches lives through our Equine Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP) program. Importantly, we want to clarify that we are *not* a rescue. We have a finite number of professionally trained horses. Our programs are non-riding.

About Our Property and Transition
In 2018, we purchased our current property in Spokane, Washington, as part of a strategic plan to develop and sell. Rather than reinvesting the equity, proceeds from the sale will be used to relieve all existing debt, cover relocation costs, and ensure two years of operational funding in reserve.

This next chapter continues our legacy of advancing mental health by expanding the role of equines in therapeutic and well-being solutions. We are financially prepared to offer one year’s lease payment upfront and will maintain comprehensive business and property insurance throughout.

Facility Requirements
We are seeking a property that meets the following criteria:

Acreage: Minimum of 20–40 safely fenced acres (no barbed wire). Cross-fencing is a plus.
Residence: Small home preferred, with ability to live on-site.
Biosecurity: Property must be free of soil-borne diseases (e.g., strangles) and have no exposure to EHV-1 or EHV-4.
Water: Sufficient supply, ideally on a well.
Indoor Arena: Minimum 60' x 120'.
Barn Facilities: At least 9 stalls, with finished feed and tack rooms.
Pasture: Turnout areas with run-in sheds.
Storage: Adequate hay and bedding storage.
Location: Within 10 minutes of a major highway and 30 minutes of a town center.

3 to 5 Year Plan

This transition marks a pivotal move for Second Chance Ranch. We are seeking a 3 - 5 year lease in Spokane, western Washington or northern Oregon which I am drawn to for their lush landscapes, vibrant and forward-thinking mental health communities, and the many colleagues and collaborators I have residing in both states.

A lease (with or without an option to buy) offers the flexibility to ensure our new location meets all operational needs before committing to purchase. Should the new property align as anticipated, we intend to pursue ownership in partnership with our collaborators.

Our Programs
The services we offer:

An Equine Assisted Psychotherapy platform for licensed professionals (non-riding, no mounted therapy).
Due to the sensitivity of HIPAA regulations, we have minimal traffic. No boarders. Limited social events.

Equine and Canine Behavior Modification (NO Boarding). Most of this work is done at the client's location.

We believe in the transformative power of connection that horses provide to bridge past experiences and future aspirations. Our mission is rooted in healing, growth, and the profound lessons these magnificent animals teach us. Each horse carries a story, and together we create new stories of hope and resilience.

Reputation, Safety & Liability
Second Chance Ranch has a long-standing reputation for innovation and leadership in equine-assisted programs. Our programs have served as a model for other organizations to emulate. My extensive background in farming and equestrian management ensures that we add value and stewardship to every property we occupy.

It’s also worth noting that our liability profile is exceptionally low:

Our programs are non-riding, eliminating equestrian risk.

SCR does not provide mental health services directly. We host licensed, insured professionals who operate independently under their own liability coverage.
We maintain robust participant waivers and require proof of insurance from all professionals utilizing our facility.
In 27 years of operation, SCR has never had a single insurance claim or unreported incident—underscoring our commitment to safety and professionalism for both humans and horses.