A unique yoga experience is drawing attention in Washington State as the Sammamish Animal Sanctuary offers goat yoga classes that not only promote wellness but also support local animal care. The sanctuary, home to a variety of rescued animals, provides an engaging environment where participants can enjoy yoga while interacting with goats and other animals.
Located in Renton, the Sammamish Animal Sanctuary has been hosting goat yoga for three years. The initiative has gained popularity, with classes now available on Tuesday evenings to accommodate those who wish to attend after work. According to Jennifer Nill, the sanctuary manager, “Once an animal comes here, they are here for the remainder of their life.” This commitment to the animals underscores the sanctuary’s mission to provide a safe and loving home.
The goat yoga sessions feature eleven goats, each with its own distinct personality, including a particularly affectionate goat known as “Jack the Licker.” Benjamin Mills, a yoga and functional movement coach from Practical Empowerment, leads the classes. Mills describes the experience as playful, stating, “This is not a strict format class… it’s more like play with the goats, enjoy your class, breathe and have your own goat meditation.”
Participants in the class have reported delightful interactions with the goats. Kelsey Sauve, a first-time attendee, expressed her enthusiasm, saying, “You have to do it. It’s a lot of fun, at least do it once, but once you do it once, you’re going to want to do it again.” Fellow participant Melissa Conde echoed these sentiments, sharing that the goats were “not shy at all” and that their antics, including unexpected licks, added to the joy of the experience.
Classes not only provide entertainment but also serve a vital purpose. All proceeds from the goat yoga sessions go directly to the sanctuary, assisting with essential costs such as animal feed, veterinary care, and property maintenance. Nill emphasized, “All the proceeds for goat yoga go directly to us here at the sanctuary.”
The format of the classes allows for a connection between humans and animals, promoting enrichment for the goats while fostering community engagement. Mills highlighted the significance of supporting a sanctuary environment rather than simply providing goats for yoga purposes. “Our class is at the animal sanctuary versus just bringing in a bunch of baby goats just for the purpose of goat yoga,” he noted.
The goat yoga classes at the Sammamish Animal Sanctuary exemplify the growing trend of interactive fitness experiences that benefit both participants and local animal welfare initiatives. For those interested in a unique blend of physical activity and animal interaction, this innovative program continues to attract newcomers every week.
As the sanctuary remains committed to its mission, the goat yoga sessions serve as a reminder of the importance of community support in caring for rescued animals. Classes are held every Tuesday at the sanctuary, providing a regular opportunity for individuals to engage in this joyful and charitable activity.