About Us

 Safe & Sound EAS is a small farm nestled next to the Nehantic State Forest In East Lyme CT. Learn and participate in Equine Assisted Activities, for youth, adults. In addition to horse activities we also use the trails for obstacle course activities and hiking. We start from the bottom up with introductions to the equine world, encouraging participants to learn about communication, social and physical presence, the equine responses to the herd members actions and behaviors. Promoting confidence, communication, physical presence in the human world. Hands-on learning involves grooming, tacking, exercising, trail walking and riding and hiking.

Meet the Herd

ALPHIE

Alphie is a 18 year old Selle Fainse Draft Mix gelding. He is the newest member of the herd on Grassy Hill arriving in June of 2022.  He was generously donated to the program at Safe & Sound after getting lots of love and attention from his previous family. 

They shared that he was so much fun his job was redirected from a husband’s horse to a low jumper for the lady of the barn! Alphie touches everyone he meets with his huge heart and personality. Always the perfect gentleman on the road and at home, he is sure to touch many souls as he embarks on his new career at Safe & Sound!

KIOWA

Kiowa is a 27 year old POA gelding (Pony of America). Kiowa spent the first part of his life at a schooling farm in CT.  He was ridden by Christensen’s daughter Eva for lessons there and they eventually had such a nice bond she was able to bring him home to Grassy Hill in 2007. Kiowa and Eva went to many 4-H shows as well as horse camp and trail riding. Kiowa and Eva still worked together when she is home on the farm. Kiowa likes to be in his stall munching on fresh hay!

BROWNIE 

Brownie is a 22 year old Southern Mule who traveled from Tennessee to CT in 2008 to join the herd as the  newest 4-H project for the youngest Christensen, William.

Brownie is a very personable animal and has lots to share with newcomers. He is especially happy at Christmas time when the treats are plentiful because of Christmas tree sales. He has recently been one of the star animals in the local Christmas Nativity scene. 

TEZA

Teza is a 32 year old Arabian gelding who has been living his best life on Grassy Hill since 2004.  Teza went to a few 4-H shows but has mostly been ridden here on the farm and has enjoyed many years of trail riding through the Nehantic state forest. Teza is the alfa/leader in our small herd here on the farm, always watching out for other herd members.

Teza left us on October 18th 2022 at the grand age of 34 years.  
 
Rest in Peace Dear Friend ❤️

DEFINING TIMES aka DUKE

Duke is an OTTB (Off the Track Thoroughbred) gelding who was retired after four races.  His racing/registered name is Defining Times but we call him Duke on Grassy Hill.  After many months of searching for a new equine partner Eva found Duke and brought him home in 2012. They attended many riding lessons and local shows including the Big E 4-H show. Duke and Teza became fast friends and still enjoy each other’s company. 

What is an Equine Specialist in Mental Health and Learning?

EQUINE SPECIALIST IN MENTAL HEALTH & LEARNING CERTIFICATION

Work alongside mental health and education professionals to ensure the equine’s safety.

A PATH Intl. Equine Specialist in Mental Health and Learning ensures the safety and well-being of the equine participating in mental health or equine-assisted learning sessions and serves as the equine expert during equine-human interactions. The ESMHL works alongside a mental health professional or educator in typically unmounted activities.

What is PATH International?

PATH Intl., a federally registered 501(c)3, leads the advancement of professional equine-assisted services by supporting our members and stakeholders through rigorously developed standards, credentialing and education.

Volunteer Today!

There are a variety of volunteer opportunities that allow people of all ages, abilities, talents, and experience levels to help the horses. 

Though we can always use help with chores (such as mucking, brushing, feeding, walking, etc.) we are also always looking for people to help with building projects on the farm (barn additions/repairs, fences, etc.).

Not in town. We can still use your help. Help by writing Thank You notes, database entry, post events, assist with fundraising, recruit volunteers, grant writing and so much more!

No Experience Necessary! Great place for Community Service hours.