Fall Programs Open For Registration
South Natick, Massachusetts
Recreational, Educational and Animal-assisted Therapeutic Programs
Scheduled by appointment
About Us
Our History
Positively Goats was started based on founder Anishe Antoniadis's recognition of the special connection possible between humans and animals, grown from both a lifetime with animals of her own and her professional work experience.
While completing her animal-assisted therapy certification, Anishe and her family adopted a small herd of goats. The program grew as the response from visitors confirmed the meaningful moments and mutual appreciation shared with these animals, becoming the foundation for Positively Goats. Positively Goats now offers individual and group sessions with a program facilitator to support emotional, social, intellectual, and developmental differences.
Our Goats
In the spring of 2018, Anatolia and Chaia gave birth to four healthy kids. Two years later, Anatolia's daughter Delilah joined the herd, bringing the total to nine goats across three generations. Each with their own personality and a natural love of connecting with people, our goats are part of every recreational, educational, and therapeutic experience.
Our Team
Anishe Antoniadis is the founder of Positively Goats, where animal-assisted experiences support growth, connection, and joy. With over 20 years of experience in mental health counseling and education, Anishe specializes in working with individuals with intellectual differences, as well as children and teens navigating emotional, behavioral, or social challenges. With a Bachelor's in Human Services and certificate in Animal-Assisted Therapy, she offers a unique blend of expertise and care.
Anishe brings warmth, creativity, and thoughtful care to each session, whether it’s therapy-based or a recreational visit. She creates opportunities for individuals to build confidence, strengthen emotional awareness, and develop social connections by experiencing the unique, responsive bond between humans and animals. Her work invites expression, shared moments, and a sense of belonging in a space that honors difference and supports genuine connection.
Missy LoPorto brings over 25 years of experience in early childhood education, special education, and social work with children and families of all abilities. She holds Master’s degrees in both education and social work and brings a calm, patient presence to Positively Goats. Missy takes a thoughtful, responsive approach to supporting each child with kindness, flexibility, and care.
She is especially skilled at recognizing strengths and navigating challenges with empathy and creativity, and looks forward to supporting group visits and helping grow new programs.
Our Mission
Positively Goats aims to offer a positive, nurturing and inclusive environment in which anyone may experience the emotional, social and physical benefits of meaningful interactions with our goats.
Support Our Programs
We are grateful for your support in helping us further our mission of promoting wellness through meaningful connections with our goats. 100% of donations go toward goat care, therapeutic programs and special events that bring people and animals together. We are so grateful for your support!
