From the left: Alex is holding Sprinkles and Cassie holding Tango for a photo in Caprassion Acres’ photo both. Thompson Goddard Photo

MARTINTOWN – If you are looking for an opportunity to get up close and personal with friendly farm animals, then Caprassion Acres is just the experience for everyone. As a 20-acre working farm and agri-tourism destination, it is operated by Cassie Zadow and Alex Cadieux.

Visitors are able to spend some time with a variety of animals including about 20 goats and 13 kids (baby goats), pigs and piglets, chickens and a rooster. Horses and mini-ponies can be seen in a nearby field, spending the day enjoying the sunshine, having a walk and enjoying their meals. Visitors are able to see live farm animals, watch their actions and gain an insight into life on a farm.

Cassie explained that the goats are Nigerian Dwarf and Lamancha breeds and are raised for their milk and the chickens provide farm fresh eggs.  The goat milk is used to create a variety of products including goat soap and bath bombs, with the eggs also available for sale in the storefront which has an eclectic selection of items for children of all ages.

In addition to seeing and petting the animals, goat snuggles and goat yoga are available to experience by visitors at pre-arranged time. Cassie mentioned the baby goats are able to be picked up, while the adults enjoy a hug or two.  Piglets are able to petted and love to roll over for belly scratching by visitors of all ages. Simply put, goat yoga is doing a yoga session amongst the goats who interact with the people by perhaps gently chewing on a person’s hair or standing on their back. It is described by Cassie as just a fun time for both the goats and the yoga participants.

How does one start a business such as Caprassion Acres and what is the origin of the farm’s name?  The name is derived from the scientific name for domestic goats, capra hircus and the couple’s passion for their work.  Cassie mentioned how they had a similar operation in the Ottawa Valley and decided to relocate for more acreage which would enable growth and proximity to both their families.

Looking towards the future, they are looking to develop trails through their forested areas, perhaps sleigh rides in the winter and providing opportunity for horse and pony rides for people of all ages.  The couple are interested in developing events that will allow families the opportunity to have some fun in the outdoors together.

Alex mentioned the importance of a business like this is to enable farm and non-farm people the opportunity to interact and learn about the animals on the farm in a safe and friendly environment. It was noted that the hens were friendly enough for people to pet and hold under supervision.

When asked about challenges, Cassie noted that when the land was purchased there were no fences and the drought last year made it difficult to dig the post holes.  This year the fences were easier to install and once in the public were able to visit.

The couple both agreed that a person looking to start a business need to have a passion for it and be willing to take a chance.

More information on Caprassion Acres can be found on their social media pages or website located at www.caprassionacres.square.site.

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