As yoga has grown increasingly popular in Atlanta over the past few years, many studios and local businesses have emerged, offering different kinds of classes. Two, in particular, have put a special spin on traditional class formats, the Atlanta Humane Society and GGA Dwarf Goat Yoga.
The AHS’ practice features rescued puppies from across the state and gives people an opportunity to practice yoga and have adorable, adoptable puppies roaming throughout the class. With goals to put a positive twist on the often perceived as “depressing” industry of animal welfare, classes serve as a fun way of fundraising for the non-profit shelter and getting people in the community more involved.
“It’s been a great way to allow the puppies to get a little bit of time to socialize before they’re fully on the adoption floor and ready to go home,” Abby Hammonds, the AHS community engagement and event coordinator said. “It also allows people to see firsthand what the Humane Society does. It’s a fun way to engage people because animal welfare can be a sad industry.”
The AHS began hosting classes in 2019 in its Howell Mill location. Attendees are able to sign up for elevated and regular classes. Regular classes entail a 45-50 minute yoga flow taught by volunteer instructors from nearby areas, and is followed by a 15-20 minute “chill” period where class participants are able to hang out with puppies and take photos. Elevated classes will feature the same components of the regular classes but with some twists at the end; the elevated classes often feature drinks or a light bite, a photowall to capture the moment, and a take home memorabilia aspect, such as a magnet, a polaroid photo or other items depending on the class.
Beyond just hosting classes, the AHS also works as a full time, non-profit animal shelter with multiple locations around Atlanta. They rescue all different kinds of cats and dogs and work to help find them forever homes. In 2026, the AHS will host puppy yoga classes every three months, but participants under 18 are not eligible to take classes. For these students, there are numerous other ways to get involved.
“We have community events, which are typically free, engaging and family friendly,” Hammonds said. “Anytime our shelters are open, they’re open to the public, so if people just wanted to come in and get some kitty love, get some puppy love, [they] are welcome to do that.”
Another animal wellness experience is offered in Tucker: GGA Dwarf Goat Yoga. GGA brings farm animal wellness to the metro Atlanta area with some exciting spins. Strongly driven by a passion for animals and wellness, the founder decided to blend the two things together, and create GGA Dwarf Goat Yoga.
Founded in May of 2021 by GG Matthews, along with his wife Sabrina Matthews, GGA now features other animal-assisted therapy practices.
“We offer goat yoga, pilates hiking with goats, sound bath with goats, cow and goat cuddling as well,” Maddy Yangnouvong, social media manager and outreach coordinator, said. “All of this is proven to help increase those happy hormones and reduce cortisol levels.”
Sessions at GGA feature miniature goats and Highland cows to provide the ultimate wellness experience for attendees. These animals, in particular, are considered therapy animals.
Classes vary from five to 20 people. The yoga in public classes are accustomed to beginner and intermediate levels, making it easy for everyone to participate regardless of experience.
“The goats were super relaxing and fun, at the same time,” said Lane Burton, a sophomore and GGA dwarf goat yoga attendee. “[The goats] could climb on top of you while you were doing yoga, which was fun, and it was a great balance of yoga, taking photos and movement. The whole experience was chill and therapeutic while still being really fun and memorable.”
GGA’s experiences are unlike any other experience available in the Atlanta metro area. This has created a buzz for the business, attracting attention from people near and far.
With classes taking place both on the company’s farm and mobile by request, there is an option for everyone. Beyond regularly-scheduled public classes, the company also offers other more personalized opportunities, such as corporate events, couples goat yoga and more.
“The community was great and super welcoming,” Burton said. “I’m excited to hopefully go again.”
