Sweet River Farm
Where Connection, Healing, and Growth Flourish
About Sweet River Farm
Who We Are
Alyson Bull
Apprentice MA Certified Riding Instructor
MA Licensed 1-6 Educator
Alyson Bull
Alyson has lived with horses for most of her life! She grew up on a horse farm in VT where her mother was an accomplished horseback riding instructor and ran Steeple Ridge Farm in Charlotte, VT. She spent afternoons and summers teaching kids how to ride, running summer camp programs with her mom, assisting at horse shows, and . She is also an educator of 17 years having taught 4th and 5th grades in Springfield, VT and 6th grade at Leverett Elementary School.
Annie Sexauer
MA Certified Riding Instructor
PATH International CTRI (Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor)
LICSW
Annie Sexauer
Annie has had a lifelong love of horses and is passionate about the power of horses to heal. She enjoys teaching beginning riders and introducing them to the powerful connections humans and horses share. She also is a trauma informed psychotherapist with a speciality in Internal Family Systems. Annie utilizes equine assisted psychotherapy in her private practice with clients interested in that modality.
Shelly Robertson Hicks
Camp Counselor
Health Care Supervisor, EMT
Shelly Robertson Hicks
Shelly is a mom to two awesome kids, a firefighter and EMT with the Leverett fire department, and works as a para educator at Leverett Elementary School. She loves sharing her enthusiasm for finding fun outdoors and you can often find her hiking, kayaking, or rock climbing!
Meet Our Beloved Animals
Jasper
Chestnut gelding, 16 hands
Breed: Quarterhorse
This sweet, affectionate horse is very social. He will greet you at the fence and always has his ears up to meet new people. This guy is the best teacher. He is steady, patient, and knows his job!
Rosie
Chestnut mare
Breed: Grade
Rosie is a quiet, gentle pony perfect for the youngest riders. She has been with our family since 2018 teaching all our children the basics. She does well in any situation and has even gone to a horse show! If your child wants a positive first horse experience, Rosie is the best!
Bugsy
Blue roan mare, 33”
Breed: Falabella Miniature horse
Bugsy is a delightful Falabella Miniature Horse, bringing a touch of elegance and playfulness to Sweet River Farm. Despite her small size, Bugsy exudes personality and captivates hearts with her endearing nature. Join us to discover the many ways Bugsy adds joy and enchantment to our farm!
Clover
Grey gelding, 13.1 hands
Birthday: 6/21/2002
Breed: Registered Welsh
Clover is an experienced hunter jumper pony with extensive horse show experience. He spent the prime years of his life showing on the “A” circuit. He is an expressive pony with clear boundaries who prefers to have a solid relationship with his handlers and riders. He is particular about being groomed, but otherwise has excellent ground manners. He is a barn favorite and fun to ride!
Buttercup
Buttercup is the newest resident of Sweet River Farm. She has spent much of her life as a camp and lesson pony. She is friendly, loves attention, and will stand to be groomed for hours.
Pumpkin and Spice
The Goats
Breed: Pygmy/cross
Pumpkin and Spice are sisters who have been living on the farm since 2018. Pumpkin is a bit more feisty than her sister, often initiating head-butting contests with Spice. Spice is friendly and enjoys being petted. Both enjoy treats such as apples, carrots, and other fruits and veggies.
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Connect with Sweet River Farm
Our Mission / Philosophy
Guided by principles of compassion, empathy, and respect, we believe in the inherent wisdom of the natural world and its ability to heal, inspire, and transform lives. Whether through the gentle nuzzle of a horse, the rustle of leaves in the breeze, or the soft murmur of the river, we strive to create moments of connection and understanding that foster personal growth and emotional well-being.