Brookfield Zoo, located in the heart of Illinois, is a renowned destination for animal enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. While the zoo is home to a diverse array of species, one particular group that has captured the attention of visitors is the Brookfield Zoo Dogs. These canine companions play a vital role in the zoo’s operations, providing essential services and enriching the overall experience for guests.
Brookfield Zoo’s Service Animals and Miniature Horses
Brookfield Zoo welcomes service animals and miniature horses that assist people with disabilities. These animals play a crucial role in enhancing the accessibility and inclusivity of the zoo, ensuring that all visitors can fully enjoy the wonders of the animal kingdom.
Restricted Areas for Service Animals
While service animals are generally welcome at the zoo, there are certain areas where their presence may be restricted. This is to ensure the safety and well-being of both the animals and the visitors. Areas such as Habitat Africa The Forest may be off-limits for service animals, as the presence of these canine companions could potentially distress the zoo’s resident animals. In such cases, guests can either leave their service animals in the Guest Kennel Facilities or request a guided walk-through of the restricted area with the assistance of a staff member.
Emotional Support Animals Not Permitted
It’s important to note that emotional support animals are not allowed within the Brookfield Zoo. This policy is in place to maintain the safety and well-being of all visitors and animals.
Programs and Activities for Dogs and Service Animals
Brookfield Zoo has implemented various programs and activities to cater to the needs of service animals and their handlers.
Service Animal Maps
The zoo provides service animal maps that indicate areas that may not be ideal for service animals. These maps are available upon arrival or can be downloaded from the zoo’s website, ensuring that guests can plan their visit accordingly.
Guest Kennel Facilities
For guests who need to visit restricted areas, the zoo offers kennel facilities where service animals can be left in a safe and comfortable environment.
Guided Walk-throughs
If a guest with a service animal needs to access a restricted area, the zoo’s staff members can provide guided walk-throughs, ensuring that the guest and their animal companion can still experience the exhibit.
General Information and Accessibility
Brookfield Zoo is committed to providing an inclusive and accessible experience for all visitors, including those with disabilities.
Accessibility Features
The zoo offers various accessibility features, such as tactile elements in exhibits, a quiet room in the Hamill Family Play Zoo, and the availability of ASL interpreters upon request.
Contact Information
Guests can call (708) 688-8338 for accessibility information or to request assistance during their visit.
Online Resources
The Brookfield Zoo’s website provides a wealth of resources and information for guests with sensory disabilities, including visual schedule books and accessibility requests.
Animal Conservation and Adoption
Brookfield Zoo is not only a place for visitors to enjoy, but it also plays a crucial role in animal conservation and education.
African Painted Dogs
The zoo is home to African painted dogs, a unique and fascinating species known for their distinctive patchwork fur and strong musky odor. Brookfield Zoo participates in conservation programs to protect and preserve these remarkable animals.
Animal Adoption Program
The zoo offers an Animal Adoption program, allowing visitors to contribute to the care and conservation of various animals, including dogs like Tim and Jess, the brown bears.
Park Rules and Safety
To ensure the well-being of both the animals and the visitors, Brookfield Zoo has established a set of rules and guidelines that all guests must follow.
Pet Policy
Pets are not allowed within the zoo under any circumstances and cannot be left in personal vehicles during a visit.
Animal Safety
Feeding and touching animals are prohibited, except in designated areas like the Hamill Family Play Zoo.
Native Wildlife
Guests are asked to respect the native wildlife within the park, including animals like squirrels, raccoons, and ducks.
Brookfield Zoo’s commitment to accessibility, animal conservation, and visitor safety makes it a truly remarkable destination for animal enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. By understanding the zoo’s policies and programs related to Brookfield Zoo Dogs, visitors can ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for themselves and their canine companions.