Denver Zoo has a strict pet policy to ensure the safety and well-being of both visitors and animals. This comprehensive guide will provide you with all the necessary information to navigate the zoo’s pet policy and have a seamless and enjoyable experience.
The Denver Zoo Pet Policy: What You Need to Know
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No Pets Allowed: Pets of any kind are not permitted on Denver Zoo grounds, except for service animals as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
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Service Animals: Service animals, which are dogs or miniature horses trained to perform tasks for individuals with disabilities, are welcome at the zoo. They must be under the control of their owner at all times and follow specific guidelines, such as maintaining a minimum distance from exhibit railings and avoiding certain areas where animals may be sensitive to their presence.
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Emotional Support Animals: Emotional support, therapy, companion, comfort, or assistance animals are not considered service animals under the ADA and are not allowed on the zoo grounds.
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Check-in with Security: Visitors with service animals must check-in with security upon entry and will be provided with a map and instructions on how to navigate the zoo without causing distress to the animals.
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Restricted Areas: Service animals are not permitted in certain areas, including Zoo Gardens, Wildlife Theater Plaza during bird flight times, Giraffe Building, Giraffe Encounter Area, The Edge tiger habitat, Lorikeet Adventure, Forest Aviary, and Village Hall within Toyota Elephant Passage.
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Leashes and Harnesses: Service animals must be on a leash, harness, or other tether unless the handler’s disability prohibits their use or if the animal’s tasks would be directly hindered by such equipment.
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Limit on Service Animals in Training: The number of service animals in training is limited to two per group.
By adhering to these guidelines, Denver Zoo ensures a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors while protecting the welfare of its animals.
Navigating the Zoo with a Service Animal
Visiting the Denver Zoo with a service animal requires some additional planning and preparation. Here are some tips to help you navigate the zoo with ease:
Checking in at Security
When you arrive at the Denver Zoo, you’ll need to check-in with the security team at the entrance. They will provide you with a map and instructions on how to navigate the zoo while ensuring the safety of the animals.
Restricted Areas
As mentioned earlier, there are certain areas of the zoo where service animals are not permitted. Be sure to review the restricted areas and plan your route accordingly to avoid any issues.
Maintaining Control of Your Service Animal
It’s crucial that you maintain control of your service animal at all times while at the Denver Zoo. This means keeping them on a leash, harness, or other tether, unless your disability prohibits the use of such equipment or the animal’s tasks would be directly hindered by it.
Respecting the Animals
The Denver Zoo is home to a wide variety of animals, and it’s important to respect their well-being. Avoid getting too close to the exhibit railings, and be mindful of the animals’ sensitivity to the presence of service animals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I bring my emotional support animal to the Denver Zoo?
A: No, emotional support, therapy, companion, comfort, or assistance animals are not considered service animals under the ADA and are not allowed on the zoo grounds.
Q: How many service animals in training can I bring to the Denver Zoo?
A: The number of service animals in training is limited to two per group.
Q: What should I do if I have a service animal and want to visit the Denver Zoo?
A: When you arrive at the Denver Zoo, you’ll need to check-in with the security team at the entrance. They will provide you with a map and instructions on how to navigate the zoo while ensuring the safety of the animals.
Q: Are there any areas of the Denver Zoo where service animals are not allowed?
A: Yes, service animals are not permitted in certain areas, including Zoo Gardens, Wildlife Theater Plaza during bird flight times, Giraffe Building, Giraffe Encounter Area, The Edge tiger habitat, Lorikeet Adventure, Forest Aviary, and Village Hall within Toyota Elephant Passage.
Conclusion
The Denver Zoo’s pet policy is designed to ensure the safety and well-being of both visitors and animals. By understanding and adhering to the guidelines, you can have a seamless and enjoyable experience at the zoo, whether you’re visiting with a service animal or not. Remember to plan ahead, check-in with security, and respect the animals and their habitats. Happy zoo touring!