Lincoln Park Zoo’s pet policy strictly prohibits pets on zoo grounds, with the exception of service animals as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Service animals must be trained dogs that perform specific tasks for individuals with disabilities. Emotional support animals, therapy animals, and pets are not allowed. Service animals must be under control, leashed, and on duty at all times. They can access most areas, but may be restricted from certain exhibits due to animal welfare concerns.

What Animals Are Allowed at Lincoln Park Zoo?

The Lincoln Park Zoo has a clear and strict policy regarding animals on its premises. Here’s a breakdown of what is and isn’t allowed:

1. Service Animals:
2. Allowed on zoo grounds
3. Must meet ADA requirements

4. Limited to trained dogs performing specific tasks

5. Pets:

6. Not allowed on zoo grounds

7. Includes dogs, cats, and other domestic animals

8. Emotional Support Animals:

9. Not permitted

10. Not recognized as service animals under ADA

11. Therapy Animals:

12. Not allowed on zoo grounds

13. Not considered service animals by ADA standards

14. Miniature Horses:

15. Not permitted, despite ADA recognition
16. Excluded due to predator relationships and disease concerns

What Are the Requirements for Service Animals?

Service animals at Lincoln Park Zoo must adhere to specific guidelines:

1. Training and Purpose:
2. Individually trained to perform tasks for a person with a disability

3. Must be actively working and serving their handler

4. Control and Behavior:

5. Under handler’s control at all times
6. Leashed, harnessed, or tethered (unless interfering with work)

7. Well-behaved and non-disruptive

8. Care and Supervision:

9. Handler is responsible for animal’s care

10. Must attend to animal’s needs throughout the visit

11. Identification:

12. No specific identification or certification required
13. Staff may ask two questions:
    a. Is the animal required due to a disability?
    b. What work or task has the animal been trained to perform?

Where Can Service Animals Go in the Zoo?

Service animals have access to most areas of Lincoln Park Zoo, but there are some restrictions:

Allowed Areas:

• All outdoor exhibits
• Most indoor public spaces
• Dining areas
• Retail shops

Restricted Areas:

• Exhibits with new births or hatchings
• Nesting or breeding areas
• Spaces where zoo animals may be upset by service animals

In cases where service animals are restricted, the zoo offers alternatives:
– Guided walk-throughs of restricted areas
– Another member of the party can supervise the service animal

What Should Visitors with Service Animals Do Upon Arrival?

To ensure a smooth visit, guests with service animals are encouraged to:

1. Start at the Searle Visitor Center:
2. Staff are trained to assist with service animal visits

3. Can provide guidance on accessible routes and potential restrictions

4. Complete an Accommodation Request Form:

5. Available for those seeking special services

6. Can request guided walk-throughs of restricted areas

7. Inform staff of service animal status:

8. Helps prevent misunderstandings

9. Allows staff to provide appropriate assistance

10. Be prepared for questions:

11. Staff may inquire about the animal’s status and tasks
12. Questions are limited to those allowed by ADA

How Does the Zoo Handle Potential Conflicts?

Lincoln Park Zoo has procedures in place to manage potential issues:

1. Animal Welfare Concerns:
2. If a zoo animal is distressed by a service animal, the service animal may be asked to leave the area

3. Alternative viewing options will be provided

4. Behavioral Issues:

5. Service animals displaying aggressive or disruptive behavior may be asked to leave

6. Handlers are responsible for controlling their animals

7. Health and Safety:

8. Service animals must be in good health

9. Must be free from parasites and up-to-date on vaccinations

10. Waste Management:

11. Handlers must clean up after their service animals
12. Proper disposal of waste is required

What Are the Specific Legal Guidelines the Zoo Follows?

Lincoln Park Zoo adheres to several laws and regulations regarding service animals:

1. Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA):
2. Federal law defining service animals

3. Outlines rights of individuals with disabilities

4. Illinois Service Animal Access Act:

5. State law complementing ADA

6. Provides additional protections for service animal handlers

7. Illinois Guide Dog Access Act:

8. Ensures access for guide dogs and their handlers

9. Prohibits discrimination based on use of a guide dog

10. Illinois White Cane Law:

11. Protects rights of individuals using white canes or guide dogs
12. Applies to public spaces and transportation

These laws collectively ensure that individuals with disabilities and their service animals have appropriate access to public spaces, including Lincoln Park Zoo.

How Does the Zoo’s Pet Policy Compare to Other Attractions?

Lincoln Park Zoo’s pet policy is consistent with many other zoos and attractions:

Aspect	Lincoln Park Zoo	Typical Zoo Policies
Pets	Not allowed	Generally not allowed
Service Animals	Allowed with restrictions	Allowed with similar restrictions
Emotional Support Animals	Not permitted	Usually not permitted
Areas of Access	Most areas, some restrictions	Similar access with some restrictions
Documentation	Not required	Typically not required

While the zoo’s policy aligns with industry standards, it’s always best to check specific policies when planning visits to other attractions.

What Should Visitors Know About the Zoo’s Overall Accessibility?

Lincoln Park Zoo is committed to accessibility for all visitors:

1. Wheelchair Accessibility:
2. Most exhibits and pathways are wheelchair-friendly

3. Wheelchairs available for rent

4. Sensory-Friendly Resources:

5. Quiet zones available

6. Sensory bags with noise-canceling headphones

7. Visual and Hearing Impairment Accommodations:

8. Braille and large print materials available

9. ASL interpretation for select programs (with advance notice)

10. Special Needs Programs:

11. Periodic events for individuals with disabilities

12. Customized tours available upon request

13. Staff Training:

14. Employees trained in disability awareness
15. Prepared to assist visitors with various needs

By understanding and following the Lincoln Park Zoo pet policy, visitors can ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all, while respecting the well-being of both the zoo animals and service animals.

References:
– Lincoln Park Zoo: Service Animals at Lincoln Park Zoo
– Lincoln Park Zoo: Guest Guidelines and Code of Conduct
– Lincoln Park Zoo: Accessibility at Lincoln Park Zoo