If you’ve ever looked at your Golden Retriever and thought, “You know who you’d really get along with? A Gorilla,” your strangely specific dream is about to come true.
Today the Dallas Zoo is going to the dogs—literally. For the first time, the zoo is piloting Dog Days, a special event where guests can explore the exhibits alongside their favorite four-legged companions.
Eye-to-Eye with the Big Cats According to Kari Steiber, the zoo’s VP of Marketing and Communications, this isn't just a treat for the pups; it’s a "different viewpoint" for the zoo’s permanent residents, too. Imagine the look on a lion’s face when he sees a French Bulldog in a sweater stroll past his habitat. Talk about "enrichment"!
While most of the zoo is open for sniffing, certain areas are restricted to ensure everyone stays on their best behavior. You can expect plenty of staff on hand to monitor the "human and dog" social cues—and maybe catch a viral-worthy photo of a pup meeting a silverback through the glass.
The Logistics (Because Every Good Boy Needs a Plan) Planning to bring your furry co-pilot? Here’s the "scoop" on how to handle the day:
Tickets: It’s a $22 ticket for adults ($19 for youth/seniors) and a $22 ticket for your dog.
The Paperwork: Every dog owner needs to sign a waiver before entering.
The "Relief" Situation: The zoo has set up water stations and designated "relief stations" throughout the park. Just remember: be a good human and pick up after your pup!
Dining & Pit Stops: While dogs can't go inside the restaurants, they are welcome on the patios. The zoo has even designated special "dog-friendly" single-use restrooms so you don't have to leave your buddy tied to a fence while you take a break.
With temperatures expected in the 70s, it’s the perfect time to let your dog see the world beyond the fire hydrant.