Tails & Trails: Dog Day at the Zoo
🐶 We’re inviting dog-loving zoo fans and their well-behaved canine companions to explore the Zoo together! Your dogs will be treated to sights, smells, and sounds of animals they’ve never encountered before all while playing a vital role in enriching the lives of the Zoo’s animal residents.
To ensure that this event is safe for everyone, your fur babies MUST be well-trained and vaccinated. Dogs behaving in an unruly or aggressive manner (i.e. excessive barking, growling, lunging, biting, etc.) will be required to leave without a refund.
How to Join Us:
Reserve a ticket for yourself AND your dog. Each adult ticket may only reserve a spot for ONE dog. Note: Our ticket form will not complete transactions that do not have a 1:1 ratio of adult humans to dogs.
Submit a signed waiver (this link will be provided in your ticket confirmation email).
Upload your dog’s veterinary records*. Medical records must be received no later than 4pm on March 14. Medical requirements: Up-to-date vaccination for: Rabies Up-to-date vaccination for: Distemper virus, Adenovirus (also called canine Hepatitis and Parvo virus) Up-to-date vaccination for: BordetellaProof of negative heartworm test within the past year AND proof of purchase for heartworm preventative
*You will only have one opportunity to upload these documents, please verify before you select submit that all required documentation has been provided.
Entry will not be permitted if your medical records have not been received by the Virginia Zoo, or if our veterinary staff determines that your dog’s records are
insufficient.
Activities
Gift Shop kiosk in Event Pavilion with dog toys, leashes, collars, and bandanas ($)
Virginia Zoo Express Train rides ($, no dogs allowed)
Vendors
UltiMutt Toys
Neptune Dog Bakery
Windhound Photography
Norfolk Animal Care Center
Pawsnickety Pets
Dogtown VA
Ash & Bell Designs
Food and Drink Options ($)
Sunshine Treats VB (Includes “dog friendly” menu items, like ice cream treats)
African Village Restaurant open until 5:30pm
💲 Ticket Prices 💲
Tickets on sale to Zoo Members starting 2/7/25 and available to the general public starting 2/14/25.
🐾 Dog (requires registration and vet records): $18
🐾 Member Adult (18+): $8
🐾 Member Child (2-17): $8
🐾 Non-Member Adult (12+): $18
🐾 Non-Member Child (2-11): $13
🐾 Children under 2 are free
Frequently Asked Questions:
Target audience: Families with dogs
Will this event sell out?
- It’s possible! We recommend securing your ticket early just in case.
Will the price go up the week of?
- No. The week of pricing for human tickets will remain the same.
- Due to the vaccination record approval process, no Canine tickets will be available to purchase the week of the event.
Do I need to reserve tickets ahead of time, or can I walk up with my dog?
- All dog tickets must be pre-registered by March 14th so our vets can review your dog’s records to ensure they meet requirements. Only human tickets will be available at the gate.
What if my dog’s records are rejected?
- If our vets do not approve your dog’s veterinary records, your ticket will be cancelled and refunded. You will be notified at the email you provided when tickets were reserved.
Does my dog need to be on a leash at all times?
- Yes, dogs must be on a leash at all times during the event, even if they are in a carrier or a stroller. Leashes must be no longer than 6 feet and should be nonretractable.
Can I bring more than one dog to the event?
- Each adult (18+) can only be accompanied by ONE dog. If you would like to bring more than one dog, you will need to have another adult present with you in your party.
Can I bring a pet that is not a dog?
- No, only dogs are allowed at this time.
Will dog supplies be provided?
- Guests are encouraged to bring their own treats, water bowls, and relief bags.
Limited water stations will be available around the Zoo. Water will also be available for purchase.
Can I go to all parts of the Zoo with my dog?
- Dogs are currently not permitted to enter the Zoo Farm, the World of Reptiles, or Turtle Oasis. Other areas may not be available as programs or animals dictate. Dogs must remain behind the guest fences or stanchions, not go through them and obey all posted signage.
Where are the relief areas for my dog?
- The Zoo will be installing a designated relief area (see event map). All guests will be responsible for cleaning up after their dogs should it be needed.
Are there any restrictions on the types of dogs that can attend?
- Puppies under 4 months, sick dogs, dogs with active injuries (i.e. stitches, bandages), unvaccinated dogs, and female dogs in heat are not suitable for the event.
Am I allowed to attend if I don’t have a dog?
- Yes, of course! All dog and Zoo-lovers are welcome!
Can I go back in and edit my waiver submission?
- No, all documents and completion of the waiver needs to be done at one time.
Event Links
Tickets: https://go.evvnt.com/2891863-0
Website: https://go.evvnt.com/2891863-2
