How is the Petting Zoo Set Up?

During private events such as birthday parties, weddings, family re-unions, and similar events that have a known attendance the animal experiences are more intimate allowing children to be up close and personal with them.  

Our Barnyard Petting Zoo is set up in one large pen and the children are allowed inside to pet, hold and interact with the animals.  The larger animals such as llamas, alpacas, pigs, and mini-cows are set up in their own pen and the children can view them from the outside.  With a small event and depending on the age and energy level of the children, the larger animals can be led around on a leash.  All of our exotic animals are handled and displayed on an individual basis.  Some are for viewing only while others can be touched or held.  This depends on the species, age and training level of each animal.  

During community and public events each species is set up in it's own individual pen.  People can view the animals from the outside of the pens.  All pens are large enough for visitors to be able to reach and pet the animals while still allowing the animals a way to lay in the middle (out of reach) if they need a break.  The pens are spread out to allow visitors to wander through the petting zoo area and not feel crowded.  Handlers are present at all times to supervise animals, assist visitors, and answer questions.  

School and Educational events can be set up a variety of ways.  

Petting zoos that are scheduled for several hours, rotating small groups of children are set up like our private events.  Larger functions that involved free attendance of family and all children are set up like our community events.  

Educational presentations are set up and scheduled based on the age of the children.  Educational presentations are usually set up in front of a classroom, gym or auditorm.  Animals are brought out individually and displayed for children to see and ask questions about.  Up-close viewing, touching and questions are dependent on the size and energy level of the children as well as the species.  

Exotic animal displays are dependent on several factors.  Each species is different.  Some species are able to be touched, some held and some are just for viewing.  Some of these animals do not like to be held or touched and we respect.  Age, energy level and environment is also another factor in the interaction with many of our exotic species.  Some animals can be held or touched in a small private setting but not at a busy public event.  

Please inquire about the animal encounter before booking.

Pony rides at private events simply require an area off to the side that is relatively flat.

Pony rides at community events require a large area to the side of the event that can be roped off.