Introduction
The Elmwood Park Zoo located in Norristown, Pennsylvania is a beloved 16-acre zoo that has been deligting visitors since 1933. What makes the Elmwood Park Zoo stand out is that it is one of the few zoos in the country that allows dogs to accompany their owners on visits.
Having the ability to bring your dog along to the zoo offers many benefits. Dogs get to enjoy exploring new sights and smells in a stimulating environment while owners don’t have to worry about leaving their pets at home. It’s a great activity for the whole family, both two-legged and four-legged members, to enjoy together.
History of the Elmwood Park Zoo
The Elmwood Park Zoo first opened its gates to the public in 1925 after Benjamin Franklin Jones Jr. donated his private animal collection and the land it occupied to the City of Norristown. Some of the earliest exhibits featured native wildlife like bald eagles, mountain lions, timberwolves, bears, and waterfowl.
In the 1950s, the zoo began acquiring exotic species from around the world like lions, tigers, and monkeys. This was part of an effort to provide people in the area an opportunity to see animals they would likely never encounter in the wild. Some key species additions during this period included leopards, chimpanzees, and pygmy hippos.
Major renovations came to the zoo in the 1980s and 1990s. Exhibits were modernized to better simulate the natural habitats of the animals and provide more space for them to roam. The zoo also constructed indoor enclosures so that guests could visit year-round.
Today, the Elmwood Park Zoo occupies over 16 acres and houses nearly 100 animal species. It continues Benjamin Franklin Jones Jr.’s legacy of connecting the local community with wildlife from around the globe.
Exhibits and Animals
The Elmwood Park Zoo features both indoor and outdoor exhibits that house over 100 animal species. Some of the notable exhibits include:
Primate Island – This tropical outdoor exhibit is home to endangered lemurs, monkeys, and apes. Visitors can see black and white ruffed lemurs, squirrel monkeys, and the zoo’s family of critically endangered cotton-top tamarin monkeys.
Rainforest Trail – Walk along this indoor exhibit to see exotic birds like macaws and toucans flying freely overhead. Some of the reptiles found along the trail include emerald tree boas, poison dart frogs, and anacondas.
Asian Adventure – This spacious habitat features Amur tigers and snow leopards. It provides an immersive experience into the forests and mountains of Asia.
Bears of the Cloud Forest – Black bears, Andean bears, and sloth bears live in this exhibit modeled after a South American cloud forest environment.
Some other animals visitors may spot are kangaroos, camels, bison, otters, wolves, and bald eagles.
Dog Friendly Aspects
The Elmwood Park Zoo first began welcoming dogs in 2016. This was part of their initiative to become more pet-friendly and make the zoo experience enjoyable for the whole family, including furry members. The zoo now allows leashed dogs to accompany visitors throughout most areas of the zoo.
Dogs are able to access most walking paths and outdoor exhibits at the zoo. This allows them to walk alongside their owners and view the animals up close. Some key dog-friendly areas include the Asian Domain, Tropical Ridge, and Wildlife Watch. Dogs can also visit the zoo’s outdoor concession areas.
There are some rules for bringing dogs to ensure a safe and pleasant visit for all guests. Dogs must be kept on a non-retractable leash no longer than 6 feet at all times. They must be up to date on all vaccinations and wear a collar with ID and rabies tag. Dog owners are responsible for cleaning up after their pets. Dogs in heat are not permitted. The zoo staff reserves the right to ask owners to remove disruptive or aggressive dogs. Service animals are always welcome.
Benefits of Visiting with Dogs
Bringing your dog to the Elmwood Park Zoo offers many benefits beyond just a fun day out. Interacting with new sights, sounds, and smells in a stimulating environment provides dogs great mental and physical enrichment. Some key benefits of visiting the zoo with your dog include:
Socialization
The zoo presents a safe, controlled setting for dogs to be exposed to new people, animals, and situations. This socialization helps build their confidence and prepares them for handling novel experiences in the future without anxiety or reactivity.
Exercise
Dogs get to enjoy lots of physical activity as you explore the zoo together. All the walking provides great exercise to keep them fit and healthy. The zoo’s beautiful grounds also allow them to roam and sniff new, engaging scents.
Bonding Time with Owners
Visiting the zoo gives owners and dogs dedicated time together doing a fun shared activity. Experiencing new things together strengthens your bond and understanding of each other. It’s a chance to make happy memories and reinforce your dog’s training in a real-world setting.
Tips for Visiting With Your Dog
The Elmwood Park Zoo is very welcoming to visitors with dogs, but there are some tips to keep in mind to ensure you and your pup have the best possible experience:
Best Times to Visit
The earlier in the day you can visit, the better. This avoids the hottest hours of the day and typically the largest crowds. Mornings on weekdays tend to be the quietest times. Bring plenty of water for both you and your dog.
What to Bring
In addition to water, be sure to bring waste bags, a leash, treats, a collapsible bowl, and a towel or mat for your dog to lay on. Consider bringing a cooling jacket or vest for your dog if it’s hot out.
Etiquette
Be mindful of other guests without dogs. Keep your dog close, clean up after them, and don’t allow them to jump on or lick other visitors. Make sure your dog is up to date on vaccines and flea/tick medication. Follow all posted rules and be prepared to take your dog out of the zoo if they become overheated or anxious.
Activities with Dogs at the Elmwood Park Zoo
The Elmwood Park Zoo offers a variety of activities that you can enjoy with your dog. Here are some of the highlights:
Interacting with Animals
While dogs aren’t allowed inside the exhibits for safety reasons, there are still opportunities for your dog to see and interact with some of the animals. The zoo has bird enclosures situated along the walking paths, allowing dogs to watch colorful parrots, toucans, and other exotic birds up close. There is also a petting zoo area where dogs on leashes can gently meet and greet goats, sheep, and other barnyard friends.
Educational Shows
The Elmwood Park Zoo hosts live educational shows daily, like the Birds of Prey show featuring hawks, owls, and other raptors. While dogs can’t sit in the seats during shows, you can still enjoy the presentation while standing with your pup off to the side. Hearing the facts about these incredible animals while your dog watches them fly overhead is a memorable experience.
Walking Trails
The zoo has over a mile of walking trails that wind through the exhibits, making this a great place to take your dog for exercise. Walking past lemurs, wolves, otters, and more gives your dog plenty of sights and smells to take in along the way. Just be sure to keep your dog on a 6-foot leash or shorter when walking through the zoo.
FAQs
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about bringing your dog to Elmwood Park Zoo:
What areas of the zoo can I bring my dog?
Dogs are welcome in most outdoor areas of the zoo. They are not allowed in any indoor exhibits or buildings except for the gift shop.
Are there certain times when dogs are not allowed?
The zoo reserves the right to restrict dogs during extremely crowded days or special events. This will be clearly posted at the entrance on those occasions.
Does my dog need to be on a leash?
Yes, dogs must be kept on a non-retractable 6ft leash or shorter at all times for safety.
Is there an additional admission fee for dogs?
No, there is no extra fee for dogs. However, only a limited number of dogs are allowed per day to prevent overcrowding.
Are dogs allowed to interact with the zoo animals?
No, dogs should not be allowed to harass or chase any zoo animals. Be sure to keep your dog a safe distance from all exhibits.
Where can my dog get water?
There are several pet watering stations throughout the zoo grounds. Feel free to bring your own water and bowls as well.
Are there any areas for my dog to take a bathroom break?
Yes, there are designated pet relief areas for dogs to use the bathroom. Please clean up after your dog.
Alternatives
While the Elmwood Park Zoo is a great dog-friendly attraction in this area, there are other pet-friendly places nearby to visit as well. Here are some other options to consider:
Morris Arboretum – This beautiful arboretum located in Chestnut Hill allows leashed dogs. It features lovely gardens, walking trails, and trees to explore. The grounds span 92 acres, so there’s plenty of space for you and your dog to enjoy.
Lehigh Valley Zoo – Located just outside Allentown, this zoo has a dog park and walking trails that are open to leashed dogs. It’s a nice option for enjoying a zoo visit with your furry friend by your side.
Philadelphia Parks – There are a number of parks throughout Philadelphia that are dog friendly, including Schuylkill River Park and Columbus Square. These urban green spaces allow dogs on leash and provide room to roam.
Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen – For mealtime, this local restaurant has a dog-friendly outdoor patio. You and your pup can enjoy casual American fare together.
Shopping Centers – Several malls and outdoor shopping centers in the region are dog friendly, like Plymouth Meeting Mall and King of Prussia Mall. These allow leashed dogs, giving you an opportunity to shop with your dog.
The Philadelphia area offers great options for enjoying pet-friendly activities together. With beautiful parks, trails, zoos, restaurants and more, there are plenty of dog-welcoming attractions and amenities around.
Conclusion
The Elmwood Park Zoo in Norristown, Pennsylvania is a delightful zoo that welcomes leashed dogs. As we’ve covered, the zoo has a long history dating back to 1924 and houses over 100 animal species from around the world in naturalistic habitats. Its beautiful grounds and spacious pathways make it an ideal place to walk dogs and enjoy a fun day together seeing exotic wildlife.
With designated yards for dog relief, pet friendly eateries, and events like Yappy Hour, the Elmwood Park Zoo goes out of its way to accommodate visitors with dogs. Following the tips provided earlier will ensure you and your dog have a smooth and enjoyable trip. Visiting the zoo is a refreshing alternative to regular dog walks and offers mental stimulation for dogs through new sights, sounds, and smells.
In summary, the Elmwood Park Zoo is a great dog-friendly activity in the Philadelphia metro area. Walking through the zoo trails and exhibits with your loyal companion by your side makes for a memorable day.