Petting Zoo and Animal Exhibit Safety Tips

Petting Zoos and Animal Farms have become popular attractions for families with young children as part of a

Whether these exhibits are part of a zoo or a working farm, children can learn a great deal about nature and animals while having fun at the same time.

We offer some tips to ensure that families and children can enjoy a visit to a petting zoo safely.

Wash hands frequently and especially prior to eating - See Tips from Safe Kids Canada for Washing Hands. Click here to learn how to Reduce the risk of exposure of the E. coli Bacteria. Also see Tips on Washing Hands to Avoid Germs.
Supervise children closely - farms can pose the risk of sharp objects, broken or lose wire fencing, farm machinery and ponds are just a few of the concerns to be aware of.
Supervise young children when using restroom facilities - see Safety tips for Using Public Washrooms
Teach children to only feed the animals with food supplied by the farm and follow staff instructions. In most cases, placing the food on a flat palm works well.
Obey signs and check with staff before entering any animal enclosures. Keep children away from animals' feet and fingers away from animal cages unless feeding under your watchful eyes.
Practice sun safety.
Many petting zoos and children's farms have playgrounds. See Playground Safety Tips.
Children with severe bee allergies should ensure that an Epi-Pen handy and an adult should be familiar with it's use.
See Amusement Park Tips for more safety information.
Know what to do in the event of an insect sting. See First Aid Tips for Insect Stings.
Be aware if children have severe allergies - see Travel Safety Tips - Severe Allergic Reactions

REDUCE THE RISK OF EXPOSURE TO E.COLI BACTERIA

Of an utmost concern when visiting a petting zoo or animal exhibit is the possibility of the transmission of E. coli, a bacteria that can cause diarrhea (including bloody diarrhea), stomach upset, vomitting, fever and even hospitalization in severe cases.

Tips to reduce the risk of exposure to the E.coli bacteria:

Become aware of which animals pose the greatest risk of transmitting the bacteria - examples include calves, pigs, young poultry, animal feces, raw eggs, raw milk and sick animals.
Wash hands immediately after handling, patting or feeding animals and before any food consumption. Carry antibacterial wipes for convenience. If handwashing facilities are used, supervise children under 5 carefully.
Avoid communal basins for handwashing.
Supervise young children closely. Children under five are more susceptible to the bacteria. Teach children not to put anything in their mouth during the visit, including fingers, pacifiers that may have fallen on the ground, toys and any animal feed.
Never allow the consumption of raw milk.
Avoid any food or beverage consumption near any animal interaction areas or prior to washing hands.

All tips are offered as suggestions only. While we have tried to provide you with a list of suggestions to help parents when travelling with children to keep them safe, unfortunately, we can’t think of everything and it is the responsibility of parents to ensure their children’s safety.

For additional tips also see:

For Amusement Park Tips Click Below