March 22 @ 3:00 pm – 6:00 pm EDT

Spring has sprung 🌸, and it’s time to thaw your pup’s paws! 🐾 Get ready to join us for our first ever Dog Days event. 🐶 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:

  1. 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. 
  2. Submit a signed waiver (this link will be provided in your ticket confirmation email).  
  3. Upload your dog’s veterinary record. Medical records must be received no later than 4pm on March 14. 
    • Medical requirements: 
      • Rabies vaccination 
      • Canine distemper vaccination 
      • Canine adenovirus (hepatitis) vaccination 
      • Bordetella vaccination 
      • Heartworm preventative 

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.  

Frequently Asked Questions:

  1. 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 the date listed above, so our vets can review your dog’s records to ensure they meet requirements. Only human tickets will be available at the gate.
  2. 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. 
  3. 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 non-retractable.
  4. 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.
  5. Can I bring a pet that is not a dog?
    • No, only dogs are allowed at this time.
  6. 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.
  7. Can I go to all parts of the Zoo with my dog?
    • Dogs are currently not permitted to enter the Zoo Farm or the World of Reptiles. 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.
  8. 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.
  9. Am I allowed to attend if I don’t have a dog?
    • Yes, of course! All dog and zoo-lovers are welcome!

Schedule

COMING SOON

💲 Ticket Prices 💲

Tickets on sale to Zoo Members starting 2/7/25 and available to the general public starting 2/14/25.

COMING SOON

Limited number of tickets available. Advance ticket sales end when sold out (get yours early!). If tickets remain on the day of the event, gate sales will be credit card only. Tickets are non-refundable. All sales are final. Should a ticket holder be unable to attend the event, the purchase will be considered a donation. As an outdoor venue, events are rain or shine unless otherwise indicated. If any changes are made, an announcement via an email to our members and/or ticket holders and on the Virginia Zoo social media channels will be issued prior the event.

The Zoo is a smoke-free facility; no smoking is allowed inside the Zoo. This also includes e-cigarettes and vaping. Inability to follow this rule will result in dismissal from Zoo grounds without a refund.