Dog Days
September 24, 2026
9:00AM - 3:30PM
A day for dogs
For the dogs
(Your humans need to read this)
All dogs must be registered in advance with a $20 online dog ticket (walk-up dog admissions won’t be available). For everyone’s safety and enjoyment, all dogs must be well-behaved, up-to-date on vaccinations, and kept on a non-retractable leash no longer than six feet.
Find dog-friendly paths
Stick to the designated dog-friendly paths. Some areas of the zoo will be dog-free to ensure a safe and comfortable experience for all animals and guests, so check the map to see where your pup can join the fun.
Dog Days map
Frequently Asked Questions
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Do I need a ticket for my dog? | Yes. Each dog requires a $20 dog ticket, which includes admission to the zoo for the dog for specified areas and exhibits. Dog tickets are required for both members and non-members. Your ticket will indicate the earliest time you can enter the zoo. You must enter the zoo within one hour of that time. Once inside, you can stay until closing. There are a limited number of dog tickets available per day, so be sure to get yours before they sell out. Dog Days is a rain-or-shine event, and tickets are non-refundable. |
| Can I buy a dog ticket at the gate? | No. Dog tickets must be purchased online in advance. Walk-up dog tickets are not available. |
| Do I need a regular Zoo ticket too? | Yes. All human guests must purchase standard Zoo admission or be current Zoo members. |
| How old must dog handlers be? | All dog handlers must be 18 years or older and able to control the dog at all times. |
| Are there leash, collar, health, or behavior requirements? | Yes. All dogs must: be on a non-retractable leash no longer than 6 feet, be well-behaved and non-aggressive, be current on vaccinations. Prong, choke, spike or heavy chain collars are NOT allowed. Collar must include an identification tag with owner's contact information. |
| Do I need to complete a waiver? | Yes. During online registration, all dog owners will be required to complete a waiver. By completing the waiver, you are confirming that the dog you bring meets all vaccination, health, and behavior requirements. Dogs must be friendly toward people and other dogs, remain under your control at all times, and not exhibit aggressive or disruptive behavior. |
| How many dogs can I bring? | There is a limit of one dog per adult guest for safety reasons. |
| Where can I bring my dog inside the zoo? | Dogs are welcome in designated dog-friendly areas, including both aquariums, lawn spaces, and restrooms. Note: Certain areas will be off-limits to dogs, including goats, puffins, and the Wild Wonders Outdoor Theater. Download the map to see where dogs are welcome. |
| Can my dog ride on the carousel? | No. Dogs are not allowed on the carousel. They are welcome into the carousel building, but may not ride. |
| Am I responsible for cleaning up after my dog? | Yes, all owners are required to pick up after their pets at all times. |
| Are there water stations for dogs? | Absolutely. We’ll have multiple communal water bowls located throughout the zoo. |
| Are service animals allowed at the Zoo on non-Dog Days? | Yes. Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium welcomes guests with disabilities who use service animals as determined by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Washington Administrative Code. Guests using service animals are required to check-in at the admission window where you’ll be provided with information to plan your visit to our facilities. |
| Who can I contact for more information? | You may send an email to: [email protected] with further questions. |
Upcoming events
Pride Celebration
Celebrate Pride and our LGBTQIA+ community at the Zoo!
June 20-21.
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Arctic Sea Ice Weekend
Arctic Sea Ice Weekend
Keeper chats, enrichments, and climate action.
July 11-12.
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Show support for wild canines
Learn about what the zoo is doing for American Red Wolves and how they were saved from the brink of extinction.