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Dog Nights at Zoolights

Dog Nights at Zoolights
2026 Dates announced soon
Celebrate the season with your four-legged friend and experience the magic of the lights together. Aquariums are closed during Zoolights. A Dog Nights at Zoolights ticket includes admission for one dog and one adult.
For the dogs
(your humans need to read this)
All dogs must be registered in advance with an 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. Aquariums are closed during Zoolights.
Looking for more
Dog Days?
Join us during Dog Days at our sister zoo, Northwest Trek Wildlife Park! Bring your canine companion for a tail-wagging adventure on select dates for Dog Days.
Northwest Trek Dog Days
Dog Nights at Zoolights
Map
Download the map ahead of time. Find your way around all the magical lights.
Download the map

Dog Nights at Zoolights

Frequently Asked Questions
QuestionAnswer
Do I need a ticket for my dog?Yes. The purchase of a Dog Nights at Zoolights ticket covers admission for one dog and one adult. Dog Night tickets are required for both members and non-members. Dog Nights are 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 Zoolights ticket too?One adult and one dog is covered with the purchase of a Dog Nights at Zoolights ticket. Purchase additional human only tickets for everyone else in your party (age 3+) for the same entry time.
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 the gift shop and restrooms. Dogs are not permitted to enter the cafe, but a walk-up window is available for food purchases. Note: Certain areas will be off-limits to dogs.
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.
Dog Nights tickets include admission for one dog and one adult. There are a limited number of dog tickets, so get yours early! Tickets must be purchased online. No Dog Night tickets will be sold at the front gate.

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Back to Zoolights
Find more information about Zoolights.