How to Design a Petting Zoo

Sheep are popular in petting zoos because of their placid demeanor.

Petting zoos are an entertaining and psychologically enriching experience for children and parents alike. When designing a petting zoo, consider the most-suitable animals and the correct placement of them. Not all animals do well in petting zoos and the wrong one could create devastating results. "Traditionally, popular animals featured in a petting zoo have always been sheep, deer, ponies and rabbits," according to Entrepreneur.com.

Things You'll Need

• State operating license

Instructions

1. Research petting zoo regulations within your state.

2. Decide on which animals you want to include.

3. Determine the dimensions of the land for which the zoo is intended.

4. Draw a rough layout using these dimensions. Focus on each specific animal's requirements.

5. Notate within the layout the feeding areas for each animal.

Tips & Warnings

• Petting zoos must be designed to ensure the safety and well being of every animal you are including. Consider the climate; many animals cannot withstand intense cold or heat.

• Some animals, such as rabbits, cannot be kept with any other species.

References

• Entrepreneur.com: Business Idea Center; Petting Zoo

Resources

• Animal Care Resources Guide: Exhibitor Inspection Guide; Petting Zoo Inspection