Trained Service Dogs
Creating a safe, welcoming space for all is everyone's responsibility! The Magnetic Hill Zoo is proud to be an accessible facility and welcomes handlers and their trained service dogs.
Definitions
- A trained service dog is a dog that has completed its training to do work or perform a task for a person with a disability.
- A handler is a person who has a trained service dog, is responsible for the dog’s behaviour, and whose physician has prescribed a service dog to assist with their disability.
- A handler’s attendant is a person who is responsible for the care and welfare of a handler. (e.g. Parent of a child who has a trained service dog.)
Upon arrival
- Upon arrival, the handler and handler’s attendants (as applicable) must present themselves and their trained service dog ID to the Admissions staff.
- In the absence of the required ID, trained service dog admission will be granted at the discretion of the Guest, Retail and Administrative Services Coordinator or designate.
- The handler/handler attendant will be required to complete a trained service dog form and will be provided a trained service dog guide for review and compliance.
Handlers' Responsibilities
- Keep the dog on a leash at all times unless it interferes with the dog’s duties.
- Pick up the dog’s feces and dispose of in the appropriate receptacles.
- Maintain control of the dog.
- Watch the zoo animals’ reactions to the dog and adjust accordingly.
- Refrain from entering restricted areas with the dog.
Restricted areas
The following areas have been identified as sensitive areas with free ranging animals or direct animal contact where the presence of a trained service dog is prohibited:
- Animal contact areas for the deer, alpacas, goats, and horses;
- Non-public work areas; and
- Any other areas as identified by management as sensitive areas to address animal management or breeding program concerns.
Note
- Therapy dogs/animals and emotional support dogs/animals are not permitted inside the Zoo.
- Service dogs in training are permitted inside the Zoo upon written request with 2 weeks’ notice and prior approval from the Zoo Director.
- A trained service dog’s proof of vaccination is not required.
