Zoo Knoxville Invites Four-Legged Friends to the Zoo
October 8, 2026, 7:26 p.m.

A man and his dog visit Zoo Knoxville; image by Zoo Knoxville

For two special days this November, guests can share the wonder of the zoo with their four-legged family members during Dog Days at Zoo Knoxville, taking place Saturday, Nov. 7 and Sunday, Nov. 8.

During Dog Days, the zoo will be open for regular admission, with a limited number of special dog tickets available for guests who want to bring their well-behaved pups along for the adventure. Guests can explore designated areas of the zoo together, encounter wildlife and enjoy a one-of-a-kind day with their canine companions.

“We know many of the people who love Zoo Knoxville are animal lovers at home, too, and Dog Days gives them a chance to share the zoo experience with their own four-legged family members,” said Phil Colclough, Head of Animal Care. “It will also be a unique form of enrichment, giving both the dogs and our animals opportunities to experience something new.”

Zoo Knoxville’s Animal Care team will closely monitor how the zoo’s animals respond to their canine visitors throughout the event. While some animals may be curious about seeing dogs in the zoo, others may prefer to keep their distance. Animals will have choices to move away from areas where dogs are present, and dogs will not be permitted in select areas based on the needs and comfort of the animals that live there.

Guests are also encouraged to be advocates for their own dogs and pay attention to how they respond to the unfamiliar sights, sounds, smells and animals they encounter during their visit.

Dog tickets are limited and must be purchased online in advance. No day-of or walk-up dog tickets will be available. Zoo Knoxville members do not need to purchase admission for themselves but will need to purchase a ticket for each dog they bring.

Dogs must be at least four months old, have a current rabies vaccination and remain on a non-retractable leash no longer than six feet. Each dog must have its own dedicated handler who is at least 18 years old, with a limit of one dog per adult handler.

Guests will select one of four entry windows when purchasing tickets: 9:30 to 10 AM, 11 to 11:30 AM, 12:30 to 1 PM or 2 to 2:30 PM. Once inside, guests and their dogs are welcome to stay until the zoo closes at 4 PM.

Dog Days is exclusively for dogs. Other pets will not be permitted.

Because capacity is limited, Dog Days tickets are expected to sell out. Tickets and complete event guidelines are available at zooknoxville.org.