Save $10+ Per Ticket For Universal Studios Hollywood (Limited Time Offer)

San Diego Zoo's Pet Policy: Rules & Restrictions Explained

With dozens of rare and endangered animals calling San Diego Zoo their home, the policies around bringing pets into the zoo is a bit different than what is allowed at most attractions.

In this guide, we'll detail the San Diego Zoo's unique policy on pets!

Questions We'll Answer About San Diego Zoo's Pet Policy:

  • Can You Bring Non-Service Animal Pets Into The San Diego Zoo?
  • Can You Bring Emotional Support Animals Into The San Diego Zoo?
  • Can You Bring Service Animal Pets Into The San Diego Zoo?

 "San Diego Zoo" Sign

Can You Bring Non-Service Animal Pets Into The San Diego Zoo?

Pets that are not service animals are not allowed into the San Diego Zoo.

The San Diego Zoo is home to many rare and endangered species and bringing in animal that may be carrying any sort or disease or virus can cause a lot of harm to these animals already at risk of extinction. 

Not only are endangered or rare species at risk, but other animal populations who may not normally be exposed to cats or dogs can also develop health problems when exposed to household pets. 

Koalas at the San Diego Zoo

Allowing pets into the San Diego Zoo is actually regulated on the state and federal levels, so this decision is beyond San Diego Zoo's control.

Please leave your pet at home or make other arrangements for them to be cared for while planning your visit to the San Diego Zoo!

Can You Bring Emotional Support Animals Into The San Diego Zoo?

Emotional Support Animals are treated similarly to non-service animal pets at the San Diego Zoo. This might be a bit surprising given California's usual lenient policy on Emotional Support Animals!

Because of federal and state regulations, Emotional Support Animals of any kind are not allowed at the San Diego Zoo. 

San Diego Zoo Tour Bus

While the San Diego Zoo strives for as inclusive and accessible of an environment as possible, these restrictions are in place for the safety of all the animals at the zoo.

You will not be able to access to zoo if you arrive with your Emotional Support Animal and the San Diego zoo does not provide any kennel or boarding services, so please plan your trip with this in mind!

Can You Bring Service Animals Into The San Diego Zoo?

Service Animals are allowed into the San Diego Zoo! 

Cart stopping in front of a lion at San Diego Zoo

Service Animals in training are not allowed into the zoo however, so please make alternative plans if the Service Animal is considered "In Training". 

Otherwise you typically should have no issues entering the San Diego Zoo with a Service Animal!

 

RELATED ARTICLES

Best Tips for San Diego Zoo

San Diego Zoo Discount Tickets

San Diego Zoo Bag Policy Explained

Can You Bring Food Into the San Diego Zoo?

San Diego Zoo Stroller Rental Guide