Petting Zoos & Animal Exhibits

Contact with animals in public settings, such as petting zoos, fairs and other animal exhibits, provides opportunities for entertainment and education about animals. However, many people get sick every year because of a visit to an animal exhibit. It is important to remember that animals sometimes carry germs that are harmful to humans.

Washington state regulations (WAC 246-100-192) have minimum requirements for those that offer public settings where animal contact is encouraged. These requirements can be found on the WA State Dept. of Health (DOH) Animal Venue Operator Requirements webpage. If you wish to hold a public animal exhibit, please contact CCHHS at 360-414-5599  to discuss the layout of the exhibit, handwashing requirements and sign posting.

Animal Exhibit Resources

WA State Dept. of Health: Animal Venue Operator Requirements
National Association of State Public Health Veterinarians Animal Contact Compendium
CDC: Stay Healthy at Animal Exhibits Webpage

Signs for Petting Zoos and Animal Contact Areas at Fairs

Cowlitz County Health & Human Services Signs
Poster Welcome to the Fair, Wash Hands	Signs (x6) Wash Hands - Barn Entrances	Sign Wash Hands - Pony Rides
Sign Stow Strollers Here	Signs (x2) Wash Hands & No Eating in Barn
Additional Signs from the WA State Department of Health
Entrance Sign Health Risks Warning & Animal Visiting Safety	Exit Sign Wash Hands After Visiting Animals	Handwashing Sign Instructions - Help Kids Wash Hands
Directional Sign Handwashing Station Right	Directional Sign Handwashing Station Left	Directional Sign Handwashing Station Down