"Everybodys so excited to bring their pets to the zoo," explains Associate Director of Guest Services, Jamie Sheard. "We all know pets are part of the family and you want the whole family to be present when you're having these fun experiences."
Unsurprisingly, many of the pups experience the same joy and wonder that children do when seeing the animals.
"Most dogs have never seen a giraffe before in their life," says Sheard.
The zoo just celebrated their 100-year anniversary two years ago and continues to be a community staple. It's also the very first zoo in the world to earn a certification as a Certified Autism Center.
"We had had individuals coming out who might have a therapy dog or an emotional support animal," says Sheard. "And we wanted to make sure that everybody has the opportunity to come and check out the zoo and have the resources they need to have a great visit here at the zoo."
Dog days at the Elmwood Park Zoo take place Sundays and Mondays and all dogs owners are required to bring proof of vaccinations and sign a waiver.