There is just something about animal cuddles that is therapeutic. While there are numerous places back open, here are three of my favorite places that provide some much-needed creature comfort near Dallas.
Cathy’s Critters – Princeton, TX
We recently went to Cathy’s Critters where we were overwhelmed with excitement from the numerous hands-on activities. We started out by feeding the emus, kangaroos, goats, cows, and sheep prior to taking selfies with the llamas. Then, we played with bunnies and baby chicks after checking out the pigs, turkeys, and peacocks. My daughter rode a pony before we both hopped on a tractor ride. There are many more animals as well, and I highly suggest heading out to Princeton rather you are visiting on an open farm day or enrolling your child in one of the critter camp options. While their website will give you information about their farm, the most up-to-date hours are always posted on their Facebook page: Cathy’s Critters: Hands on Humane Education Farm.
Monkey See Monkey Do Exotic Petting Zoo – They Come to You
Monkey See Monkey Do is known as the petting zoo that comes to you. A sweet friend tagged me in this company’s home school “Pouch on the Couch” program. It is $50, and they bring two cuddly friends into your home. We were blessed to meet a kangaroo and a kinkajou. They teach you educational facts about the animals while you cherish some sweet moments with these furry friends. I’m looking forward to checking in with them for Christmas after finding out that they will even bring live reindeer and Santa to your house during the holidays! They also often post specials on their Facebook page: Monkey See Monkey Do Exotic Petting Zoo.
In-Sync Exotics – Wylie, TX
In-Sync Exotics provides a different kind of creature comfort. You aren’t exactly going to cuddle with a massive tiger or lion, but their majestic beauty fills you with a different kind of warm and fuzzy. Also, with the popularity of Netflix’s Tiger King, you might be eager to visit and see what all the hype is of a location that houses exotic cats. Don’t be mistaken; In-Sync Exotics is a wildlife rescue and educational center with an outstanding reputation. A little more info is below:
“As a non-profit organization, we are dedicated to the rescue of neglected, abused, and unwanted exotic felines. It is our dream that one day there will be no need for rescue facilities, but until that day happens, we will continue to educate the public on the unique attributes and characteristics of our residents; the realities of irresponsible and/or illegal exotic wild animal ownership and captive breeding; and the need for stronger and enforceable legislation against those who abuse exotic wild animals.”
Right now, they post daily videos on their Facebook page, In-Sync Exotics, so that you can virtually visit while waiting until it is safe to reopen to the public.
There are so many other options as well like the zoo, aquariums, and drive-thru animal safaris. I just wanted to share the ones that I have had the pleasure of visiting either personally or virtually in 2020. Please share where you have been for creature comfort by dropping your suggestions in the comments below.
If you would like other family activities, please check out:
2020 Summer Bucket List For Families In and Around Dallas (Social Distancing Edition)
2020 Summer Camp Guide for Dallas Families
20 Indoor Crafts and Activities for Kids
