Disability Assistance
Wheelchair and Power Chair Rentals
For guests requiring mobility assistance, wheelchairs and power chairs are available for rent at the North Gift Shop near the North Gate. Renting a wheelchair incurs a fee of $20, which includes a $10 refundable deposit along with the applicable GST. If you prefer a power chair, you can rent one for $25.
It’s important to note that all rental equipment is limited in supply and operates on a first-come, first-served basis. Unfortunately, no reservations or waiting lists are available, so arriving early is recommended to secure the equipment you need.
Qualified Attendants
We strive to ensure a welcoming environment for all guests, including those with disabilities and their support persons. Qualified attendants accompanying guests with disabilities can enjoy complimentary access to the zoo. To take advantage of this offer, simply present proper identification, such as the Access 2 Entertainment Card.
Guide Dogs & Service Dogs
The Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo recognizes the immense positive impact that service and guide dogs have on their handlers. As such, we warmly welcome approved guide dogs and service dogs throughout the park. For the safety and health of all our guests and animals, service dogs must show no signs of illness upon admission.
Eligible Handler Teams
The rights of public access service dog handler teams are governed by the Alberta Service Dog Act. To gain entry to the zoo, handler teams must be certified through an Assistance Dogs International organization or an International Guide Dog Federation accredited organization. Additionally, teams must belong to one of the approved organizations specified by the Alberta Training Standard, which can be found here: Approved service dog organizations | Alberta.ca, or have passed the Alberta Qualification Assessment.
Pre-Registering for Faster Entry
To streamline your visit, we encourage guests to pre-register. This can be done by contacting Guest Relations via email at guestrelations@calgaryzoo.com. When reaching out, please include the following details:
- Your anticipated date of visit
- Your dog’s name and date of birth
- Your own name as the handler
- A copy of your Service Dog Certification card
Service Dogs in Training
While service dogs in training play a vital role in their handler’s lives, they are not permitted on zoo grounds during regular operating hours. However, the zoo hosts several evenings each year where approved service dogs in training from Assistance Dogs International (ADI)-accredited organizations and their handlers can participate in a guided zoo experience led by a staff member. For more information or to sign up, you can reach out to Guest Relations at (403) 232-9300, extension 2, or via email at GuestRelations@CalgaryZoo.com.
Family Services
Wagons
For families visiting with young children, wagons are available for rent near the North Gate at the North Gift Shop for a fee of $10. Similar to other rental equipment, the wagons are limited and rented on a first-come, first-served basis, so be sure to stop by early if you wish to use one.
Changing Stations
All washrooms throughout the zoo are equipped with diaper changing facilities for your convenience. Additionally, there is a caregiving room located at Kitamba Cafe, which features a universal change table, an infant change table, a sink, and seating available for caregivers. Please be aware that washrooms at the Discovery Centre are currently closed.
Sensory Bags
To accommodate guests who may feel overwhelmed during their visit, we offer sensory bags available for borrowing at no charge. These bags include fidget and tactile items, as well as over-the-ear noise-cancelling headphones. You can easily sign out a sensory bag at the North Gift Shop, but please remember to return it by 5:00 p.m.
Sensory Areas
Our main buildings—the Penguin Plunge, African Savannah, African Rainforest, ENMAX Conservatory, and Gateway to Asia—often contain heightened scents, sounds, and humidity. Each of these buildings is marked with a speaker icon on the zoo map. If you or someone in your group starts to feel overstimulated, our staff and volunteers are available to direct you towards quieter areas where you can take a restful break.
