Can You Bring Your Dog to the Georgia Aquarium?

Planning a trip to the Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta and wondering if your furry friend can join you? Unfortunately, the general answer is no, dogs are not allowed inside the Georgia Aquarium. This policy is in place to protect the health and safety of the aquarium’s animals and guests.

The aquarium houses a delicate ecosystem, and the introduction of external animals, even well-behaved ones, could potentially disrupt this balance. Dog dander, allergens, and even the presence of a predator (from the perspective of the aquarium’s inhabitants) could cause undue stress or illness to the marine life. Furthermore, the high volume of visitors and the enclosed environment of the aquarium would likely be stressful for many dogs.

Service Animals: An Exception

There is, however, an exception to this rule. Service animals that are individually trained to do work or perform tasks for people with disabilities are permitted inside the Georgia Aquarium. This is in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). It’s important to note that emotional support animals, comfort animals, and therapy animals are *not* considered service animals under the ADA and are therefore not allowed.

If you plan to bring a service animal, it’s recommended to familiarize yourself with the aquarium’s service animal guidelines beforehand. While documentation is not required, aquarium staff may ask two questions to determine if your animal qualifies as a service animal:

Is the dog required because of a disability?
What work or task has the dog been trained to perform?

Your service animal must be leashed or harnessed at all times, unless these devices interfere with the animal’s work or the individual’s disability prevents using these devices. You are responsible for your service animal’s behavior and cleanliness. If your service animal is disruptive or poses a direct threat to the health or safety of other guests or the aquarium’s animals, you may be asked to remove the animal from the premises.

Alternative Options for Your Pet

Since your dog (excluding qualified service animals) can’t enjoy the underwater wonders inside the aquarium with you, consider these alternatives:

Boarding Facilities: Atlanta offers numerous reputable dog boarding facilities where your pet can stay in a safe and comfortable environment while you explore the aquarium.
Doggy Daycare: A great option for socialization and playtime, doggy daycares provide a stimulating environment for your pup during the day.
Pet Sitters: Consider hiring a professional pet sitter to care for your dog in the comfort of your hotel room or home.
Dog-Friendly Activities in Atlanta: Atlanta has many dog-friendly parks, patios, and walking trails where you can spend quality time with your furry friend before or after your aquarium visit.

By planning ahead and making appropriate arrangements for your pet, you can ensure both you and your canine companion have a pleasant and stress-free experience in Atlanta.