Stop, Paws, Learn with WUFT
Bringing Families Together to Learn About Pets and Support Local Adoptions.
An educational adventure for the whole family! Visit with pet adoption agencies to find your newest family member and provide a furever home for a pet in need. The event includes a PBS Kids Play Zone with hands-on activities by community organizations including WUFT Education Outreach, picture opportunity with Daniel Tiger and train, zoo animal training demonstrations and keeper talks, presentations, adoptions and more.
Presentation Schedule
- 11:30 a.m. - White-handed gibbon training demonstration
- 12 p.m. - Augmented Interspecies Communication & Cooperative Care (Animals using buttons!)
- 1 p.m. - Choosing Your Pets Wisely
- 1:30 p.m. - White-throated capuchin training demonstration
- 2 p.m. - Dog Body Language (presented by Williston Animal Group)
Food and Fun Trucks
- Kona Ice of Hawthorne
Participating Organizations
- Williston Animal Group
- Humane Society of North Central Florida
- Humane Society of Marion County
- Gainesville Rabbit Rescue
- Puppy Hill Farm Animal Rescue
- Voices of Change Animal League
Please note: Due to safety and sanitation reasons, please do not bring your pet to the event.
Date
- March 1, 2026
- 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Quiet Hour
9 a.m. - 10 a.m.
No music or presentations on microphone. Sensory bags are available for checkout at the ticket window.
Admission
Admission for Stop, Paws, Learn is free, sponsored by Children’s Trust of Alachua County.
Where
Â鶹´«Ã½Ó³» Teaching Zoo
3000 NW 83rd St.
Gainesville, FL 32606
Get Directions
Tip: Search "Â鶹´«Ã½Ó³» Teaching Zoo" in your GPS for the most accurate route.
Accessibility
The zoo features mulch-lined trails that are accessible for wheelchairs and strollers (no rentals available). Service animals are welcome, but pets and emotional support animals are not permitted. We partner with KultureCity to provide sensory-inclusive accommodations, including free sensory bags, weighted lap pads, headphone zones, and a quiet area.
This event is funded in part by , Alachua County
Sponsorship
Interested in sponsoring this event or future zoo events? Contact Christina Arnold or Jonathan Miot for more information.
Many thanks to our sponsors
- Free Day at the Zoo Sponsored by Children's Trust of Alachua County
- Animal Friends Welcome Center Sponsored by Newberry Animal Hospital
- Curious Kids Goodie Bags Sponsored by Campus USA Credit Union
- Daniel Tiger Ears Sponsored by The Veterinary Center at Hunter's Crossing