Nor is wide-scale testing for the bacteria always effective or feasible. "Most of these petting zoos are small, family-run operations. Testing is expensive and not always available," says Jayarao.

There is something special about a petting zoo that lures both children and their parents. Starting and running a petting zoo is certainly not for everyone, as a petting zoo requires a great deal ...

I love taking my kids to petting zoos and farms near me in the Dallas ... Make a day of it by visiting one of the best ...