Frequently Asked Questions
1 / Why do we have to book a tour in advance? Can we just show up?
We do require tours to be booked in advance and aren’t able to accommodate walk-ins.
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Because we’re a nonprofit and operate primarily with a small team of dedicated volunteers, we don’t have staff onsite at all times to host unscheduled visitors. Scheduled tours allow us to make sure someone is available to guide your experience, answer questions, and ensure everything runs safely and smoothly.
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Additionally, Collier County regulations require us to operate this way rather than as a traditional open, walk-in attraction.
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Booking ahead helps us provide a much more personal, engaging experience for your group—and ensures both our guests and animals have the best possible visit.
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We truly appreciate your understanding and support!
2 / ​What should I bring on my tour?
Here are the items we recommend: closed toe shoes, water bottle, sunscreen, bug spray, hat, umbrella.
3 / Can I bring treats for the animals?
We allow visitors to bring carrots for our mini horses. All of our animals are on very specific diets designed by our veterinarians.
4/ Where do your animals come from?
Most of our animals come to us with a past—and usually a pretty interesting one. Some are rehomed, some are adopted or donated, but every single one arrives with their own story (and, let’s be honest, a little bit of attitude).
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What they all have in common is that this is their last stop. Once they’re here, they’re home for good—no more moving around, no more uncertainty.
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We like to say they’ve officially retired… just with better snacks and a lot more attention.
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Beyond caring for them, we focus on helping people understand why animals end up in these situations in the first place. Education is a big part of what we do, because the goal isn’t just to help the animals here—it’s to prevent others from needing a place like this in the future.
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In the meantime, our residents get to live out their days surrounded by love, care, and people who are very happy to be bossed around by them.
5/ Do you have a veterinarian?
Oh yes—we absolutely have vets! We’re required by law to be overseen by a veterinarian, and we actually work with a few who each specialize in different animals.
Think of it as a whole medical dream team… because, as it turns out, a big cat, a tortoise, and a parrot don’t exactly have the same doctor’s visit.
Our vets help keep everyone healthy, happy, and living their best lives—though we can’t promise all of our residents are thrilled about their checkups. Some of them have very strong opinions about it.
Service Dog Policy
Kowiachobee Animal Preserve is responsible for the health, safety, and wellbeing of the animals in our care. As a nonprofit operated by a small team of staff and volunteers, we are committed to providing a safe, low-stress environment for each of our residents, many of whom have unique backgrounds and sensitivities.
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We are required to operate under strict guidelines to ensure the protection of these animals. In certain situations, the presence of a service animal may cause stress, anxiety, or pose a potential safety risk to the animals. If this occurs, we reserve the right to restrict access to specific areas or ask that additional distance and caution be observed. These decisions may be based on animal behavior, new arrivals, medical needs, or other special circumstances, and are made at the discretion of our animal care team.
In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), trained service dogs are welcome at Kowiachobee. Our goal is to ensure all guests can safely enjoy their visit while also protecting the animals who call this their home.
Because our animals are not separated by the same types of barriers found in larger facilities, there are important considerations to keep in mind:
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Some animals may perceive a dog as a predator, which can cause stress or defensive behavior
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Others may attempt to flee, which can lead to injury
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Close proximity between service dogs and animals may increase risk for both
For these reasons, we may designate certain areas as off-limits or require additional distance depending on the situation.
We kindly ask that all service dogs:
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Remain under control and on a leash at all times
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Keep a respectful distance from all enclosures and animals
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Avoid direct interaction with any animals
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Be moved away immediately if any animal shows signs of stress or agitation
All exhibits should be approached calmly and with awareness. If an animal appears distressed, we may ask that you step back or move to another area for everyone’s safety.
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We truly appreciate your understanding and cooperation. Every decision we make is with the wellbeing of both our guests and our animals in mind, and your support helps us continue providing a safe, peaceful home for them.
Kowiachobee Animal Preserve is a 501(c)3 Non-Profit
Educational and Hands On Learning Facility.
Licensed by the Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission and USDA.
