SWEETWATER ZOO FIELD GUIDE
Amongthe Burrows: A Hands‑On Prairie Dog Encounter in Sweetwater
A 25‑minute, up‑to‑two‑guest add‑on at Mitchell’s Petting Zoo & Exotics that lets visitors sit with and handle Black‑tailed prairie dogs Goose & Cracker.
Amongthe Burrows: A Hands‑On Prairie Dog Encounter in Sweetwater.
Set inside Mitchell’s Petting Zoo & Exotics in Sweetwater, this short, focused encounter places you amid the quick, inquisitive movements of Black‑tailed prairie dogs. Guests sit while the animals run, play and interact; handlers facilitate direct contact with Goose and Cracker so visitors can pet and even hold the prairie dogs for an intimate wildlife experience.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Black‑tailed Prairie Dogs — up close
The encounter centers on two Black‑tailed prairie dogs, Goose and Cracker, whose playful behavior makes for a memorable, tactile introduction to the species.
Sit, watch and handle
Visitors sit among the animals as they run and frolic; handlers recommend petting and holding as part of the hands‑on experience.
A concise, small‑group add‑on
Offered as an add‑on encounter, the experience is compact and personal, designed for a very small group so guests get direct time with the prairie dogs.
What the day feels like
How the encounter unfolds
Over a focused session you settle into the animal area while handlers introduce Goose and Cracker. The prairie dogs move freely around participants, running and playing; the team encourages petting and holding so guests can engage directly with the animals in a supervised, hands‑on format.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this encounter suits — and who should plan accordingly.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
This is a short, 25‑minute encounter; confirm availability and scheduling with the operator when booking.
No specific gear is listed in the provided details; guests should check with Mitchell’s Petting Zoo & Exotics for any operator recommendations before arrival.
The encounter is hosted at Mitchell’s Petting Zoo & Exotics in Sweetwater; verify meeting time with the operator prior to your visit.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the Prairie Dog Encounter?
The encounter lasts 25 minutes.
What ages can participate?
Participants must be at least 8 years old.
Can a child attend alone?
No — any child participant must be accompanied by an adult 18 or older.
How many guests can join an encounter?
The encounter is limited to up to two guests.
Where do I meet for the encounter?
Meet at Mitchell’s Petting Zoo & Exotics in Sweetwater, Tennessee.