The organization operates as a Community Interest Company (CIC), meaning profits are reinvested into the welfare of their animals and community initiatives.
The facility specializes in outreach and mobile zoo services in addition to on-site experiences.
The site hosts a diverse collection of 'exotic' animals, including snakes, lizards, and various invertebrates commonly used in educational demonstrations.
Sessions are specifically designed to cater to neurodivergent individuals and those with sensory processing requirements.
The location is situated within a converted commercial space, making it a unique example of an urban animal encounter center.
Get to Know Animals CIC is an interactive animal encounter center located within the Forest Lodge Commercial Complex in Epping. The organization focuses on therapeutic animal interaction and educational experiences rather than functioning as a traditional large-scale zoo. Visitors can engage in hands-on encounters with a variety of species including reptiles, amphibians, and small mammals. The center operates as a Community Interest Company, prioritizing animal welfare and public engagement for educational purposes. Programs are designed to be tactile, allowing for direct contact with animals under expert supervision. The facility is situated on the edge of Epping Forest, providing a semi-rural setting for the encounters. It is frequently utilized for private bookings, school visits, and sensory therapeutic sessions.
The designated encounter area where handlers hold the larger reptiles for close-up portrait opportunities.
Book your session well in advance, as the facility prioritizes private encounters and scheduled group visits.
Check their social media channels for updates on specific animals available for handling on the day of your visit.
Prepare for a tactile experience; you will be encouraged to touch and hold several animals.
Do not arrive without a prior booking, as walk-ins are often not accommodated due to the private nature of the sessions.
Frequently closed to the general public during the week for private educational and school bookings; check website for public session availability.
Wash hands thoroughly before and after handling animals; avoid loud noises that may startle the smaller creatures.
