Animal Thrills Around Houston, Texas

I don’t know what it is about kids and animals, but there is a strong connection of adoration and love - and it goes both ways. There are many articles about the positive effects animals have on humans - tiny humans especially. Pets give unconditional love while possibly decreasing stress, improving heart health, and helping children develop emotional and social skills. Go ahead and snuggle your furry friend! They find security and peace in our comforting hands too!

My husband and I are not ready to bring a pet into our house just yet (two human rascals often prove to be exciting enough), so we are supporters of our local zoo. Recently, I started thinking about animals my kids wouldn’t normally see, experience, or encounter.

Thus began our three road trips to see new critters.

Peeka Ranch

First, we headed to Peeka Ranch in Burton, Texas, to meet alpacas. Yes, ALPACAS! This privately owned ranch offers true Southern charm with private visits to see, pet, and feed the alpacas. What a treat is was for my rascals to see these soft and friendly animals up close! Feeding them was the experience of a lifetime.

Franklin Drive Thru Safari

Next we headed to Franklin, Texas, for the Franklin Drive Thru Safari. Yes, you read that correctly. You stay in the comfort (and maybe even safety) of your vehicle as you travel through acres and acres of open land with hundreds of animals. We purchased animal feed before embarking on the safari; the friendly (and hungry) creatures come right up to you! After the drive thru safari, you can park your car and visit with a host of other animals. Did I mention that most of these animals were rescued by and now cared for by Franklin Drive Thru Safari?

Gator Country

Our final animal trip this summer was to Gator Country in Beaumont, Texas. Yes, gator as in alligator! This place is fantastic because they rescue these animals and provide them with a place to live and grow, as well as offer educational programs and internships to schools and universities! We had a blast feeding the alligators, touching baby reptiles, and spending time in their petting zoo.

Written by Brandi Stanton, mother of two rascals ages 2 and 3.