Growing up on a farm I was always used to having close contact with animals. I’ve had the usual pets of dogs and cats, but also the unusual ones of lambs, calves, hedgehogs, frogs and even a donkey! Animals were an important part of my childhood.

Now living in Dublin and recently becoming a mam I realise that my son is not going to have the same experiences as I did. And much to my disappointment we’ll probably never own a donkey! But I’d still like the little man to know about animals and have some contact with them.

For that reason I’ve created this week’s top-5 list of activities for all animal-loving families.

1. Dublin Zoo: http://www.funkiddayz.com/web/location/1935/; fair enough we never had an elephant calf. You’ve got to go check out the Zoo’s latest arrival
2. Natural History Museum (Dead Zoo): http://www.funkiddayz.com/web/location/2009/: sadly growing up on a farm we probably could have made a few donations
3. Pet Farms:
North Dublin – Newbridge House & Farm http://www.funkiddayz.com/web/location/2224/
South Dublin – Airfield Farm & Gardens http://www.funkiddayz.com/web/location/2035/
but without the sterilizing hand gel

4. Animal Shelters:
North Dublin – Dogs Trust http://www.funkiddayz.com/web/location/2051/
South Dublin – DSPCA http://www.funkiddayz.com/web/location/2050/ (some of the family did come from here!)

5. Horse Riding:
North Dublin – Horse & Pony Riding @ Child Vision http://www.funkiddayz.com/web/location/2113/
South Dublin – Carrickmines Equestrian Centre http://www.funkiddayz.com/web/location/2151/
West Dublin – Ashtown Stables Horse Riding http://www.funkiddayz.com/web/location/2125/ (do donkeys count?!)

***To find fun activities for your child in your area and download the FunKidDayz app please visit The Fun Kid Dayz Website.

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