Mobile petting zoos and animal encounters are a highlight at birthday parties, school fairs, libraries and festivals — and one of the most specialized risks in children’s entertainment. Live animals, small hands and outdoor venues add up to exposures most entertainer policies weren’t built to handle.

Bites, kicks, scratches, allergic reactions and illnesses passed from animals to people can all lead to claims. Then there’s the logistics: loading, trailering and setting up live animals at a new location every weekend.

RFK Insurance writes coverage for animal entertainment acts that addresses those risks directly. Animal coverage depends on the species and the carrier, so we’ll start by learning exactly what you bring to an event.

Mobile Petting Zoos
Goats, sheep, rabbits, chicks, ducks and other farm animals brought to parties and events.

Pony Rides
Pony and miniature horse rides at parties, fairs and community events — ask us, as rides carry a separate exposure.

Animal Encounter & Education Shows
Reptile, bird and small-animal educators performing at schools, libraries and camps.

Exotic Animal Acts
Performers with exotic or less common species — coverage depends heavily on the animals involved.

Bites, kicks and scratches
Even gentle animals react unpredictably to crowds and small children. Animal-related injury is the core risk your coverage must include.

Illness and hygiene
Animals can carry germs like E. coli that make people sick. Handwashing stations and clear rules protect children — and support your defense if a claim arises.

Allergies
Fur, feathers, hay and bedding can trigger reactions. Ask hosts about allergies and post notices at the pen.

Licensing and transport
Depending on your animals and state, you may need a USDA exhibitor license or state permits. Carriers will ask, so have your paperwork ready.

RFK Insurance has protected families and businesses since 1922, and today we insure professional Santas and children’s entertainers across the country. Joey Klein, who leads the program, has spent more than 15 years in the entertainment industry and knows that animal acts need a closer look than a standard entertainer policy.