FEATURED ANIMAL ENCOUNTERS IN BREMEN NEAR COLUMBUS, OHIO
Welcome to Paws and Claws Animal Encounters, Ohio’s premier destination for immersive wildlife experiences! As the state’s first facility to offer hands-on otter encounters and the nation’s first USDA-licensed provider of Painting with Otters, we pride ourselves on delivering unforgettable adventures.
PRIME LOCATION AT THE GATEWAY TO HOCKING HILLS
Nestled in Bremen, Ohio, our facility is conveniently situated:
- 1 hour from Columbus
- 30 minutes from Old Man’s Cave
- 20 minutes from downtown Lancaster
This prime location makes us an ideal addition to your Hocking Hills itinerary.
CONSERVATION COMMITMENT
At Paws and Claws, we are dedicated to wildlife conservation. Our encounters not only provide memorable experiences but also educate visitors on the importance of protecting these incredible animals and their natural habitats.
PLAN YOUR VISIT
Please note that we operate by appointment only and are not open to the general public. Upon booking, you’ll receive our exact address along with detailed directions, as GPS systems may occasionally misdirect.
AS SEEN IN
-
Unlike a traditional petting zoo, Paws and Claws Encounters offers hands-on otter experiences where guests can interact with Asian small-clawed otters through guided encounters. Depending on the experience you book, you can pet, feed, play with, and even swim with our otters while learning about their behavior and conservation.
-
Our exotic animal encounters include otters, sloths, capybaras, foxes, bobcats, armadillos, and several other incredible species. Every encounter is led by experienced animal handlers who provide a safe, educational, and unforgettable experience for guests of all ages.
-
Paws and Claws Encounters is an interactive animal encounter facility rather than a traditional petting farm. While many petting farms focus on domestic animals, we specialize in up-close experiences with rare and exotic animals that you won’t typically find at a standard petting zoo.
-
Paws and Claws Encounters in Bremen, Ohio offers one of the Midwest’s most unique otter experiences. Guests can book public or private otter encounters, swimming with otters, and other interactive experiences just minutes from Hocking Hills.
-
Yes. We offer private encounters with many of our animals, including otters, sloths, capybaras, and more. Private experiences provide extra time with the animals and a more personalized visit for families, couples, photographers, and special occasions.
-
Yes. We are located in Bremen, Ohio, just outside Hocking Hills, making us a popular stop for visitors looking for unique things to do near Hocking Hills. Many guests combine an animal encounter with hiking, cabins, or other local attractions.
-
Our experiences are designed to be immersive, educational, and personal. Instead of simply viewing animals, guests have the opportunity to interact with exotic species in small groups under the guidance of professional handlers. Whether you’re swimming with otters, meeting a sloth, or spending time with a capybara, every encounter is focused on creating memorable connections while promoting respect for wildlife.