Bay area man offering gator parties at homes, kids can swim with gators

MADEIRA BEACH, Fla. - An alligator attraction in John's Pass is now offering Gator Encounter parties.

Due to the economy, business had been slow, so they decided to do alligator educational parties at people's homes, summer camps, vacation bible school and any event where someone may want a gator.

The promotions say the gator can swim in pools with children.

Alligator wrangler Bob Barrett says the parties are completely safe.

“The gators' mouths are taped shut…and they're used to being around people,” he said.

"We don't pick a gator out of the wild to do this. Our gators have been handled here at the store," Barrett continued. "They're very used to it. To tell you the truth, I think they enjoy getting out of their environment going around and swimming around."