I totally get it: my pets are my life. And more importantly, being without them for an extended period is heart wrenching. But the question is this: can I bring my pet to Disney World and is Disney World pet friendly?
Happily, the answer is yes! Want the scoop on how to do it safely and within the resort’s rules? Keep on reading.
Can I Bring My Pet to Disney World?
Disney World Pet-Friendly Hotels & Resorts
Only a couple of years ago, Walt Disney World (WDW) didn’t allow us to bring our dogs to the resorts. Happily, a pilot program has changed that. Right now, four on-property WDW Resorts allow dogs only:
- Art of Animation Resort
- Port Orleans Resort – Riverside
- Yacht Club Resort
- Cabins at Fort Wilderness
For each guest room, there is a maximum of two dogs permitted. Dogs must be kept on a leash at all times while outside of the guest room and need to be up to date on vaccines.
Disney World Pet Friendly Rooms
Keep in mind that dog-friendly rooms are limited, so you’ll need to book as far in advance as you’re able to make sure you lock down a proper room.
While certain floors or sections of these Disney Resort hotels are designated as pet-friendly, the majority of areas remain pet-free to protect guests with allergies.
Other than service animals, dogs are not permitted in theme parks, water parks or common areas such as restaurants, pools and recreational spaces.
Disney Pet Relief Areas
You’ll find dedicated pet relief areas and walking paths at these resorts. Also, when you check in, make sure to get your Pluto’s Welcome Kit filled with necessities including a bowl, puppy pads, and disposable bags.
How to Bring Service Dogs into the Disney World Theme Parks
According to the official WDW website, “other than service animals, dogs are not permitted in theme parks, water parks or common areas such as restaurants, pools and recreational spaces.”
Translation: you’ll only be able to bring your dog (or miniature horse) into a theme park or waterpark if it’s an official service animal. Yours must be on a leash at all times and needs to be under full control.
Service Animals and Disney Rides
Additionally, service animals may not be allowed to ride certain rides and attractions due to their nature. If you want to ride an attraction that doesn’t allow service animals on it, you have two options: Rider Switch or a portable kennel.
For Rider Switch, you’ll need to have an additional member of your party wait with it.
And lastly, service dogs or miniature horses aren’t allowed in any of the water features in the theme parks. So, that means you’ll need to keep them away from splash pads, water play areas, and fountains.
Can I Bring My Pet to Disney World? Disney Dog Day
In the past, Disney World has offered Dog’s Day – a special day for doggies and their owners to hang out at Magic Kingdom. While I haven’t seen one of these special days for a few years, fingers crossed they’ll return.
Disney World’s Pet Kennel – Best Friends Pet Care
Called a Disney World spa for pets, Best Friends Pet Care is the on-property boarding spot. Offering overnight stays, the pet spa can accommodate dogs, cats, and even “pocket pets”.
For smaller animals, you’ll need to provide your own enclosure.
The indoor area is climate controlled, offers daily dog walks, and even grooming services.
If you don’t need an overnight spot, Day Care is available as well. For both services, all pets must be up to date on their shots and proof of vaccination must be provided.
If you need a landmark for its on-property location, the closest resort is Port Orleans Resort- Riverside.
As for Best Friends Pet Care prices, here’s a link to the official site with up to date listings and bookings.
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