If there’s one positive outcome of the pandemic, it’s the surge of pet adoptions over the past year, right? Maybe you’re one of the many who now have a four-legged best friend that kept you from insanity as we all stayed indoors.
Now, the part you didn’t think through when you adopted: how to go on vacation. Better yet, a Disney vacation. You may have heard some horror stories from the local pet hotel (Cruella is real!), or there’s no one available to watch Fido while you go on your Disney getaway (they really just don’t want the responsibility). Now what?
Alas! Worry not! There are a select few Disney resorts that have dog-friendly accommodations!
There are a few restrictions. Dogs are the only pets allowed (sorry cat lovers). Have two dogs? That’s ok, as two is the maximum permitted per room. Also, other than service animals, dogs are not allowed in any of the theme parks nor common areas at your resort (restaurants, pools, etc.). Yet, your dog can stay at your room, which will have access to designated spaces and walkways for pet relief and exercise. You’ll even receive a special welcome- dogs and their owners are greeted with a Pluto’s Welcome Kit! How sweet is that? The kit includes a mat, bowls, puppy pads, dog walking maps, and more. There’s even a “Do Not Disturb” Pluto door hanger to alert staff that your pampered pooch needs privacy.
More important facts to know:
- Dogs cannot be left unattended in the room for more than seven hours, and must remain silent
- Housekeeping services must be scheduled while you are in the room
- Dogs must be leashed at all times
- Furniture is off-limits in public areas
- Vaccinations must be up-to-date and documents at hand
- Dog food is not provided
Resorts with designated rooms for families with dogs are: Disney’s Art of Animation Resort, Disney’s Port Orleans Resort-Riverside, Disney’s Yacht Club Resort, and Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground. Interested in Disney’s campsites? Simply request a pet-friendly loop ($5 per night). Additional charges apply per night for each resort, starting at $50 per night.
The Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort is both cat and dog friendly, yet their policy limits to only one pet up to 25lbs.
Don’t forget to alert your Disney resort of your four-legged guest (or leave that to your Disney Travel Agent), and be sure to bring a pet carrier if using transportation.
Note, only service animals are permitted on the monorail, skyliner, and boats.
Best Friends Pet Hotel
Best Friends Pet Hotel
Afraid your dog won’t behave if left alone while you have fun at the parks? Best Friends Pet Hotel may be a better option. The animal care facility at Disney World welcomes other small animal friends as well. There are web cams that allow pet owners to check in on their pet, and side yards for popping in on their dogs as well. VIP Suites include a television, raised bedding, and a private yard. Boarding starts at $47, and daycare starts at $28 per day.
Have you ever brought your pet on a Disney vacation? Would you consider it for your next trip?
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