After the year we’ve had, it’s safe to say we could all use a little magic—pups included. Which is why we’re *pawsitively thrilled* to share that your dog can live out her dreams. at Disney. Obviously, what we’re saying is that if you really love your pal, you’ll take her to one of these dog-friendly Disney resorts.
Can You Bring Dogs to Disney World?
Well, yes…and no. Dogs are welcome in select buildings, floors, and blocks of rooms at four resorts on property. Each of these dog-friendly Disney resorts offers easy access to designated outdoor relief areas and walking trails. However, dog-friendly Disney resort accommodations are extremely limited. Plan well in advance to make sure you’re able to secure a room in the resort of your choice as well as any daycare or boarding services you may need! Before you invest in a bunch of matching princess outfits for your castle photoshoot, though, know that only service doggos are allowed inside the theme parks. (But here’s a pic of some to live vicariously through anyway.)
Dog-Friendly Disney Resorts
Whether your dog is after larger-than-life Disney theming, timeless elegance, or a luxurious cabin in the woods, there’s a resort for him! These four dog-friendly Disney resorts offer enchanted accommodations for your pup.
Disney’s Art of Animation Resort
For the dog who likes his Disney resorts to be *Disney*, look no fur-ther than Disney’s Art of Animation Resort. Not only does this value resort offer over-the-top theming from all his favorite movies, your pal will have his pick between The Little Mermaid rooms, Cars suites, and Finding Nemo suites as well as four dog relief areas.
Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside
Themed in celebration of rural Louisiana romance, Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside delivers a picturesque setting with four dog relief areas for your southern belle. Note: this resort hasn’t yet reopened following closures due to Covid-19, but we can’t wait until it does!
Disney’s Yacht Club Resort
Disney’s Yacht Club Resort is the perfect home-away-from-home for the posh pup with refined taste (and whose parents wanna be able to walk to both Epcot and Hollywood Studios). This resort features both a designated relief area and close proximity to some of the best walking paths on property.
The Cabins at Fort Wilderness Resort and The Campsites at Fort Wilderness Resort
Pups who enjoy rustic ambiance (and all the animal smells!) will go mutts for The Cabins at Fort Wilderness Resort. Dog-friendly loops are available upon request at The Campsites at Fort Wilderness Resort for RV campers as well. Arguably Disney’s dog-friendliest resort, your pal can partake in scenic trails, two dog relief areas, and Waggin’ Trails dog park. Not only can you enjoy a little nature—you can also rent a golf cart!
Dog-Friendly Details and Rules for Dogs at Disney World
Canine guests receive their very own Pluto’s Welcome Kit, which includes all kinds of goodies like a mat, bowls, ID tag, poop bag holder, and a special door hanger which lets cast members know there is a pup in the room. Additionally, you’ll receive a map that include locations for outdoor relief areas, walking paths, and if you’re staying at Fort Wilderness, the resort’s on-site dog park.
During your stay, you and doggo’ll need to stick to the dog-friendly areas on your map (other common areas are service-dog only zones). Only two dogs are permitted per room, and you’ll need to have up-to-date records available upon request. Note that pet dogs are not allowed in any of the theme parks or in Disney Springs, and dogs should never be left in your room for longer than seven hours. For everyone’s safety, always use your Pluto door hanger to alert cast members to your dog’s presence. Additional cleaning fees for furry guests apply as well.
What Can Your Dog Do While You’re in the Parks?
Just like at home, your pup pretty much has two options: stay in or head to daycare. Ultimately, you know your dog better than anyone else. Here’s what you should know to help you make the best decision regarding his alone time during your magical vacation.
Hang Out in Your Room
If your dog is more of a couch potato-type, he may enjoy lounging around your room while you’re away. Simply hang up your Pluto door hanger (Mousekeeping will not enter when a dog is present), and plan your day so that you are able to return often.
This option might be a fit if you’re reasonably assured your dog will feel comfortable hanging out in an unfamiliar place all day. However, if he does end up having a less-magical time, you’ll receive a phone call from a friendly cast member who will kindly ask that you return within 30 minutes to reassure (and quiet down) your pup.
Go to Daycare
If you think your pal would like some company, there is a full-service pet care facility on Disney property. Best Friends Pet Care opens one hour before the parks and closes one hour after, so your pup can enjoy fun amenities from rope drop to Kiss Goodnight. Their options for care include everything from daycare and playtime to vacation villas and VIP luxury suites where your dog can have her very own flatscreen and PetChatz webcam. And in true Disney World fashion, you can add on a bedtime story, cuddle time, or even an ice cream treat.
For more information on rates and policies, to schedule a virtual tour, or to watch webcams of some of the luckiest dogs on Earth, visit their website.
Should I Bring My Dog to Disney World?
As your pup’s best friend, you know best whether he would be happy on a Disney vacation. Above all, be honest with yourself about his needs to make sure this is a trip he’ll enjoy. Disney trips are no small investment, either, so you may also wish to consider whether the cost to bring someone whose memory resets every 30 seconds is something you can justify. However, with careful planning and a little pixie dust, you just might find it’s worth it to make some memories that last a lifetime (for one of you, at least).
What questions do you have about dog-friendly Disney resorts? Bark at us in the comments, and share with a Disney dog who needs a vacation!
Featured photo: @gastonthegolden
Sidewalk Dog’s mission is to help dog parents spend more time with their puppers by discovering and sharing activities they can do and places they can go—together! Sniff out our award-winning newsletter and Instagram, then check us out on Facebook and Twitter.
Sidewalk Dog’s mission is to help dog parents spend more time with their puppers by discovering and sharing activities they can do and places they can go—together! Sniff out our award-winning newsletter and Instagram, then check us out on Facebook and Twitter.
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