Last updated:
If you’ve ever been to the most magical place on Earth, you may have found yourself missing your dog. Despite all the fun and excitement, being without your pup can make you feel sad and lonely. Mouse Trap News posted the exciting announcement back in September 2023 that Disney World began selling tickets for dogs. It said that Disney was even creating some dog-friendly rides and tickets for dogs would cost $200 each.
Unfortunately, dog lovers around the world quickly came to realize the story was fake. In fact, the entire site is satirical. Regardless of the joke, some people wonder what rules Disney has about dogs. Let’s learn more about dogs at Disney World.
Can I Bring My Dog to Disney World?
Disney World does not generally allow dogs to enter its parks. The only exception is for service dogs. A service dog is a dog that’s specifically trained to assist a person with a disability.
Service dogs perform a wide range of tasks to assist their handlers (the name given to the person who needs the dog’s help). Some escort blind people (seeing eye dogs) while others alert their handlers to sounds they can’t hear, like a fire alarm or the phone ringing. Service dogs can help veterans struggling with PTSD and even tell the handler their heart rate is too low or they’re about to have a seizure. They are incredible assets that give people with disabilities to live a more independent life.
Disney World’s Best Friends Pet Hotel
Although you won’t be able to bring your family pet into the park, you can still bring them with you to Disney World. Best Friends Pet Hotel offers 52,000 square feet of space to watch over and entertain your pet while you enjoy the parks. It accommodates dogs, cats, and even pocket pets. Pets must be fully vaccinated with proof from your veterinarian to enter the facility.
Dog owners can select indoor or indoor/outdoor boarding along with various upgraded suites that come with additional perks. You can also choose to allow your dog to participate in group play, one-on-one human interaction, special snacks, and more.
Other Disney World Pet-Friendly Hotels
Disney’s pet hotel offers both daycare and overnight boarding for dogs. If you pick a dog-friendly resort for your own stay, you can board your dog during the day and take them back with you for the evening. Disney’s Art of Animation Resort, Disney Port Orleans Resort – Riverside, Disney’s Yacht Club Resort, and The Cabins at Fort Wilderness all offer designated outdoor spaces to walk your dog to get some exercise and potty. You’ll also get a Pluto’s Welcome Kit when you check in with a dog!
Only dogs are allowed at the time of writing with a maximum of two per room. You’ll have to keep them on a leash when in public areas and dogs are not allowed in theme parks, water parks, restaurants, pools, and recreational spaces (except service dogs).
Is There a Dog Park at Disney World?
There is only one dog park at Disney World. It’s located at the Fort Wilderness Resort. You can rent a cabin or a pet-friendly RV and live it up with your dog while still getting the Disney Magic experience!
See also
Fort Wilderness is located on a 750-acre parcel of forest. There’s plenty of wildlife around, giving your dog lots to sniff and explore when you take them on one of the many scenic woodland trails. Remember, they must stay on a leash for safety. When it’s time for you to go to the park, your pup can chill at “home” or take a trip to the Best Friends Pet Hotel!
Are Emotional Support Dogs Allowed at Disney?
Emotional support dogs provide comfort to a person merely through their presence. They do not perform specific tasks to assist with a disability. Because they aren’t service dogs, they’re not allowed in most Disney properties. Aside from the dog-friendly hotels and boarding facility, they can’t go with you to Disney World.
Dogs at Disney World: The Bottom Line
Disney World has some great options allowing you to take your dog on vacation. With several dog-friendly resorts and a magical, fun-filled boarding facility, your dog can experience all the joy of vacation, too! Note that only service dogs can enter the theme parks and other no-pet areas.
Remember, to enjoy a Disney stay, your dog must be up-to-date on their vaccines with proof from your vet. You can choose overnight boarding if you’re not staying in a dog-friendly resort. If you are, you can let your dog go to daycare while you’re having a blast in the parks and take them back to your room with you at night!
