Disney is generally thought of as the ultimate vacation for families and children. But what if you don’t want to leave your “other children” at home? Leave it to Disney to think of everything, including the best and most caring way to accommodate your dogs and cats!
Walt Disney World, a member of “The American Boarding Kennel Association”, has several kennel locations for your convenience. Epcot, Magic Kingdom, Hollywood Studios, Animal Kingdom and Fort Wilderness Lodge offer dog or cat boarding during park hours. In addition, Epcot and Magic Kingdom offer overnight boarding for guests’ pets. Most kennels open an hour before the parks, and remain open an hour after park closing and guests can choose from different sized kennels or an outside kennel.
Every pet is required to be walked a minimum of three times per day at any location, despite its age. Feeding is available, but guests are advised to walk or exercise their own pets. The Epcot kennel does offer a dog walking service for $2.50 per day.
Dogs and cats must have printed (not handwritten) proof of vaccinations. All dogs and cats must be over 8 weeks of age, and the kennels do not accept native wildlife or exotic species.
Camping With Your Pet
What if you actually want to reside with your pet while on your Disney vacation? Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground offers camping with pets! Pets are allowed in certain Fort Wilderness camp “loops” or areas. You can actually camp with your pet in these full hook-up areas, or board your pet at the Fort Wilderness kennel. Guests are expected to clean up after their pets. You will find pet waste receptacles at the entrances of each pet “loop” and collection bags are located between loops 1632 and 1634.
If you are travelling with your pet, be sure to bring sufficient pet food, water and any pet medications if applicable. Veterinary services are not offered at the kennels or on Disney property. If your pet requires medical attention while staying on property, you will be referred to an Orlando animal clinic.
It’s also important to mention that it is against Florida law to keep your pet in your car. Authorities will open your car and your pet will be removed if it is found in your car. You can also be fined $5,000 USD for keeping a pet in your car. Pets in campers with air conditioning are not included under this law.
So go ahead – bring all the kids to Disney, and have a truly magical vacation….pets included.