How I Brought My Dog on My Disney World Vacation Adventure
Discover how to enjoy a magical Disney World trip with your furry friend
Disney World, Dog Travel, Florida, Pet-Friendly, Travel Tips
Orlando: Traveling with an older or special needs dog might feel impossible, but it’s totally doable. You don’t have to skip your vacation just because you can’t find a kennel or pet sitter. Many hotels in the U.S. are now welcoming our furry friends, and Disney World is one of the best spots for a pet-friendly getaway.
Planning a trip to Disney World requires a bit of prep. You’ll want to book restaurants, park hoppers, and your hotel room ahead of time. This is especially helpful for those of us with pets that need a little extra care.
A few years back, my standard poodle started having leg issues, and I knew kennels wouldn’t work. I tried leaving her with friends, but with her medication and exercise needs, it was too much to ask. Canceling our annual trip felt like the only option, but Disney’s flexible options saved the day. Now, Sofia has been to Disney four times!
So, how do we make it work? First, make sure your vet gives your dog a clean bill of health before traveling. When Sofia was struggling with her legs, her immune system was still strong, so we felt good about hitting the road.
Next, think about your vehicle. If you have a larger dog, an SUV is a great choice. I usually take my hatchback and have it checked out before we go.
Here’s a quick packing list for your road trip: a dog food case with extra containers for treats, collapsible bowls, and a pill case for any meds. It might sound silly, but it really helps keep things organized.
Set up a comfy spot for your dog in the backseat. A seat cover works well for larger dogs, while smaller ones might need a car seat. My poodle loves her backseat cover with a cozy dog bed on top. It keeps her calm and safe while I drive.
Don’t forget to bring a gallon of water, especially if your dog is picky about their drinking water. And pack some paper towels, an extra blanket, and a few plastic bags—just in case!
If you’re traveling during extreme weather, dog booties can be a lifesaver. My pup had some paw burns during a hot trip, and those booties really helped.
Before you leave, check for pet-friendly hotels along your route. Many motels, especially on I-95, welcome dogs. We love stopping in North Carolina at places like Dreamers in Wilmington and The Longleaf in Raleigh.
Also, plan for plenty of rest stops to stretch your legs and make a list of 24-hour vets along the way, just in case.
When you arrive at Disney, make sure to book the right hotels in advance. Places like Disney’s Port Orleans – Riverside and Art of Animation Resort are dog-friendly, but you’ll need to call ahead to confirm your reservation and have vaccination records ready.
Art of Animation is budget-friendly and has spacious suites, while Port Orleans – Riverside is lush and beautiful, perfect for long dog walks.
At the hotel, let the guest services know if you want cleaning services or not. If you check in through the My Disney Experience app, you can head straight to your room with your pet.
Set up a cozy area in your room with a dog bed and bowls. This gives your pup a safe space to relax while you’re out enjoying the parks. I like to leave some music playing to help drown out any unfamiliar sounds.
Park Hopper tickets can be pricey, but they’re worth it if you want to take breaks and check on your dog throughout the day. Just remember, you can’t leave your pet alone for more than seven hours, so plan your day accordingly.
If you need emergency vet services, there are a few 24-hour clinics near Disney. The 24/7 Animal Hospital of Orlando is about 30 minutes away, and Best Friends Pet Hotel offers boarding if you need to leave your dog for a bit.
For meal prep, there are grocery stores nearby, and some even offer delivery. Most hotel rooms have fridges, but it’s good to double-check.
And if you need a ride, Disney’s Minnie Van service allows pets, but it can be pricier than regular rides.
While only service dogs are allowed in the parks, the pet-friendly hotels and the time spent together on the drive make it feel like a family vacation.
Taking an elderly or special needs dog on vacation is totally worth the effort. You’ll be glad you didn’t leave them behind!
Do you take your pet on vacation? I’d love to hear your tips! Email me at adooling@gannett.com.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: How to travel to Disney World with a dog.