A man’s best friend is sometimes the friend he needs most. Thousands of dogs are employed as service dogs, and many of them go to Walt Disney World with their owners each year. Disney has a no pets policy, but service animals are an exception as they are essential medical services, not pets.
According to ServiceDog.org. “Service dogs are recognized by law as working dogs trained to perform duties for persons with disabilities. Disabilities include both physical and mental disabilities. It’s important to be able to perform specific tasks of direct relevance, which can include anything from opening a door for a person in a wheelchair to alerting the owner of an impending seizure.” makes these animals indispensable to some Disney World guests.
Credit: Boogie the Pug
What if a guest wants to ride? Some rides allow animals, while others have restrictions that prevent service animals from allowing their owners to participate in attractions. According to Disney’s site. Due to the nature of the attraction, service animals may not be allowed on board. At these locations, ask a Cast Member about available options. Service animals of any kind are not permitted on water rides, roller coasters, splash fountains, rides with height restrictions, or rides containing small enclosed spaces. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the attraction if the owner is able. Disney has a system in place to house animals while their owners enjoy their rides.
Assistance dog owners simply approach a Cast Member and ask for accommodation upon arrival at a ride in which their dog cannot participate. The cast will take the dog while guests line up for a ride. The animals are then taken backstage to a kennel where cast members wait until the guests are finished. The dogs are treated wonderfully during their stay at the kennel. After the ride, the dogs are reunited with their owners.
Credit: TikTok/@helperdognala
Recently, a TikTok video went viral showing the process and how puppies are cared for. As of this writing, it has received over 6 million views. The dog and its owner were at Soarin’ at Epcot. Due to height requirements and the nature of the ride, dogs were not allowed on board, but they were allowed to wait nearby. You can check the video here.
