Walt Disney World is without a doubt the most magical place on earth. From early childhood kids beg parents to take them there. Visiting makes for wonderful moments and lifelong vacations.
Vacations can make it even harder to leave our best four footed furry friends at home. This is where Best Friends Pet Care, Inc comes into the picture. With their great service you don’t even have to consider leaving Fluffy or Fido at home (or Tomlin in our case). Kennels are conveniently located near major parks.
My family has successfully boarded Tomlin at Walt Disney World twice. He stayed at the Magic Kingdom Theme Park Kennel and at the kennel at the Ft. Wilderness Resort and campground. The experiences have been positive and prices reasonable. We won’t board our dog anywhere else when we visit Walt Disney World.
Are you thinking of boarding your dog when you visit? Here’s what you need to know.
How to board your dog at Walt Disney World ‘” Tip #1
Choose the location near where you want to stay and make a reservation. A list of phone numbers for each kennel is on the Walt Disney World website. You will need to call the kennel directly to reserve your space.
The staff will ask you about the age, size, breed and if your dog is used to staying indoors or outdoors. They will also ask if you want a kennel with outdoor access if it is available.
How to board your dog at Walt Disney World ‘” Tip #2
Ask about the kennel’s services and price.
Ask what is offered at your kennel when you make your dog’s reservation. You will need to know if your dog will be walked while boarded or if you will need to visit the kennel to walk your dog yourself. It is also helpful to know what brand of dog food is used. You may want to bring your own.
Services vary at the kennels. Some of the locations will walk your dog for you. The kennels at Disney’s Hollywood Studios and Disney’s Animal Kingdom will not.
How to board your dog at Walt Disney World ‘” Tip #3
Visit your vet.
You will need to bring a health certificate with you when your board your dog at the kennel. Your dog cannot be boarded without it. Depending on how it’s been since your last exam the vet may want to do some basic tests on your dog.
How to board your dog at Walt Disney World ‘” Tip #4
Update vaccinations.
Tell your vet that you are boarding your dog and where. This will help determine what tests or additional vaccinations that your dog might need. In addition to the rabies shot there are other vaccines that are required by the kennels at Walt Disney World. These include the D.H.P.P. and the Bordetella.
How to board your dog at Walt Disney World ‘” Tip #5
Bring the papers with you.
You will need to have the original forms that are signed by the veterinarian. Pick up a business card as a precaution. Your vet’s contact information may be on the form but you may need access to it while at Walt Disney World.
How to board your dog at Walt Disney World ‘” Tip #6
What to pack.
Bring comfort items for your dog. The familiarity of special toys or towels will make your dog feel more secure while at the kennel. Pack any special treats and your brand of dog food (if different from the kennel). You will also need your leash and to be sure that your dogs tags are attached to the collar.
How to board your dog at Walt Disney World ‘” Tip #7
What to expect when you get to the kennel.
The staff will have several forms to fill out. Plan on it to take several minutes when you check your dog into the kennel.
You will be asked how often your dog eats when at home and how much. They will also ask if your dog is prone to biting or showing aggression to people or to other dogs. There is a permission form to have your dog treated if something happens and staff cannot reach you. You are allowed to specify a dollar amount.
One of the forms will have the ticket to pick your dog up. It is very important that you do not lose this ticket.
How to board your dog at Walt Disney World ‘” Tip #8
When your dog leaves the kennel
Bring your ticket and be prepared to show identification. Then, a staff member will bring your dog out to you and any items that you checked in with him. They will also give you a report card to let you know how your dog did while at the kennel.
Sources:
Walt Disney World
Best Friends Pet Care Resort
