Dogs in the units???

[manning]

I was riding back on the boat from DTD to OKW and on the walking path was a lady walking two lap dogs off their leash heading for OKW.

I wonder if they were heading for a unit.

I like dogs, but I know people who are allergic to them. If the rooms can't be cleaned to the point of eliminating the hair it would not be fair to them.

[MikeS.]

Pretty darn sure that all pets have to be boarded at a kennel. Except for assistance animals as specified by the Americans with Disabilities Act.

[MarieA]

My son and I are very allergic to dogs (cats too). I hope that dogs are not allowed in the rooms because I would have a problem. Within 1/2 hr. of entering a room that has had a dog in it, my asthma starts and it gets pretty bad quickly. I would have to be moved to another room right away.

This happened to me once (not a WDW resort) and I contacted the manager of the hotel. The hotel was booked and they had a problem finding another room for me. The manager finally found someone who was checking in late so they switched me to their room and gave the late check in my room.

If hotels want to set certain rooms aside for pets, I don't have a problem with that.

[disney junky]

I noticed people walking their dogs outside the parks this Christmas for the first time. I believe that is a requirement for boarding your dogs there.

This was from Deb's...
Boarding of guest pets
Feeding is available, but you are advised to walk and exercise your own pet.
No veterinary services are offered. You will be referred to an Orlando animal clinic if a problem arises.

[Mokat76]

The rules are very clear. No pets. Period.

[dianeschlicht]

No pets allowed! Anyone traveling to WDW with a pet is required to keep it at one of the kennels near the parks. We ahve used the kennels, and they are very nice facilities. Yes, you do have to walk the dogs yourself, but you can request a larger covered outdoor run for larger dogs at one of the kennels. I think it is the Epcot one. We used to combine WDW trips with dog show trips, and used the kennels. We were very pleased with them, but I now take SEPERATE dog show trips and WDW trips. I hate to do "kennel chores" when I'm on vacation, since that is what I have to do at home all the time!:laughing:

[manning]

No pets allowed! Anyone traveling to WDW with a pet is required to keep it at one of the kennels near the parks. We ahve used the kennels, and they are very nice facilities. Yes, you do have to walk the dogs yourself, but you can request a larger covered outdoor run for larger dogs at one of the kennels. I think it is the Epcot one. We used to combine WDW trips with dog show trips, and used the kennels. We were very pleased with them, but I now take SEPERATE dog show trips and WDW trips. I hate to do "kennel chores" when I'm on vacation, since that is what I have to do at home all the time!:laughing:

Is dog walking restricted to the kennel area? If so this lady was lost.

[dianeschlicht]

Is dog walking restricted to the kennel area? If so this lady was lost.
Yes, and I suspect she was breaking the rules. I actually turned someone in last year when we were staying in building 14 across from HH. There was a small dog that I saw several times. I watched to see which car the people got into, and then I reported the licence number to the front desk.

Of course, I suppose it is always possible that they were excercising the dogs after checking in and were on their way to the kennel after that. I really hate to see people violating things like pets in units and smoking in non-smoking buildings. I don't know why some think rules only apply to others.

The only other time I have seen dogs at OKW is when we have seen the same blind family several years in a row. They own at OKW, and all 3 are blind and have guide dogs. The 3 dogs are German Shepherds. Being a dog person, I have spoken to them several times, and even helped them and their dogs get onto the ferry once for a trip to DTD.

[spiceycat]

what some people call service dogs - anyone else would say pets.

one lady was in a wheelchair and the dog was in her nap - she say it was a service dog....

anyway as far as kennel - it depends - Epcot the entire area including the parking lot is okay.

at FW the same - even more room here.

at Studios the walking area is very small, same at AKL (or so I have been told)

remember that their are International students at the treehouses - maybe she was going there?

Disney is pretty restrict - although I don't know what they would do about a DVC member. with the other wdw resorts - if you get caught they will ask you leave or put your pet in a kennel, then I think you get a fine.

I would never have left Spicey because I was afraid someone would take him.... of course he never got to stay at my DVC resorts because pets aren't allowed. although I did a couple of times go check in first, it is easier at the kennel if you have a room number first.

you know there aren't even hotels or condos close to WDW that allow pets....

[JimC]

what some people call service dogs - anyone else would say pets.

one lady was in a wheelchair and the dog was in her nap - she say it was a service dog...

There are many kinds of service animals covered by the ADA. Other than guide dogs for the visually impaired most are unknown to the public and are not easily recognizable as service animals. The dog in your example could have been trained to alert the onset of a seizure or alert the deaf. Some even pull wheelchairs or provide stability to those who can manage some mobility.

[d-r]

My mil used to have this little yorkshire terrier. It was tiny, maybe 2 pounds. She would always keep her in the kennels, usually at ft. wilderness. One time a few years ago (2003-4?) we were checking in to beach club villas. She decided that she was going to kennel her in epcot I think because of the proximity. As we were checking in she asked the CM at the desk about how to get to the Epcot kennel. And the CM told her just to keep it in the room. I swear. She didn't, but the CM said it.

[bigsmooth]

My daughter took her dog on her last trip. Yellow dog with a green collar, goes by the name of 'Pluto'.

She also brought a bear that goes by the name of 'Koda'.

I apologize if either of them left a mess for the next guests, we tried to clean up, but bears and dogs don't get along very well (at least she had to separate them at least once).

[tomandrobin]

We really get mad when guests do as they please and bring pets or smoke in thier room. My son has allergies to animals. My sister has allergies to cats so severe that she can have an attack within seconds of walking into a place where there are cats. I know pet owners who feel its not a big deal, no one will know, my dog/cat is clean, small, whatever. What will it hurt? Will it hurts my kid, that's what it hurts! I love animals, but there is a reason for the no pet, no smoking rules.

If I see someone who has a pet or smoking in a room, I will and do report them.

[dianeschlicht]

We really get mad when guests do as they please and bring pets or smoke in thier room. My son has allergies to animals. My sister has allergies to cats so severe that she can have an attack within seconds of walking into a place where there are cats. I know pet owners who feel its not a big deal, no one will know, my dog/cat is clean, small, whatever. What will it hurt? Will it hurts my kid, that's what it hurts! I love animals, but there is a reason for the no pet, no smoking rules.

If I see someone who has a pet or smoking in a room, I will and do report them.

:thumbsup2 I do the same and for similar reasons. As a person who suffers from allergies and asthma, I can easily have a vacation not only ruined, but my health compromised by having to stay in a non-smoking room that has been smoked in. I have even had to turn in unknown people who smoke in the same building because the smoke comes into the bathroom through the venting system. Once, the CM said "tough luck", but all other times, they have investigated, warned the offending smoker, and it has stopped.

[donmil723]

How odd that this thread just came up. We just returned from VWL last Thursday. One day at the VWL bus stop, we noticed a couple with a little black and brown dog about the size of a chihauhau (sp?). She was holding it in her arms. They didn't get on our bus but we wondered if they were keeping it in their room or if they were staying at Ft. Wilderness and had just come over to WL to look around. Don't know if the bus driver let them get on with it or not as our bus left first. The next day I saw them coming up the walkway from the Villas and she was holding it in her arms again. I don't know if they were heading to the bus stop or to the main lodge. It was very quiet and well behaved and both times it was either wearing a jacket or was just bundled up. I didn't see any sign saying it was a service dog either. After seeing it the second time, I really think they were keeping it with them in the VWL. I love dogs but I have to leave mine at home so I wasn't really happy to see someone who "appeared" to be breaking the rules.

Donna

[spiceycat]

There are many kinds of service animals covered by the ADA. Other than guide dogs for the visually impaired most are unknown to the public and are not easily recognizable as service animals. The dog in your example could have been trained to alert the onset of a seizure or alert the deaf. Some even pull wheelchairs or provide stability to those who can manage some mobility.

we are not talking a big dog. we are talking a lap dog. this women seems to have no problems under than using a wheelchair. Now I could definitely understand a trainer dog to help her with the wheelchair. but this little dog was a pet - that she was calling a service dog - okay my opinion.

but most service dog are alert. they know they are working and it shows. this little one was asleep in her nap half the time.

now it might have been a seizure dog - although I haven't seem a lap dog do that.

gee maybe I should have had Spicey classified as a service animal - he could and did calm me down when nothing else in the world worked. Oh I miss him...

[greenban]

we are not talking a big dog. we are talking a lap dog. this women seems to have no problems under than using a wheelchair. Now I could definitely understand a trainer dog to help her with the wheelchair. but this little dog was a pet - that she was calling a service dog - okay my opinion.

but most service dog are alert. they know they are working and it shows. this little one was asleep in her nap half the time.

now it might have been a seizure dog - although I haven't seem a lap dog do that.

gee maybe I should have had Spicey classified as a service animal - he could and did calm me down when nothing else in the world worked. Oh I miss him...

Pat:

I know what it is like to miss a beloved pet (This froggie is a cat person too!):love:

I am not an expert, and I hope one of the DISabilities Mods chimes in......

but, it is my understanding that all you need is a Doctor's note to have a pet 'declared' a service animal.

In your case, Spicey calmed anxiety and lowered your BP, so many Docs may have signed off.

Of course, like any good thing, there are always abusers. Handicapped Parking Permits, Welfare, 'Earned' Income Credits, etc. You have chosen the high road, sadly others will not.

Now, (knowing me) I violated the no pets rule 1.5 times at OKW (in the past).

Once we found a frog in our room (at check-in), and we allowed him to stay with us (he got the Jacuzzi) until check-out. I consider that the 0.5 violation. He wasn't our pet to start with, and he was in the room before us. He was let go the night before check-out.

On our last visit, right before our Horsedrawn Carriage ride around FW, a cute Easten Toad (since named Disney), hopped out in front of us. We brought her into the room (after the horsey ride), for our last night at OKW (Another Jacuzzi guest), and took her home with us. BTW she's doing well with her big sister Anna. (My DD's princess: first frog catch when she was 4).

Broke the rules, absolutely. However, my moral compass doesn't seem to be working, as I'm still sleeping well at night. Also, no frog, err 'pixie dust' was left behind, on the walls or elsewhere. No late night croaking disturbed other guests (as there were no episodes of croaking), and the local insect population was slightly diminished that last night (she is a GOOD eater).

Maybe I'll add a photo later.

-Tony

[dianeschlicht]

Pat:

I know what it is like to miss a beloved pet (This froggie is a cat person too!):love:

I am not an expert, and I hope one of the DISabilities Mods chimes in......

but, it is my understanding that all you need is a Doctor's note to have a pet 'declared' a service animal.

In your case, Spicey calmed anxiety and lowered your BP, so many Docs may have signed off.

Of course, like any good thing, there are always abusers. Handicapped Parking Permits, Welfare, 'Earned' Income Credits, etc. You have chosen the high road, sadly others will not.

Now, (knowing me) I violated the no pets rule 1.5 times at OKW (in the past).

Once we found a frog in our room (at check-in), and we allowed him to stay with us (he got the Jacuzzi) until check-out. I consider that the 0.5 violation. He wasn't our pet to start with, and he was in the room before us.

Our last visit, right before our Horsedrawn Carriage ride around FW, a cute Easten Toad (since named Disney), hopped out in front of us. We brought her into the room (after the horsey ride), for our last night at OKW (Another Jacuzzi guest), and took her home with us. BTW she's doing well with her big sister Anna. (My DD's princess: first frog catch when she was 4).

Broke the rules, absolutely. However, my moral compass doesn't seem to be working, as I'm still sleeping well at night. Also, no frog, err 'pixie dust' was left behind, on the walls or elsewhere. No lage night croaking disturbed other guests (as there were no episodesof croaking), and the local insect population was slightly diminished that last night (she is a GOOD eater).

Maybe I'll add a photo later.

-Tony

Tony if that frog who occupied your room when you checked in was a tree frog, then he probably belonged to us! We had one hop into an OKW 2 bedroom unit a couple years ago, and we couldn't catch him to help him find his way out! Last I saw him, he was in the front hall closet!

[greenban]

Tony if that frog who occupied your room when you checked in was a tree frog, then he probably belonged to us! We had one hop into an OKW 2 bedroom unit a couple years ago, and we couldn't catch him to help him find his way out! Last I saw him, he was in the front hall closet!


Diane:

It may have ben the same frog, we found him in the front hall closet!

-Tony

[dianeschlicht]

Diane:

It may have ben the same frog, we found him in the front hall closet!

-Tony

LOL, do you remember which building you were in? Ours was in building 15 (I think).

[DVC Grammy]

Pat:

I know what it is like to miss a beloved pet (This froggie is a cat person too!):love:

I am not an expert, and I hope one of the DISabilities Mods chimes in......

but, it is my understanding that all you need is a Doctor's note to have a pet 'declared' a service animal.

In your case, Spicey calmed anxiety and lowered your BP, so many Docs may have signed off.

Of course, like any good thing, there are always abusers. Handicapped Parking Permits, Welfare, 'Earned' Income Credits, etc. You have chosen the high road, sadly others will not.

Now, (knowing me) I violated the no pets rule 1.5 times at OKW (in the past).

Once we found a frog in our room (at check-in), and we allowed him to stay with us (he got the Jacuzzi) until check-out. I consider that the 0.5 violation. He wasn't our pet to start with, and he was in the room before us. He was let go the night before check-out.

On our last visit, right before our Horsedrawn Carriage ride around FW, a cute Easten Toad (since named Disney), hopped out in front of us. We brought her into the room (after the horsey ride), for our last night at OKW (Another Jacuzzi guest), and took her home with us. BTW she's doing well with her big sister Anna. (My DD's princess: first frog catch when she was 4).

Broke the rules, absolutely. However, my moral compass doesn't seem to be working, as I'm still sleeping well at night. Also, no frog, err 'pixie dust' was left behind, on the walls or elsewhere. No late night croaking disturbed other guests (as there were no episodes of croaking), and the local insect population was slightly diminished that last night (she is a GOOD eater).

Maybe I'll add a photo later.

-Tony

There is the possibility that the Eastern Toad was a SERVICE Eastern Toad (some are), so you might have been well within the guidelines. Unfortunately, everyone knows that any Tree frog ONLY services TREES, so unless you're an oak, or a maple, or some other variety, you DEFINITELY BROKE THE RULES!!
:teeth:

[crisi]

I have a friend who trains service dogs. She says that the increase in people who claim their animal is a service animal is doing a great disservice to the service animals that are needed and trained. Trained service animals go through extensive training. A dog or cat that is a stress releaving companion may do your blood pressure good, but hasn't been through the training that differentiates a service animal. Because these animals occationally misbehave in ways very unlikely for a trained service animal to do, they are giving service animals a bad name - and making it harder for people who need their animals to exercise their rights.

[tfc3rid]

I think a lot of fols want to get their dogs certified as 'service animals' in order to save some expenses.

That being said a lot of places are now becoming 'pet friendly' and that's a good thing. I for one am allergic to just about everything but I have a Yorkshire Terrier since they are hypo-allergenic and will cause no allergic reaction... However, it's most important to follow the rules and not be selfish!

[spiceycat]

I have a friend who trains service dogs. She says that the increase in people who claim their animal is a service animal is doing a great disservice to the service animals that are needed and trained. Trained service animals go through extensive training. A dog or cat that is a stress releaving companion may do your blood pressure good, but hasn't been through the training that differentiates a service animal. Because these animals occationally misbehave in ways very unlikely for a trained service animal to do, they are giving service animals a bad name - and making it harder for people who need their animals to exercise their rights.

I agreed - especially when I meet people with dogs who say they trained themselves......

I went through dog trainning with my brother's dogs and since most dog are so territority it is hard to train them not to defend. this little one she had as a prime example of not going through trainning - when he/she was awake - constantly growling at everyone.

Spicey was sweet. he would and did let anyone who wanted to pet him - do it. he never growled, scratched or bite anyone (okay me - but cats do not like to take baths). but he was born this way. most cats aren't that friendly or ease going. they get upset in a different place, don't like changes and hate car trips. Spicey actually like all those things. So he was definitely one of a kind.

back in the old days before DVC - he and I was riding in the tram - he was on the way to the kennel I was going to the parks. anyway a family got on and the little girl was crying her eyes out - she didn't want to go. her mother without asking took Spicey out of my arms and he stopped the girl crying. So his charms worked on others besides me. I had a problem getting him back to take him to the kennel.

oh after this I decide to walk to the kennel. (this was at Epcot- before it allowed pets overnight so no kennel parking then)

Granny, Greenban, Diane - :rotfl: :lmao: :happytv: :rotfl2: on one of those others WDW boards there is a frog.....:rolleyes1 :earseek:

[LisaS]

OK so we've had dogs in the units and frogs in the units, has anybody seen a DVC member bring their potbellied pig with them ? Then we would have... hogs in the units! :lmao:

[mom2alix]

OK so we've had dogs in the units and frogs in the units, has anybody seen a DVC member bring their potbellied pig with them ? Then we would have... hogs in the units! :lmao:

I think my family might have qualified after getting the dining plan last trip. :confused3 :rotfl: ;)

[dianeschlicht]

I think my family might have qualified after getting the dining plan last trip. :confused3 :rotfl: ;)

LOL, I was thinking the same thing!:lmao:

AS for service dogs, there are service dogs that have hidden purposes. I have a friend who is narcoleptic and needs her service dog to insure that she takes her meds on time. If she falls asleep, she is very difficult to rouse, and without her meds, she can fall asleep at any time and place. Her service dog has made it possible for her to again drive and travel and even go back to school. He wears his own little digital alarm in his service vest, and when it vibrates, he scratches on her to remind her to take her meds. He also alerts if she falls asleep when she is not supposed to, and will litterally drag her until she awakens. I do believe though, that a service dog MUST be wearing an official service vest or ID to indicate that they are a service dog. Doesn't sound to me like the ones spotted by the OP were.

[LisaS]

I think my family might have qualified after getting the dining plan last trip. :confused3 :rotfl: ;):lmao: :rotfl2:

[Loco4Disney]

Diane:

It may have ben the same frog, we found him in the front hall closet!

-Tony
err....This is not the first time I've come across a post about frogs in the units!! I'm not used to all of this "wildlife"! Are bugs and frogs common at DVC resorts?? Is it the humidity??

[dianeschlicht]

err....This is not the first time I've come across a post about frogs in the units!! I'm not used to all of this "wildlife"! Are bugs and frogs common at DVC resorts?? Is it the humidity??

Bugs, frogs, little enole lizzards etc. etc. etc. are all common all over Florida. It's a very humid area, and all those things enjoy the climate there. To get away from them completely, you would need to vacation in a different local.

[BroganMc]

Bugs, frogs, little enole lizzards etc. etc. etc. are all common all over Florida. It's a very humid area, and all those things enjoy the climate there. To get away from them completely, you would need to vacation in a different local.

Not at Disney yet (since I ws only there in the cold December weeks), but I've had plenty of little lizards in my Marriott timeshares. Came home, went to the bathroom, looked up and there was a little 2 incher staring back at me. I'm not sure which of us was more surprised.

Lil' bugger ran off into my room not to be seen for at least 2 days. Iwas convinced he was living under my bed and would crawl out at night just to stare at me. We debated taking him home to my nephews but felt it was wrong to take the thing out of its natural habitat. So he got chased out onto the golf course.

As for service dogs, nurse at my doc's been recommending I try one since I started driving and going out my alone. Trouble is I travel too much and just can't see putting a dog through that. I'd love one. My old black lab died about 4 years ago. So far it's just the siamese/tabby mix cat who claims our home, but then she's decided my dad is her favorite. She just tolerates me.

[Deb & Bill]

Don't forget about the Palmetto bugs, Diane. People who don't live in the South are really not that familiar with them.

[JMLBrats]

well changing the tone here a little bit, I think it would be awesome if they had some rooms set aside specifically for people to bring dogs. I would never ever even think of attempting to break the rules and bring my dog believe me, but if there were designated rooms for it then it might be an option for us. And yes I know you can bring dogs to FW if you camp or have an RV, but I just think it would be cool to have certain units that allowed dogs. I have a feeling that I'm in the minority on this one though....:rolleyes: I'm not into the idea of bringing our dog along to stick him in the WDW kennels either-doesn't sound like a good idea for us although it is good that they offer That option for those who want it. Our spoiled mutt gets to hang out in a "doggie hotel" equipped w/TV, AC/heat and beds and our cat gets to room w/him too-not a bad deal while we're away....at least I don't feel TOO guilty while we're gone:thumbsup2

[dianeschlicht]

well changing the tone here a little bit, I think it would be awesome if they had some rooms set aside specifically for people to bring dogs. I would never ever even think of attempting to break the rules and bring my dog believe me, but if there were designated rooms for it then it might be an option for us. And yes I know you can bring dogs to FW if you camp or have an RV, but I just think it would be cool to have certain units that allowed dogs. I have a feeling that I'm in the minority on this one though....:rolleyes: I'm not into the idea of bringing our dog along to stick him in the WDW kennels either-doesn't sound like a good idea for us although it is good that they offer That option for those who want it. Our spoiled mutt gets to hang out in a "doggie hotel" equipped w/TV, AC/heat and beds and our cat gets to room w/him too-not a bad deal while we're away....at least I don't feel TOO guilty while we're gone:thumbsup2

So would you propose that this be a specific booking catagory? I don't see any way that could be facilitated in resorts like the DVC ones that strive for being completely booked at all times. I would think if they did this, it would need to be not only a seperate booking catagory, but even a seperate membership catagory....heck maybe a seperate resort. I show dogs and I travel to dog shows and stay in many hotels that do allow dogs. Do I take them up to the room? NO! First of all, most hotels that allow dogs only allow them in smoking rooms. I can't tolerate a smoking room, so I leave the dogs in their kennels in the van or I leave them at the dog show where their environment is climate controlled if that is necessary. I do NOT think there should be any exceptions to allowing pets in DVC or any other timeshare for that matter. Remember, you are NOT the ONLY one who owns it, and it could be a severe health issue for some other owners....Just as smoking is.

FYI, I also own a kennel, and I can tell you that most dogs LOVE coming to the kennel when their owners vacation. It's like thier spa trip too. I don't think it is fair to anyone to take a pet on vacation and expect it to stay with you. Certainly, the pet can't come to the parks, so it's going to sit all day alone in the unit???? I don't think so.

[JimC]

For those interested:

Civil Rights Division of the Department of Justice and National Association of Attorneys General (http://www.usdoj.gov/crt/ada/animal.htm) created a Disabilities Rights Task Force in 1996. The link is to their joint document providing information regarding the use of service animals.

[BroganMc]

I don't think it is fair to anyone to take a pet on vacation and expect it to stay with you. Certainly, the pet can't come to the parks, so it's going to sit all day alone in the unit???? I don't think so.

People are thinking to put their pets in the kennel while they are at the parks?

[dianeschlicht]

People are thinking to put their pets in the kennel while they are at the parks?

Well, if they can be there during park time, they can be there overnight also. I found it a big hassle when we had the dogs with us for the combined dog show/WDW trip. We spent more time running back and forth to the kennel to excercise dogs than we did enjoying the vacation.

[AKVCRVDVC]

My mil used to have this little yorkshire terrier. It was tiny, maybe 2 pounds. She would always keep her in the kennels, usually at ft. wilderness. One time a few years ago (2003-4?) we were checking in to beach club villas. She decided that she was going to kennel her in epcot I think because of the proximity. As we were checking in she asked the CM at the desk about how to get to the Epcot kennel. And the CM told her just to keep it in the room. I swear. She didn't, but the CM said it.
:faint:

[CarolMN]

Not all pet owners are responsible - no way do I want to listen to other people's pets bark or watch them run amok or worse. I also don't want to pay increased maintenance fees to have someone clean up after them or increased insurance premiums in case one of them bites another guest.

Since there is no way to know in advance which pet owners are responsible or which pets are well trained, I think DVC is very smart to allow only service animals!

JMHO. YMMV.

[Dean]

Is dog walking restricted to the kennel area? If so this lady was lost.Not allowed on property at all.

what some people call service dogs - anyone else would say pets.One of the resorts I own at has had a real problem with people taking pets and saying they were service animals when they were not. For this reason they've passed a rule requiring advanced notice, cleaning deposit and liability with fines.

[JimC]

Not allowed on property at all.

One of the resorts I own at has had a real problem with people taking pets and saying they were service animals when they were not. For this reason they've passed a rule requiring advanced notice, cleaning deposit and liability with fines.

Have they been able to successfully sustain a legal challenge to those restrictions as they are contrary to ADA.

[JMLBrats]

So would you propose that this be a specific booking catagory? I don't see any way that could be facilitated in resorts like the DVC ones that strive for being completely booked at all times. I would think if they did this, it would need to be not only a seperate booking catagory, but even a seperate membership catagory....heck maybe a seperate resort. I show dogs and I travel to dog shows and stay in many hotels that do allow dogs. Do I take them up to the room? NO! First of all, most hotels that allow dogs only allow them in smoking rooms. I can't tolerate a smoking room, so I leave the dogs in their kennels in the van or I leave them at the dog show where their environment is climate controlled if that is necessary. I do NOT think there should be any exceptions to allowing pets in DVC or any other timeshare for that matter. Remember, you are NOT the ONLY one who owns it, and it could be a severe health issue for some other owners....Just as smoking is.

FYI, I also own a kennel, and I can tell you that most dogs LOVE coming to the kennel when their owners vacation. It's like thier spa trip too. I don't think it is fair to anyone to take a pet on vacation and expect it to stay with you. Certainly, the pet can't come to the parks, so it's going to sit all day alone in the unit???? I don't think so.

I hadn't really thought this out too much, it was just a thought. but I suppose that if there was a place on WDW that allowed dogs it would have to be a totally seperate resort just because of the barking alone. I was telling DH about this and he thought it would be really cool to have a DVC dog resort-it could have huge fenced in running areas and provide day care for those days people want to have long days in the parks and it could have a vet on the premises. I'm sure this will never come to be because the maintenance fees would have to be so high, but we thought it was a cool idea! :rotfl:

[BroganMc]

I was telling DH about this and he thought it would be really cool to have a DVC dog resort-it could have huge fenced in running areas and provide day care for those days people want to have long days in the parks and it could have a vet on the premises. I'm sure this will never come to be because the maintenance fees would have to be so high, but we thought it was a cool idea! :rotfl:

We'd nickname it "The Canine Campus". It could have 101 Dalmations as the theme. Perhaps be like that place the couple ends up in at the end of the live action version of the movie... the English country estate with acres and acres for all the doggies. Naysayers would get the moniker of Cruella.

[JMLBrats]

We'd nickname it "The Canine Campus". It could have 101 Dalmations as the theme. Perhaps be like that place the couple ends up in at the end of the live action version of the movie... the English country estate with acres and acres for all the doggies. Naysayers would get the moniker of Cruella.

Luv it! :rotfl: :rotfl2:

[greenban]

err....This is not the first time I've come across a post about frogs in the units!! I'm not used to all of this "wildlife"! Are bugs and frogs common at DVC resorts?? Is it the humidity??

You are traveling to see a Rodent and his animal friends, Duck, Dog, Mouse-ette, and a Goof. So just consider the froggies, lizzards, snakes, aligators and very assorted buggies as extra CMs!

-Tony

[greenban]

Not allowed on property at all.

One of the resorts I own at has had a real problem with people taking pets and saying they were service animals when they were not. For this reason they've passed a rule requiring advanced notice, cleaning deposit and liability with fines.

All of which violate the Federal ADA mandate/act. Jim's link above is a mandate. A propriator may not even request proof of training, or service animal certification prior to admission. They may not require a deposit.

This is an area ripe for abuse.

CUT & PASTE COPY OF SERVICE GUIDE DOCUMENT, Emphasis Added by myself.
July 26, 1996


The Civil Rights Division of the U.S. Department of Justice and the National Association of Attorneys General have formed a Disability Rights Task Force to promote and protect the rights of individuals with disabilities.

We have found that many businesses across the country have prohibited individuals with disabilities who use service animals from entering their premises, in many instances because of ignorance or confusion about the animal's appropriate use. This document provides specific information about the legal requirements regarding individuals with disabilities who use service animals. It was prepared by the Task Force to assist businesses in complying voluntarily with the Americans with Disabilities Act and applicable state laws.

Twenty-four state attorneys general* are distributing a similar document (including state specific requirements) to associations representing restaurants, hotels and motels, and retailers for dissemination to their members.

We encourage you to share this document with businesses and people with disabilities and their families in your community.



Deval L. Patrick Scott Harshbarger
Assistant Attorney GeneralAttorney General
Civil Rights DivisionState of Massachusetts;
U.S. Department of JusticePresident, National Association of Attorneys General




--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
* Alaska, Arizona, California, Connecticut, Florida, Hawaii, Illinois, Iowa, Kentucky, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nevada, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Washington, and Wisconsin.






--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------



COMMONLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT SERVICE ANIMALS
IN PLACES OF BUSINESS
Q: What are the laws that apply to my business?

A: Under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), privately owned businesses that serve the public, such as restaurants, hotels, retail stores, taxicabs, theaters, concert halls, and sports facilities, are prohibited from discriminating against individuals with disabilities. The ADA requires these businesses to allow people with disabilities to bring their service animals onto business premises in whatever areas customers are generally allowed.

Q: What is a service animal?

A: The ADA defines a service animal as any guide dog, signal dog, or other animal individually trained to provide assistance to an individual with a disability. If they meet this definition, animals are considered service animals under the ADA regardless of whether they have been licensed or certified by a state or local government.

Service animals perform some of the functions and tasks that the individual with a disability cannot perform for him or herself. "Seeing eye dogs" are one type of service animal, used by some individuals who are blind. This is the type of service animal with which most people are familiar. But there are service animals that assist persons with other kinds of disabilities in their day-to-day activities. Some examples include:

_____Alerting persons with hearing impairments to sounds.

_____ Pulling wheelchairs or carrying and picking up things for persons with mobility impairments.

_____Assisting persons with mobility impairments with balance.


Q: How can I tell if an animal is really a service animal and not just a pet?

A: Some, but not all, service animals wear special collars and harnesses. Some, but not all, are licensed or certified and have identification papers. If you are not certain that an animal is a service animal, you may ask the person who has the animal if it is a service animal required because of a disability. However, an individual who is going to a restaurant or theater is not likely to be carrying documentation of his or her medical condition or disability. Therefore, such documentation generally may not be required as a condition for providing service to an individual accompanied by a service animal. Although a number of states have programs to certify service animals, you may not insist on proof of state certification before permitting the service animal to accompany the person with a disability.

Q: What must I do when an individual with a service animal comes to my business?

A: The service animal must be permitted to accompany the individual with a disability to all areas of the facility where customers are normally allowed to go. An individual with a service animal may not be segregated from other customers.

Q: I have always had a clearly posted "no pets" policy at my establishment. Do I still have to allow service animals in?

A: Yes. A service animal is not a pet. The ADA requires you to modify your "no pets" policy to allow the use of a service animal by a person with a disability. This does not mean you must abandon your "no pets" policy altogether but simply that you must make an exception to your general rule for service animals.

Q: My county health department has told me that only a seeing eye or guide dog has to be admitted. If I follow those regulations, am I violating the ADA?

A: Yes, if you refuse to admit any other type of service animal on the basis of local health department regulations or other state or local laws. The ADA provides greater protection for individuals with disabilities and so it takes priority over the local or state laws or regulations.

Q: Can I charge a maintenance or cleaning fee for customers who bring service animals into my business?

A: No. Neither a deposit nor a surcharge may be imposed on an individual with a disability as a condition to allowing a service animal to accompany the individual with a disability, even if deposits are routinely required for pets. However, a public accommodation may charge its customers with disabilities if a service animal causes damage so long as it is the regular practice of the entity to charge non-disabled customers for the same types of damages. For example, a hotel can charge a guest with a disability for the cost of repairing or cleaning furniture damaged by a service animal if it is the hotel's policy to charge when non-disabled guests cause such damage.

Q: I operate a private taxicab and I don't want animals in my taxi; they smell, shed hair and sometimes have "accidents." Am I violating the ADA if I refuse to pick up someone with a service animal?

A: Yes. Taxicab companies may not refuse to provide services to individuals with disabilities. Private taxicab companies are also prohibited from charging higher fares or fees for transporting individuals with disabilities and their service animals than they charge to other persons for the same or equivalent service.


Q: Am I responsible for the animal while the person with a disability is in my business?

A: No. The care or supervision of a service animal is solely the responsibility of his or her owner. You are not required to provide care or food or a special location for the animal.

Q: What if a service animal barks or growls at other people, or otherwise acts out of control?

A: You may exclude any animal, including a service animal, from your facility when that animal's behavior poses a direct threat to the health or safety of others. For example, any service animal that displays vicious behavior towards other guests or customers may be excluded. You may not make assumptions, however, about how a particular animal is likely to behave based on your past experience with other animals. Each situation must be considered individually.

Although a public accommodation may exclude any service animal that is out of control, it should give the individual with a disability who uses the service animal the option of continuing to enjoy its goods and services without having the service animal on the premises.

Q: Can I exclude an animal that doesn't really seem dangerous but is disruptive to my business?

A: There may be a few circumstances when a public accommodation is not required to accommodate a service animal--that is, when doing so would result in a fundamental alteration to the nature of the business. Generally, this is not likely to occur in restaurants, hotels, retail stores, theaters, concert halls, and sports facilities. But when it does, for example, when a dog barks during a movie, the animal can be excluded.


If you have further questions about service animals or other requirements of the ADA, you may call the U.S. Department of Justice's toll-free ADA Information Line at 800-514-0301 (voice) or
800-514-0383 (TDD).


DUPLICATION OF THIS DOCUMENT IS ENCOURAGED.


7/96






http://www.usdoj.gov/crt/ada/animal.htm <==== Link to Original Document

-Tony

[castleri]

I hadn't really thought this out too much, it was just a thought. but I suppose that if there was a place on WDW that allowed dogs it would have to be a totally seperate resort just because of the barking alone. I was telling DH about this and he thought it would be really cool to have a DVC dog resort-it could have huge fenced in running areas and provide day care for those days people want to have long days in the parks and it could have a vet on the premises. I'm sure this will never come to be because the maintenance fees would have to be so high, but we thought it was a cool idea! :rotfl:

Maybe some of the value view areas at AKV could be converted to new "doggie" savannahs. They just need to be completely separated from any of the other ones so the barking wouldn't bother the "wild" animals. It might require some extra soundproofing in those rooms that would overlook that savannah also. Vet costs could be shared with the lodge. Just adding to your thoughts.:rotfl: :rotfl:

[bobbiwoz]

Wow, Tony and JimC, that's an eyeopener. I didn't know we had a "kinder, gentler" American government.

I have seen children in wheelchairs at WDW either holding or having a dog tied or standing close to the wheelchairs. Not all the dogs had vests on, and I wondered why...now I know, not needed.

But still..no proof at all needed, oh my, that seems ripe for abuse.

Bobbi

PS. I've thought of taking my dogs on vacation with me, but I think they're happiest in surroundings that they know, and they've stayed at the kennel over a long enough period of time, that they recognize the owners and expect to be petted and taken care of by them.

[robinb]

I think that this is another one of those instances, like healthy people with GACs, where people can abuse the system. People are always looking for loop holes and being able to "game the system" to do what they want. And you know what ... I simply don't care if they do. I would rather have the existing ADA rules in place to make it easier for those people who truly need the help of a service dog. If I see a dog, I will assume that it is a service animal and give the owner the benefit of the doubt. Understanding and compassion cost me nothing.

BTW, here is an interesting post from late December about someone with a tiny service dog: http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1299319

[donmil723]

BTW, here is an interesting post from late December about someone with a tiny service dog: http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1299319


Thanks for the link! I really didn't know that a tiny dog could be a service dog! I'm glad I kept my thoughts to myself while at VWL last week when I saw the lady with the chihauhau even if I didn't notice any service dog identification.

Donna

[bobbiwoz]

Alright, now, what about people with dog allergies...what sort of precautions are taken when a service dog checks out of a villa?

Bobbi

[JMLBrats]

Maybe some of the value view areas at AKV could be converted to new "doggie" savannahs. They just need to be completely separated from any of the other ones so the barking wouldn't bother the "wild" animals. It might require some extra soundproofing in those rooms that would overlook that savannah also. Vet costs could be shared with the lodge. Just adding to your thoughts.:rotfl: :rotfl:

Sounds good to me, but I think we need to have another thread about this discussion, we are definetly in the minority here....:dogdance:

[JodyTG]

Alright, now, what about people with dog allergies...what sort of precautions are taken when a service dog checks out of a villa?

Bobbi

Exactly what I was wondering, Bobbi.

[FriendsOfEeyore]

So would you propose that this be a specific booking catagory? I don't see any way that could be facilitated in resorts like the DVC ones that strive for being completely booked at all times. I would think if they did this, it would need to be not only a seperate booking catagory, but even a seperate membership catagory....heck maybe a seperate resort. I show dogs and I travel to dog shows and stay in many hotels that do allow dogs. Do I take them up to the room? NO! First of all, most hotels that allow dogs only allow them in smoking rooms. I can't tolerate a smoking room, so I leave the dogs in their kennels in the van or I leave them at the dog show where their environment is climate controlled if that is necessary. I do NOT think there should be any exceptions to allowing pets in DVC or any other timeshare for that matter. Remember, you are NOT the ONLY one who owns it, and it could be a severe health issue for some other owners....Just as smoking is.

FYI, I also own a kennel, and I can tell you that most dogs LOVE coming to the kennel when their owners vacation. It's like thier spa trip too. I don't think it is fair to anyone to take a pet on vacation and expect it to stay with you. Certainly, the pet can't come to the parks, so it's going to sit all day alone in the unit???? I don't think so.

Diane,

I know that we never got a chance to meet when I lived in Savage and you were in Prior Lake, but where is your Kennel? What types of dogs do you show? I have always kenneled my dogs when I travel and would have love to have given you the $$$$ when I was going to WDW in the past.

But alas, I am no longer in Minnesota......

-Edward

[FriendsOfEeyore]

The ADA document is very informative.

I also wonder about proper cleaning of a room after a service animal was present. Would DVC or the Reosrt front desk even know that a pet was present? What if one of those posters who spoke of their allergies were the next to check into that same room? Who would be liable?

My son has a peanut allergy, I take this very seriously. I know how sensitive he is, and he has to actually ingest not just inhale as some. There has to some level of Health Standards for this, that do not impact people who need a service animal.

[dianeschlicht]

Diane,

I know that we never got a chance to meet when I lived in Savage and you were in Prior Lake, but where is your Kennel? What types of dogs do you show? I have always kenneled my dogs when I travel and would have love to have given you the $$$$ when I was going to WDW in the past.

But alas, I am no longer in Minnesota......

-Edward

When we were in Prior Lake/Savage (we always lived in the same place, but the address changed), we were right where 150th street and Louisiana Ave intersect. Now we are about 1.7 miles off the freeway down near the Elko Speedway.

[MarieA]

Alright, now, what about people with dog allergies...what sort of precautions are taken when a service dog checks out of a villa?

Bobbi

I'm wondering too since I am one of those people with severe dog allergies. (Asthma and Hives). I love dogs but cannot be in a room with them for more than 15 minutes and have to wash my hands right away if I pet one. I definitely cannot stay in a room where a dog has been.

[Dean]

Have they been able to successfully sustain a legal challenge to those restrictions as they are contrary to ADA.Timeshares come under the same rules as Condo's and not hotels or businesses but I don't know of any legal challenges and I think I'd know if it had happened. The wording was specifically supplied by Marriott corporate lawyers.

[elijahpep]

We love our little dog, but would never bring her to WDW and break any rules.

IT would however be nice if the DVC resorts offered on site kennels for DVC owners. This would be a great advantage to pet owners of DVC and would make it conciderably easier to walk the pets. There would obviously have to be
charges like the other kennels (Epcot,etc) so as to not disadvantage the other non pet members. To make this work and keep the dogs out of the rooms (protecting those with alergies). There would be a specific area where the pets wouldn't be able to leave until check out.

Just a thought....

~DW:3dglasses

[dianeschlicht]

We love our little dog, but would never bring her to WDW and break any rules.

IT would however be nice if the DVC resorts offered on site kennels for DVC owners. This would be a great advantage to pet owners of DVC and would make it conciderably easier to walk the pets. There would obviously have to be
charges like the other kennels (Epcot,etc) so as to not disadvantage the other non pet members. To make this work and keep the dogs out of the rooms (protecting those with alergies). There would be a specific area where the pets wouldn't be able to leave until check out.

Just a thought....

~DW:3dglasses

Actually, that idea has merit, but I would expect it to be self sustaining and not be a maintenance cost to all DVC owners, but just those using the facility. I reality though, we already have this with the kennels at the parks.

[elijahpep]

DVC has kitchens, washers/dryers, king size beds and whirlpool tubs.
So yes, a self sustaining pet center/boarding area would be another great advantage for DVC families with their loving four pluto: leggers to come "Home" too! IMO
THis would be an advantage to DVCers to go "home", instead of making trips to the exsisting boarding centers located off DVC properties, to walk their pets. Again, it would be nice to come home from the parks, get off the bus and go visit your pet. Then off to lunch, dinner or the pool. It would just add more harmony to a visit by a DVC pet owner than exsisting options.

~DW:3dglasses

[dianeschlicht]

Well, maybe, but THIS dog owner wont be doing it! We have 8 dogs, and it costs me $100/day just to have someone come in and take care of them a couple times a day while we are on vacation. That cost would SOAR if I tried to take them on vacation!

[Deb & Bill]

The current pet boarding areas are not really located near any resort. Could that be to avoid having people take their pet back to their hotel room? These areas are located in rather isolated areas where no one else could be bothered by the pets. I couldn't see having a pet boarding area within the DVC resort because you could see people taking their pet back to their villa for extended periods of time instead of just walking them and returning them to the pet boarding area.

I'm with Diane on this. Our pets are boarded in a facility near our home. They know this place, they get good care and we know they are safe.

[twinklebug]

Actually, that idea has merit, but I would expect it to be self sustaining and not be a maintenance cost to all DVC owners, but just those using the facility.

Make the kennel units DVCPs (DVC for Pets) - buy in now and own until 2054!
Conceriege (turn down service with a milkbone) available. :dogdance:

All fun aside, being a pet owner & lover I can see why people want to bring fido or fluffy with them on vacation (heart strings), and I hear Disney does provide adaquate kennels, but I honestly don't understand why they feel putting the animal through the strains of travel only to be boarded in a strange environment makes any sense. I'd much rather leave our pets home and arrange for family member or friend back home to stop in and take care of them & am glad to reciprocate the favor when they go on vacation.

[korbbec]

:sad2: Sad. Personally I am allergic to wool, latex and peanuts. I think they should be banned from the rooms. In fact, WDW should ban every single common allergen from coming into the World. It is just not fair to those who are allergic. Oh - and the smell of garlic or curry turns my stomach. I don't think those spices should be allowed in a DVC kitchen.

[dianeschlicht]

Make the kennel units DVCPs (DVC for Pets) - buy in now and own until 2054!
Conceriege (turn down service with a milkbone) available. :dogdance:

All fun aside, being a pet owner & lover I can see why people want to bring fido or fluffy with them on vacation (heart strings), and I hear Disney does provide adaquate kennels, but I honestly don't understand why they feel putting the animal through the strains of travel only to be boarded in a strange environment makes any sense. I'd much rather leave our pets home and arrange for family member or friend back home to stop in and take care of them & am glad to reciprocate the favor when they go on vacation.

Very good post! I totally agree.

[fishermouse]

we are not talking a big dog. we are talking a lap dog. this women seems to have no problems under than using a wheelchair. Now I could definitely understand a trainer dog to help her with the wheelchair. but this little dog was a pet - that she was calling a service dog - okay my opinion.

but most service dog are alert. they know they are working and it shows. this little one was asleep in her nap half the time.

now it might have been a seizure dog - although I haven't seem a lap dog do that.

gee maybe I should have had Spicey classified as a service animal - he could and did calm me down when nothing else in the world worked. Oh I miss him...
Have to agree with Jim C on this. service dogs come in all sizes and shapes and do rest when able. Dogs are very light sleepers and will quickly awaken if needed, long before anyone knows there is a problem. People with service dogs have ID's and are usually asked to produce them at the gate or check-in. As much as I love dogs, and cats, I would never subject any dog not soecifically trained for service to the noise and excitment of WDW. I'll keep my pets trips confined to camping, hiking and even beach trips but no amusment parks.

[nydizfan]

all in all . we need to keep out pets at home. at one time i had 5 cats and 2 dogs. cant bring them not even one. sometimes in life u want to . but cant. heart strings . now all my pets are in with the big man up above , sure i would love to have them at disney with me but come . common sense says different . i understand all what u say but u gotta just follow the rules . its simple. its the way it is people. why .? greenban. the frog in the jacuzzi made me laugh for at least 2 minutes. made my day thanks...dave;)

[fishermouse]

Alright, now, what about people with dog allergies...what sort of precautions are taken when a service dog checks out of a villa?

Bobbi

Legally none. Mousekeeping probably is not even aware there was an service dog in the room.

[SueM in MN]

Have to agree with Jim C on this. service dogs come in all sizes and shapes and do rest when able. Dogs are very light sleepers and will quickly awaken if needed, long before anyone knows there is a problem. People with service dogs have ID's and are usually asked to produce them at the gate or check-in. As much as I love dogs, and cats, I would never subject any dog not soecifically trained for service to the noise and excitment of WDW. I'll keep my pets trips confined to camping, hiking and even beach trips but no amusment parks.
One of my DD's friends has a seizure alert dog. It is a small, fluffy white dog that sits in her lap most of the time. Her dog wears a sort of coat that identifies it as a service animal, but if it wasn't for the coat, most people would just think it was one of those 'accessory dogs' that you see celebrities carrying in oversize purses.

[Uncleromulus]

While I would never consider taking my own pets on any sort of extended trip,( we pay $$$ to have a house sitter stay with them:goodvibes ) people are quite attached to thier animals and many take their pets with them all the time. When we drive down to WDW a # of the motels we stop at have "dedicated" pet rooms--all in one area of the motel. Of course, there is an extra charge for those rooms--when people bother to declare they actually have a pet.
Anyway--can anyone see that as an option at a DVC resort? A "dedicated" pets allowed building??
Must say tho that in all our trips to OKW (since 1992), never saw any pets on campus.

[dianeschlicht]

Sue, one of my Airedale friends has a service Airedale. I think I may have told about it above somewhere....Narcoleptic allert dog.

[DisDaydreamer]

Well, maybe, but THIS dog owner wont be doing it! We have 8 dogs, and it costs me $100/day just to have someone come in and take care of them a couple times a day while we are on vacation. That cost would SOAR if I tried to take them on vacation!

But wouldn't it be fun having them in the car on the way there and back.

:goofy: :goofy: :goofy: :goofy: :goofy: :goofy: :goofy: :goofy:

[Deb & Bill]

But wouldn't it be fun having them in the car on the way there and back.

:goofy: :goofy: :goofy: :goofy: :goofy: :goofy: :goofy: :goofy:

No.

[JodyTG]

One of my DD's friends has a seizure alert dog. It is a small, fluffy white dog that sits in her lap most of the time. Her dog wears a sort of coat that identifies it as a service animal, but if it wasn't for the coat, most people would just think it was one of those 'accessory dogs' that you see celebrities carrying in oversize purses.

I agree that the "accessory dogs" are the main problem with abusing the system. I used to work with someone whose daughter had a service dog. She lost her eyesight at a young age (can't remember the illness that caused it) and the dog gave her a measure of independence. She was able to do things by herself rather than having to depend on her family so much. She loved it, but said that it wasn't a pet. It was a well-trained employee (like having a live-in nurse) that had to be replaced after a time by another "employee". She loved it as much as a person would love anything or anyone that is with you such a long time. But, again, it wasn't a pet to be put into a kennel. It's job was to be with her at all times.

[crispywelsh]

Don;t know about the DVC resorts, but we paid for two nights last year at Music to save our points, and the lady several rooms down was exercising her dog both morning, it was a small dod, don't know what a lap dog type

[shovan]

The ADA document is very informative.

I also wonder about proper cleaning of a room after a service animal was present. Would DVC or the Reosrt front desk even know that a pet was present? What if one of those posters who spoke of their allergies were the next to check into that same room? Who would be liable?

My son has a peanut allergy, I take this very seriously. I know how sensitive he is, and he has to actually ingest not just inhale as some. There has to some level of Health Standards for this, that do not impact people who need a service animal.

Well, I find this something to really be concerned about. Since we need an handicapped room, my DH is in a WC. We are probably increasing our chances of having rooms that have had a service animal in them. I have asthma & allergies and can only be around certain breeds of dogs. There are very limited rooms that fit our needs as is. Now I will also have to be concerned if the room has had a service animal in it. And we all know how "clean" the DVC rooms are. The opportunity for abuses of "service" animals makes this issue all the more disturbing. I really doubt WDW or any other hotels will be able to designate handicapped rooms, as smoking/non smoking & add a service/no service animal designation ror rooms too.

[Wishing for GCV!]

Don;t know about the DVC resorts, but we paid for two nights last year at Music to save our points, and the lady several rooms down was exercising her dog both morning, it was a small dod, don't know what a lap dog typeChances are she had just brought it, or it was a service dog in case she has a heart attack or something. Usually smaller dogs aren't the Seeing Eye ones. :)

[Maria395712]

I agree with korbbec. what about people that are allergic to other things?
what about people that have a dog at the WDW kennel, don't they bring in the pet hair on their clothes. so if people are so highly allergic wouldn't that hair that has fallen from the owner bother them? the cleaning will do just fine. I have a 3lb dog and I take him everywhere I can and I think disney should have a pet friendly buidling in each resort. just like universal I'd pay extra for a so called good cleaning. my dog is cleaner than some people and I'd rather have him in the room than someone with lice or bedbugs. sorry JMHO
maria
oh and my husband is highly allergic to many things but not this short haired dog. includes peanuts being left behind in the room

[fishermouse]

Well, I find this something to really be concerned about. Since we need an handicapped room, my DH is in a WC. We are probably increasing our chances of having rooms that have had a service animal in them. I have asthma & allergies and can only be around certain breeds of dogs. There are very limited rooms that fit our needs as is. Now I will also have to be concerned if the room has had a service animal in it. And we all know how "clean" the DVC rooms are. The opportunity for abuses of "service" animals makes this issue all the more disturbing. I really doubt WDW or any other hotels will be able to designate handicapped rooms, as smoking/non smoking & add a service/no service animal designation ror rooms too.
From looking at your signature you've been WDW a lot over a long period of time, if this has not been an issue to date I would "not get my panties in an uproar"
Keep your inhaler ready as you probably already do and enjoy you vacations. I'd be a lot more concerned about the "inconsiderate smoker" that smokes in your NS room than a service annimal.pluto: pug: paw: :cat:

[robinb]

Now I will also have to be concerned if the room has had a service animal in it. And we all know how "clean" the DVC rooms are.First of all, I don't think you have to worry too much. I go to WDW twice a year and I don't recall ever seeing a service animal. Not once. I saw a doggie-doo station with bags at the back of Wilderness Lodge (between the villas and the pool along the lake side walkway) but I didn't see anyone using it. Is there a chance that an animal was in the room before you? Sure ... service dogs are allowed.

It's so hard to completely protect every allergic guest from the perfectly legal actions of the previous guest before them. What about the mom who made their kid a PB&J on the TV stand which was then not cleaned 100% by the maid? If the next guest has a severe peanut allergy, they may be in trouble! What about the guest who loves to wear perfume? You know the type ... you can smell her before she turns the corner. If the next guest has a allergy to scents, they may be in trouble! I feel for all of those people, including yourself. However, playing "what if?" will just drive you crazy. The proactive mom of a severely peanut allergic kid will come armed with wipes to make sure that the peanut traces are gone. The scent allergic guest asks for another room. You can probably run the vacuum cleaner yourself to make sure all the possible dog hair is up, pop an antihistamine before you arrive and keep your inhaler close at hand.

The opportunity for abuses of "service" animals makes this issue all the more disturbing.
That is a slippery slope that as a spouse of someone in a wheelchair I don't think you want to start down. Look at any of the wheelchair/EVC "abuse" threads and insert "service dog" instead of wheelchair and you will understand what I mean. Some people are clearly disabled as the German Sheppard seeing eye dog with harness is clearly a service animal. OTOH, some people have hidden disabilities which allow them to walk short distances but they still need a wheelchair for most of the day. Small dogs that nap comfortably on their owners' lap can perform certain duties better than their larger cousins. Just as the guest with the hidden disability is not "abusing the system" neither is the guest with the tiny service dog. You simply can't judge a book by it's cover.

Are there abuses of wheel chairs and service dogs? Absolutely. But I just don't understand getting all upset about it. I simply assume that the guest needs the wheelchair for a good reason and if I see someone with a tiny lap dog I will assume that dog is there for a good reason. It's better for my blood pressure, LOL!

[JimC]

First of all, I don't think you have to worry too much. I go to WDW twice a year and I don't recall ever seeing a service animal. Not once. ....!

We go quite often and have seen other service animals many times. Our daughter has taken her guide dog and has had no problems with guests or CMs. Usually folks have gone out of their way to be helpful. With all the travel we do, WDW ranks at the top of the list for how well they accommodate disabilities.

...That is a slippery slope that as a spouse of someone in a wheelchair I don't think you want to start down. Look at any of the wheelchair/EVC "abuse" threads and insert "service dog" instead of wheelchair and you will understand what I mean. Some people are clearly disabled as the German Sheppard seeing eye dog with harness is clearly a service animal. OTOH, some people have hidden disabilities which allow them to walk short distances but they still need a wheelchair for most of the day. Small dogs that nap comfortably on their owners' lap can perform certain duties better than their larger cousins. Just as the guest with the hidden disability is not "abusing the system" neither is the guest with the tiny service dog. You simply can't judge a book by it's cover.

Are there abuses of wheel chairs and service dogs? Absolutely. But I just don't understand getting all upset about it. I simply assume that the guest needs the wheelchair for a good reason and if I see someone with a tiny lap dog I will assume that dog is there for a good reason. It's better for my blood pressure, LOL!

Thank you for a very rational comment. My wife is one of those wheelchair guests who can walk a little, but not a lot. So it is use a wheelchair or not go.