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ohioMickey
12-23-2001, 01:51 AM
Just back from a wonderful 12 day trip to VWL.

We had a 5th floor room overlooking the woods between the resort and Bay Lake. On one of our last days, i was out on the patio early in the morning gawking at the forested scenery before me. What a wonderful sight for the soul. Feeling at peace, I stretched, smiled, and looked straight down over the balcony at the thin ribbon of green grass between the building and the woods. What do i see?

a little white poodly-type dog taking a pee!!!! Then the owner picked it up and carried it into his villa!!!!

Hmmmmm..... poodle helper dog???? or the reason maintenance on points is already increasing????

Did I approach the frontdesk about my finding? no. Should I have? probably. Instead, I forgot about it and took my kids to the Magic Kingdom.

chris1gill
12-23-2001, 07:20 AM
OH MY:confused:

Glad to hear your vacation was so wonderful though... About the dog... I just can't believe anyone would do that... What's the world coming to... A dog in the villa :(

DVC-Don
12-23-2001, 07:40 AM
I would have called.

Olaf
12-23-2001, 08:26 AM
We're just back from our first visit home at VWL. The person who occupied our one-bedroom immediately before us, had obviously smoked in a nonsmoking room. It took us days to get the smell out. Why do people have to break the rules?

I would have definitely called the front desk. We would have loved to have brought out miniture doxie with us to WDW. Instead, we left him at the local kennel.

:(

slimplaw
12-23-2001, 08:57 AM
I have seen poodles used as service dogs for deaf individuals. More than likely though this was not the case.

timC
12-23-2001, 09:10 AM
Every trip is a struggle for my wife, to leave our shutzu behind (she does), so I can certainly understand the motivation behind someone sneaking in their "baby". IMO I don't think a little poodle who appears to be trained is going to drive up maintenance fees any more than real children who tend to bounce off the walls in excitement.

If they get caught I think the embarrassment and the forced complication of finding boarding for the dog, would be a hefty and expensive punishment for their mis-conduct. I wouldn't wish that on them.

If they were causing direct damage to property I would certainly inform management.

roelongo
12-23-2001, 09:48 AM
I think that is extremely rude! I am very allergic to dogs and if I got the room after them my allergies would start up just because the dog was in the room. I would be very upset that MY vacation was ruined because of an inconsiderate person.

Regina
12-23-2001, 09:53 AM
Disney has plenty of kennels onsite for this purpose.

I would have called to report it.

Olaf, I can sympathize about smokers using non-smoking rooms. We had the same problem with the Disney cruise. Not only the cabin smell of smoke, there was a cigarette burn in the curtain.

:mad: :mad: :mad: :mad: :mad:

pluto109
12-23-2001, 10:21 AM
it has been reported..disney reads these boards every day:)

Dean
12-23-2001, 10:29 AM
Apparently this has been a problem at HH far more than at WDW. I too would have reported it. Unless they could address it with the offending member, it's mostly a moot point.

Mickbee
12-23-2001, 10:52 AM
I have zero toleration for this behavior! :mad: I think it is completely inconsiderate to other members and I wish DVC would make a conscious effort to crack down on this.

We are also pet owners and we board our pets to visit WDW. It is a sacrifice we make to visit. We love our pets, but are not the type people that sleep with our pets or allow them free run of the house and furniture. Why should we tolerate someone else's pets in our home?

We would all like to assume that Fifi is a spotless little pooch that is bathed daily and wears a flea collar, but the fact of the matter is we just don't know. I personally do not want to worry about the possibility of Fifi relieving himself on the carpet when the owners are having fun in the parks. There are plenty of roach motels that would welcome Fifi. Regardless of how clean the owners of Fifi may believe he, it is not their right to disregard this policy put in place for all of us.

I had an unfortunate experience of staying in a resort (non-Disney) in the past that someone smuggled their dog in. Within one hour of check in, my legs were getting extremely itchy. I looked down in horror to see my white socks were crawling with a tens of fleas! No exaggeration. Needless to say I immediately flew down to the front desk and explained the situation and they calmly said that on occasion people sneak their pets in and this does happen. Needless to say I was out of there.

Also, my place of business is located next to a motel. From my office window I see people sneaking their pets into the rooms constantly.

I believe this is a rule that should not be compromised because someone doesn't want to leave their beloved pooch behind. The choice is simple; STAY HOME!

We all have invested a significant amount of cash into our investment of DVC and take a great deal of pride and joy in it. Regardless of how small Fifi may be, it doesn't make it right!

Sorry for the rant and I know there are worse things in the world that someone could do but this is just strikes a nerve with me.

OhioMickey, Glad to hear you had a great trip. We were down there at the same time. The weather was great last week!

ncligs
12-23-2001, 10:57 AM
I would have reported it as soon as I seen it. People of today have no regards for other people ( smokers, pets, etc). This person should be contacted by DVC even now by a letter, informing them that it better ever not happen again, or there will be consequences (evicted from their location (OKW,VB,BWV,VWL,HH). Some people are so rude and ignorant that they have to be told, or they will keep on breaking the rules of DVC.:(

Eeyore2U
12-23-2001, 11:13 AM
We as members SHOULD be mad. But what if it wasn't member and the ressie was made through CRO. Do we ban the person from WDW?? ;)

The punishment should fit the crime. :D

iluvdisney
12-23-2001, 11:35 AM
I, too, have to wonder how they smuggled in the dog. I also have a small dog and wouldn't think of doing that, even tho it is very hard to leave her behind, not to mention how mad she gets at me! But, I do have to wonder how they kept the dog from barking or even whimpering. Sounds like a real mystery to me. But I do have to agree, it is stated that no animals are to be on DVC property. Unless they live there already, like the salamanders (is that what they are?) and bunnies.

fklhou
12-23-2001, 12:51 PM
The person should had been reported immediatedly. There are many people with dog allergies and this can cause a problem. There are some nice kennals just down the road from VWL and Ft. Wilderness that my wife has used.

It is people like this that ruin the expierence for everyone else. Thre was a debate on this on either the community board or the debate board in which a person first posted that she had kept her dog in the room and then wanted people to agree with her that she was right to do so. She was shocked to find out that people thought that she was wrong.

PamOKW
12-23-2001, 01:37 PM
She was shocked to find out that people thought that she was wrong.

That seems to happen a lot with rule bending and breaking....if others on the board don't back them up they take offense.

As much as I love poodles, rules are rules and all pets are not allowed (except service animals). I don't think I would have made a federal case out of it by investigating room number etc., but I might mention something at the desk...."Are dogs allowed in the villas?" When they say no. I'd mention that I had seen a dog and that's why I was asking.

sgtpet
12-23-2001, 01:38 PM
Report it. It is unacceptable.

Beth
12-23-2001, 01:50 PM
Olaf.

It's my understanding that, if someone requests a smoking room, and there are none available at the time of check-in, then they are "allowed" to smoke in their non-smoking room. So, it's "possible," but not likely, that the previous occupants weren't breaking the rules.

If that's the case - then Housekeeping could have/should have tried to "oxidize" the room before you took occupancy.

We were assigned a smoking 3BR at OKW once when no non-smoking villas were available - and they offered to provide that service for us.

Just a thought....

BobH
12-24-2001, 08:02 AM
I would suggest that the people who brought the poodle are probably very well aware that room services at the DVC are every 4th day. Therefore DVC appeals to them because they can leave the poodle in their room rather than at a kennel. If they were at a regular hotel they would be busted the first day. I appreciate their love of their pet but they should be reported immediately before we turn a beautiful resort into a second class kennel! Not every pet owner will take care of the cleanliness of their pet. I don't wish to sleep in the same bed as someone's dog! Fleas are not in my DVC contract.

DownNeckBoy
12-24-2001, 09:26 PM
I agree with Bob H that the poodle owner knew of the prohibition and took the pooch anyway. I've seen dogs brought into all types of places where I would normally not expect a dog. It does not surprise me that it was done at the resort.

I do not know whether the owner was staying on points or not. What I do know is that he or she absolutely counted on not being reported promptly to the resort's staff. Not reporting him or her merely encourages this behavior.

What someone else pointed out in an earlier reply is that WDW has very nice kennels available. I was discussing this with my BIL, who will be travelling to FW in early July. He will be boarding the family dog at the WDW kennel, as he has done in the past. This is the only fair solution to all concerned, including the dog.

BTW, I have owned several dogs in the past. Whenever I traveled, they were boarded at the local kennel. Anyway, this was not meant to be Scrooge-like. I just found the thread interesting. Merry Christmas to all!!!

:jester:

POOH&PIGLET
12-26-2001, 08:42 AM
I would have found out the room number & reported it immediately. :mad: :mad: :mad:

spiceycat
12-26-2001, 02:35 PM
I love my cat - but rules are rules - he stays at WDW kennels - Epcot and Fort Wilderness - the others don't have enough walking room for him. He loves being there - he is generally the only cat and gets alot of attention. The staff at the WDW kennels are very good. there is no reason not to leave your pet with them.

there were alot of hotels in Kissimmee that used to take pets - Holiday Inn, Hyatt, Comfort Inn, Homewood suites, - you were surpose to pay extra for this - now only a couple still do - because people didn't want to pay extra and try to kept the pet in the room anyway.

However I am looking forward to staying at HRH because they allow pets in the room.

Margie J
12-26-2001, 09:37 PM
That sounds like the same dog I saw at the All Stars on 12/6. :mad: It was a very cute little dog. A young woman was making him poop and play on the grass one evening. Then she brought him upstairs into the room.

pluto109
12-26-2001, 09:50 PM
dog owners beware ...you will be reported...:) :) :) :D :D :D

dianeschlicht
12-27-2001, 07:55 AM
We have been to Florida numerous times for dog shows and have included a WDW trip before returning to the cold of Minnesota. One year we had 3 dogs with us, and the certificates given out by the WDW kennels were numerous enough to wall paper the kennel when we got home!:D The kennels and their attendants are VERY good. They even gave one of ours who happened to be in heat, extra bedding so she wouldn't soil herself. It was even a nice break to go visit the dogs each day. Now we no longer try to do both of these activities together. When we travel to WDW, the dogs stay home, and when we travel to dog shows, we skip WDW!;)

fklhou
12-27-2001, 09:42 AM
My wife was at a dog show in Orlando last June and after the show made ia trip over to WDW. The dogs were kept at the kennels at Ft. Wilderness and she also was impressed. We would not bring the dogs on a regular trip but for a short stay, the kennels are great.

d-r
12-27-2001, 11:00 AM
The kennels at wdw are nice, but I wish that there was a wdw resort that allowed dogs of all sizes. I think it would be a nice plus. When traveling we sometimes bring our dog along and enjoy staying at enlightened hotels that allow dogs (many hotels, ranging from holiday inn express and red roof inns to the ritz carlton and four seasons allow dogs). We were excited to learn that hard rock hotel would allow dogs, only to be disappointed that they allow only miniature dogs. We keep planning to visit dollywood in Tennessee, a theme park that allows dogs, but haven't managed it yet. Our vet's assistant house sits for us when we visit walt disney world (our dog would be plenty depressed to sleep in a kennel), but I wish that at wdw you could kennel your dog during the day and return with him to your room at night at least in one on property resort (not necessarily dvc of course). We've toyed with the idea of buying an rv, but don't want to miss out on resorts. I understand that some people don't like dogs, so that is why I wish there was a single designated resort so that people could choose around it if they wanted. I think it would be a huge plus, and it wouldn't hurt anyone if there was only one resort to pick from.

DR

PS - when we first checked about hrh, it was for only little dogs, but they may have changed; I checked today to remember what the weight limit was and found this:

http://www.loewshotels.com/hotels/orlando_hard_rock/programs_pets.asp

Patabel
12-27-2001, 12:31 PM
...the bigger issue is allergies to dog/cat dander, fleas, and people who have pets that aren't completely housebroken.

My mom is EXTREMELY allergic to cats and dogs. It would only take a couple of minutes in a room that had previously had a dog in it to make her face swell and constrict her breathing.

As for smoke, the last time we were at BWV, the non-smoking room just reeked of smoke. We immediately called housekeeping and they brought up the osmosis machine. We also asked them to change the room's airfilter. We went to the parks for the afternoon, and when we got back to the room it was just perfect!

TnRobin
12-27-2001, 01:32 PM
Allergies are definitely the issue. I am extremely allergic to dog dander. Althought I love dogs, I can not be around them for any period of time before my eyes start watering and I can not breathe. Imagine if I were to sleep on a bed where a dog had slept. I would probably wake-up in the middle of the night gasping for breath. I would have no idea why, because pets are not allowed in the rooms. Going to the ER is not a great way to start a vacation.

I understand the feelings of not wanting to leave your "baby" behind. I do have a cat. I can not bear to leave him in a kennel, thus I hire babysitters to check on and play with him while we are away.

fklhou
12-27-2001, 03:25 PM
The allergy issue is a serious problem for many people. There was a discussion about this on either the community or debate boards several months ago and these points were made to the person who was proud of herself for sneaking her dog into the room.

As to whether Disney should make provision for dogs, I think it would be a good idea so long as it is properly handled (i.e. there are ways of dealing with dandrull and certain rooms should be restricted from ever having dogs in them). Disney is hosting the national trial or show for Rottiwilers next year at one of the All stars. My DW and a friend are planning to bring our dogs for the herding competition and are planning to stay off property. She stayed at a nice La Quinta (who is very friendly to dog and dog shows) last June for a dog show in Orlando at the convention center and will probably do the same..

KNWVIKING
12-27-2001, 04:44 PM
I would have reported the dog- I don't like sneaks. But I'm curious about how the people with alergies feel about genuine service animals occupying the rooms. Does house keeping do anything special to the room after the animal checks out ? And what exactly is dander ?

I'm also curious how this person was able to guarantee themselves a ground floor room. Since planning went into their little caper, did they lie to MS about some medical concern that required first floor ? To what lengths did they go to hide dog food trash ? And wouldn't house keeping have noticed something when they were preparing the room for the next guest and report it to the front desk so they could contact the sneak and tell them not to ever do it again or bill them a fee to clean the room ?

Dean
12-27-2001, 05:39 PM
Originally posted by KNWVIKING
I'm also curious how this person was able to guarantee themselves a ground floor room. Since planning went into their little caper, did they lie to MS about some medical concern that required first floor ? To what lengths did they go to hide dog food trash ? And wouldn't house keeping have noticed something when they were preparing the room for the next guest and report it to the front desk so they could contact the sneak and tell them not to ever do it again or bill them a fee to clean the room ? We too are dog people but I feel there should be designated rooms and a cleaning plan to minimize the risk to those who are truly allergic. Otherwise it's much like smoking in a non smoking room.

ncligs
12-27-2001, 05:46 PM
I don't see where the argument is.If the rules state "no dogs" on DVC property, it is plain to see, their are no exceptions. If you can't follow rules, or can't leave your pet at home or kennel, then don't go!!!!!!!!!!!!
DVC resorts were built for people, not animals.:mad:

POOH&PIGLET
12-28-2001, 06:19 AM
Please no "pet-allowed rooms."
I stayed in a non-smoking room that someone had obviously smoked in. It was oxidized but that didn't do any good. You could still smell the smoke. There were no other non-smoking rooms available. We had to suffer.

I do have bad allergies which, trigger my asthma. The smell of cigarettes or animals stays long after the smoker or pet is gone. The smell of a pet or urine is too much to take.

d-r
12-28-2001, 07:03 AM
Originally posted by POOH&PIGLET
Please no "pet-allowed rooms."
I stayed in a non-smoking room that someone had obviously smoked in. It was oxidized but that didn't do any good. You could still smell the smoke. There were no other non-smoking rooms available. We had to suffer.

I do have bad allergies which, trigger my asthma. The smell of cigarettes or animals stays long after the smoker or pet is gone. The smell of a pet or urine is too much to take.

I don't think there is an argument here, of course people should stick with the rules and I wouldn't dream of bringing my dog to a resort that didn't allow them. I was saying that it would be nice if one resort was open to dogs. Then people who are allergic or afraid of dogs or just didn't want to see a dog or whatever could choose around it. That shouldn't hurt anyone.

As for non-disney, Leowes says that they have a special cleaning process for rooms that have had a pet. I'm not sure about the other hotel chains and mom and pops that allow pets. I would guess that if you stayed in a holiday inn express or la quinta or red roof inn or microtel or leowes or other hotel that allowed pets and your room seemed "dogged" they would move you - or if a service animal had been in a room at any hotel for that matter.

I'm sorry, this is off-topic for the dvc board, and I shouldn't have posted - it was just that when I read the original post I thought "if there was a resort that allowed dogs those people could have stayed there instead of sneaking."

DR

Richyams
12-28-2001, 07:59 AM
I just think it is amazing how everyone, and rightly so, steadfastly agrees that this rule should be followed. Yet there is another rule that many think is meaningless. I can't mention it, because my posts about it keep getting deleted, but here is a link:
The 'O' word debate (http://www.disboards.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=140007)

dianeschlicht
12-28-2001, 08:02 AM
I hear you, Rich. I agree that both of these are a flagrant slap at the rules.

WebmasterDoc
12-28-2001, 08:15 AM
This thread has begun to stray far from the original topic. Please keep comments on topic.

If you wish to comment on or discuss Rich's <a href="http://www.disboards.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=140007">Occupancy Debate</a>, please do so in that thread on the Debate Board.

Thanks!

lil mermaid
12-28-2001, 12:09 PM
that the poodle was a service animal. Many types of dogs, including poodles, are used as service animals.

If it wasn't...well, then of course the poodle shouldn't have been there. I would think that hiding a dog would cause someone to have a very stressful vacation, and wouldn't be much fun.

Dean
12-28-2001, 12:36 PM
Originally posted by POOH&PIGLET
Please no "pet-allowed rooms."
I stayed in a non-smoking room that someone had obviously smoked in. It was oxidized but that didn't do any good. You could still smell the smoke. There were no other non-smoking rooms available. We had to suffer.

I do have bad allergies which, trigger my asthma. The smell of cigarettes or animals stays long after the smoker or pet is gone. The smell of a pet or urine is too much to take. While I agree with you, it's not the smell per se that triggers the asthma or allergies. With pets, it's the dander and not the smell. There are another group that can really be bothered with the smells including perfume, smoke, etc; vasomotor rhinitis. And since there are really no good treatments, it might even be worse for some of them.

GAIL HAYDEN
12-28-2001, 01:11 PM
Usually a "service animal" wears something to identify the fact that they are a service animal. A harness, "vest" etc.
Yes, poodles are used often mainly because they are smart, non allegergetic (sp?), don't shed and generally clean. But, unless you keep them clean and keep up with external parasites, the fact that they are service animals does not make a difference to anyone. I am not allergic to pets, but, do have a severe reaction to flea bites. I also have a severe reaction to the room spray they use at Disney and the perfumes some people wear. Lets ban that too. :)
On the other hand, being small usually lends itself to be "snuck" into places where they are not allowed.
As to the "enlightened" pet friendly hotels (etc), I have been in some and have been bitten by fleas, grossed out by pet odors and had my clothes become magnets for animal hair/fur. I would hate to see Disney become "enlightened".
By the way, I have one dog and two cats, they need a vacation from me as much as I need a vacation from them. I have someone come in to keep them fed and exercised and to have company. I love animals (more than people even) but, as with anything, there is a time and place for everything. Disney resorts is neither the time or the place.
BTW, there are camping sites at WDW where pets are allowed.I would have reported this incident immediately, btw. Like Rich, I do like to see rules followed, however, I am not quite as "anal" as some here.

Johnnie Fedora
12-28-2001, 01:56 PM
If you have four persons in a one bedroom plus your pets, you could break two rules at the same time.:eek: :eek: :eek:

While I wouldn't want to deal with my dog on vacation, and would not like to see pets as guests......I think many pets can be cleaner guests than some humans.:D :D.

Figaro30
12-28-2001, 02:04 PM
Maybe the doggy wasn't actually an overnight guest but perhaps a daytime pooch visiting another guest just that day??? I would think if there was a dog STAYING in a room, how could you possibly hide this from housekeeping or other CM's???

ducklite
12-28-2001, 03:15 PM
Originally posted by GAIL HAYDEN
Usually a "service animal" wears something to identify the fact that they are a service animal. A harness, "vest" etc.
Yes, poodles are used often mainly because they are smart, non allegergetic (sp?), don't shed and generally clean. But, unless you keep them clean and keep up with external parasites, the fact that they are service animals does not make a difference to anyone.

Gail--I think you wree looking for allergenic :)

Anyhow, yes, most service dogs have a special harness that they wear while working. But they aren't always working. It is possible that the dog that was seen was a service dog and that it's owner was taking a rest and another person was taking the dog out for a potty break. But I doubt it for one reason. Most service dogs are bigger than a small dog which can easily be scooped up. Not all, but most. The most common type of dog for a service animal is the gold retreiver followed closely by the black lab. Their docile temperments and instinctive need to protect their charge (owner) make them especially suited for the job.

Other breeds used are collies, dobermans and shepards. Standard poodles are used sometimes, however they can be a tad skittish, which immediately precludes them from passing "basic training".

I believe that generally the people with service dogs are placed in handicap accesible rooms, although not always. I have a friend who visits WDW reguarly who uses a Dob for a service dog. They usually stay at CBR, and never in a handicap room. My friend actually finds it harder to navigate in one of these for some reason.

Anne

GAIL HAYDEN
12-28-2001, 04:09 PM
Anne,
Yes, that was the word I was looking for. Thank you.
Mini poodles are often used for the deaf, btw.
But, you are totally correct about the Goldens and Labs and, to a lesser degree, Shepards and Dobes.
And, to be sort of OT, monkeys are used also.
I also agree with Johnny, often pets are much cleaner than humans.

GAIL HAYDEN
12-28-2001, 04:11 PM
Figaro,
If the guests were staying on points, then they would only have to really worry about T&T day. Otherwise, it could be hidden, assuming it is quiet, which few poodles are. :(

Dizzy4Dizney
12-28-2001, 07:22 PM
I think it's terrible when anyone breaks the rules! It's very inconsiderate to people who are allergic to them and they are
contaminating the rooms. My nephew has severe allergies to dogs and if he as in a room that had a dog, he would have a terrible attack. I think anyone who sees people breaking the rules, they should be turned in.

BobH
12-28-2001, 07:26 PM
All this commentary over the dog issue - WOW!

ohioMickey
12-28-2001, 09:53 PM
BobH --

I agree. I had no idea.

QueenAnne
12-28-2001, 11:36 PM
I love dogs but rules are rules, if I have to follow them, so does everyone. I would have reported it.

Caskbill
12-29-2001, 09:02 AM
From the original post
and looked straight down over the balcony at the thin ribbon of green grass between the building and the woods. What do i see? .......a little white poodly-type dog taking a pee!!!! Then the owner picked it up and carried it into his villa!!!!



While the focus of this thread has been about the dog in the room, what about this? And dogs don't just pee !

I'm not sure exactly where this was, but can this strip of grass also be used by small children playing?

No dogs allowed means just that! If I ever see it happen, you'd better believe it'll get reported. Just think, if dogs are OK at the resort, then aren't also cats, hamsters, guinnea pits, snakes, frogs.....all allowed? It's no longer be a resort, it'd be a zoo.

As already mentioned, rules are rules. I don't bring any of my 5 cats down. A dog is no more welcomed....

If someone must have their dog, then they should buy an RV and stay at Fort Wilderness in one of the pet loops....

ncligs
12-29-2001, 09:09 AM
Caskbill, We agree 100% with everything you said. We have a small dog, and would never even"think" to bring her to a DVC Resort.:D

KaraKW
12-29-2001, 08:56 PM
There was someone at OKW this past July who brought their dog with them when I was there. :mad: I didn't report it, though, because I had no idea what room this person was staying in.

BTW, I was thinking it's probably pretty hard to sneak a pet into BWV (my home resort)...has anyone ever seen a pet there?????

Kara :wave:

DaveH
12-30-2001, 10:03 AM
Does Disney have certain rooms for service dogs so someone with an allergy can request not to get any of those rooms? Just a thought.

GAIL HAYDEN
12-30-2001, 03:38 PM
Dave,
I was thinking the same thing, as wonderful as service dogs are, they do have fur and they do cause allergic reactions.

BobH
12-31-2001, 10:49 AM
I took the liberty of emailing member services to find out what they might say regarding allowing pets in DVC rooms and whether they make exceptions for owners who use pets to overcome handicaps.

Kronk281
12-31-2001, 11:00 AM
Good idea Bob. I would imagine that animals are not allowed seeing how they have such nice facilities for pets. I would think that Disney would accomidate service animals for those who need them.

Humphrey Bear
01-01-2002, 10:22 AM
It is amazing how some people are so selfish and are willing to break the rules no matter how it effects others! We are dog lovers and would never think of sneaking our dog into a hotel. That being said, we did have to travel with our Chocolate Lab once and had to stay in a hotel. The Residence Inn we stayed at had strict rules covering this. The reservation had to be made in advance, we had to leave an extra deposit on our Visa to cover damage, and we had to pay a $50.00 fee to cover special cleaning of the room. They also told us that they used certain rooms for people that had dogs in order to minimize allergy problems. We felt that this was more than fair and used this hotel because of this, but to sneak in an animal is just plain wrong.

LindaDVC
01-01-2002, 03:27 PM
RE:I took the liberty of emailing member services to find out what they might say regarding allowing pets in DVC rooms and whether they make exceptions for owners who use pets to overcome handicaps.

We travel to DVCs regularly with my husbands service dog.
We always tell MS when we make a reservation and it is also written on our confirmation that he will be accompanying us. Service dogs are welcome by Disney at the parks as well as all resorts. The CMs at parks offer us water, offer assistance in finding places for a "break" and the policies welcoming them are clearly written in the disability guidelines booklets written by Disney. (won't even address the ADA laws). Just glancing in the DVC book I found many pages that welcome service dogs. They are on pages 69,75,77,112, and 123!

Previous "pet" dogs stayed home during vacations but our service dog is welcome. Disney does have a list of rides that they allow and don't allow dogs on-- reviewing the list they were very appropriate not allowing them on "scary" fast paced rides that could disorient the dog.

Linda

SueM in MN
01-01-2002, 04:52 PM
I was also going to mention that the DVC member handbook addresses service dogs quite well, but LindaDVC beat me to it.

Beachangel
01-01-2002, 07:38 PM
As an allergic, asthmatic dog owner & DVC owner, I would not report it. Glad to hear OhioMickey that you didn't run to the desk to report the perpetrator!

Dean
01-01-2002, 09:11 PM
While I don't want to get into the room occupancy per se, it's amazing to me that there were many members openly touting violation of the rules in that area. I agree, rules are rules and they should be followed by MS, the resorts and the members.

Granny
01-02-2002, 07:05 AM
Originally posted by BobH
All this commentary over the dog issue - WOW! I think that any thread that deals with people breaking the DVC rules will bring this kind of response.

We all signed the papers and agreed to the rules. Sometimes, those rules are not convenient or easy to live with every trip, but we abide by the rules because we agreed to do so, and it is the right thing to do.

So when there are reports of rule abusers, people rightly get their backs up over them. Especially when there are people who brag about "beating the system".

ohioMickey....when I first read your thread, I was thinking, "what would I do" if I saw the same thing. Frankly, I probably would have done the same thing as you did....nothing. After all, I first saw this as someone just violating a rule so why get them in trouble. I didn't even think about the allergies and such. I can safely say now that if I see such an infraction in the future, I will promptly report it.

I would look at it as doing a service for my fellow members and other guests.

niks81
01-02-2002, 07:25 AM
I cannot believe how many responses this thread has gotten! However, I do think it is good to generate conversation on this topic. I don't really agree with breaking the rules either, but I do wish that DVC would incorporate at least one resort or a section of each resort for pets. I have a very small dog, one that requires a great deal of attention and I would love nothing more than to bring her with. However I do not want to violate any rules or offend any members because we all pay our dues here. I just think that having one of the new resorts or incorporating a wing of each resort for pets would be a good idea overall because then people with service dogs could use that resort/section too and those with allergies would not be affected. This gives options for members and eliminates unnecessary rule breaking which will affect someone else (with allergies) in the long run. I think that since we are all going to be in DVC for the next 40 years it would be nice to have the option if we want to bring our pet with. For me, I will probably not vacation every year at the DVC resorts because of this very reason and I won't break the rules to harm anyone else's health. I guess I just think it would be a nice option to have for everyone because we are given a choice of bringing a pet and also, those with health issues won't be affected like they are now--there wouldn't be a reason to break the rules! JMHO....but until this is incorporated my precious dog will be at home!!! :)

sgtpet
01-02-2002, 08:15 AM
Flat out they should not!!! It is not allowed. I didn't pay x dollars for them to bend the rules. i have family that is allergic to dogs and cats and no matter how much they clean the rooms the smell of the animals still remains. they have kennels for dogs. they have okw, bwv, hh, vb, and vwl for humans.

ducklite
01-02-2002, 12:12 PM
I wouldn't have a problem with a section of a DVC resort being set aside for pet owners if the following were adhered to:

First complaint of noise, pet is sent to the kennel. Period, no second chance.

Pet restrained on leash at all times, no matter "how friendly" it is.

Pet NOT in any common areas not specifically designated to "pet area" including grass, lobby, walkways, etc.

Dogs must be muzzled when not in room.

Pet area in most remote section of resort, well away from all other rooms.

Pet walk area set back away from resort, and in an area where other guests will not see, smell or hear that it is there.

Pet owners must clean up after their pet. Fines imposed on those who do not.

Pet owners must purchase points specifically set aside in those pet rooms, and must stay in those rooms when using those points whether pet is with them at the time or not.

Pet rooms are open for all pets, regardless of type, as long as it's not an aggressive/wild animal. So if you are allergic to cats, but have a dog, too bad. Deal with it.

Pet room points will have a higher initial cost as well as higher annual dues. These higher fees will offset higher expenses for planning, construction, cleaning, liability insurance, maintenance, etc.

A credit card guarantee or cash deposit must be given at check-in towards damage or fines associated with rule breaking. No credit card? Cash deposit would be returned in form of a check within three weeks of check out.

All pets must be crated when left in room while owner is not also in room. This will cut down on potential damage and liability.

Owner signs liability waiver at time of check-in.

These points can not be rented. Pets not belonging to DVC members or their guests staying WITH THEM (DVC owner must also be staying in unit) are not allowed.

Pet must be up-to-date on all vaccinations and have a current health certificate from vet (issued not more then ten days before commencing travel). Pets must be free of fleas and other parasites.

Basically, if I don't see it, hear it, smell it, incur liability for it, incur expense for it, and don't lose the better rooms for it (viewwise and such), I don't care that it is there. Otherwise, no way.

Anne

niks81
01-02-2002, 12:31 PM
I agree, ducklite. I love my dog, but I do not want to see, hear or smell anyone else's pet and I'm sure they'd feel likewise about mine. The bottom line is that these resorts are for humans, not pets. However, I think that if there were pet rooms they should be in the most remote portion of the resort and fines and rules should be strictly enforced. Basically, it would just be a nice option for those that would enjoy bringing their pets along, be it just for the pet's enjoyment or just to avoid the kennels. It would also really help out those individuals with allergies I think--I would have to say it would lessen the number of people that break that rule.

dtheboys
01-02-2002, 12:50 PM
Plain and simple, Just keep your dog at home or in a kennel.
I don't want my kids walking around a room w/ wet bare feet that a dog just was on!
This is a hotel!
I hope that Disney never has an area in the hotel w/ dogs.
We all know that dogs will bark, poop, smell etc.
I have a dog, so don't get upset with me. I just feel that we need to understand that a hotel is for people not for animals.
The person who had the dog in there room should be billed for a carpet cleaning.
Thanks for listening!

kozmo
01-02-2002, 12:57 PM
Disney has kennels,NICE kennels i might add,i would love to bring my dog and i have actually experienced illness about leaving her and would bring her and put her in disney kennel ,if i didnt always have a car full And no one would complain:D .

sgtpet
01-02-2002, 01:51 PM
I would ask for all of my money back before I paid any dues for an additional upkeep area for pets. Give me a break. Kennel = dogs, DVC = humans.

Love your pets and take them places just not at DVC.

niks81
01-02-2002, 02:21 PM
sgtpet--This is just a mere suggestion and will probably never go into place...settle down! That is what this board is for....

As far as the dues go, ducklite made the suggestion that the people with pets would have to buy separate points and pay much higher dues...therefore this would never affect you. But again, this was just a thought and by no means should be taken so seriously.

spiceycat
01-02-2002, 02:38 PM
disney policy at FW where they do allow pets - is if you are not there you pet is in the kennel that is a GOOD rule and much better than leaving the animal in a strange room alone even in a crate.

the wdw kennels already have rules that your pet must have shots and a certificated letter (my is a pamplet) from your vet - with his name and signature, and his phone number. if your pet does not have these (while are you taking your animal anywhere) they are put outside and the kennel people do not come near them - their safety plus the other animals.

DaveH
01-02-2002, 04:15 PM
I know that service dogs are welcomed all over WDW and at the DVC resorts. I think that is great and it is the right of anyone needing the use of a service animal can enjoy WDW like the rest of us. My question for Disney in general is do they try to use certain rooms for folks that need service animals so that folks with alergies can ask for a room not used by the animals so that both groups ccan have a great time. My understanding of this thread is the thoughtlessness of someone breaking the rules and possibly putting someone else at risk. I would hate to loose my wife because someone snuck an animal into a room. The question I have for anyone who thinks it is ok to sneak an animal into a room would they like to loose a love one in this manner?

BobH
01-02-2002, 04:18 PM
Linda thank you for the clarification on the use of "service dogs" for those who require them. This is what I suspected the "policy" would be. Hopefully this is a proper end to this lengthy discussion. Pets are inappropriate at DVC. Dogs used for special purposes are permitted (as they should be) and hopefully DVC resorts take the appropriate cleaning precautions for those with allergies. I would suspect that they do.

PamOKW
01-02-2002, 04:20 PM
Dave -- I don't know for sure, but I would assume that certain handicap rooms are probably designated for the service animals.

ducklite
01-02-2002, 05:39 PM
I have a friend who uses a service dog due to severe visual impairment. He has stayed in several WDW resorts, and has specifically requested to NOT be in a handicapped room, it's actually harder for him to navigate. He has never been in a handicapped accessible room, and due to asthma has always been in a non-smoking room.

I don't know what they do to clean the room after he leaves. The housekeepers certainly know there is a dog staying in the room, as the food and water bowls as well as the dog's "blankie" are on the floor.

Anne

BobH
01-03-2002, 06:32 PM
This is the reply I received from Member Services:

"Pets are not allowed at any DVC resorts. If you do have a service animal for a handicapped person, DVC does welcome these animals. All animals must remain on
a leash or harness."

Johnnie Fedora
01-03-2002, 09:04 PM
I can not believe all these posts!! Personally, unless I saw the dog tearing up the place or keeping me up at night, I would leave it up to security to handle this type of situation. Disney has many eyes.

I don't think dogs are a good idea at DVC, but I might prefer the occasional pet to nosey neighbors checking up on me to see which DVC rules I may be breaking. What's next??, paper in the aluminum recycling bin??, heaven forbid.........Just say NO to the Kravets factor at DVC.

I know allergies can be serious for a few people, but I think the allergy danger is a little exagerated here.

I'll have to check the next time I'm at the danderfilled Animal Kingdom, but from the impression given in this post, I'd expect to see hundreds of allergic people being hauled away on stretchers. ;) ;) :D :D

Dean
01-04-2002, 06:59 AM
Some do have very serious allergies to dogs. I know my daughter has life a threatening asthmatic reaction to cats. Besides someone breaking the rules intentionally is a liar and I'd just as soon not have them at my home away from home anyway. As our recent times have emphasized to us, you can't do just anything you want without considering the consequences to others. And yes, people are watching, now more than ever. The times of just looking the other way are hopefully over. So if you smoke on the balcony of a non smoking room, expect the SWAT team to burst through the door and do their duty. LOL.

jennybobenny
01-04-2002, 07:45 AM
I've been allergic to dogs and cats my whole life. Unfortunately I also have asthma so an allergic reaction for me is more than a few sniffles, hives and a sneeze or two. Avoiding animals is something you get used to after a while but non-allergic people really have no idea the extra steps one has to take to keep from getting into a bad situation. When I was younger I had to skip sleepovers and birthday parties and even now as an adult I need to find out ahead of time if I'm walking into a home with pets.

For the record, let me clarify - I've looked into non-allergic dogs and poodles. I've had weekly shots. I've tried all sorts of medication. I'd *love* to get a dog. My husband grew up with a family dog. My mother-in-law lives alone and would love to have a dog. Unfortunately I'm allergic to all types of dogs, and nothing can change that.

As for bringing dogs to DVC resorts -- would it bother me to stay next door to a dog? No. Would it bother me to sit next to a dog outside in the fresh air? No. Would it bother me to stay in a room where a dog/cat had been staying? Yes, yes, yes. Depending on how well the room was cleaned, my reaction could range from minimal (needing to use an inhaler to breathe) to major (a trip to the emergency room).

I don't expect other people to make accomodations for my allergies (except in the case of my mother-in-law, assuming she wants us to make regular visits ;) ). But in this case we're talking about others breaking the rules by 'sneaking' pets into a room. It may seem like 'no big deal' at the time but who knows what could happen after the fact. I would have 'ratted' out the family with the dog in a heartbeat.

d-r
01-04-2002, 10:49 AM
I would agree with most of this, except I'm curious about....

Originally posted by ducklite
I wouldn't have a problem with a section of a DVC resort being set aside for pet owners if the following were adhered to:


Pet owners must purchase points specifically set aside in those pet rooms, and must stay in those rooms when using those points whether pet is with them at the time or not.


Why would you need special points? In 40 years someone who doesn't plan to bring a pet might change their minds, whereas someone who does now won't have that pet in 40 years. Why be inflexible? This doesn't make sense to me.


Pet room points will have a higher initial cost as well as higher annual dues. These higher fees will offset higher expenses for planning, construction, cleaning, liability insurance, maintenance, etc.

A credit card guarantee or cash deposit must be given at check-in towards damage or fines associated with rule breaking. No credit card? Cash deposit would be returned in form of a check within three weeks of check out.


I have no problem with paying a depost when we stay in a hotel with our dog. Also, sometimes hotels charge a flat fee, either once or per night. I think that is fine. I'm not sure though why you would have higher rates <strong> and a deposit</strong>. I think it would make more sense to use regular points, and pay a deposit and / or a fee per stay with a pet than to charge more for points up front. By the same token, a non-dvc resort could open a pet area, and charge a deposit and/or fee. If it was going to be at a dvc resort, I don't think they should create a new type of points that could only be used there. Maybe those rooms could cost more points per night.

I would completely agree with you that everything else seems reasonable (whether it was dvc or not) for a hotel to ask -

DR