Service dogs at DL

[karliebug]

We are going to DL with our service dog in training in July. Does anyone have any tips for us or experiences to share? I am planning on getting him boots to wear so the pavement doesn't burn his feet. I am concerned about the heat ( for him and us) so I will make sure we have lots of water. What else do I need to know?

 

[mjh2901]

I travel with my non service dog ( golden retriever ) and always get there a half hour before opening to get one of the 5 large dog run kennels at the kennel club... You might want to do that just so you have a place If the park gets to crowded. Also remember that doggy play area is there if your dog needs some time to cool off and go off leash bathroom and run after a ball or two. I have met service dog owners kenneling there dogs so the dog can relax because they thought the park was to nuts. .. When Disneyland is at capacity there are a lot of out of control stroller pushers and your dog will get hit.

Weekdays i think should fine though. I like the bootie idea and bringing lots of water. Remember to refill at drinking fountains and water both you and your companion. Consider a spray bottle so you can spray his head and neck to assist with cooking, a wet bandana around the neck may not be a bad idea either. However if you have a retriever and the day passes 90, it starts getting dangerous no matter what you do. You know your dogs limits, that's why I recommend setting up at the kennel club.

Park in Mickey and friends, the tram is dog friendly to all and have better loading options.

Dca has wider walk ways spreading people out making moving around easier. With tough to be a bug, muppet theatre and Aladdin you have a lot of lengthy air conditioned attractions to relax both you and your dog in the afternoon.

I hope this helps.

 

[mjh2901]

Oh yeah I forgot. Have your shot records, I keep mine laminated in the car. I dont care if its a service animal or not. Shot records in hand smooth over a lot of issues. You might not be asked since it is a service dog in training but if you are asked (inappropriate or not I am not sure the law) its easier to just show them off then argue with someone. They are required at the kennel club. I just don't leave home without them.

 

[lalasmama]

Based on the comment about buying boots for your pup, I'm guessing you are planning on taking him in the parks with you?

If so, I believe there are rules about what rides he can go on, from a safety issue. I believe he will be allowed on anything without a height restriction. The DISabilities forum would have better information on this, though.

 

[karliebug]

Yes, he will be coming into parks with us. I have read info about what rides he can go on and which ones we will have to do. Rider switch for. I wonder if a raincoat is a good idea? Does it rain as often at DL as it does in FL?

 

[3disneykidz]

we always bring our daughter's service dog to WDW. We dont' use boots on him. We make sure is paws are doing ok through out the day. We also buy cream for his paws.

Bring a cooling coat I bought ours at Petsmart. It came in really handy for Crosby he is a black lab.

I wouldn't get a dog a rain coat since he is in training it needs to get used to walking in the rain. just bring a towel.

The dog can go on a most of the rides as well. If the dog can't go on it then you can do a rider swap. Keep in mind that the castmembers are not allowed to take charge of the dog in anyway.

Bring the dogs puppy in training jacket and leash as the dog needs to be in both all the time.

bring a waterbowl but in the parks you really dont' need to bring water, castmemebers will give you a bottle or a bowl of tap water for the dog.

Bring his shot records is you are going to board him as they will ask and the one that is manditory is the kennel cough one. Also make sure he is free of fleas or they will give him a bath and charge you for a flea bath.

You also cannot leave the dog untended in the hotels/resorts he must be with you at all times.

at the first park you go to go to guest service and get a map as to where you can take the do to get a break and to water him.

be prepared to get stopped a lot and asked if you can pet the dog, we get this all the time and we usually never allow him to be petted

feel free to pm me as we take our Crosby every year without problems.