Disney defines a service animal as a dog or miniature horse that is “trained to do work or perform tasks for, and to assist, an individual with a disability.” Service animals are welcome at most Disney World resort locations. However, there are a few things you should be aware of when bringing your animal with you to The World. Thus, here’s what you need to know for service animals in Disney World!
Restricted Locations
Service animals in Disney World should remain on a leash or harness and under owner control at all times. They are not permitted in any water features on property and are restricted from experiencing some attractions. If you wish to ride a restricted attraction, see a Cast Member at the entrance! Your service animal can be placed in a portable kennel or you can opt for Rider Switch with another member of your party. Here is a list of restricted attractions by park:
Magic Kingdom
- Seven Dwarves Mine Train
- Space Mountain
- Splash Mountain
- Big Thunder Mountain Railroad
- Peter Pan’s Flight
- The Barnstormer
Epcot
Hollywood Studios
- Rock ‘n’ Rollercoaster Starring Aerosmith
- The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror
- Alien Swirling Saucers
- Slinky Dog Dash
- Star Tours- The Adventure Continues
Animal Kingdom
- The aviary area of the Maharaja Jungle Trek
- Affection Section at Rafiki’s Planet Watch
- Primeval Whirl
- DINOSAUR
- Kali River Rapids
- Expedition Everest- Legend of the Forbidden Mountain
- Avatar Flight of Passage
Permitted with Caution Locations
There are some locations within the Disney World resort that you can bring your service animals. However, it is suggested that you speak to a Cast Member before experiencing the attraction. These rides have certain boarding procedures:
Magic Kingdom
- Stitch’s Great Escape (temporary closed)
- Prince Charming Regal Carousel
Epcot
Hollywood Studios
Animal Kingdom
Service Animal Relief Areas
Your service animals in Disney World will need to relieve themselves at some point! Don’t worry, Disney has designated grassy areas throughout each of the parks. These locations are:
Magic Kingdom
- Adventureland: adjacent to the Pirates of the Caribbean
- Frontierland: near the Big Thunder Mountain Railroad
- Liberty Square: behind the Liberty Tree Tavern
- Fantasyland: near the Walt Disney World Railroad
- Tomorrowland: By Space Mountain Restrooms
Epcot
- Future World East: next to the restrooms behind MouseGear
- Future World West: next to the Imagination! restrooms
- United Kingdom: right of restrooms
- The space between the Outpost and Germany Pavilion
Hollywood Studios
- In the courtyard of First Aid
- Animation Courtyard: near the Walt Disney Presents entrance
Animal Kingdom
- Discovery Island: near First Aid
- DinoLand USA: next to the planter at the Restaurantosarus restrooms
- Asia: right of the planter at Maharajah Jungle Trek restrooms
- Rafiki’s Planet Watch: right of the planter at Conservation Station entrance
- Pandora: on path near the Satuʻli Canteen
Tips for Service Animals in Disney World
- Watch your animals in the heat. Florida can be very, very hot and humid. Be sure to give your service animal plenty of breaks from the heat.
- Keep them hydrated. Your service animal will need plenty of water (especially if it is hot and humid!). Like you, they can also take advantage of free water at the counter service locations!
- Know your animal. Unless your service animal is a seasoned Disney World veteran, then they may not be amenable to experiencing every attraction or show (think fireworks!). If they cannot go on a ride, then you can take advantage of the Rider Switch program!
- Prepare for crowds and long days. It can be difficult to navigate Disney World on those crowded days, so be sure your service animal knows basic commands, like to heel. Additionally, bring along plenty of food and anything else they may need if you plan on staying out all day!
If you need additional information, contact Disability Services at (406) 560-2547 or email disability.services@disneyparks.com.
If you’d prefer to have your service animal stay in a doggy daycare facility or plan on bringing your pet to Disney World, then check out latest post!
Until next time! Cheers!!