If you've ever thought about bringing your dog to Walt Disney World but weren't sure what the experience would actually look like, one family's recent stay at Disney's Port Orleans Resort – Riverside offers a pretty clear picture. They brought along Phoebe, a 4.5-pound long-coat Chihuahua and veteran traveler, for her very first Walt Disney World vacation — and by the sound of it, she settled in just fine.
At check-in, Cast Members welcomed Phoebe warmly and presented the family with Pluto's Welcome Kit, which included a yellow water bowl with a bone pattern, a food mat, a Walt Disney World dog tag for her collar, and poop bags. Their Royal Room was spotless — no indication it regularly hosts four-legged guests — and the Princess Tiana theming made it feel especially personal for at least one member of the family. Dogs are welcome throughout the resort grounds, with the exception of pool and dining areas, and pet relief stations are clearly marked on the resort map.
Mornings were the highlight for Phoebe's owner. The two would settle on a bench along the resort's walking paths — which the family specifically praised as ideal for dog-owning guests — while Phoebe took in the passing people, other dogs, squirrels, and even the resort's horses. During park days, Phoebe stayed in the room and, according to her family, happily caught up on sleep. The family also noted that plenty of other guests were traveling with dogs, all leashed and handled respectfully.
One piece of feedback the family offered for Disney's pet program: expand it to more resorts. For their next dog-friendly Disney stay, they're eyeing Fort Wilderness, though they'd happily return to Port Orleans – Riverside, citing its walking paths as a particular draw for pet families.
Planning Your Trip
Undercover Tourist is an authorized seller of Walt Disney World tickets, often at a discount off gate price.
This firsthand account was originally shared with WDWInfo.com.
