I recently brought my family to Orlando to experience the magic of Disney. Prior to leaving my kids were devastated that we were not bringing Kayla, our family dog along. I was unsuccessful in my attempts to explain to them that Kayla would be happier at home.

     Once in Orlando, our plans were to experience all the parks on the Disney property. Upon arrival at the Disney Transportation & Ticket Center (the central hub to the Disney attractions), we immediately noticed the Kennel Club sign. We walked into the builiding and found that Disney has a kennel right there for our four-legged friends. In fact, there are five kennels available located at:

• Magic Kingdom - (407) 824-6568
• Epcot -  (407) 560-6229
• Hollywood Studios -  (407) 560-4282
• Animal Kingdom - (407) 938-2100
• Fort Wilderness Resort - (407) 824-2735  

     My daughter asked why I was so surprised - "After all, two of Mickey's best friends are dogs!"

     These five Disney kennels have recently been taken over by Best Friends Pet Care and provide both daytime and overnight boarding as well as special services such as extra walks, cuddle time and ice cream breaks.

    Best Friends Pet Care is working with Disney to build and operate a full-service, luxury pet “resort”. This facility will cater to park and resort guests as well as Walt Disney World employees.  The plan will be to provide a full range of pet hospitality services including dog and cat boarding with luxury suites, day care and grooming/pampering services, and doggy day camp with activities to include nature walks and playgroups.

    This state-of-the-art facility will be located on Bonnett Creek Parkway in the Walt Disney World Resort, and is expected to open in mid-2009. Hopefully this will be in time to bring our dog on our next visit to Disney since we will no longer leave her behind.