Walt Disney World knows it can be hard to leave your furry friend behind when you come on vacation; that is why the parks offer several kennels for dogs and cats so that guests can enjoy the parks while knowing their pets are safe. Kennels are located at Magic Kingdom (the Ticket and Transportation Center), Epcot, Hollywood Studios, Animal Kingdom, and Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground.

Since the beginning of 2008, all these Disney kennels have been taken over by an industry expert, Best Friends PetCare Inc. A national provider of pet hospitality in the US, Best Friends PetCare Inc. has 44 locations in 18 states. And soon, this leader in kennels will be able to add a luxury pet resort to their list, which is planned to open at Walt Disney World in late 2009.

Best Friends Pet Care Inc. recently signed an agreement 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, providing a full range of pet hospitality services such as dog and cat boarding, day care and grooming services, and doggy day camp.

Pets will even enjoy luxury and amenities not available at any other Disney kennel. These include luxury suites with television and raised bedding, activities such as nature walks and playgroups, and pampering services including ice cream treats and bedtime stories. The new state-of-the-art pet resort will be located on Bonnet Creek Parkway, close to Epcot and Disney’s Dixie Landings Resort, Disney’s Port Orleans Resort, and Disney’s Old Key West Resort.

"We are thrilled to have this opportunity to come to Walt Disney World Resort to create the premier vacation destination for pets," said Dennis Dolan, president and CEO of Best Friends Pet Care. "This project is still in the design phase, but our goal is to create a true resort destination for pets. This facility will be designed to fit into the Walt Disney World vacation experience and will be unlike anything else in the industry.”

Best Friends PetCare Inc. introduced the concept of a “pet resort” to the industry in 1996. They have been an innovator in services and care options such as luxury suites and doggy day camp programs, which provide opportunities for dogs to play, exercise, and socialize.

Currently, Disney’s kennels provide daytime and overnight boarding, though feeding and walking is only available at the Magic Kingdom, Fort Wilderness, and Epcot Kennels. At Hollywood Studios and Animal Kingdom, guests are required to feed and walk their own pets. All dogs and cats must have proof of certain vaccinations and must be at least 8 weeks old in order to stay at Disney’s kennels. Pets are not currently allowed at Disney Resort hotels, except for designated service animals, of course.

As Disney takes steps to make sure our beloved pets have a nice vacation, don’t forget about your own! Start planning a 2009 trip to Walt Disney World for you and your Fido or feline and remember to save with discount Disney tickets at OrlandoFunTickets.com.