How to Bring a Service Dog to SeaWorld

• Written by: Lisa Jo Rudy, M.Div.

Whether you’re on the East Coast or the West Coast, there’s a SeaWorld to visit — and service dogs are welcome. In fact, SeaWorld goes the extra mile to make disabled visitors welcome with a very complete downloadable guide that describes each ride, its physical requirements, and its accessibility for both people and dogs. You’ll also find extremely detailed information on whether and how to enjoy each ride with specific physical and developmental disabilities. By reviewing the guide, you’ll have a clear understanding of what to expect and how to plan your trip.

In this article:

• Before you arrive: make a plan
• Available rides and experiences
• The ride accessibility program (RAP)
• Documentation and limitations
• Canine considerations
• A final note

Before You Arrive: Make a Plan

Before you head to SeaWorld with your service dog, it’s a good idea to look through the entire accessibility guide and to make a plan. You’ll need to consider several issues in your planning process:

• Setting aside time at the start of your visit for a stop at Guest Services
• Planning out a route that includes the rides you want, as well as a relief stop for your dog
• Avoiding difficult settings for your dog, such as the front seats of live animal programs, where you and your dog could get wet
• Inviting a companion who can take charge of your dog if you want to explore beyond the rides that are accessible for animals

You can map out your day ahead of time, taking your dog’s needs into consideration. Both SeaWorld parks have relief stations for service animals, which are clearly marked on the theme park maps.

Available Rides and Experiences

SeaWorld offers an array of rides that range from mild to wild. Not surprisingly, your dog is welcome on the less intense rides but can’t safely come along on a roller coaster. If you want to bring your service dog and ride the faster rides, you’ll need to make plans with a companion to look after your dog while you ride.

In SeaWorld San Diego, available rides include:

• Aqua Scout
• Bayside Skyride
• Rescue Rafters
• Skytower

In SeaWorld Orlando, options include:

• Abby’s Flower Tower
• Elmo’s Choo Train 
• Paddle Boats
• Slimey’s Sliders
• Sunny Day Carousel (on the floor by the bench)
• Sky Tower

Dogs may or may not be allowed in behind-the-scenes animal interactions. That decision is up to the Zoological Staff.

The Ride Accessibility Program (RAP)

As a disabled visitor, you’re entitled to enroll in SeaWorld‘s Ride Accessibility Program (RAP) — and you don’t need to provide a doctor’s note for this option. While you’re not absolutely required to do this, it’s a good idea. RAP guests will be granted Special Access to attractions, which means you may be able to enjoy select rides and attractions without waiting in line. Guests enrolled in the RAP will be placed in a Virtual Queue, allowing them to enjoy the park until their estimated boarding time at the specific attraction. What’s more, up to 5 additional guests may accompany the guest needing special access. Additional guests must use the ride entrance.

Documentation and Limitations

Park staff do not have the right to ask for any documentation or a doctor’s note, nor can they ask you what your disability is. All they can ask is whether your dog is a trained service animal and what service they provide. You will probably want to dress your dog in a vest, patch, and/or harness to distinguish it from an ordinary pet. 

Once inside, your dog must always be on a leash and under control. Aggressive behaviors could lead to expulsion. 

Canine Considerations

Whether you’re in Florida or California, chances are that the weather (and pavement) will be hot. If your dog’s feet are sensitive, consider providing slippers. Be sure you have a collapsible water bowl and plenty of food on hand. Plan at least one stop at the animal relief station that’s located in each park.

It’s also important to think about your dog’s emotional well-being. If your dog is alarmed by loud noises, crowds, or other sensory issues, you may want to reconsider a day at a theme park.  Alternatively, you can plan a route that maximizes a quieter experience and reduces your dog’s exposure to roller coasters and screaming teens.

A Final Note

SeaWorld is unusually accessible, and there are quite a few options for a visit with a service dog. If you’re planning a visit to either SeaWorld location with a service dog, take some time to prepare. Be sure you are looking at the right accessibility guide; the SeaWorld Orlando Guide is not identical to the SeaWorld San Diego Guide. Check ahead of time for information about behind-the-scenes experiences, best seats to stay dry, and the locations of relief stations. You can also ask any questions by emailing: SWC-AccessibilityService@SeaWorld.com or by calling (619) 222-4SEA.

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