Some of the replies to this thread are insane. Pet dogs do not belong on cruise ships. Period. Maybe there should be an exception for thoroughly trained service animals that are in service to someone with a legitimate disability. Most of the comments and photos I see here are clearly not legitimate disability- these are so-called “emotional support animals” in other words pets. Look at the Amazon vests. Give me a break.
On the transatlantic cruise NCL Getaway June 2022 from Copenhagen to Port Canaveral someone brought a fake service animal on board. This was obviously not a legitimate service animal - it was jumping around and playing with children. Eventually barking in the cabin while the owner went out alone partying. Finally after numerous complaints management moved the guy and his fraud to a remote cabin and reminded him the rules - you are not to leave the cabin without the dog.
The next day dog defecated on the pool deck. The next day it urinated in the line in the Garden Cafe. It was on a leash with the owner both times. I have photos of the urine puddle while the guy walking away. “Oh sorry I think we have a problem” he said while the passengers and crew stood their jaws dropped. They had to close the cafe in order to disinfect the place.
Later I demanded to speak with the officer in charge, she apologized, said it wasn’t their fault, obviously the guy conned his way in it wasn’t a real service animal but HQ makes the decision based on whatever paper ls they are sent. The most disgusting thing I have ever seen in a cruise ship - of 50 lifetime cruises! Later they sent me a $200 coupon for a future cruise - whoopdy do!
And great point about safety- what happens when “doggo” needs to board the life boats??
Not to mention the cleaning crew working harder than ever - for less money - and now they have to clean up after dogs???
Cruise lines better get on top of this nonsense. People pretending to be disabled to break the dog rules. It’s disgusting and a disgrace to people with actual disabilities.
The dog worship in our culture has gotten completely out of hand. I love cruising but this is a deal breaker.
