The Myth of "Dog Zones": Why Your Dog Will Stay Home During the World Cup

In the run-up to the start of the 2026 World Cup, social media has been filled with rumors of unprecedented comfort for fans with dogs. The idea of "Dog Zones"—high-tech pet hotels right by the stadium—sounds tempting, but the reality of 2026 is much more prosaic and strict.

FIFA has officially confirmed: the security perimeter of the stadiums is closed to pets. An exception is made only for licensed service dogs. Why is the organization so conservative in an era of "humanization"? The answer is simple: safety and climate. An attempt to organize boarding for thousands of dogs in the extreme summer heat of North America is a logistical nightmare that the tournament's insurance companies would never approve.

What should traveling fans do? The year 2026 has indeed brought a simplification of rules for transporting animals between the USA, Canada, and Mexico thanks to digital veterinary passports, but caring for a pet during the match remains the owner's private matter. Instead of official "Dog Zones," fans are using a network of certified pet-friendly hotels and private sitters, who have tripled their prices this season.

In the long term, this experience could push host cities to create a more inclusive urban environment. But for now, the stadium remains a territory of people and technology. In Monterrey, for example, instead of live dogs, order is maintained by autonomous robot dogs capable of working in the heat without health risks.

Are we ready to accept the fact that even the largest sporting celebration has its limits of inclusivity? For now, the answer is yes. The safety of the game and the comfort of millions of spectators in the stands remain the number one priority for FIFA.