dogs travel in train

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The Ultimate Guide to Traveling with Pets on Trains within the U.S.

Amar Hussain

Senior Content Contributor

795 Published Articles

Countries Visited: 63 U.S. States Visited: 9

Keri Stooksbury

Editor-in-Chief

35 Published Articles 3253 Edited Articles

Countries Visited: 47 U.S. States Visited: 28

Table of Contents

Things to consider pre-travel, checklist for what to take on board, amtrak pet policy, train systems that allow pets, pet carriers, what about large pets, final thoughts.

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When planning your next trip within the U.S., you may not want to leave your 4-legged friend at home. Thankfully, with many train services now allowing small pets to be carried on board, there are alternative options to flying or driving.

Train travel can be much less stressful than flying for both pet and owner, with shorter check-in times and the comfort of having your pet on your lap for the entire journey, rather than under your seat or in the hold compartment.

There’s also the cost to consider, with the likes of Delta Air Lines and United charging from $125 to transport your pet as carry-on, versus Amtrak, where pets can be carried for just $26.

This helpful guide will help you plan for your trip and rounds-up the pet policies for each train operator listed by individual state.

This information relates to pets-only, not officially trained service dogs that are governed under the Americans with Disabilities Act and are permitted to go “where the public is normally allowed to go”.

To ensure the well-being of your faithful friend, and that you’re adhering to certain rules, there are some things to consider when planning to take your pet on board a train.

Motion Sickness

Like humans, some animals can get motion sickness, so it’s advisable to test out some short journeys before embarking on a 7-hour train ride. Be sure to have plenty of water with you to avoid your pet becoming dehydrated as this will only make the motion sickness worse.

As many train operators only permit small pets to be transported within a pet carrier, you’ll need to test out how your pet responds to being inside a cage for long periods.

Many train operators such as Amtrak state that the pet must not be disruptive, so train travel may not be suitable if you have a dog that barks continuously when in their pet carrier.

Heath and Documentation Requirements

On local train services, documentation is not likely to be requested by train personnel; however, when using Amtrak services , passengers must sign to certify that their pet is up-to-date with their vaccinations.

To transport a pet between states, most states require that the pet have a recent Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (CVI), which indicates that the pet is clear of rabies and other infectious diseases. Each state has different rules as to when the certificate should be obtained before entering a state, but the most common time period is within 30 days before entry.

Pet Identification

Although not mandatory in the U.S., you may want to consider getting your pet micro-chipped for their safety. If your pet became lost in an unknown destination, the likelihood of tracking them down would be far greater with a microchip. You should also make sure that they have a collar with your contact number.

Nearest Vet

Even if you’re only taking a short trip, it’s still wise to familiarize yourself with your nearest vet just in case they require urgent care while traveling.

Relief Breaks

If you’re traveling on a long train ride, then you’ll need to ensure there are sufficient relief breaks along your route. Check with the train operator to see if they have any scheduled stops that are more than just a couple of minutes so that you have time to relieve your pet in a suitable location.

• Vet contact details.
• Well-ventilated pet carrier.
• Collar and leash.
• Blankets/jacket if the journey is cold.
• Chew toys for inside their carrier.
• Snacks, food, and plenty of water.
• Food and drink bowls.
• Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (CVI).

Hot Tip: Keep all of your pet’s important items organized with a great dog travel bag .

Amtrak permits passengers to bring dogs or cats (up to 20 pounds) onboard many of its train journeys that are 7 hours or less. Pets are not permitted on specific mainline routes or Thruway connecting services (green routes on the above map and detailed by state in the table below).

Mainline Routes Where Pets are NOT Permitted

• Auto Train : Lorton, VA (Washington, DC) – Sanford, FL (Orlando)
• Capital Corridor : Auburn – Sacramento – Emeryville (San Francisco) – Oakland – San Jose
• Keystone Service : NYC – Philadelphia – Paoli – Downingtown – Lancaster – Harrisburg
• Pacific Surfliner : San Luis Obispo – Santa Barbara – Los Angeles – Anaheim – San Diego
• Pennsylvanian : New York – Philadelphia –  Lancaster – Harrisburg – Altoona – Pittsburgh
• San Joaquins : San Francisco Bay Area / Sacramento – Bakersfield / Southern California

Amtrak provides the following guidelines and rules for bringing your pet on board:

• Pets must be booked on a reservation with a maximum of 5 pets permitted on each train service, available on a first-come, first-serve basis.
• Only 1 pet is permitted per passenger, and they may only ride in coach class, rather than business class or any sleeper services.
• Pets must be transported in a pet carrier measuring no more than 19 x 14 x 10.5 inches and must be well ventilated and leak proof. The total weight of the pet inside the carrier cannot exceed 20 pounds.
• Pet carriers count towards a passenger’s carry-on allowance and must be placed under the passenger’s seat. Pets are not permitted outside of the carrier for the duration of the journey or in stations.

Hot Tip:  The following routes designate pet-specific coaches; whereas, for other pet-friendly routes, pets are permitted in any coach cars: Amtrak Cascades, Blue Water, Carl Sandburg, Hiawatha, Illini, Illinois Zephyr, Lincoln Service, Missouri River Runner, Pere Marquette, Saluki, and Wolverine.

Paperwork and Health Requirements

• Passengers must sign a Pet Release and Indemnification Agreement for each segment of the journey.
• Passengers must check-in at the ticket desk no later than 30 minutes before the train departs, to allow time to complete the pet release paperwork.
• Pets must be 8 weeks or older to travel on Amtrak services and be odorless and non-disruptive to other passengers.
• Passengers will certify that their pet is up-to-date with all required vaccinations before travel.

Booking Procedure

Pets can be booked onto a reservation at Amtrak.com or by calling 800-USA-RAIL. Bookings can also be made in person at an Amtrak ticket desk.

Hot Tip:  Pets can travel on board Amtrak services for $26 .

Hot Tip:  Need ideas on the best trips to take with your furry friend? Check out our piece on the 15 Most and Least Pet-Friendly Vacation Spots in the U.S. .

When looking for the perfect pet carrier, there a few things you should consider.

Weight of the Carrier and Your Pet

Amtrak and some other train operators have weight restrictions that are usually the weight of your pet and the carrier combined. If your pet is on the heavier side, you’ll need to find a lightweight, soft carrier that is also robust enough to accommodate the weight of your pet.

Choosing the correct size of carrier for your pet is an important decision. Too big and your pet could move around, making it difficult to balance and carry. Too small and it would be uncomfortable for your pet, restricting space to stand up or stretch. As a rule of thumb, your pet carrier should be around 1.5 times the size of your pet.

Ventilation

Traveling on a train can be hot at times, so it’s advisable to choose a pet carrier that has mesh sides to allow airflow to keep your faithful friend cool.

Owners have the choice between hard and soft shell pet carriers, and the decision will depend entirely on your circumstances and preference. Hardshell carriers are more robust, provide more protection, and are easier to keep clean; whereas, soft carriers can offer more comfort, are lighter, and easier to store.

Hot Tip: Make sure you’re earning points for your pet purchases. Check out our guide to the best credit cards to use for pet expenses.

As you can see from the table above, most train operators stipulate that only “small pets” may be carried on board, so train travel is unfortunately not yet widely accessible to larger animals.

However, some passengers do try to bend the rules of certain operators such as the New York Subway that states “No person may bring any animal on or into any conveyance or facility unless enclosed in a container and carried in a manner which would not annoy other passengers.”

Over the years, there’s been controversy over the number of pet-related deaths during transit in both the cabin and cargo hold of an airplane; in fact, we did a whole study on the best airlines for pets for that exact reason. Traveling on a train with your pet can be a more relaxed and safer mode of transport for your pet.

Some pets can struggle with the pressure from an airplane’s increased altitude, causing issues with breathing. In fact, this has caused some airlines to prohibit the hold transportation of snub-nosed breeds, such as pugs and bulldogs.

If you’ve got a small pet that you would like to travel with you, train travel is the ideal mode of transport, being relatively cheap and safe. Looking for more information on traveling with your 4-legged friend? Explore our ultimate guide on traveling with your pet .

Frequently Asked Questions

Are pets allowed on trains.

In the United States, pets are allowed on some trains and it is becoming increasingly common that pets are permitted. Amtrak allows pets up to 20 pounds on many routes (with restrictions on certain routes). The table above lists details of pet policies for train operators within each state.

How do you travel with a cat on a train?

To take your cat on a train, they should be inside a suitable pet carrier that is well ventilated and leak-free. This should be placed under your seat or kept on your lap. Ensure you have plenty of water and are able to stop for relief breaks if the journey is long.

How do you travel with a dog on a train?

When traveling with a dog on a train, they should be inside a suitable pet carrier that is well ventilated and leak-free. This should be placed under your seat or kept on your lap. Ensure you have plenty of water and are able to stop for relief breaks if the journey is long. Your dog should not cause any disruption to other passengers, otherwise you may be asked to disembark.

Can dogs travel on trains in the U.S.?

Some U.S. train operators, such as Amtrak, allow pets on board. Dogs up to 20 pounds are permitted to ride on many routes (some restricted routes apply) providing they remain within an enclosed pet carrier for the duration of the journey.

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About Amar Hussain

Amar is an avid traveler and tester of products. He has spent the last 13 years traveling all 7 continents and has put the products to the test on each of them. He has contributed to publications including Forbes, the Huffington Post, and more.

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How to take your dog or cat on an amtrak trip.

M aking travel plans that don’t include Fido or Whiskers is nothing short of heartbreaking. While it’s easy to take your dog or cat on the road with you to pet-friendly hotels and certain US national parks , if you’re not driving to your destination, things can get a little more difficult. If you’re planning to travel by train in the US and want to make sure that your beloved pet will be welcomed on board, have a good look at Amtrak’s pet policy first.

Are dogs allowed on Amtrak?

Can my dog travel next to me on amtrak.

• How do you travel with a 50-pound dog on Amtrak?
• Can dogs go on sleeper trains?

How do I calm my dog down on a train?

Can cats go on amtrak, can you take a cat in a carrier on the train, are cats allowed on the auto train to florida, how much does it cost to take your dog on amtrak, do i need to make a reservation for my pet to travel on amtrak.

Amtrak’s pet policy states that dogs are allowed on Amtrak trains for a fee and under the following conditions:

• You can only take one dog on the train with you.
• The combined weight of your dog and their carrier must not exceed 20 pounds.
• Your dog must be eight weeks old or older and must be well behaved, silent, and clean.
• Your dog must be up to date on all its vaccinations.
• You must sign the Amtrak’s pet release document at check-in.
• You cannot take your dog on an Amtrak train journey that exceeds seven hours (including connection time between two trains).
• Dogs are prohibited on the following Amtrak route and trains: Capitol Corridor (between San Jose, CA, and Auburn, CA); Keystone Service (between New York City and Harrisburg, PA); Pennsylvanian (between New York City and Pittsburgh, PA); San Joaquins (between San Francisco Bay Area and Bakersfield, CA); and on the Auto Train (between Lorton, VA, and Sanford, FL). You cannot take your dog into Canada on the Adirondack, Maple Leaf, and Amtrak Cascades routes. Dogs are not allowed on Amtrak’s Thruway services .

Note that unlike pets, service animals are allowed on all Amtrak trains, routes, and services. There are specific guidelines for taking service animals on Amtrak.

Photo: Annette Shaff /Shutterstock

Your dog can only travel on Amtrak trains if they are kept in a closed carrier at all times. The carrier must be placed under your seat. You must always be near the carrier to care for your pet and never leave them alone.

Your pet carrier can be soft sided or hard sided but must be leak proof and allow for air flow. Your pet carrier must not exceed the following dimensions: 19 inches in length, 14 inches in width, and 10.5 inches in height.

Your pet carrier is considered as one piece of carry-on luggage.

How do you travel with a 50 pound dog on Amtrak?

According to Amtrak’s pet policy, you cannot travel with a dog whose weight and that of their carrier exceeds 20 pounds.

Your pet (cat or dog) is only allowed to travel in Coach Class on regular Amtrak trains, and only in Business Class on board Acela trains. Pets are not allowed in private rooms such as Roomettes or Bedrooms.

The following Amtrak routes have designated Coach cars for pets and their owners:

• Amtrak Cascades (in Washington and Oregon)
• Carl Sandburg (between Chicago and Quincy, IL)
• Illinois Zephyr (between Chicago and Quincy, IL)
• Illini (between Chicago and Carbondale, IL)
• Lincoln Service (between Chicago and St. Louis, MO)
• Saluki (between Chicago and Carbondale, IL)
• Pere Marquette (between Chicago and Grand Rapids, MI)
• Wolverine (between Chicago and Pontiac, MI)
• Blue Water (between Chicago and Port Huron, MI)
• Hiawatha (between Chicago and Milwaukee, WI)
• Missouri River Runner (between St. Louis and Kansas City)

If you cannot guarantee that your dog (or cat) will be well-behaved and silent during your Amtrak train trip, visit your vet well ahead of time and ask for medication or tips to calm down your pet. Test the medication and try out the tips out before your train trip to ensure your pet reacts the way you need them to.

Yes, cats are allowed on board Amtrak trains under the same conditions as dogs:

• You can only take one cat on the train with you.
• The combined weight of your cat and their carrier must not be heavier than 20 pounds.
• Your cat must be eight week old or older and must be well behaved, silent, and clean.
• Your cat must have all its vaccinations up to date.
• You cannot take your cat on an Amtrak train journey that is longer than seven hours (including transfer time between two trains).
• Cats are only allowed in Coach Class and Acela Business Class.

Bad carrier for a trip on an Amtrak train (left). Appropriate carrier (right). Photos from left to right: skrotov /Shutterstock and alenka2194 /Shutterstock

Just like for dogs, using a closed and leak-proof carrier is the only way to take your cat on Amtrak. Your cat must be kept in the carrier at all times and the carrier must be placed under your seat. You must never leave your cat alone during your Amtrak train trip.

Your cat carrier (which counts as one carry-on luggage under Amtrak’s pet policy) can be soft sided or hard sided and must not exceed the following dimensions: 19 inches in length, 14 inches in width, and 10.5 inches in height.

Neither cats nor dogs are allowed on the Auto Train . Cats and dogs are prohibited on the following Amtrak routes, trains, and services:

• Capitol Corridor (between San Jose, CA, and Auburn, CA)
• Keystone Service (between New York City and Harrisburg, PA)
• Pennsylvanian (between New York City and Pittsburgh, PA)
• San Joaquins (between San Francisco Bay Area and Bakersfield, CA)
• Auto Train (between Lorton, VA, and Sanford, FL)
• Amtrak’s Thruway services
• Across the border into Canada on the Adirondack, Maple Leaf, and Amtrak Cascades routes.

It costs between $29 and $39 to bring your dog or cat on an Amtrak train, depending on the route.

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Dog Travel by Train in the US. The Most Comprehensive Guide

Traveling by train is the most cost-effective way in the US. So, I did some research on the web to find out if dogs are allowed. I found a lot of confusing and outdated information. That is why I decided to post all the updated information that I also confirmed by myself.

Can Dogs Travel by Train in the US?

Dogs can travel by train in the US, including on Amtrak. But not always. Dogs classified as Service Animals can travel on all trains without any restriction. However, pet dogs are limited or prohibited on some trains, routes, and situations . 

As you see, your dog may be able to ride with you. But to be sure, you first need to find out whether it is considered a service animal or a pet. Then, you should learn many other aspects and requirements that regulate how dogs may travel by train. You will find in this post every possible question you could have related to this topic.

How Dogs Travel by Train in US?

Passengers can never ship the dog. They have to travel by train with a human (excluding unaccompanied minors). Alaska Railroad is the only exception that allows the pet to travel in the baggage car in an airline-approved kennel.   How they can ride depends on if the dog is a service animal or a pet.

Service Animal Dogs are those trained to perform a specific task to benefit a passenger with a disability. Be aware that train personnel may ask what job (s) the service animal performs. The rest is considered a pet, including:

• Comfort Animals: Animals trained to provide emotional support or relieve anxiety only by their presence, or person holding or stroking the animal.
• Search and Rescue dogs: Trained animals, but not to assist a particular passenger
• Police Dogs: Other than police dogs brought on trains by Amtrak Police Department.

How Service Animal Travel by Train in the US?

A service animal can travel by train in all areas where passengers are allowed, regardless of size and weight. There is no restriction on how many service animals per train can ride. A service animal can travel on Amtrak in first class, sleeper or bedroom accommodations, and food service cars. The dog can’t sit in the aisle, on a bed, or seats, but must be under the owner’s seat or at his/her feet.

It should always be on a leash, harness, or another chain unless they interfere with the service animal’s safe, effective work performance or tasks.

Passengers must keep service animals under control at all times. Otherwise, train personnel may require you remove your service animal on train or station facility in the following situations:

• You do not take effective action to control your out-of-control dog (for example, a dog causes a significant disturbance by barking repeatedly and uncontrollably or is not housebroken) or
• The animal poses a direct threat to the health or safety of others.

Suppose train personnel asks you to remove your service animal. In that case, you may still choose to remain on the premises or continue to travel without the animal. In that case, you must make arrangements for another person or local animal control to accept custody of your animal. They may require you to continue or begin your travel at a later time or on a later date.

Service Animal Dogs can travel on all trains in the US, including:

• Commuters Trains: suburban rail primarily operates within a metropolitan area, connecting commuters to a central city from adjacent suburbs or commuter towns.
• Regional Trains: also known as local trains operate between towns and cities. They work with fewer stops and faster service than commuter rail, but with more stops over shorter distances than intercity trains.
• Medium and Long Distance Trains: Currently, Amtrak is the only operator of regularly scheduled medium and long-distance intercity trains in the USA.

Additional Tip for Long Distance Travel

Train routes may have several, few, or non-scheduled stops, which you should know before planning your trip. When the train schedule permits, you may walk your service animal at station stops provided for long-distance traveling. You should decide and notify the conductor when you first board the train. You need to stay close enough to the train to re-board when the train is ready to reinitiate the trip. Amtrak employees are not responsible for the care or supervision of any passenger’s service animal.

Pet Dogs Travel by Train in the US

Pet dogs are usually allowed to travel by train in the US.  Pets can also travel on Amtrak ,  but some routes prohibit them, like  Capitol Corridor, Keystone Service, Pacific Surfliner, Pennsylvanian, and San Joaquin. Some situations prohibit pets on board:

• Any trips with duration over 7 hours, including transfer time between trains on multi-segment trips,
• In multi-ride tickets.
• Chicago METRA: On-peak period weekday trains arriving in Chicago 3:31 AM to 9:30 AM and departing Chicago from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM. As well as on overcrowded trains on weekends or during special events.
• Massachusetts Bay MBTA Commuter Rail & Subway: During rush hour
• Acela Amtrak: On weekdays, except holidays.

Be aware that  none of the Amtrak Thruway Connecting Services (fleet of Amtrak buses that connect train stations to areas without railroads or train service) allows a pet.

Amtrak policy also clarifies that dog pets cannot travel on Auto Train under any circumstance. 

Generally, there is no limit on how many pets you may take on a train, except for Amtrak and Florida Brightline, limiting it to one pet per passenger. It counts towards the passenger’s carry-on or checked baggage allowance. Amtrak allows only five pets per train. So, we recommend you to make a reservation with all the anticipation as possible.

How Pet Dogs Travel by Train in the US?

When allowed, pet dogs should usually travel by train inside a carrier. The exceptions to the rule are San Francisco Muni, Connecticut CT Rail Shore Line East, and Metro-North Railroad routes. These trains allow dogs to travel leashed and muzzled .

Most of the train routes that allow pets don’t regulate the age of the dog. Amtrak is the only case that requires the pet to be at least eight weeks old but still can sit and lie down comfortably inside a regulated carrier. It also applies to Amtrak emotional support animals.

As Amtrak pet policy 2020, pets can travel on Amtrak only in Coach Class, except in the Acela route (which doesn’t’ have Coach Class). Acela is the only case where the pet can travel in Business Class. Most of the time, you can ride with your pet in any coach class train car. Some route has designated a specific Coach car for pets like Amtrak Cascades, Blue Water, Carl Sandburg, Hiawatha, Illinois Zephyr, Illini, Lincoln Service, Missouri River Runner, Pere Marquette, Saluki, and Wolverine. Pet can’t travel in first class, bedroom accommodations, or food service cars at any time.

Regardless of the route, your pet must be odorless, harmless, not disruptive, and require no attention during travel. Personnel maintain the right to refuse acceptance and may remove any pet exhibiting these issues from stations or trains. Amtrak, as well as Denver RTD, require your pet is up to date on all vaccination. A pet release certifying should be signed at check-in on Amtrak trains.

Small Pet Traveling in a Carrier 

When a carrier is mandatory, the dog to be small enough to fit inside the carrier. The carrier could usually be on the passenger’s lap, under the passenger seat, or front seat. Amtrak is the exception, requiring the carrier be place under the owner seat, excluding Amtrak Cascades trains where you can put it on the floor under your front seat. It must not be left, as any other baggage, alone at any time. 

Carrier Specifications:

The owner must provide the pet carrier, and it could be hard or soft-sided. Usually, there are no regulations on the carrier size and weight with the following exceptions:

· Amtrak and Connecticut CT Rail Hartford Line: 19 x 14 x 10.5 inches and weight no more than 20 pounds including dog and carrier

· Florida Brightline: 17 x 10 x 10 inches if transporting on the passenger’s lap or the floor & 28 x 20.5 x 21.5 inches if transported in the coach luggage tower.

Large Dog-Friendly Train in the US

You can take your large dog on a train if it qualifies as a service animal. Amtrak’s large dog policy states the same restrictions. Otherwise, if it is considered a pet can ride only on San Francisco Muni (California), Connecticut CT Rail Shore Line East (Connecticut), and Metro-North Railroad (New York). In the last case, large dogs are allowed up to 65 pounds. 

When large dogs can travel on a train, they can only ride on the passenger’s lap or under their seat but are never allowed on seats.

How much cost for a dog to travel by train in the US?

Dogs can travel for free on trains. That applies to 100% of the service animals and most of the routes for pets, excluding:

• Amtrak: Pet dog costs $26 or 800 Amtrak Guest Rewards points
• Alaska Railroad: Pet dog costs $20.00
• White Pass & Yukon Route (Alaska): Pet dog costs $25.00

Pet Reservation and Check-in Process on Amtrak Trains.

The way to make a reservation when traveling with a pet is not too much different. However, be aware that there is a maximum quota of five pets per train, so it is recommended to make a reservation in advance. Check-in at staffed stations should be at the ticket office no later than 30 minutes before departure.

Passenger must read and sign a Pet Release and Indemnification Agreement for each travel segment, which will confirm your pet eligibility. At understaffed stations, the conductor will provide you with the document to sign and verify eligibility.

Amtrak is not responsible for the health and well-being of pets. They will make reasonable efforts to seek pet-friendly hotel accommodations if sheltering is necessary because of a service disruption. However, results are not guaranteed.

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Are dogs allowed on Amtrak trains? Here's how to travel with pets.

Dogs and cats are allowed, with restrictions

It can be hard to leave your furry friend behind when you travel. You know the deal when it comes to flying with a pet, but can you bring your dog on Amtrak? Riding the rails is becoming more popular as travelers seek to avoid the hassle of flying, and Amtrak does allow pets to ride along with you — with restrictions.

Amtrak welcomes small dogs and cats (sorry, no parrots, snakes, fish, lizards, hamsters or any other companion critters) in a carrier, and the combined weight of the pet and the carrier must be under 20 pounds. So all you Doodle, Lab, Boxer and Dane people are out of luck. But if you have a petite pup, you can bring them along, for a small fee.

Pets are welcome on most routes that are up to seven hours. Your pet must be at least eight weeks old, up to date on all vaccinations and non-disruptive—meaning, not the barky or hissy type. Here’s the catch, though: the total number of animals allowed on a train is five, so you’ll need to make a reservation well in advance to snag a spot.

To reserve a ticket for you and your pet, go to Amtrak.com . You’ll have the option to add a pet to your reservation. Depending on the route, fees range from $30 to $40 per pet. You’ll have to read and sign a Pet Release and Indemnification Agreement before getting to the station. A few rules to note about traveling with your dog or cat on Amtrak: your pet carrier counts as a piece of luggage and must be placed under your seat (not in front of you). Your pet must stay in the carrier at all times. Pets are welcome in Coach class only. Some routes have designated pet cars, but on other routes, you can ride in any coach car.

For more information about riding the rails with your furry friend, go to amtrak.com/pets .

• Gerrish Lopez Contributor, New Orleans

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Travel with Pets by Train

Pet travel by train can be much safer and less stressful than taking your pet on an airplane. Air travel can put your pet at risk due to changes in air quality, air circulation, temperature, cabin pressure, and other environmental issues that could be harmful to your pet’s health. In fact, select short-nosed breeds are not allowed to travel on certain airlines because of respiratory issues that may make it especially difficult for them to breathe properly under the stress and environment of flying. On Amtrak there’s no restrictions on traveling with short-nosed breeds.

Traveling with your pet by train can also be a much cheaper alternative than flying or even driving. In addition, you won’t have to worry about having to produce proof of vaccinations, a health certificate, or any other type of paperwork. In fact, most trains only require that your pet be able to travel in a pet carrier that can fit on your lap, or underneath your seat.

Train Travel in the United States

Amtrak is a passenger railroad service that provides medium- and long-distance intercity service in the contiguous United States and to nine Canadian cities. Amtrak welcomes dogs and cats up to 20 pounds (combined weight of pet and carrier) for trips up to seven hours on most routes. Only dogs and cats are allowed to travel as pets. Pets are permitted in Coach Class and Acela Business Class (pets are not allowed in Acela First Class seating, First Class private rooms, non-Acela Business Class, food service cars or other accommodations). Reservations with pets are limited to seven hours total travel time, including transfer time between trains on multiple-segment trips.

Not all Amtrak trains allow pets, and some trains don’t accept pets on all services. For example, if travelling between New York and Washington, the Northeast Regional trains accept pets on all services. However, the Acela Express only accepts pets on weekend and holiday services, while some other trains don’t allow pets anytime. Some routes designate a specific Coach car for pets: Amtrak Cascades, Carl Sandburg, Illinois Zephyr, Illini, Lincoln Service, Saluki, Pere Marquette, Wolverine, Blue Water, Hiawatha and Missouri River Runner. On other pet friendly routes, you and your pet may ride in any Coach car. Find info on which Amtrak trains allow pets .

Pet travel by train in Canada is not available on Adirondack, Maple Leaf and Amtrak Cascades; not available on Auto Train, Keystone Service, Pennsylvanian, San Joaquins, Capitol Corridor Pacific Surfliner or Thruway Connecting Services. Amtrak does not ship pets or allow them to travel as checked baggage — a pet must travel with a human. Read more about Amtrak’s pet policy .

How to Travel on Amtrak Trains With a Dog in 2024 Find out everything you need to know about how to travel on Amtrak with a dog, from the rules for travelling with a pet on Amtrak to how much it costs and how to make a booking.

Train Travel in Canada

VIA Rail Canada operates 475 trains per week in eight Canadian provinces (exceptions are Newfoundland and Labrador and Prince Edward Island). VIA Rail Canada allows pets – only small dogs and cats – to travel in cars with their owners as long as the animals are small enough to fit comfortably in a carrier that meets VIA Rail carrier standards. The total weight of the carrier and animal must not exceed 10 kilograms (22 lb.). This pet travel by train policy applies only on Corridor trains (Québec City to Windsor). Pets are prohibited from traveling with passengers on The Maple Leaf (Toronto – New York) Amtrak train. Read more here .

Pets may travel as a checked item in the baggage car as long as the pet is on the same train as their owner and is claimed immediately upon arrival. Dogs, cats and small rodents (hamsters, guinea pigs, rabbits, etc.) are the only animals allowed in baggage cars. Birds cannot be checked. From June 1 to September 30, baggage cars cannot transport animals due to lack of proper ventilation. Usually, pets may be transported year-round on the Ocean (Montréal – Halifax), as all cars are air-conditioned. Certain provinces and regions refuse pitbulls, therefore, VIA Rail does not accept this breed of dog system wide. Read more here .

Train Travel in Europe

In general, pets are allowed to travel with you on most European trains for free if they are in a carrier. Larger pets need to be muzzled and kept on a leash and usually travel for a reduced rate. However, the rules for traveling with a pet on a train vary from train company to company, country to country. For instance, some countries do not allow large dogs to travel on trains, only small dogs in a container. Always check the details for the specific train company before planning your trip. Please note: Guide and assistance dogs are the only animals allowed on Eurostar.

Dogs, cats and ferrets traveling by train across country borders must have a minimum of one current rabies vaccination administered after a microchip is implanted and no sooner than 21 days prior to travel. If your pet has had more than one rabies vaccination given after the chip was implanted and all were kept current, you do not need to wait for 21 days after the booster. Dogs, cats and ferrets must travel with an EU Pet Passport issued by your veterinarian.

More Information

All Aboard: Tips for Traveling With Your Pet on a Train Here’s what you need to know before and after you board.

Pups Onboard: Why Trains Are a Great Way to Travel With Your Dog(s) The pugs Rufus and Hamilton have tried every mode of transportation but nothing beats a ride on the rails.

Can I Take Fido? Top Tips for Riding European Trains With Dogs Trains are by far the best option for traveling with your dog in Europe and are relatively inexpensive.

Are Dogs Allowed on Trains in Europe? Find out which trains in Europe allow dogs and what are the rules for dogs on trains.

Top 10 Pet-Friendly Trains in Europe & North America Tips for taking your pet on trains in Europe and North America, including Amtrak and VIA Rail Canada.

Traveling in Italy with Pets Find out the essentials of navigating Italy’s rail system with pets.

Dogs on Public Transport in Australia Melbourne public transport is dog-friendly and Sydney allows small pets on light rail, buses and ferries inside a carrier. Brisbane allows dogs on board CityCats and ferries, but are banned on trains and buses.

Find a Pet Friendly Train

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All Aboard: Tips for Traveling With Your Pet on a Train

Here’s what you need to know before and after you board.

Hilary Nangle,

We love our pets, and we love traveling with them . And taking the train can be an affordable and easy way to travel around the country.

But boarding with your furry friend requires a good amount of planning and preparation. Here’s what you need to know about traveling with your pet on a train. Note: These rules do not apply to service animals.

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Before you book your train trip

First, not all trains allow pets. While some local, regional or scenic trains do, the fees and rules vary. For example, some trains limit pets to specific animals, have weight limits or require that pets travel in a carrier.  So, it’s important to do your homework. 

Amtrak offers the most routes across the United States, and pets are welcome on many of the trains. You can travel with one dog or cat (sorry birds, bunnies, gerbils and ferrets) weighing a maximum of 20 pounds, including the carrier. Your pet will also have to stay in that carrier under your seat (more on that later).  

You can travel up to seven hours with your pet, but that includes transfer time if changing trains. If it’s just you and your pet, you may want to pack some snacks for both of you because pets can’t go in a café or dining car and you can’t leave your pet alone under your seat.

Pets also are not allowed in first class, sleeper cars and non-Acela business class.

You will have to fill out an online pet release and indemnification agreement before traveling. Among the requirements: Your pet must be at least 8 weeks old and up to date on vaccinations, as well as odorless, harmless and nondisruptive during travel.   

If these requirements sound too strict for your furry companion, keep in mind that Amtrak has the right to refuse or remove your pet from the train if any policies are violated.

Prepare your pet for the train ride

If your pet checks all the boxes, the next step is to make sure you have everything you need to board the train.

Amtrak requires that your pet can sit and lie down without touching the sides of a leak-proof and well-ventilated carrier that doesn’t exceed 19 inches long by 14 inches wide by 10.5 inches high. 

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Pets traveling on the Alaska Railroad must be in an airline-approved kennel and have to ride in the baggage car.

Before your trip, make sure your pet is acclimated to the carrier. And if possible, take your pet to a train station so your pet can become more familiar with the sounds and sights. Even better, consider taking a short train ride with your pet to help them become more comfortable with the train’s noises and movements.

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Up to $200 onboard credit on select cruises

Request your pet’s vaccination and other records from the veterinarian in case of an emergency. If your pet is anxious or tends to bark at unknown sounds, ask the vet about ways to keep your pet calm and quiet during the ride. Ask also about motion sickness preventives and getting a microchip implanted into your pet in case it runs off in an unknown destination.

When packing, your pet’s carrier counts as one carry-on so plan strategically for the other. A backpack or shoulder bag allows you to keep your hands free for handling your pet. Pack a collapsible water bowl, water, treats and a favorite (nonsqueaky) toy to keep your pet comfortable during the trip. It’s a good idea to line the carrier with an absorbent pad and bring bags and an extra towel to clean up any accidents that may happen while on the train.

Plan to arrive at least 45 minutes before boarding at any staffed Amtrak station. Once you’re there, check in with the ticket office where agents will validate your pet’s eligibility and paperwork. At unstaffed stations, the train conductor will do this. Note: Your pet must always remain in the closed carrier while in the station and on the train. Pets are not allowed inside Amtrak station lounges or first-class waiting areas.

Tips for traveling on the train

The route you are traveling will determine where you sit. Some trains have a pet-friendly coach car; others allow you to sit in any coach car. If the train has a pet-friendly quiet car, consider sitting there as there will be less noise and fewer distractions. If possible, avoid peak travel times and rush hours for the best experience.

To help avoid motion sickness, feed your pet a light meal three hours before departure .

A tired pet is a happy pet, so exercise your pet before boarding.

And lastly, keep an eye on the schedule so you’ll have all the time you need to disembark.

Hilary Nangle has written for many publications, including  Snow, Ski, Westways and Yankee. She’s also the author of four guidebooks to her home state in the Moon series:  Maine, Coastal Maine, Acadia National Park and the forthcoming Best of Acadia.

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Dogs on Trains: Travel Guide for Pet-Friendly Trains

We have the pet train travel information you need to feel comfortable with your transit choice. The below sections have essential costs, pet policies, carrier information, and service animal policies for both national and regional rail systems. Amtrak is the only nationwide passenger train, and its pet policies are surprisingly friendly. Regional commuter trains and other forms of rail transit have distinct, carrier-specific policies, but you can determine your animal’s ability to ride with the information provided. If you’re looking for information about animal-friendly city transit and subway travel, we recommend checking out our individual city pet travel guides.

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Amtrak Pet Policy

Amtrak provides geographical reach comparable to most airlines, making it an excellent form of long-distance travel. The train line allows pets to travel in the Coach Cabins of most train lines, but some western United States lines have dedicated pet cabins. There is a maximum of five pets per train, though service animals don’t count toward this limit. We encourage you to make your pet reservations as soon as you decide to travel with Amtrak.

At just $25 per pet, bringing an animal on Amtrak is far cheaper than other forms of pet travel. However, not all pets can ride with this carrier; the system imposes size and age restrictions on all traveling animals. To that end, Amtrak has its own set of pet carrier restrictions, required paperwork, and check-in procedure. To learn more about specific Amtrak pet policies, see our guide.

Regional Train Pet Policies

MBTA Commuter Rail (Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority) —Eleven lines comprise this Boston-centered rail service. The system serves much of eastern Massachusetts, but one line extends south into Rhode Island. Service animals are allowed at all times. All other animals may

ride during off-peak hours, but they may not ride during rush hour. Small animals, such as cats and rabbits, should be kept in pet carriers, which must sit on your lap and away from vehicle doors.

Metro-North Commuter Railroad —This railroad extends from New York City’s Grand Central Station north to upstate New York. One very busy line also extends into Connecticut. Small domestic animals are permitted if they are carried in kennels or similar containers. Animals may also ride if they are leashed throughout the trip and do not disturb fellow passengers.

Long Island Railroad —The LIR is New York City’s largest commuter rail system, covering 700 miles with its 124 stations. Pets may travel via the Long Island Railroad if they are small, domestic, and carried in kennels or similar containers. This container must fit on your lap, and the animal may not annoy other passengers.

PATH (Port Authority Trans Hudson) —PATH is a rapid transit system serving Newark, Harrison, Hoboken, Jersey City, and Manhattan. Small dogs and cats may ride with PATH if they are secured in carriers.

New Jersey Transit —This state-owned public transportation system has eleven train lines extending throughout New Jersey. It provides service to the Newark Airport, Trenton, Atlantic City, Princeton University, Camden, and Philadelphia, PA. Small pets in carry-on travel cages are allowed on both NJ Transit trains and buses.

AirTrain JFK —This 8.1-mile-long system provides 24/7 service to John F. Kennedy International Airport. The AirTrain connects with MTA subways and buses, as well as the Long Island Rail Road. Small domestic animals within secured containers may ride the AirTrain.

SEPTA (Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority) —This transit system provides service around the greater Philadelphia area. This includes Philadelphia International Airport, and lines extend as far as the state of Delaware. Service animals are permitted on all SEPTA services, but non-service animals (including those used for mental health and emotional support ) must ride in carriers.

SLE (Shore Line East) —This commuter rail service operates along the Northeast Corridor through southern Connecticut. It provides access between New London and New Haven on both weekends and weekdays. Pets are allowed onboard, but they must be either leashed or confined in a closed, ventilated container.

CapeFlyer —This rail system provides summer weekend passenger service between Boston and Cape Cod. Trains run from Memorial Day to Labor Day from South Station to Hyannis. Stops include Braintree, Brockton, Middleborough, Wareham Village, and Buzzards Bay. Pets are allowed on the CapeFlyer, but dogs must be properly leashed or in a container.

Washington, D.C. Area—

MARC (Maryland Area Regional Commuter) —Several lines extend north from Washington, D.C. into Baltimore. Lines also reach into West Virginia. Only small pets secured in enclosed carriers can ride on MARC trains.

VRE (Virginia Railway Express) —This regional commuter rail service connects the Northern Virginia suburbs to Washington, D.C. Only small pets secured in enclosed containers may ride on VRE trains.

Chicago Area—

Metra —Metra trains serve Cook, DuPage, Will, Lake, Kane, and McHenry counties via eleven separate lines. Small pets in enclosed carriers are permitted on non-peak period weekday trains arriving in Chicago before 6:31AM and after 9:30AM, as well as trains departing Chicago before 3PM and after 7PM. All weekend trains accept pets, but there is no guarantee that pets can be accommodated. Train crews may refuse your pet service in the event of overcrowding.

South Shore Line —This is a single line running along the south shore of Lake Michigan. It travels from Chicago to South Bend, Indiana. Small animals transported in small carry-on travel cages may ride this train, but the carrier must fit under the seat. Animals, including police dogs and service animals, cannot occupy seats.

California—

Amtrak California —This is a state-subsidized, interstate portion of the Amtrak network. This pet policy is the same as Amtrak’s ; it will cost you $25 to bring a small animal (under 20 pounds) aboard. However, there are a few differences. The Pacific Surfliner (San Diego to San Luis Obispo), the Capital Corridor (San Jose to Auburn), and the San Joaquin (Central Valley) do not allow pets.

ACE (Altamont Commuter Express) —This train service travels from San Jose to Santa Clara, over to Stockton and through the Altmont Corridor. Trains go to San Jose in the morning and out to Stockton in the afternoon. With the exception of guide dogs, animals are prohibited on all trains.

BART —The Bay Area Rapid Transit is a public metro system serving the San Francisco bay area. Trains serve Alameda, Contra Costa, and San Mateo counties and connect with Amtrak trains at the Richmond station. Pets are allowed aboard for no additional charge, but they must be secured in a container specifically manufactured for pet transport.

Caltrain —This hourly train service runs between San Francisco and San Jose, making several stops in Silicon Valley. Rush hour service necessitates more frequent and express service trains. Trained service animals are the only pets allowed aboard. While riding service animals must sit or stand on the floor; if the animal misbehaves, the customer will be asked to remove the animal from the vehicle.

Capitol Corridor —This service runs frequent trains between San Jose, Hayward, Oakland, Richmond, and Sacramento. Only service animals—those trained to perform a specific task for the benefit of a person with a disability—are permitted onboard trains. Emotional support and companion animals are not allowed.

Metrolink —This commuter rail system connects Los Angeles’ Union Station to suburbs and cities in Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, and Ventura counties. Small animals are permitted on board, but they must be kept in small pet carriers under the seat or on your lap. Large pets are not allowed on Metrolink trains.

The Coaster —This commuter rail service operates in the central and northern coastal regions of San Diego County, extending from downtown Santa Fe Station in San Diego to Oceanside in the northern suburbs. Known for its breathtaking coastal scenery, more than 20 trains run on weekdays (with additional weekend service). Small animals are permitted only in proper enclosed pet containers, and the carrier must be on the floor or lap.

Los Angeles Metro —Branded as “Metro,” this is the public transportation operating agency for the County of Los Angeles. Pets are allowed onboard Metro if they are secured in enclosed carriers. They must not block the aisle or doorway, and they should not deprive a customer of a seat.

VTA —The VTA Light Rail system serves San Jose, California and its suburbs in Silicon Valley. Customers are allowed to transport small pet permitted they are completely enclosed within their cage or carrier. The pet and carrier must be small enough to fit on a customer’s lap.

Alaska Railroad —Extending from Seward and Whittier to Fairbanks and beyond, this rail line provides scenic views of America’s northernmost state. Pets are only permitted onboard in the baggage car, and they must be in an airline-approved kennel. At the Spencer Glacier Whistle Stop, kennels may be left next to the train upon disembarkation and picked up upon your return.

TriMet —This Portland, Oregon-area system provides bus, light rail, and commuter rail transit services throughout the greater metro area. Only pets within enclosed containers may board TriMet buses and trains.

Sounder —This regional commuter rail travels south from Seattle to Lakewood via Tukwila, Kent, Auburn, Sumner, Puyallup, Tacoma, and South Tacoma. It also travels north to Everett via Edmonds and Mukilteo on a separate route. Small pets are allowed on Sound Transit trains (and buses) provided they are carried in small, enclosed containers.

Other parts of the country—

Music City Star —This short train runs just 32 miles, connecting Nashville and Lebanon, Tennessee. The RTA Music City Star does not operate weekly service on New Year’s Day, Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, or Thanksgiving. Animals are not allowed unless they are in approved animal transfer cages. Service dogs are the only exception.

New Mexico Rail Runner —This train system travels nearly 100 miles between Belen, Albuquerque, and Santa Fe, New Mexico. Riders can connect to Amtrak and Greyhound transit at the downtown Albuquerque Alvarado stop. Companion and emotional support animals are not allowed on these trains, but service animals are permitted to ride free of charge. Rail operators may ask you what task the service animal has been trained to perform.

Tri-Rail —This commuter rail line connects Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and West Palm Beach, Florida. It is operated by the South Florida Regional Transportation Authority, serving the area’s airports and various shuttle bus stations. Small pets are permitted on the trains if enclosed in a proper carrying cage.

Trinity Railway Express (TRE) —This commuter rail runs between Ft. Worth and Dallas, Texas, connecting the DFW airport at the Centerpoint station. Small animals are permitted onboard if they remain in enclosed pet containers.

UTA FrontRunner —This rail line runs along the Wasatch Front between Pleasant View, Ogden, Salt Lake City, and Provo, Utah. Animals are permitted on FrontRunner trains as long as they are in a carrying case and not exhibited threatening behavior. If the pet is not a service animal, it must be in an enclosed carrier.

Bringing Fido Along: A Guide to Amtrak's Dog-Friendly Rules

Amtrak, the national railroad system in the United States, has welcomed pets aboard its trains for years. However, there are specific policies and guidelines pet owners need to follow when traveling with their furry friends. Understanding Amtrak's dog-friendly policies can help ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey for both you and your pet.

This article will provide an overview of Amtrak's pet policy and the rules and restrictions regarding dogs. We will also discuss size, weight, breed restrictions for dogs on Amtrak, carrier requirements, and tips for acclimating your dog to the carrier.

Additionally, we will cover routes and trains where dogs are allowed, cost and booking procedures for traveling with pets on Amtrak, tips for a smooth journey with your dog on board, and information about traveling with service or emotional support dogs. By the end of this article, you'll understand how to travel safely with your furry companion on Amtrak.

Travel Safely with Your Dog and the Fi Dog Collar on Amtrak

When traveling with your beloved dog on Amtrak, it's essential to ensure their safety and comfort throughout the journey. The Fi Dog Collar offers a reliable way to monitor your pet's location and activity levels, even during travel. With its GPS tracking and geofencing features , you can keep track of your furry friend whether you're on the move or at rest. Make your Amtrak journey smoother and stress-free by equipping your dog with the Fi Dog Collar, so you can both enjoy the trip knowing they're safe and secure.

Amtrak's Pet Policy: An Overview

The following section provides an overview of Amtrak's pet policy, a pet-friendly program that outlines the general guidelines and specific dog regulations.

Amtrak allows passengers to bring their pets on board, but only in certain situations and with certain conditions. Not all trains are part of this pet program. Therefore, it's essential to check the specific train's pet policy on the Amtrak reservation site before making a booking.

Pets are not allowed on all trains or in all parts of a train, such as food service cars. Notably, pets are prohibited on Amtrak Cascades trains, Auto Train, and Pacific Surfliner trains. However, on trains where you can put your pet carrier, the coach car for pets accommodates passengers with their furry companions.

If you plan on bringing your dog with you on an Amtrak trip, several rules and restrictions must be followed. For instance, owners must provide a pet carrier for their dogs. The dog must be small enough to fit comfortably in a pet carrier on the floor under your seat, which means larger dogs will not be able to enjoy the train travel experience with you.

Moreover, the combined weight of the pet and carrier should not exceed Amtrak's set limit. The pet must remain inside its carrier for the duration of the trip unless it is a service animal. It is also essential to make reservations for your pet ahead of time because only one pet per customer is permitted per train, and there are limits to how many pets can travel per departure. Specifically, there's a maximum limit of five pets per train.

Amtrak's pet policy also applies to stations and onboard trains, so placing your pet in its carrier is crucial before entering these spaces. Pets are welcome on trips up to seven hours, except on Amtrak Cascades trains. As an Amtrak guest, adhering to these rules ensures a smooth, pet-friendly journey for everyone.

Size, Weight, and Breed Restrictions for Dogs on Amtrak

Size, weight, and breed restrictions are important considerations for dog owners planning to travel on Amtrak. To ensure the safety and comfort of all passengers, Amtrak has set specific guidelines regarding these factors. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

• The maximum size for pet carriers is 19'x 14'x 10.5'.
• Dogs and cats are allowed to travel on most Amtrak trains.
• Small pets weighing up to 20 pounds are allowed in Coach Class only.
• Larger dogs weighing up to 50 pounds can travel in designated train areas but must be booked in advance.

It's also worth noting that pets must always remain inside their carrier during the journey unless they're service animals. Furthermore, the pet must be at least eight weeks old and fully weaned before being allowed onboard.

While there aren't any breed-specific restrictions per se, aggressive or disruptive behavior won't be tolerated regardless of breed. Adhering to these rules and regulations lets pet owners enjoy a smooth and hassle-free trip with their furry friends on Amtrak.

Overall, it's clear that traveling with a pet on Amtrak requires careful planning beforehand. By keeping an eye on your pet's size, weight, and behavior and following the proper procedures during boarding and throughout the journey, you'll have no trouble ensuring a safe and enjoyable trip for you and your beloved companion.

And with more people than ever choosing to bring their pets along for long-distance travel nowadays, it's great news that dogs (and cats!) are allowed to join us aboard our nation's railways!

Understanding the Carrier Requirements

Proper selection and preparation of a carrier are essential for ensuring your furry companion's safe and comfortable journey on board Amtrak. Pet owners must be mindful of Amtrak's pet policy.

Which requires dogs to travel in leak-proof, well-ventilated carriers large enough to allow the animal to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Additionally, the combined weight of the pet and carrier should not exceed 20 lbs.

The carrier must either fit under the seat or be placed in an enclosed luggage area. Pets cannot be booked in areas where they may not be secured, such as in food service areas on stations or trains. While Amtrak is pet-friendly, allowing small dogs and cats on Amtrak, larger dogs are not allowed to travel as pets onboard.

Acclimating your dog to the carrier is crucial for a successful pet travel experience on Amtrak. You should take your dog through this process several weeks ahead of time so they can become familiar with the carrier. Start by placing treats inside the carrier and let your dog explore it at their own pace.

Gradually increase the time they spend inside until they become comfortable. Before making reservations with Amtrak, take short trips with your dog in their carrier to assess how well they tolerate confinement during travel.

Pets are welcome in coach classes on most Amtrak services but not on all Amtrak services. Pet owners are also expected to complete the pet release paperwork, where they certify that their pet is up to date on all vaccinations and accept liability for their pet. By adhering to these regulations, traveling with your pet on Amtrak can be a pleasant experience for both you and your furry friend.

Routes and Trains Where Dogs are Allowed

When planning to travel with your canine companion on Amtrak, you must familiarize yourself with the designated dog-friendly routes and any specific restrictions applicable to the train you will take.

Amtrak's pet policy allows for small dogs and cats in carriers on certain routes and trains, but it is important to note that not all trains are pet-friendly. It is best to check with Amtrak about pet policies for your specific route beforehand.

Some of the dog-friendly routes on Amtrak include the Northeast Regional, Capitol Limited, California Zephyr, and Southwest Chief among others. However, there may be restrictions on which coach carpets are allowed in or whether they can ride in business class or sleeping cars.

Additionally, some trains may only allow pets if they travel within a certain distance or time frame. Understanding these train-specific restrictions can help ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip for both you and your furry friend.

Cost and Booking Procedure for Traveling with Dogs on Amtrak

To travel with a canine companion on Amtrak, it is important to understand the additional costs and booking procedures. As part of its pet policy, Amtrak allows passengers to bring dogs on select routes and trains for an additional fee.

The following are important considerations when making pet reservations:

• Additional costs: Passengers must pay $26 for each pet they bring onboard. This fee is non-refundable and applies to both one-way and round-trip tickets.
• Booking procedure: To make a reservation for your dog, you must call Amtrak at least 5 days before your departure date. Only one pet per passenger is allowed, and pets must be able to fit comfortably in a carrier that meets Amtrak's size requirements.
• Pet release: Upon boarding the train, passengers with dogs must sign a release form acknowledging their responsibility for their pet's behavior during the trip. It is recommended that passengers bring food, water, toys , and other supplies necessary to keep their dogs comfortable during the journey.
• Restrictions: Not all trains or routes allow pets onboard. Additionally, restrictions may be based on destination cities or times of day.

Understanding these procedures can help ensure a smooth experience when traveling with dogs on Amtrak. With proper planning and preparation, taking your furry friend along for the ride can be a fun and enjoyable experience.

Tips for a Smooth Journey with Your Dog on Amtrak

Effective management of canine behavior during travel on Amtrak is crucial, and careful pre-journey preparation can be compared to a well-oiled machine that ensures a smooth ride for both the pet and the owner.

As per the Amtrak pet policy, pets are allowed in certain designated areas only, and owners must make pet reservations in advance. It is important to ensure that your pet's needs are met before embarking on the journey, including feeding them at least four hours before departure and providing them with adequate exercise .

Managing your dog during the trip involves keeping them calm and comfortable throughout their journey. As per the Amtrak pet policy, pets should always be leashed or kept in carriers while on board. Owners must also ensure they bring any necessary items such as food, water bowls, waste disposal bags, and medication if required.

In case of any emergencies related to your dog during travel on Amtrak, it is advisable to approach the conductor immediately for assistance. By following these guidelines for pre-journey preparation and managing your dog during travel on Amtrak effectively, you can ensure a stress-free journey for both yourself and your furry friend.

Traveling with Service or Emotional Support Dogs on Amtrak

Now that you know how to prepare for a smooth Amtrak journey with your pet, let's talk about traveling with service or emotional support dogs. Amtrak recognizes these dogs' important role in their owners' lives and has specific policies in place to accommodate them.

Firstly, it's important to understand the difference between service and emotional support dogs. Service dogs are trained to perform specific tasks for individuals with disabilities, while emotional support dogs provide comfort and companionship for individuals with mental health conditions.

Here are some further details on traveling with service or emotional support dogs on Amtrak:

• Service animals are permitted on all Amtrak trains, free of charge.
• Emotional support animals are only allowed on certain routes and require documentation from a licensed mental health professional.
• The documentation must be submitted at least 48 hours before departure.
• Owners of both types of animals must adhere to certain rules during travel, including keeping their animals under control at all times and ensuring they do not block aisles or seats.

In addition to understanding the rules for traveling with service or emotional support dogs on Amtrak, it's crucial to have all necessary documentation and follow any other requirements set forth by the company. Doing so can ensure a smooth and stress-free trip for you and your furry companion.

In conclusion, Amtrak's pet policy provides a unique opportunity for dog owners to travel with their furry companions. Before booking a ticket, understanding the size, weight, and breed restrictions is crucial. Appropriate carriers must be used while acclimating your dog to the carrier beforehand.

It is important to note that not all routes and trains are dog-friendly, so careful research should be done before planning a trip. Booking procedures for dogs on Amtrak require an additional cost and certain steps that need to be followed. To ensure a smooth journey with your dog, pre-journey preparation and managing your dog during the trip are necessary.

In case of emergencies during travel, it is essential to know how to deal with them effectively. Overall, traveling with service or emotional support dogs has different rules and requirements that must be understood before embarking on an Amtrak adventure.

All in all, traveling with your furry friend on Amtrak can make any journey more enjoyable and memorable for both you and your beloved pet.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Amtrak allows a maximum of one dog per passenger, with a maximum weight of 20 pounds. Service animals are not included in this limit. Other restrictions apply, including the need for advance reservations and pet-related fees.
• Dogs cannot stay in the same cabin as their owners on Amtrak trains. This policy is in place for safety reasons and to ensure comfort for all passengers. Dogs must travel in designated areas, such as a pet car or carrier .
• In case of disruptive behavior by a dog during an Amtrak journey, the conductor may ask the owner to control or remove the animal. The train may be stopped if necessary, and local authorities called for assistance.
• Amtrak does not have breed-specific restrictions for emotional support dogs. However, the dog must be well-behaved and trained to perform tasks directly related to the owner's disability. Documentation may also be required.
• Passengers on Amtrak trains can bring their own food and water for their dogs. It is recommended that they pack enough supplies for the duration of the trip and store them in a secure container.

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How to travel into Europe

Taking your dog by train.

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This gets asked surprisingly often, as it's difficult and expensive to send dogs, cats or other pets by air, and pets find it very stressful alone in the hold of a plane.  So why not take your dog by train or ferry, the civilised and comfortable option?  Unfortunately Eurostar doesn't allow dogs on trains to/from London, except guide dogs.  But there are alternatives - this page explains the options for civilised & enjoyable train & ferry travel between the UK and European destinations with your dog, cat or other pet.

Microchip, vaccinations, health certificate

Before you start, you'll need to make sure your dog or pet is fitted with a microchip and has an up-to-date rabies vaccination.  Call your vet, they can advise you.

To take a pet from the UK to the EU , see your vet no more than 10 days before you travel for a simple health check and to get a health certificate.  Expect this to cost £180 (yet another a Brexit cost as the UK is no longer a member of the Pet Passport scheme).  The certificate is a 10-page document with more stamps than a 1970s Soviet transit visa which allows you to take your pet into the EU for up to 4 months and to re-enter the UK within 4 months.  You can have more than one pet on the same health certificate.  For certain countries you'll also need a tapeworm treatment, including Ireland, Northern Ireland, Norway, Finland & Malta.

A day or two before you return to the UK , make a vet's appointment.  The vet gives your dog a tapeworm tablet and fills in/stamps the relevant section on the form.  This must be done no less than 24 hours and no more than 120 hours (5 days) before you enter Great Britain.  Expect this to cost around €40.  This allows you to return to the UK.

For full details on how to take a pet abroad, see www.gov.uk/guidance/pet-travel-to-europe-after-brexit .

For full details on how to bring a pet into the UK, see www.defra.gov.uk/wildlife-pets/pets/travel .

Tip:   As you can't take meat or dairy products into the EU, only take enough regular pet food for the Channel crossing.  Take kibble for the onward journey, or stock up with wet food once on the Continent.

Step 1, taking a pet on British trains

This bit is easy.  You can take dogs, cats and other small animals free of charge on all British trains, up to a maximum of two per passenger, as long as they don't endanger or inconvenience passengers or staff.  Dogs must be kept on a lead unless inside a carrier.  Dogs without leads, cats, birds and small animals must be carried in an enclosed cage or pet carrier which must be rigid and not open (to prevent escape) and the animal able to stand and lie down in comfort.  Animals and containers must not occupy seats or a charge may be made.  If you want to use a Caledonian Sleeper to or from Scotland, you'll need to pay a fee, see here .  For full details of dog & pet regulations on British trains see www.nationalrail.co.uk/on-the-train/train-travel-with-pets .  So far, so good.

Step 2, getting across the Channel

Option 1 , london to holland with stena line.

I highly recommend this option for both comfort and simplicity for travel with your dog between the UK and the Continent. It's an ideal route for the Netherlands, Germany, Austria, Poland, Czechia, Scandinavia and so on.  It's a round-about route to France, Spain, Switzerland & Italy, but because it's so dog-friendly & inexpensive with really easy integrated train-to-ferry and ferry-to-train connections on either side of the Channel, it's a surprisingly good option even for that.  It may also avoid the need for an overnight stay in Paris because after an overnight sailing to Hoek in a cosy pet-friendly cabin you can catch a morning high-speed train to Paris in time for an afternoon TGV to Barcelona, Switzerland or Milan.

What is Stena Line Rail & Sail?

Stena Line Rail & Sail is an integrated train & ferry service between London & the Netherlands run jointly by Greater Anglia & Stena Line.  One ticket bought at www.stenaline.co.uk covers the whole journey from London or any East Anglia rail station to Hoek van Holland.  It works in both directions, of course, but I'll describe the outward journey from the UK here.

You take the 18:45 train from London Liverpool Street station to Harwich and your dog travels with you on the train.  At Harwich, the train arrives alongside the ferry terminal at around 20:45.  It's totally painless:  You walk straight off the train into the ferry terminal, through passport control (where your dog or cat's pet passport will be checked too) and onto the luxurious Stena Line superferry to Hoek van Holland.

You enter the ship via the passenger gangway onto Deck 7.

If you've booked a pet-friendly cabin , take your dog or cat by lift or stairs up to deck 10, where all the pet-friendly cabins are.  All cabins have a shower, toilet, free WiFi and satellite TV.  Your pet stays with you in the cabin, they are not allowed on the rest of the ship.  If your pet needs a pee or poo, go down the Red Stairs to Deck 7 and press the white button to open a door to a small outside deck area where they can get some air, have a little exercise and do their business.  Inevitably, we refer to this as the poop deck.

If you've booked a kennel , you take your dog up two decks by lift or stairs to the Guest Services desk on Deck 9, which is the main passenger deck with all the bars, lounges & restaurants.  The Guest Services staff will give you a kennel number in either Kennel A or Kennel B, and give you the 4-digit code to access the kennels.  You then go down one deck on Red Stairs to the kennels on Deck 8.  The kennels have a sink with running water, and they provide blankets for dogs to sleep on, but you should take your own pet's water bowl, food bowl and perhaps their favourite toy.  If your pet needs a pee or poo, go down one deck on the same Red Stairs to Deck 7 and press the white button to open a door to a small outside deck area where they can get some air, have a little exercise and do their business.

After settling your pet into their kennel you can settle in to your own private en suite cabin on Deck 10 or 11 and perhaps have a late dinner in the ship's restaurant or a nightcap in the bar on Deck 9.  All cabins have a shower, toilet, free WiFi and satellite TV.  Channel 6 on the TV shows CCTV pictures of the kennels, with close-ups of individual cages.  You can visit your dog at any time during the crossing, although pets are not allowed in the public areas, other than to reach the Customer Services desk on embarkation, or to reach a pet-friendly cabin.

The ferry sails at 23:00 every day and arrives at Hoek van Holland at 08:00 next morning, Dutch time.

You now collect your dog from the kennels, if they need a pee you can take them to that small outside deck area on Deck 7.  You then walk off the ferry into the terminal and out onto the adjacent railway station for the frequent metro train to Schiedam & Rotterdam.  Dogs travel for free on the RET metro trains.  You can use any contactless bank card to travel, just touch in and out at the start and end of the metro journey.

Get off the metro in Schiedam Centrum for a frequent NS (Dutch Railways) InterCity train to Amsterdam, arriving Amsterdam Centraal around 10:25.  In the reverse direction, you'd leave Amsterdam Centraal around 18:46, the ferry sails from Hoek around 22:00 arriving Harwich at 06:30, you reach central London around 08:50.

Or continue to Eendrachtsplein station in Rotterdam city centre, from where it's then an 800m 10-minute walk to Rotterdam Centraal .  Or continue to Rotterdam Alexander for NS trains to Utrecht, Groningen and so on.

You'll find full details, photos & a video guide on the Stena Line Rail & Sail page .

Onward trains to Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Italy, Eastern Europe etc...

Direct daytime trains link Amsterdam with Germany and Switzerland - in many cases these go via Utrecht, and changing at Utrecht saves going all the way into Amsterdam.  Regular daytime trains link Rotterdam with Brussels and Paris.  All of these trains take dogs, sometimes free, sometimes for a fee, sometimes with a child rate ticket.

Or take the Nightjet sleeper from Amsterdam to Basel, Zurich (change for Italy), Munich, Innsbruck or Vienna (change for Bratislava, Budapest, Zagreb).  Dogs are carried on Nightjets for €29 paid on board the train, as long as you and your party occupy a whole compartment.

You'll find specific timetables for journeys between London and each of the following countries here:  Belgium , Italy , Switzerland , Germany , Austria , Denmark , Hungary , Czech Republic & Poland .

Onward trains to Paris (for France, Switzerland, Spain, Italy)

Take the metro from Hoek van Holland to Eendrachtsplein station in Rotterdam city centre, dogs go free of charge on the metro.  It's then an 800m 10-minute walk to Rotterdam Centraal .

Then take a Eurostar (formerly Thalys) high-speed train from Rotterdam Centraal to Paris Gare du Nord , you'll usually find a 10:58 arriving 13:38.  Dogs can travel in any class on Eurostar (formerly Thalys) trains for €30, you pay the dog fee on board to the conductor.  Book your own ticket from Rotterdam to Paris from €35 online in advance at www.sncf-connect.com (don't bother trying to add a dog to the booking, this doesn't work with Eurostar (formerly Thalys) .

How much does it cost?

You'll find specific fare & booking information for journeys between London and each of the following countries by clicking the relevant link:  Netherlands , Belgium , Italy , Switzerland , Germany , Austria , Denmark , Hungary , Czech Republic & Poland .

...and to take a dog or cat?  

On the train from London to Harwich your dog travels free.  On the ferry, you must reserve a kennel (£23) or pet-friendly cabin during the online booking process.  On the Dutch domestic trains between Hoek van Holland, Rotterdam & Amsterdam or Utrecht, small dogs or cats in containers on your lap travel free of charge, but if you have a larger dog you'll need to buy a dog day-ticket (Dagkaart Hond) for €3.30, you may be able to buy this at the Guest Services desk on deck 9 on board the Stena Line ferry, otherwise buy it at Schiedam station.  On the international daytime trains from Amsterdam or Utrecht to Germany and Switzerland, cats and small dogs (up to cat sized) in containers go free, larger dogs on leads require a child rate ticket which you can buy online exactly as you would for a child, although unlike kids they don't qualify for the free kid with an adult deal.

How to buy tickets for you & your dog, step 1 :

Book your Rail & Sail ticket from London to Amsterdam online at www.stenaline.co.uk .  You simply need to choose a pet-friendly (animal) cabin at the cabin stage plus the 'pet in cabin' option at the extras stage, or just add a pet in kennel at the extras stage.

How to buy tickets, step 2 :

You now need to book the onward trains to your European destination.  Booking usually opens 90 days ahead, you cannot book before reservations open.  Trains from Amsterdam to Cologne, Frankfurt and Switzerland pass through Utrecht so it's quicker to pick them up there rather than going all the way into Amsterdam, unless you really want to.  For daytime travel from Amsterdam or Utrecht to Germany or Switzerland, book your own ticket at int.bahn.de .  Small (cat-size) dogs & cats in containers go free, if you have a larger larger dog it travels at the child rate (either full-fare Flexpreis or discounted Sparpreis , it doesn't matter) so simply use int.bahn.de again to buy a child ticket, I recommend buying this as a separate booking to avoid the system automatically offering the 'Child under 15 accompanied by an adult goes free' offer which doesn't apply to dogs!  There are Nightjet sleeper train from Cologne to Innsbruck (for Italy) & Vienna (for all points east) and you can easily book these online at int.bahn.de .  Onward connections from Innsbruck to Italy or Vienna to Budapest can be booked at www.oebb.at .

Inward one-way tickets :  Note that www.stenaline.co.uk can only book one-way or return tickets starting in the UK.  One-way or return tickets starting in the Netherlands must be booked at the Dutch version of the Stena Line website, see the advice here .

Option 2, London to Paris via the Newhaven-Dieppe ferry

See the London/Brighton-Newhaven-Dieppe-Paris timetable on the London-Paris by train & ferry page .  This is the cheapest option if you're heading for France or Spain.

Step 1, take a train to Newhaven Town , see www.nationalrail.co.uk for train times.

Up to 2 dogs of any size go free of charge on British trains, just buy a ticket for yourself.

Step 2, take a DFDS ferry from Newhaven to Dieppe , check ferry times at www.dfds.com .

DFDS allows you to take a cat or dog with you as a foot passenger on these routes.

Only small and medium size dogs are carried, according to DFDS customer services.  That means I'd expect them to have no problem with springer spaniels, but they won't carry great Danes or St Bernards.  You'll have to call them to check whether your labrador will fit their kennels.

If the animal is small and in a carrier, the pet & carrier are handed to staff at check-in and returned to you after the crossing.  Larger dogs have to be booked in one of the ship's 3 kennels, although you can visit the pet in the middle of the crossing by taking an appointment at the reception desk.

To book as a foot passenger with a pet you must call DFDS on 033 058 787 87 if you're in the UK or 0809 541 890 if you're in France or +44 33 058 787 87 from outside either country.  You cannot book online if you're taking a pet!

Step 3, take a French train from Dieppe to Paris St Lazare , book this at www.thetrainline.com . 

Dogs can be taken on all French trains.  Small dogs (under 6Kg) placed in containers not exceeding 45cm x 30cm x 25cm pay no more than €5.10 per journey.  Larger dogs muzzled and on leads pay half the 2nd class full fare (even travelling in 1st class).

You can buy a ticket in English at the official French Railways website www.sncf-connect.com (for English scroll to the bottom and change France to Europe (other countries).   You add a dog to the booking by clicking the Add button (English version) or Ajouter (French version) before running the enquiry.

Once in Paris, you can take onward trains to Spain, Portugal or the South of France, as shown in step 3 below.

Option 3, London to Paris by train + taxi with Pet Travel Abroad .

For France, Spain or Portugal you really need to go via Paris.  As Eurostar won't take pets and most Channel Ferries won't let foot passengers take pets either, here is a solution which works well, although it's not cheap:

Step 1, travel from London to Folkestone by train.

You can use any normal British domestic train, dogs go free.  There are hourly or half hourly trains from London Charing Cross, Waterloo East or St Pancras to Folkestone Central, check train times & fares at www.nationalrail.co.uk .

Step 2, book a taxi from Folkestone to Calais via the Eurotunnel shuttle with Pet Travel Abroad .

Book your trip by calling Pet Travel Abroad (part of Folkestone Taxis) on 01303 246 925 (+00 44 1303 246925 from outside the UK), see their pet transport page at pettravelabroad.co.uk .

They can take you and your dog and up to 3 other passengers from Folkestone Central station to Calais Ville or Calais Fréthun stations for around £190 plus the cost of the Eurotunnel ticket, typically £164, but this can vary.

You and your dog remain together in the taxi throughout the journey via the Channel Tunnel car shuttle train.  Pet Travel Abroad (part of Folkestone Taxis) has been highly recommended by several travellers, further feedback is always appreciated.

Of course, a cheaper solution is to get a friend to drive you to Calais and drop you at the station, using a cheap day return ferry ticket - try www.dfds.com or www.poferries.com .  The dog remains inside the car on the ferry car deck.

Step 3, take a French domestic train from Calais Ville or Calais Fréthun to Paris .

To check train times use www.raileurope.com (in £ or €) or www.thetrainline.com (in €).  On French trains, small dogs under 6 Kg placed in containers not exceeding 45cm x 30cm x 25cm pay no more than €5.10 per journey.  Larger dogs muzzled and on leads pay half the 2nd class full fare, even travelling in 1st class.  For onward train travel with your dog to Spain, Italy, Portugal and so on, see the following section.

How to plan your trip.

The French trains from Calais to Paris are irregular and less frequent than the British ones, so start by picking a suitable afternoon train from Calais to Paris and work backwards.  Ask Folkestone Taxis what time you need to leave Folkestone Central in their taxi to make this train.  Then work out a train from London (or your local station) to Folkestone Central with plenty of time in hand.

This blog may inspire you: Argo, the dog who took the train to Italy .

Option 4, Hull-Rotterdam or Newcastle-Amsterdam by ferry

You can take a dog as a foot passenger on P&O Ferries Hull-Rotterdam route, with pet-friendly cabins & kennels.  Book online and add a pet plus pet-friendly cabin or kennel at www.poferries.com .  More about the Hull-Rotterdam ferry route .

You can also take a dog as a foot passenger with pet-friendly cabins on DFDS overnight Newcastle-Amsterdam ferry.  However, you can't book online as a foot passenger with a pet, you need to book by phone, so check sailing times at www.dfds.com then call DFDS on 0871 522 9955.  More about the Newcastle to Amsterdam ferry route .

Back to top

Step 3, taking pets on trains in mainland Europe

Once safely across the Channel, you can take a dog or cat with you on most trains across Europe, sometimes free, sometimes for a small charge, sometimes with a normal child-rate ticket.  In sleeping-cars and couchettes on overnight trains, you can generally only take a dog if your party occupies all the berths in a compartment.

From the UK to France

Eurostar doesn't take dogs and nor do most ferry companies unless you are a motorist.  P&O used to allow foot passengers to take dogs, but have stopped doing in 2012.  However, DFDS will take caged pets if you're a foot passenger on their Newhaven-Dieppe route.

So either travel from London to Newhaven by train, take a DFDS ferry to Dieppe as a foot passenger with your pet in a cage as explained above in option 2 , take a taxi to Dieppe station and a train to Paris, or travel from London to Folkestone by train, pay Folkestone Taxis to shuttle you through the Tunnel from Folkestone Central station to Calais Ville station, then take a train to Paris as explained above in option 3 .

Or you can travel from the UK to Paris via Hoek van Holland using option 1 , it's a round-about route, but so easy, dog-friendly, inexpensive and avoids the need for an overnight stop in Paris as you can sail overnight from Harwich to Hoek van Holland in a cosy pet-friendly cabin, catch the metro to Rotterdam and a morning high-speed train to Paris, then take an afternoon train to almost anywhere in France, even Nice & the south coast.

Pets on trains within France

Dogs can be taken on all French trains.  Small dogs (under 6 Kg) placed in containers not exceeding 45cm x 30cm x 25cm pay €7 per journey.  Larger dogs muzzled and on a lead pay €7.

You can buy a ticket in English at the official French Railways website www.sncf-connect.com , you add a dog to your booking by clicking the Add travellers, pets & bicycles button before running the enquiry.

To the Netherlands

From the UK to the Netherlands

I recommend travelling via the Harwich-Hoek van Holland superferry as shown in option 1 above .  Once at Hoek van Holland your Dutch Flyer ticket is valid to any Dutch station, not just Amsterdam.  You can book from London to Amsterdam or any Dutch station online at www.stenaline.co.uk , adding a kennel during the booking process.

Alternatively, you can also take a dog as a foot passenger with pet-friendly cabins on DFDS overnight Newcastle-Amsterdam ferry, but you must book by phone, check sailing times at www.dfds.com then call 0871 522 9955.  P&O take dogs with foot passengers on their overnight Hull-Rotterdam ferry, see www.poferries.com .

Pets on trains within the Netherlands

On Dutch trains, small dogs or cats in containers placed on your lap travel free of charge, if you have a larger dog on a lead you will need to buy a Dagkaart Hond   (dog day-ticket) for just over €3.  You can check details for this at the Dutch Railways site www.ns.nl .

To Switzerland

From the UK to Switzerland

You should use the train & ferry service from London to Amsterdam via the Harwich-Hoek van Holland ferry, as explained in option 1 above .  For details of the London to Switzerland journey via this route see the Switzerland page , which has timetables & fares.  You can book the London-Amsterdam part of the journey online at www.stenaline.co.uk , adding a reserved kennel during the booking process.  You'll then find daytime trains from Utrecht to Basel & Zurich, which you can book online at int.bahn.de . 

Pets on trains within Switzerland

Dogs of any size can travel for half the 2nd class fare on any Swiss train (for longer journeys there's a Dog Day card), small dogs up to 30cm high at the shoulder can travel free if they are in a carrier, you'll find information on the Swiss railways website www.sbb.ch and you can easily buy Swiss tickets at the station when you get there.

From the UK to Italy, via Hoek van Holland

Travel overnight from London to Hoek van Holland using the Harwich-Hoek van Holland ferry as explained in option 1 above .

I'd then suggest travelling from Amsterdam to Munich by daytime trains, then overnight again from Munich to Venice on the excellent Nightjet sleeper train.  You'll find full details of these trains and how to book them in the via Harwich section of the London to Italy page .

Dogs travel on the German-run trains between Amsterdam, Cologne & Munich under the same arrangements as for trains within Germany explained in the To Germany section below .

Dogs are carried on the Nightjet sleeper from Cologne to Innsbruck or Vienna for €29, as long as you and your party occupy a whole compartment.  You don't need to book the dog, you just pay the extra €29 to the staff on board the train.

First book the London-Amsterdam part of the journey online at www.stenaline.co.uk , adding a reserved kennel during the booking process.

Then book Amsterdam-Munich followed by Munich-Venice using www.thetrainline.com .  Then buy a separate 2nd class child ticket for your dog from Amsterdam to Munich as explained in the To Germany section below .

Then travel onwards from Venice to other Italian cities.  See the Pets on trains within Italy section below.

Alternatively, you can take daytime trains from Utrecht to Basel or Zurich, book these online at int.bahn.de .  Stay overnight in Basel or Zurich.  Then take a Zurich to Milan EuroCity train, which you can book online at www.sbb.ch .  Dogs under 30cm high at the shoulder in a carrier travel free on this EuroCity train and on onward trains within Italy.  Dogs over 30cm high and not in a carrier must have a ticket, usually charged at half the 2nd class fare, which you can buy at the station in Zurich for about £35.

From the UK to Italy, via Paris

Step 1, Eurostar doesn't take dogs, so travel from London to Paris via Folkestone/Newhaven & Paris using option 2 or option 3 above, both involving ferry or EuroTunnel to France then domestic French train to Paris.  You may need to stay in Paris overnight.  Or use option 1 via Hoek van Holland, it's a round-about route, but so easy, dog-friendly, inexpensive and avoids the need for an overnight stop in Paris.

Step 2, you can then take one of the three daily Paris-Turin-Milan TGV trains in 1st or 2nd class with any size of dog muzzled and on a lead for €20, or a small dog/cat in a pet carrier not exceeding 45cm x 30cm x 25cm for €7.  You can book yourself and your dog from Paris to Milan at www.sncf-connect.com , look for the Add Travellers, animals, bicycles button and add a dog on a lead or in a carrier before running the enquiry.

Step 3, take an onward train from Milan or Turin to anywhere in Italy, see the Pets on trains within Italy section below.

Dogs are also carried on Trenitalia's competing Paris-Milan Frecciarossa , dogs under 5 Kg go free, dogs 5-50 Kg €30, all dogs must travel in Standard or Business class Allegro cars.  See the London to Italy page for details of times, prices and how to buy tickets.  The £10 fee for taking a dog on the Paris-Milan TGV must be paid by phone, it cannot be booked online.

Pets on trains within Italy

Dogs and pets are carried on most Trenitalia trains, free in a carrier (maximum size 70cm x 30cm x 50cm) or at half the 2nd class fare if on a lead and muzzled, for full details to www.trenitalia.com and look under Services for Transport of pets . 

You'll need to carry the dog's pet passport or health certificate, and yes, you will need to use a muzzle if your dog isn't inside a carrier.  You aren't allowed to take dogs on regional trains between 07:00 & 09:00 weekdays.  You aren't allowed to take a dog in Premium or Executive classes on Frecciarossa high-speed trains .  You can only take a dog in sleepers or couchettes if your party occupies the whole compartment.

From the UK to Barcelona, Madrid, Malaga, Valencia, Alicante...

Step 2, you can then take one of the twice-daily Paris-Barcelona TGV trains with any size of dog muzzled and on a lead on for €20, or a small dog/cat in a pet carrier not exceeding 45cm x 30cm x 25cm for €7.  More about the Paris-Barcelona TGV journey .

You can buy a ticket for yourself and your dog from Paris to Barcelona at www.sncf-connect.com , look for the Add Travellers, animals, bicycles button and add a dog on a lead or in a carrier before running the enquiry.

Step 3 if your dog is under 10 Kg, you can then travel from Barcelona direct to Madrid, Malaga, Valencia or Alicante, see the Pets on trains within Spain section below.

Step 3 if your dog is 10-40 Kg, you can travel from Barcelona to Madrid on certain AVE trains, then from Madrid to Malaga, Valencia or Alicante also on certain trains only, see the Pets on trains within Spain section below.

From the UK to San Sebastian

Step 1, Eurostar doesn't take dogs, so travel from London to Paris via Folkestone/Newhaven & Paris using option 2 or option 3 above, both involving ferry or EuroTunnel to France then domestic French train to Paris.  Or use option 1 via Hoek van Holland, it's a round-about route, but so easy, dog-friendly, inexpensive and avoids the need for an overnight stop in Paris.

Step 2, you can then take one of the regular TGVs from Paris Montparnasse to Hendaye on the Spanish border, a stone's throw from San Sebastian.  These also take dogs of any size muzzled and on a lead for €20, or a small dog/cat in a pet carrier for €7. 

You can buy a ticket for yourself and your dog from Paris to Hendaye at www.sncf-connect.com , look for the Add Travellers, animals, bicycles button and add a dog on a lead or in a carrier before running the enquiry.

Step 3, the half-hourly trains from Hendaye to San Sebastian run by Euskotren take dogs of any size, muzzled and on a lead, or in a pet carrier, buy that ticket when you get to Hendaye.  More about the Paris-San Sebastian journey .

Pets on trains within Spain

Dogs under 10 Kg in pet carriers (maximum size 60cm x 35cm x 35cm) can be taken on most Renfe long distance trains either free or for a small fee, see www.renfe.com/es/en/viajar/informacion-util/mascotas (please let me know if that link stops working).

In general, larger dogs are not allowed at all on Spanish medium & long-distance trains .  I gather this is a cultural thing, as large dogs are generally regarded as working animals (for example, guard dogs) not pets in Spain.  Disappointingly, that not only goes for national operator Renfe, but for open-access competitors Ouigo and Iryo , too.

However, as from June 2023, dogs up to 40 Kg are allowed on certain Barcelona-Madrid, Madrid-Malaga, Madrid-Alicante & Madrid-Valencia AVE trains, for a fee, muzzled, with a 40-minute check-in and some forms to complete.  See www.renfe.com/es/en/viajar/informacion-util/mascotas (please let me know if that link stops working).  Dogs up to 40 Kg are only allowed 2 or 3 designated trains per day on each of those routes, there's a list of trains linked from that page.  Feedback would be appreciated!

More about train travel in Spain .  Buy Spanish train tickets with dog added at www.renfe.com .

To Portugal

From the UK to Portugal

Eurostar doesn't carry dogs, so first travel from London to Paris using either option 2 or option 3 above.  You'll then need to stay overnight in Paris. Then travel from Paris to Lisbon as shown on the London to Portugal page .

They key issue is that dogs over 10 Kg aren't carried on trains beyond Madrid.

From the UK to Germany

Step 1, first travel from London to Amsterdam via the overnight Harwich-Hoek van Holland ferry, see option 1 above .

Step 2, check train times & buy tickets from Amsterdam Centraal to anywhere in Germany at int.bahn.de .  On the German-run international IC & ICE trains between Amsterdam and Cologne, Frankfurt, Hannover & Berlin, the same arrangements apply as for German domestic travel explained below.

Alternatively, the overnight European Sleeper between Rotterdam/Amsterdam & Berlin takes dogs for free if you and your party occupy a whole couchette or sleeper compartment, see the European Sleeper page for more information .

Pets on trains within Germany & on international trains between Amsterdam & Germany

Small dogs & cats in containers go free.  Larger dogs pay the child price.

You can buy tickets for you and your dog at int.bahn.de .  Click the From field to open the details panel, click on Passengers, bicycles , click on Add , click on More passenger types and add a dog to the booking.

Dogs not in carriers must be on a lead and (in theory at least) muzzled.  In practice you'll seldom see dogs muzzled).  Dogs classed as 'dangerous breeds' aren't carried on trains in Germany.

To Austria , central & eastern Europe

From the UK to Austria & central Europe

I recommend travelling from London to Amsterdam via the overnight Harwich-Hoek van Holland ferry, see option 1 above .  For details of a journey from London to various countries via this route, click the relevant destination link:  Austria , Hungary , Czech Republic , Poland .

For Austria

Step 1, book the London-Amsterdam part of the journey online at www.stenaline.co.uk , adding a reserved kennel during the booking process.

Step 2, book a late afternoon train from Amsterdam Centraal to Cologne Hbf at int.bahn.de .  On trains between Amsterdam and Cologne, small dogs and cats in containers go free, larger dogs pay the child rate, you can buy child tickets for your dog online at int.bahn.de , but do this as a separate booking from your own ticket to avoid the 'child under 15 accompanied by an adult goes free' offer which doesn't apply to dogs!  Note that dogs classed as 'dangerous' breeds aren't carried on trains in Germany. 

Step 3, then use www.oebb.at to book the Nightjet sleeper from Cologne Hbf to Munich Hbf , Innsbruck or Vienna Hbf .  Change in Munich for Salzburg.  Dogs are carried on the Nightjet sleeper from Cologne to Innsbruck or Vienna for €29 paid on board the train, as long as you and your party occupy a whole compartment.

Pets on trains within Austria

Small dogs (meaning cat-size) or cats in containers go free, larger dogs require a child ticket, which can be booked online at www.oebb.at .

For Hungary

Travel to Vienna as above.  On onward trains from Vienna to Budapest, small dogs (meaning cat-size) or cats in containers go free, larger dogs require a child ticket, which can be booked online at www.oebb.at .

Dogs aren't allowed in MAV (Hungarian Railways) sleeping-cars or couchette cars at all, which rules out the Munich-Budapest and Zurich-Budapest sleeper trains.

To Denmark , Sweden, Norway

From the UK to Scandinavia

I recommend travelling from London to Amsterdam via the overnight Harwich-Hoek van Holland ferry, see option 1 above .  For details of a journey from London to various countries via this route, click the relevant destination link:  Denmark , Sweden , Norway , Finland .

Step 1, you can book the London-Amsterdam part of the journey online at www.stenaline.co.uk , adding a reserved kennel during the booking process.

Step 2, check train times & buy tickets from Amsterdam Centraal to Copenhagen at int.bahn.de .  An overnight stop in Hamburg may be necessary.

On the German-run international trains between Amsterdam, Hamburg & Copenhagen, small dogs and cats in containers go free, larger dogs pay the child rate.  You can buy child tickets for a larger dog online at int.bahn.de , although do this as a separate booking from your own ticket to avoid the child under 15 accompanied by an adult goes free offer which doesn't apply to dogs.  Note that dogs classed as 'dangerous' breeds aren't carried on trains in Germany.

Step 3, dogs can go on the Copenhagen-Stockholm X2000 trains , but you can't take a pet in 1st class and you need to use the special pets allowed section of the train in 2nd class.  You can reserve seats in this section when booking at www.sj.se or call their telesales line.

From the UK to Greece

Step 1, travel from London to Venice via Harwich-Hoek and Munich exactly as shown in the To Italy section above .

For more information

For information on the transport of dogs and other pets in particular countries, search the website of the relevant national train operator.  There is a list of links to each operator's website on the useful links page .

Feedback requested!

Feedback from anyone who takes their dog or cat into Europe by train would be very welcome.

Traveller's reports

Dog owner Wendy Shillam reports :  "We've been taking our dog abroad since the rules changed 9 years ago.  Firstly I agree that its mad that Eurostar doesn't allow dogs, especially as it would be a good earner for them and they need the money!  I wrote to the COE but got no reply.  The most comfortable and quickest way for dogs to cross the channel (though not always the cheapest) is by car with Eurotunnel .  They just stay in the car with you and there is no bother.  Once, we then left our car at the Calais 'parkway' station, but on returning we saw that quite a few cars - not ours thank goodness - had been broken into.  It is a very desolate spot and no security as far as I can see.  But it is free parking.  Once across the channel be careful which train you get from Calais - some especially on Sundays are really slow.  We also have taken the motorail train from Düsseldorf, it's not too far and then you can get a car-carrying overnight train from Düsseldorf to Italy, the south of France or Austria .  Dogs are accepted on these German motorail trains in the sleeper cabins and we have never had a problem. Our dog Astrid, a nine year old Mini Schnauzer, has lasted 17 hours on a train with no ill effects - overnight she just settles down to sleep, generally taking up most of my bunk!  The steward will tell you if there are longer stops which allows you to give your dog a 'comfort' walk.  The irony is that if we could travel on Eurostar we would never dream of taking our car with us at all!  On Spanish trains dogs should be muzzled - the guard did let us get away with it, but if Astrid had been a bigger dog there might have been trouble.  Also beware if you plan to travel with your dog by bus in Spain.  They insist that the dog goes in a casket (which you have to bring) in the hold underneath the seats, which I suspect on a hot day is tantamount to animal cruelty!  Astrid has been most comfortable and spoilt in France, Italy, Belgium and Sweden.  Also remember that if you are going to the South dogs need to be protected against a nasty bug called lishmania which can cause a chronic disease with no cure - but drugs can control it.  So always check with a  vet who knows about foreign travel well before you go."

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Dogs on European trains

The rules around travelling with dogs on trains can vary hugely in Europe, hence this guide!

Whether you want to

• take your dog(s) on board trains in your home country,
• or make an international European rail journey with your dog,
• or will have taken your dog to a different country by car (ahem) and now want to make a scenic train journey what's good to know is that the 'rules' around taking dogs on trains can vary widely across Europe.

Tickets may or not be required; and if they are, they can be surprisingly expensive. The rules also vary around the size of dogs; particularly whether they can or can't be transported into a pet carrier / basket They also vary around whether dogs need to be muzzled when they are on the trains.

Though one thing which is universal is that no tickets or other special restrictions ever apply to guide dogs.

Other common-sense rules which are implied if they're not specifically stipulated are that dogs cannot travel in seats, they need to be in a carrier/ basket, or on a traveller's lap, or on the floor.

If you can transport a small dog in a pet carrier it is will be classed as hand luggage and no ticket will be required.

If your dog is too large to be taken in a pet carrier it will need to be muzzled and you will need to book a ticket. The ticket price will vary according to distance travelled; Wien/Vienna ↔ Innsbruck = €6.80, Wien/Vienna ↔ Linz = €3.30

If you want to travel at the cheapest possible price, it's best to book tickets in advance on the OBB booking service , OBB is the national rail operator in Austria. The booking process is similar to booking travel with a bike, you need to add a dog to your ticket You can't retrospectively add a dog ticket online to your booking, so if you decide to take a dog after you have booked a ticket online, you can buy a ticket for the dog at a station ticket counter.

The 'rules' set by the Belgian national rail operator set by SNCB are that if a dog can be fitted in a pet carrier / container measuring no more than 30x55x30cm, no ticket will be required for the dog. If it is too large for the container a 'pet supplement' ticket is required which has a flat rate of €3 for any journey within Belgium. Dogs not in the containers do not have to be muzzled, but the conductor on the train apparently may request it.

The 'rules' set by the Czech national rail operator CDm are that if a dog can be fitted in a pet carrier / container measuring no more than 90x60x40cm, no ticket will be required for the dog.

If it is too large for the carrier a ticket will be required, but you and the dog will only be able to travel in second class on trains operated by CD. The ticket prices for the dog vary according to distance, with the prices ranging from CZK 15 to CZK 50. The dog prices aren't discounted so if you want to save by booking in advance online for yourself , you can then buy the dog ticket from a ticket desk prior to boarding, or from the conductor on the train.

Dogs must also be muzzled on the train.

The 'rules' set by the Danish national rail operator DSB are that if a dog can be fitted in a pet carrier / container measuring no more than 100x60x30cm, no ticket will be required for the dog.

if the dog is too large for the pet carrier, or if you don't want to put the dog in it, you will need to buy a child ticket for the dog; only one dog can be taken by each traveller. Child tickets for those aged 12-15 typically cost around 50% of the adult rate for a journey, so the cheapest method of travelling long-distance is to add a child aged 12-15 when booking with DSB .

Also good to know is that dogs:

• cannot travel in 1st class;
• can only travel in the marked areas on the trains;
• these areas do not include the quiet zones and Family zones on the trains.

The travel info on the DSB also suggests that if you will be travelling long-distance on a Lyn or IC express service that you should make a seat reservation for your dog, it won't be able to sit in it, but it is so that you can ensure that there will be a space in front of the seat on the floor of the train, for the dog to occupy.

On journeys by TGV and Intercités trains a flat rate fare of €7 is charged regardless of whether a dog is placed in a bag or basket, measuring 45 cm x 30 cm x 25 cm maximum, or is on a leash. Though when looking up journeys on SNCF Connect, the nationally managed train booking service, on a few journeys the price was €11 for dogs on leashes. This £7 fee also applies to the regional TER trains, except for journeys within these regions; Normandy , New Aquitaine , Pays de la Loire and South Region .

In Normandy if you haven't reserved, which isn't possible on most TER services, a dog weighing less than 6kg is charged at the €7 flat rate, but a dog weighing more than 6kg will be charged at half the adult rate. Unless a ticket with reservations has been booked for the 'Krono' services to/from Paris, because on these trains the dog can travel free of charge regardless of its size. In Pays De La Loire if you place a dog weighing less than 6kg in a bag or basket there will be no charge, but dogs weighing more than 6kg will be charged at half the adult rate. In New Aquitaine, the rate payable for travelling with a dog, regardless of whether it is in a bag/basket or on a leash, depends on the distance of the journey: from 0 to 43 kms = €2; from 44 to 80 kms = €4; for 81km and beyond = €7. In Occitanie a dog weighing less than 6kg and placed in a bag/basket is charged at the €7 flat rate, but a dog weighing more than 6kg will be charged at half the adult rate.

General rules regardless of the train and region:

• A maximum of two dogs per passenger (whether in baskets or on leashes)
• Dogs on leashes must be muzzled
• you must travel with the documents necessary for the dog's identification
• Dogs in categories 1 and 2 , can't be taken on trains

On Ouigo trains For journeys by Ouigo services up to two dogs travel for free if they weigh less than 6kg and are placed in pet carriers no larger than 55cm x 35cm x 25cm. Dogs weighing more than 6kg, or smaller dogs not placed in carriers, require tickets which have a flat rate charge of €15.

Small dogs which can be placed in pet-carriers can be taken on board any train as hand luggage and there is no charge for doing so.

Dogs which can't be fitted in carrier/container, because they are larger than a typical domestic cat, require tickets, So when booking online for a journey by ICE or IC trains with DB, the German national rail operator, add a larger dog as 'a passenger'. The price charged will be 50% of the adult rate If you want to travel 1st class you will need a 1st class ticket for the dog.

However, most journeys by Regio trains are not available on the DB booking service, so if you will be taking these trains, you can book the ticket for you and the dog at a station ticket counter.

All dogs travelling on leashes must be muzzled.

Up to two dogs can be taken on board by each passenger on any national train, no tickets are required and they don't need to be muzzled.

However, dogs cannot be taken at all on the international Eurostar services.

On the Trenitalia trains:

If you can take your dog in a container or basket measuring 70x30x50cm no ticket will be required, but tickets are required for larger dogs. On the express, Frecce and Intercity trains operated by Trenitalia, the tickets cost 50% of the Adult 'Base' rate, which is the non-discounted rate for train journeys, but as the cheapest adult Super-Economy tickets can be discounted by more than 50%, the ticket for the dog may cost more than your ticket! Dogs can be taken in any class on the trains as long as you and the dog both have the appropriate ticket.

Because the dog tickets can't be booked online and aren't discounted, you can buy your travel ticket in advance in order to save money, but can then buy the ticket for the dog at the station; or you can buy a ticket from the conductor when you are on the train.

On the Regionale (R and RV) trains a dog not in a basket will be charged at 50% of the adult rate.

On an all trains the dog must be muzzled.

On the Italo trains

Dogs weighing less than 5kg weighing can be conveyed in a pet carrier at no extra cost, but if your dog is larger, or you don't want to use a pet carrier for a small dog, a ticket will be required and the price varies by departure.

Trains in Norway are now operated by three different companies Vy = trains on the Oslo <> Bergen route and regional trains to/from these cities SJ Nord = trains to and from Trondheim including the trains on the Oslo <> Trondheim route Go Ahead = trains on the Oslo <> Stavanger route.

On the trains operated by Vy:

Dogs with a shoulder height that exceeds 40 centimeters are charged 50% of the Non-Flexible ticket price. On the Bergen Line you will get an extra seat so that the pet can stay on the floor by the window while you sit in an aisle seat.

There is no need to book tickets for dogs whose shoulder height is less than 40 cm as they accompany you free of charge. The pet must be placed on the floor at your feet and you will not get an extra seat. If you would like an extra seat to have more floor space, you can buy a pet ticket even though your pet has a shoulder height of less than 40 cm.

There is a limited number of spaces available for pets on each train departure. Spaces for pets are located in designated areas, so keep in mind that there may be several pets in the same area at any given time.

On the trains operated by SJ Nord:

Dogs with a shoulder height that exceeds 40 centimeters are charged 50% of the Non-Flexible ticket price For routes with a seat reservation, you must add 'a pet' when booking regardless, of its height, so that you will then you will be allocated a seat in the section where animals are allowed For the larger dogs that require tickets you will be allocated an extra seat to ensure floor space for your dog, but for dogs with a shoulder height of under 40 centimeters, you can opt to purchase an optional dog ticket (and take up to two dogs with a height of under 40cm), to give you this extra floor space.

The dog, regardless of size, must stay on the floor and cannot sit in a seat.

On the day trains dogs cannot travel in Premium, Premium Plus, the cafe wagon, the family wagon and in the animal-free zone in Standard class and dogs cannot be taken on the Sove night trains.

On the trains operated by Go Ahead:

Dogs with a shoulder height that exceeds 40 centimeters require a ticket.

For the larger dogs that require tickets you will be allocated an extra seat to ensure floor space for your dog, but for dogs with a shoulder height of under 40 centimeters, you can opt to purchase an optional dog ticket (and take up to two dogs with a height of under 40cm), to give you this extra floor space.

On the larga-distancia services

On the standard long distance express trains, the AVE, Alvia, Euromed and IC services, you can add a dog as an extra when making booking: The flat rate prices, irrespective of distance and departure are: Basic (second class) = €20 Comfort XL or Elige + Comfort tickets (first class) = €10 Premium Class = no charge

However, dogs can only be taken on board most of these larga-distancia services if they can travel in a container measuring no more than 60x35x35 cm and do not weigh more than 10kg.

If your dog weighs between 11kg and 40kg it can be taken on a few departures by AVE trains on routes between Madrid and Alicante, Barcelona, Valencia and Zaragoza. These departures now have a dog paw symbol, when looking up a journey on the Renfe website . Though you will need to select the more expensive 'Elige' tickets and the reservation fee for the dog is €35.~

• you can take smaller dogs which weigh up to 10kg on departures with no paw symbol,
• you can't take dogs which weigh between 11kg and 40kg on any Alvia, Euromed or IC service,
• the English translation implies that you will be reserving a seat for the dog, but you will be reserving a place on a special mat that will be placed on the floor in front of the seat,
• you cannot use the seat selection service that's typically available when booking 'Elige' tickets.

On the media-distancia services

On the other trains operated by Renfe, including the Avant, MD and Regional-Express services, the dog can weigh more than 10kg and it doesn't have to be placed in a container. For travel on these services it looks as though the dog ticket price will be 25% of the Adult rate.

On the trains provided by the national rail operator, SJ, up to two dogs can be taken on board for no additional cost, but on the express Snabbtag and IC trains, you and the dog(s) will need to travel in specific spaces on the train, which must be reserved in advance. These spaces are in Second Class, you cannot travel with dogs in first class on any SJ train. Though if you want more space, because your animals is large, you can purchase a ticket at the equivalent of the youth rate.

When booking the ticket for yourself you will need to select the 'Animals Allowed' option on the seating plan.

On other trains you will need to board the train into the specific marked areas.

If your dog is under 30 cm in height (up to their shoulder blades) and you travel with it in a basket or other suitable container, your dog may travel free of charge as hand luggage.

SBB is the national rail operator in Switzerland an it sells a Day Card for Dogs for travel with larger animals which costs CHF 25 and is valid for travel on any Swiss train and most public transport. If you will be travelling with a first class tickets, the same Day Card for dogs can be used for first class travel,

If a dog is small enough to travel in a bag, basket or on your lap, there will be no charge for it. For larger dogs you need to purchase a Dog Day Ticket regardless of the train you will be taking and the distance you will be travelling, but they cost a reasonable €3.30.

International day trains

How dogs can taken on Europe's international trains can be an information vacuum, but one golden rule is that it must be micro-chipped ; and this also applies to taking dogs from non E.U countries across internal and external E.U. borders.

The always excellent Seat 61 has a detailed guide to the requirements for taking a dog from the UK to the E.U, and back again .

The info on the national rail operator websites is referring to taking dogs on trains on journeys within those countries; though a logical conclusion is that the rules and tickets etc for the national journey will apply if the national operator is providing the international service; and if this service doesn't have any specific branding such as Thalys or Lyria (see below).

For example, German ICE trains operated by DB link Germany to Austria, Switzerland, Belgium and The Netherlands, so if you want to take a dog on an international journey to and from Germany, you can book on DB as though you were making a national journey. On the Railjet trains from Austria to Czechia, Germany, Hungary and Italy, book tickets on OBB, as though you were taking a national journey within Austria.

Or ask at the station and the station and book accordingly, most specific dog tickets aren't cheaper if you book them in advance, so often the most sensible approach is to buy your ticket in advance to save yourself money; and then buy the ticket for the dog at a station. You'll be given advice and the necessary tickets to take you to your destination, but there are two key exceptions: 1: Dogs can't be taken at all on Eurostar services 2: Dogs weighing more than 10kg can't seemingly be taken on the RENFE-SNCF high speed services from France to Spain.

if you will be crossing a border on a regional train keep in mind the rules in each country, for example dogs must be muzzled on Italian train journeys, but not in Switzerland, so after the trains has crossed the border into Italy, you'll need to apply a muzzle, if you didn't do so when boarding.

Though the European international trains with specific branding do have their own rules for dogs on their trains, so these have been included below:

Dogs cannot be taken at all on Eurostar services.

Seat 61 has provided a wealth of detail on the alternative options, which in summary include travelling with dogs on the cross-channel ferry crossings which allow them (most don't) and taking taxis from Folkestone to Calais, by using 'Le Shuttle' services.

On the Lyria trains which travel between Paris and Switzerland, if you can contain your dog in a bag or closed basket no bigger than the maximum dimensions of 45 x 30 x 25 cm, tickets are price at a flat rate of €7.

For larger dogs travelling on a leash and which also must be muzzled for the entire journey and sat at your feet, tickets are a flat rate price of €20.

Tickets can be purchased from station travel desks or added to your booking if you use SNCF Connect .

On the Thalys services which link Paris and Bruxelles with The Netherlands and north-west Germany, there is no charge for dogs which travel in containers no larger than 45 x 30 x 25 cm.

For other dogs tickets must be purchased on board from the Train Manager / conductor and they have a flat rate price of €30, the dog must be muzzled and travel on the floor or in your lap.

Night trains

The European night train services which have travelling with dogs policies are included below:

Dogs are not allowed in the couchette or sleeping cars on EuroNight services run by PKP (Polish State Railways), ČD (Czech Railways) and MÁV-START (Hungarian Railways). They are also not permitted on domestic overnight trains within France, Italy and Norway.

Caledonian Sleeper trains are available for overnight travel between London and various destinations in Scotland including Aberdeen, Dundee, Edinburgh, Fort William, Glasgow and Inverness.

In common with day trains in Britain, up to two dogs can be taken on board if you will be travelling in a sleeping cabin, for a surcharge payment of £30.

On the new European Sleeper service on the Bruxelles - Amsterdam <> Berlin route, dogs can be conveyed in the sleeping cabins, but you need to have booked the department for 'sole use'. Separate tickets for the dog aren't required.

Nightjet trains operate on these routes:

• Wien/Vienna - Linz ↔ Paris
• Wien/Vienna - Linz and Graz ↔ Zurich
• Wien/Vienna - Linz ↔ Feldkirch - Bregenz (national route()
• Wien/Vienna - Linz and Munchen/Munich ↔ Udine - Venezia/Venice
• Wien/Vienna - Linz ↔ LIege - Bruxelles
• Wien/Vienna - Linz and Innsbruck ↔ Koln/Cologne - Dusseldorf - Arnhem - Utrecht - Amsterdam
• Wien/Vienna - Linz and Innsbruck ↔ Hannover - Hamburg
• Wien/Vienna and Munchen/Munich and ↔ Firenze/Florence - Roma
• Wien/Vienna and Munchen/Munich ↔ Verona - Milano - Genova - La Spezia
• Wien/Vienna ↔ Pisa and Livorno (when travelling with a car)
• Zurich - Basel ↔ Amsterdam, Berlin and Hamburg
• Berlin ↔ Wien/Vienna - Graz

You can take a dog with you if it is muzzled and if you book an entire compartment; meaning a couple will need to book a double/two bed cabin and a solo traveller will need to book a single cabin. Once you have secured your tickets and reservation you can pay for your dog’s ticket on the train, by telephone (by calling ÖBB customer service on 0043 5 1717) or at the ÖBB ticket offices. Assistance dogs travel free of charge and do not require a muzzle More info is available here .

Night Riviera trains operate on a London - Plymouth - Cornwall route.

On the Snälltåget trains which operate on a Berlin - Hamburg <> Stockholm route dogs can be accommodated in a Private Compartment. Select "I want to travel with pet" under where you specify your passengers and select price level "Djurkupé" (Pets allowed compartment).

The Swedish national rail operator SJ offers night trains on routes between Stockholm and Are*, Duved*, Hamburg, Malmo and Umea*. *= also served by night trains to/from Goteborg. Note that SJ does not provide the trains on the Stockholm <> Kiruna - Narvik route.

What is comparatively unusual is that SJ allows dogs to be taken on board the coaches with seats on its night trains. You may bring with you two pets when travelling in 2nd class. You need to reserve a seat in the "Pets allowed" section of the train.

Dogs can also be taken in the couchettes if you book the entire compartment, regardless of many travellers will be making the journey.

How to reserve a "Pets allowed" couchette : Fill in what stations you wish to travel between and your travel dates. Then enter promo code ANIMALS in the Add promo code field and continue to the next step. If there are any pet compartments available the departure will be shown with a red price in the timetable. You pay for all six bunks in the compartment automatically. Continue your booking as usual and complete your order.

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Simon Harper

I wanted to share my passion for train travel and explain how anyone can take the fantastic journeys I have taken.

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How to Travel with Your Dog in Train: A Step-by-Step Guide

Are dogs allowed on trains?

How to travel with a dog in train in india.

• In AC First-class and first-class compartments Dogs are allowed to travel in AC-First class and First-class compartments. Depending on your ticket allocation, you can take your dog with you in either the two-seater coupe or the four-seater cabin of these compartments. This is the expert recommended way of travelling.
• Dog boxes in train (Second-class luggage or SLR Brake van) Dogs can also travel as ‘luggage’ on trains, whereby they are put into a dog box in the second class compartments or a Brake van. Please note that not every train has a dog box, so parents must check for the same beforehand. Additionally, it is mandatory to have a mouth guard or muzzle on your dog when travelling in the dog box, for the full duration of travel. Considering all of this, experts do not recommend the dog box for travelling with pets on train.
• Puppies can be carried in baskets of all compartments As per latest notification by the Eastern Railways and Southern Railways , puppies can be carried in closed baskets, in all train compartments. However, it does not mention the age till which a dog is considered a puppy, nor if the puppies can be taken out of the basket during travel. Since the rules are not clear, we would recommend booking the AC-First Class compartments for travelling with your puppy (as mentioned in point 1).
• Get a confirmed train ticket for yourself in the first AC compartment.
• Have all the necessary application for your dog’s train travel ready beforehand.
• Book your dog on the train, at least 3 hours prior to boarding the train.

How to book your tickets when travelling with dogs?

Application for travelling with dog in train

• A “Fit-to-Travel” certificate for your dog This document must be issued by your vet 24–48 hours before your date of departure. It should clearly state the breed, colour, and gender of your dog and that your dog has been checked and is fit to travel
• Photocopy of your ID proof Keep 3-4 copies of yourself and all the passengers travelling with you. Copies of Aadhaar card or Passport works best
• Your Dog's Vaccination Records Make sure that the vaccination record is updated and all the vaccinations are up to date, especially Anti-Rabies and DHLPPi
• Application Letter for Allocation of Coupe/Cabin The letter must be written to the Chief Reservation Officer of the station where you will be boarding from, requesting allocation of coupe/cabin on train.

Day of Departure - Book your dog on the train at the Parcel Office

What to do if you don't get a coupe/cabin to travel with your dog?

• Get to the station early and have your dog booked on the train
• Request fellow passengers to exchange seats so that you and your dogs can get a full coupe/cabin.
• If your dog is comfortable with strangers and your fellow passengers are okay travelling with your dog, get their approval in writing and share it with the ticket collector when he comes around

Additional notes on travelling with dogs in train

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How to carry your pet in train: Rules and Charges

Here is a list of rules about how to carry your pet in indian railways:.

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Indian Railways is one of the best transport to carry your pets to longer distance. It is safe, affordable, has easy laws and allows small, big, all kinds of animals.

By Indian Railways:

1. Under section 77-A of the Indian Railway Act, the liability of Railways as carriers of animals is limited as specified below, unless the sender elects to pay the percentage charge on value as shown in the Rule 1301: Per Head Elephants Rs.1500/- Horses Rs.750/- Mules, Camels or Horned Cattle Rs.200/- Donkeys, sheep, goats, dogs and other animals or birds Rs.30/-

2. The Railway will not be liable for the loss, destruction or damage arising from freight or restiveness of the animal or from overloading of vehicle or wagon by the consigner or his agent or delay not caused by the negligence or misconduct of their servants, irrespective of whether the sender has engaged to pay the percentage charge on value or not.

A recent tweet from Railway minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, showing a passenger travelling in a train with her dog in the air-conditioned compartment, went viral. Initially shared by the user on Instagram, where it garnered millions of views, it was later shared on Twitter.

The minister said while retweeting a passenger’s original tweet, saying “Indian Railways at your service 24/7”. A large part of the online conversations that followed the tweet was netizens reacting with disbelief that dogs could travel by long-distance trains.

Indian Railways at your service 24×7 https://t.co/YQTZ3phBZR — Ashwini Vaishnaw (@AshwiniVaishnaw) March 15, 2023

Can passengers travel with pets on Indian trains?

Air India and, of late, Akasa Air may allow carrying dogs on domestic flights, but Indian Railways remains the undisputed top choice of pet owners to travel with their pets. Data show around 2,500 pets travel by train every month on Indian Railways.

How can pets be taken on trains?

The Railways offer a variety of options for carriage.

Dogs can be booked in the ‘dog boxes’ with the train guard in parcel vans attached to most trains, subject to availability. The availability of such dog boxes in a train can be checked beforehand from the parcel office of originating station.

Alternatively, puppies and kittens who can fit into a pet basket can be carried by passengers in any class after payment of the usual booking charges. The charges can be found on the Indian Railways website.

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What are the dos and don’ts of travelling with pets?

Dog/cat owners can travel along with their pets in AC First Class only but there are certain conditions.

Railway rules say that only when the entire four-berth cabin or a two-berth coupe (meaning a set of one lower berth and one upper berth) is booked by the pet-owning passenger on a single ticket after payment of usual booking charges, can the pet travel inside the train.

The booking charges are calculated by the parcel office based on the weight of the pet and the distance of travel. In case of waitlisted tickets, passengers can request for allotment of such a four-berth cabin or a two-berth coupe for carrying pets, to the local divisional railway manager’s office or General Manager’s office, beforehand. The addresses are available on the website.

Since there is no option yet for the passenger to inform Railways while booking the ticket that she will be carrying a pet along with her, officials say that when they come to know of it, they give it due consideration while allotting the berths. However, if an exclusive coupe or entire cabin cannot be allotted, the passenger has to get a written no-objection from co-passengers in the cabin in order to carry the pet.

Considering the formalities involved, officials advise passengers carrying pets to reach the station a few hours in advance so as to be ready in time for the departure.

Station officials say that it is good to carry the identification documents of the passenger, like a copy of the Aadhaar card and the vaccination certificate of the pet.

In first AC or first class, the maximum number of dogs which can be booked with a passenger is not more than the number of passengers. In other words, one passenger can carry only one dog.

What are the charges?

The dog carried in a dog box is charged Rs 30 per kg per pet dog, and when carried in AC first class and First Class with a passenger it is charged Rs 60 per kg per dog.

Dogs are not allowed to be carried in AC2 tier, AC 3 tier, AC Chair Car, Sleeper Class and Second Class Compartments. Puppies/kittens which can be carried in a basket can be carried by owners in all the classes after booking with the parcel office.

The freight charges of Rs 20 per kg are charged for puppies and kittens. In a particular train, only one dog box is provided and only one dog is booked per train on first-cum-first served basis.

There is no provision for advance booking of dogs. Dogs are locked in the dog boxes in the presence of the owner who is responsible for feeding the dog en route.

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32 tips for traveling with pets

Taking your pet on your travels can be life-enhancing – here are some tips for traveling with pets.

Traveling with pets can be both a joy and a nightmare. While it is wonderful to share our adventures with our loyal four-legged companions, there are a lot of things to organize before going on a trip. But don't feel overwhelmed we've rounded up some top tips for traveling with a pet.

Naturally, the logistics will depend on the pet. A small animal kept in a cage has different requirements than dogs and cats. Some pets, particularly cats, are true home-birds and may be happier left at home with someone booked in to look after them. The simplest choice is usually to book your pets into a boarding facility. 

However, some of our pets just love to come with us wherever we go. The mere sight of a suitcase or mutterings about packing will send them into a depression. They may even try to get in the suitcase with some of their best dog toys to ensure they come too. This particularly applies to dogs, who long to be at the heart of the action, wherever that may take them. But everyone will enjoy the vacation all the more if you know how to travel with a dog .

Good preparation is key. If you have all the Is dotted and Ts crossed, you are set for a great adventure with your pet at your side. Let’s take a look at some of the considerations you need to make.

1. Visit the vet

Schedule an appointment with your vet to make sure that your pet is in great shape before the trip, and up to date with all vaccinations. If your pet is on any regular medication, you’ll need to stock up with sufficient supplies. 

Some airlines will require a current fit-to-fly health certificate, so find out if this is needed and book it before the veterinary check-up.

2. ID and microchip

In the UK, since 2016 it has been a legal requirement that all dogs are microchipped. They should also wear a collar with identification details to enable their owner to be located if the dog is lost. Enforced microchipping will also come into force for British cats from July 2024.

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In the US, microchipping is the law in certain states. While collars and tags are not a legal requirement, both forms of identification are highly recommended. This is particularly important given that you will be traveling your pet outside its familiar local area, in case it gets lost. 

Take a current picture of your pet with you, so that you can show police and vets if you do lose them. 

3. Research pet-friendly accommodation

Not all hotels, BnBs, and apartments accept pets, so always check while planning your trip. Some accommodation providers charge an extra fee for pets because of the additional cleaning required. 

There may be rules, such as that your pet is kept in a crate while you are not in the room; that they are not allowed on the furniture, and so on. Some may have restrictions on the size of the dog, or which type of pet you bring.

4. Pet carrier

A pet carrier is the safest way to transport your pet, as well as giving them a secure haven to rest in during what can be a stressful time traveling. Don’t skimp on quality – your pet may be restricted to this crate for long periods during travel, so it should be sufficiently roomy, well-ventilated, and sturdy. Investing in one of the best cat carriers or the best dog crates is well worth it.

If you are taking your pet on an airplane, check that your crate complies with airline regulations. 

5. Get them used to the carrier

The first time that your pet uses his carrier should not be on the day of your trip. Buy the carrier well in advance and familiarize them gradually, making it a really inviting place with blankets, their favourite toys, and some of the best puppy treats . Leave it open the first few times you try, so that they don’t feel claustrophobic and can come and go as they please. Once they are relaxed and content inside, feeling like it is a good place, then you can shut the door and reward them. 

6. Take familiar items

If your pet has never left home before they are likely to take some time to settle into their new surroundings. They will be pacified by your presence, but it will also help to take their blankets and any familiar toys as these will smell of home and provide comfort. 

7. Practice car rides

Owners vary on how often they take their pet in the car with them, but particularly for those who don’t travel often, it’s really important to familiarize them with the motion of traveling and the sensation of being in the car. Assuming you will be using a pet carrier, being comfortable in this needs to be well established before you go off on vacation so that jumping in the car for a trip feels like second nature – and a chance for an adventure with you.

Take them to places they will love, like one of the best dog walks in the US for a couple of hours’ walk, so they associate the car with good things.

8. Make the car secure and safe

You wouldn’t drive your child around without a seatbelt, and nor should you travel with your pet without appropriate restraints. A pet seatbelt/harness or a carrier is ideal.

Not only is it risky for your dog in case you have an accident or have to brake sharply, but it’s also dangerous to have a loose dog – especially one that doesn’t sit still – distracting the driver. So having them in the best dog car harness is the safest option for everyone.

9. Pack essentials

Depending on the length of your journey, it’s advisable to have a little travel bag with all your pet essentials for the duration. This will include water and a vessel for drinking out of, any medications, treats, and sufficient food for the journey. However, you should not feed much to pets either before or during the journey as it may make them uncomfortable or cause motion sickness.

Always pack a little extra of everything in case you suffer a breakdown or get caught in a traffic jam. 

10. Assemble pet first-aid kit

Pack a first-aid kit so that you can attend to any cuts and scrapes while you’re out and about. You can buy a ready-made kit with all the essentials, or assemble one yourself.

This should include items such as a tick remover, tweezers, saline and antiseptic solution, pet wrap, bandages, scissors, and an ice pack.

If your pet is on any regular medication, don’t forget to include a sufficient supply.

11. Check the weather forecast

Are you ready for the weather at your destination? Check the weather forecast and pack accordingly.

If it‘s going to be wet, you may need to take extra towels (the hotel won’t thank you for drying a muddy dog with theirs), a waterproof coat, and a drying robe. Snowy weather might necessitate a warm coat if they are not used to sub-zero temperatures unless you have one of the best dog breeds for cold climates .

Hot weather should make you assess your plans. If you had long walks scheduled in the middle of the day, you may want to move these to dawn and dusk when it’s cooler. Take travel doggy water bottles so that your dog can drink while out and about. You can also take a parasol for shade, and a cooling jacket or mat for pets. Dogs may also benefit from shoes to prevent them from burning their pads on the pavement.

Remember that if the climate at your destination is very different from what your dog or pet is used to, they will need time to acclimatize and should not be thrown into a busy program of activities while they settle in.

12. Plan rest breaks

If you have a long drive, plan rest breaks where you can stop, let your pet out of its carrier, have a drink, stretch, and go to the bathroom.

Vets typically advise that any trip over four hours should incorporate rest breaks every two to four hours for 15 minutes or so. Younger animals may need to stop more frequently. 

Let’s face it, you’ll probably want to stop too!

13. Research vets at your destination and along the route

Always prepare for the worst and hope for the best. By doing some research to find out contact details, including out-of-hours, for the nearest recommended vets both at your destination and along the route, you will have peace of mind that if your pet should suffer an injury or illness while you’re on vacation, you know exactly whom to call to get the best possible help. 

Chances are you won’t need it, but not being prepared will add another layer of stress you don’t need if there is an emergency.

You can search a list of veterinary and pet emergency hospitals in the US at the American Animal Hospital Association .

14. Know pet policies on your chosen transport

Unless you are planning to travel exclusively by your own car, check the pet policies on all modes of transport you want to use. For example, some taxis allow pets, some don’t. Many will charge an extra fee for cleaning. 

Ferries often allow dogs, but they usually stay in the car on the vehicle deck or have a specific kennel area. 

Airlines have specific regulations depending on whether it is a national or international flight, and so do trains, buses, and trams. Many require the pet to be crated, and some of these vary in rush hour, or according to the size of the pet.

15. Update contact information

Have you checked that your pet’s microchip is correctly linked to your current address? Many owners never change it from the breeder to which it was originally registered. 

Does your dog tag have your current phone number and address? Make sure these are all updated well in advance of your departure date to avoid any last-minute panic (or – at worst – your lost dog not being able to be reunited with you).

16. Research pet-friendly attractions

Not every place that humans want to visit is up your pet’s street. Furthermore, many attractions do not welcome dogs. This includes some areas that you might imagine would be perfect dog-walking territory, such as some national parks and beaches. Luckily, there are many options for the best places to take your pet on vacation to make things easier.

You shouldn’t leave your dog back at your accommodation all day, especially in an unfamiliar place, so always check while you are planning your adventures that your dog will be welcome to join you, and be aware that it will often have to be on a leash.

17. Stick to your pet’s routine

Long journeys often throw our routines out of whack, and that’s normal, but once you have arrived, try to get straight back into the normal schedule so that your pet knows what to expect and when.

He may be feeling very unsettled in the new environment, possibly a different climate, and feel out of sorts after long hours traveling, so getting back on track will help bring some order back into his life. Food, hydration, exercise, and sleep should help put him back on schedule.

18. Make your holiday accommodation pet-safe

The chances are that at home you have various barriers and locks to keep your pet in the right place – or at least a trained understanding that he sticks to certain areas (for example, not on the couch or up the stairs). But your temporary accommodation is unlikely to be rigged up exactly to suit your usual arrangements. Perhaps there’s easy access to a front door that opens out onto a busy road, or a balcony with bars wide enough for a pet to slip through. 

When you arrive at the accommodation, go around and note all the potential danger areas, and work out how you can make them safe, for example by limiting the pet to a certain room or blocking an entrance. 

19. Pack for comfort

It can be tempting when trying to keep the baggage under a certain limit to leave luxuries behind. However, your dog will settle and sleep best if given a familiar and comfortable bed to rest on, it might be worth considering one of the best dog travel crates.

The floors may be hard, rather than carpeted, and travel crates are typically not padded – so make sure you have plenty of comfortable bedding. Likewise in the car, give him plenty of padding so that he is not stiff after a long journey with restricted movement. 

20. Take grooming essentials

Grooming might not be top of your to-do list while on vacation, but you don’t want to find you need to use your own hairbrush to detangle mats out of your dog’s ears. Take a selection of grooming essentials so that you aren’t caught short. For instance, some dog shampoo in case he rolls in something foul-smelling, a comb to get rid of mats, and some of the best dog nail clippers.  

And of course, don’t neglect their dental hygiene. Dogs’ teeth should be brushed daily, so take one of the best toothbrushes for dogs and toothpaste.

Another tip is some spare towels, as your accommodation provider will not thank you for using their towels to dry off your dog.

21. Cleaning equipment and poop bags

Unfortunately, accidents happen, especially in young and elderly pets. Any pet can make a mistake when they are in unfamiliar surroundings and are not sure where and when to do their business. More irritatingly, some pets – male dogs in particular – decide that a new place is a territory that needs to be marked, so be on the lookout for this as they will need close supervision. The American Kennel Club has advice on curbing the issue of dog marking .

Take cleaning equipment so that you can ensure your temporary accommodation is left smelling sweet and looking clean. And don’t forget the poop bags!

22. Hydration

While it’s not advised to feed your pets while they are physically traveling, water is essential, so ideally have water available for them during the journey or offer it regularly. You can buy travel water bowls that don’t spill.

Dogs on average drink up to 1oz of water for every pound of bodyweight a day. Cats drink far less. So a 60lb Labrador will need up to five cups of water.

Without sufficient water, they will become dehydrated and prone to overheating. They are likely to require more water in hot weather than cold. 

23. Research pet-friendly restaurants and cafes

It’s wonderful to run into a cafe for a cappuccino or a beer after a long walk. But check beforehand that dogs are allowed. Many do welcome dogs and even have a water bowl for hydration and treats to show they’re dog-friendly. 

Fancier restaurants may not be so keen on dogs, and it may also depend on the size. A chihuahua is less likely to cause a stir than a mastiff. 

24. Prevent motion sickness

Many dogs suffer motion sickness, particularly younger ones, and they often grow out of it by the time they are a year old. You may be able to desensitize them by regular very short trips gradually building up. 

Travel your dog on an empty stomach, as this will help reduce nausea. Supply water, and keep the temperature cool. 

For cats, desensitization can be trickier, so may take longer to condition them, but the same goes – short trips building up, cool temperatures, and withholding food before a journey.

For both dogs and cats, there are also medications available for preventing motion sickness, so consult your vet to see what is recommended. Most sedatives are not permitted on airlines, so make sure you are aware of the regulations.

25. Sedation

While it may be tempting to administer a sedative to your pet to enable them to sleep through the journey and reduce stress levels, the American Veterinary Association advises against this, and in fact, airline regulations usually prohibit it. This is because sedatives affect coordination and balance, which your pet may need during a bumpy ride. 

However, tranquilization is an option because it reduces anxiety without causing drowsiness, so this may be considered in consultation with your vet. 

26. Temperature control

On flights, pets are not permitted to fly in very hot or very cold temperatures for the sake of their safety and wellbeing. This may affect your destination or the season in which you travel.

According to the United States Department of Agriculture , temperatures should not exceed 85ºF or be cooler than 45ºF for a period of more than four hours.

During travel in your own personal transport, keep the temperature relatively cool as this will help reduce stress levels and the chance of dehydration, both of which will make for an unpleasant and uncomfortable traveling experience for your pet. 

Pets should never be left in cars, particularly in hot or sunny weather as the inside temperature can rise very quickly with fatal results.  

27. Unfamiliar noises

As some pets are more anxious than others, you may find yours is scared of the unfamiliar noises in your temporary accommodation. Perhaps there are thunderstorms, a loud road nearby, or wildlife. The best way to help them deal with this is to distract them, often by playing with them, engaging them in one of the best dog puzzle toys , or their own squeaky toy that makes a familiar noise. Pack these sorts of distractions to bring out when you need them. 

28. Research quarantine requirements

If you are crossing any international borders, check quarantine requirements months in advance. Many countries require your pet to have had specific vaccinations. The big one is rabies – some rabies-free countries, such as the UK, require vaccination and health checks in the 24-hours before traveling from certain countries, and compulsory quarantine from other countries regardless of vaccination status. 

29. Respect other travelers

You clearly adore your pet, otherwise, why would you take the trouble to travel with them? However, as with small children, many other travelers do not feel the same way. Some will have boarded their pets so they can enjoy a vacation free of barking and dog poop! 

So be respectful of their privacy and don’t let your pet encroach on their personal space. You should keep them on a leash whenever necessary, curb any barking and always clear up their poop.

30. Be patient and calm

Traveling is stressful for everyone. But at least the humans know where they are going, and how long the journey should take. Pets are at the mercy of our decisions. They are likely to feel some level of stress during the journey, so help them to stay settled by being patient and calm yourself, and the vibes will comfort them. You’re in control, and they will draw on that.

31. Pet-friendly apps

There are stacks of great apps to help you plan your itinerary, where dogs are welcome, local emergency services, nearby dog walkers and even put you in contact with other pet owners who can give recommendations and support. 

In the US, BringFido and BarkHappy are recommended for dog owners; while Rover is useful for both dog and cats. 

32. Pre-travel exercise

Give your dog plenty of exercise the day you travel so that he will be happy to lie down and enjoy the enforced resting period during the journey, especially if your dog is one of the high energy dog breeds .

Play with your cat, with one of the best automatic laser cat toys or other toys so that they have had sufficient stimulation. 

Martha is an experienced journalist working in both print and digital media. She specializes in the canine, equine and rural sphere where she has covered a wide range of topics from cloning animals and the ingredients for a perfect yard dog, to helping owners find the best canine GPS trackers on the market. When she’s not busy writing about dogs and horses, she’ll be found either aboard a horse or looking after the menagerie of pets in her care. 

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Viral video shows dog travelling in Mumbai local, netizens say ‘smarter than many Mumbaikars’

A viral video showing a dog travelling in mumbai's local train and deboarding it only after it completely stops at the station has received positive response on the internet.

A viral video of a stray dog travelling on a local Mumbai train has won hearts on the internet. However, what irked the netizens was the rude behaviour of a local train passenger who constantly shouted at the animal and nudged it to jump out of the moving train.

Also Read: Google Doodle celebrates seventh phase of Lok Sabha elections 2024 with voting symbol

Dog traveling in the local train. by u/HouDini2598 in mumbai

However, the dog stepped out of the train only after it properly halted at the platform. The video has garnered several responses on social media with many netizens applauding the canine the for decent behaviour. At the same time, passengers shouting at the animal came at the centre of netizens' fury. 

Also Read: See Pics: Anant Ambani-Radhika Merchant's 2nd pre-wedding bash begins today; stunning photos are OUT

“One dog has manners to get down only after the train stops," commented a reddit user on the post. 

“That dog is smarter than many Mumbaikars," wrote another social media user. 

Another user applauded the animal and wrote, "Doggo understands "Chalti train se utarna khatarnak hai" better than humans.. Smartyyy"

Suggesting to use the viral video to spread awareness among Mumbai local passengers a reddit user wrote, “Mumbai locals should use this video as an ad to tell people not to get off running trains."

Also Read: Viral video: Man performs dangerous stunt on moving car, Mumbai Police reacts

Another user recalled his train journey where he got to encounter with the same dog. Cherishing his memory with the dog, the user wrote, “Man I saw this video and got so excited because I instantly recognised the doggo from when it had boarded a train I was once on. I spent a good 10mins finding the video of the doggo (it was way back in October), only to realise you can't attach videos in the comments:(( Anyway that was probably the happiest train ride."

Also Read: Viral video shows Kerala mall area flooded after rain; netizens react, ‘Absolute lack of vision’

“It's one of those dogs who travel by train. There's one dog who is a proper mumbaikar. He jumps when the train is in motion," wrote another user.

“Licking lips, yawning and showing teeth. Dude was lucky that the station arrived before the dog lost it," commented a user.

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Thousands Of Pets Travel By Trains From Pune, Here's How Yours Can Too!

“I travelled with Rio in train for the first time in 2020 as there weren’t other options available. Surprisingly, it wasn’t difficult,” said 27-year-old pet parent Saurabh Singh, who since then travels by train with his five-year-old Golden Retriever, Goa being their most recent destination. Saurabh isn’t alone. According to an Indian Railways report, over 7000 pets travelled from Pune railway station to other parts of the country between January 2023 and February 2024. Train is increasingly becoming a chosen mode of transportation for pet parents to travel with their pets across the country.

Pet travel queries see a surge

Simran Singh and Rajit Gupta, pet travel influencers, who run @triplesundae on Instagram, garnered over 13.5 million views in their first reel on travelling with their pet Poppins by train. “These reels flood our DMS with questions every time. We receive DMS regularly on pet travel by train, questions related to the uncertainty involved in the process etc. Thus, we also did a reel with a Hindi VO and text so it reaches a wider audience.”

1.8 billion

value of the global Pet Travel Services Market in 2023

(Source: Global Market Insights)

If your pet is travelling in the train’s luggage-cum-brake-van

*Check with the train manager for a pet box

*Reach the parcel office three hours prior

*Remember, only one pet can travel on one PNR at a time

READ ALSO: AC sparks fire in condo flat, pet dog’s barks save day for family in Gurgaon

Travel charges

*Standard charge - 30kgs for dogs, minimum charge Rs 10/kg (in the luggage-cum-brake-van)

*Standard charge - 60kgs for dogs, minimum charge Rs 10/kg (in First Class coupe/cabin)

Why is train ticking the checklist?

*No stress of driving long distances

*More comfortable for pets

*Convenient, as India's railway network connects major cities, remote locations

Beyond travel

READ ALSO: Swimming classes make a splash as people queue up

For more news like this visit TOI . Get all the Latest News , City News , India News , Business News , and Sports News . For Entertainment News , TV News , and Lifestyle Tips visit Etimes

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Viral Video Captures Dog Commuting On Mumbai Local Train, Internet Says 'Doggo Understand Rules'

Dogs are highly intelligent animals with impressive cognitive abilities, including the capacity to remember and navigate complex routes.  Dogs possess strong spatial memory, which allows them to remember locations and routes. This ability helps them navigate familiar environments and can be honed through repeated exposure to specific paths, such as train routes.

What does the dog do in the viral video? 

A video of a stray dog riding on a local Mumbai train has gone viral. What irritated the netizens was the harsh behaviour of a local train rider, who repeatedly yelled at the animal and encouraged it to jump out of the moving train. 

However, the dog stepped out of the train only when it had properly stopped at the platform. The video has received a lot of attention on social media, with many people praising the dog for its good behaviour. 

Also read: Dog Wearing 'Coca Cola' Band In Viral Video Gets Noticed By The Company

Passengers shouting at the animal sparked outrage among netizens.

How did people on the internet react? 

"One dog has manners to get down only after the train stops," wrote a Reddit user on the post. "That dog is smarter than many Mumbaikars," another social media user commented. 

Another person praised the animal, saying, "Doggo understands 'Chalti train se utarna khatarnak hai' better than humans." Smartyyy"

A Reddit user suggested using the popular video to raise awareness among Mumbai local passengers, writing, "Mumbai locals should use this video as an advertisement to tell people not to get off running trains." 

Also read: Emotional Video: Woman Reunites With Pet Dog After Separation During Brazil Floods

"It is one of those dogs that travel by rail. There is one dog who is a genuine Mumbaikar. "He jumps when the train is moving," another user commented.

"Licking lips, yawning, and displaying teeth. "Dude was lucky that the station arrived before the dog lost it," wrote one commenter. Check the video here.

Dog traveling in the local train. by u/HouDini2598 in mumbai

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Bark Air, a new airline for dogs, set to take its first flight

By Megan Cerullo

Edited By Anne Marie Lee

Updated on: May 23, 2024 / 10:57 AM EDT / MoneyWatch

Bark Air, a new airline that puts dogs before their human companions, will take its first flight Thursday. Its sold-out maiden voyage will depart New York for Los Angeles at 4:00 p.m. EST. 

Bark, a pet company founded in 2011 that sells dog food and other products, announced the new aviation experience for canines in April. It's the second air travel service to market itself as catering to pets before human passengers, recognizing how stressful and uncomfortable commercial air travel can be for animals . United Kingdom-based public charter operator K9 jets also lets passengers' pets travel next to them in the aircraft cabin, versus in crates in commercial aircraft cargo holds.

"We are excited to take the insights we've learned over the years to create an experience that is truly dog-first, which is drastically different from just accepting dogs – from the ground to the skies," Bark co-founder and CEO Matt Meeker said in April. "We believe this initiative will elevate awareness of our brand's mission and values, introduce more dog lovers to the Bark family, and help enrich the lives of dogs and their people around the world." 

The first flight from New York to Los Angeles Thursday is sold out, according to Bark's booking website. The company said it launched the air travel experience to make long-distance travel more comfortable for dogs that don't fit under the seats in front of passengers on commercial aircraft. 

"Too often, dogs are denied travel, confined to a duffle bag, or endure the stress of flying in cargo," the company said in announcing the flights in April.

Bark Air says it will offer "white paw service" to its canine customers — who'll even get to socialize with other dogs in what the company calls a "dog-centric" cabin configuration. Like first-class human passengers, dogs on board will be offered treats, noise-canceling ear muffs, a beverage of their choice and other surprises, the company said. 

Initially, the service will fly between the New York City metro area and Los Angeles, as well as from New York to London. More routes will be added soon, the company said. 

Bark Air will operate as a public charter service, flying on spacious Gulfstream G5 jets. It does not own or operate any aircraft. Each dog ticket comes with a pass for one human. Families may also purchase additional passes. Children under the age of 18 are not permitted aboard. There are no size or breed restrictions for dogs. 

The service doesn't come cheap. A one-way flight from New York to Los Angeles in June costs $6,000 for one dog and one human. A New York to London ticket costs $8,000. 

Meeker acknowledged the service's high cost in a May letter, but said he expects prices to come down as demand climbs.

"This is cost-prohibitive for most families, but less expensive than most options today. And this is also how most innovative products and services began," he said. "Televisions, telephones, VCRs and DVD players, to automobiles, train and boat travel, and, yes, even human air travel — all of these started with very high prices until demand was proven and the costs could be brought lower by serving the masses."

Megan Cerullo is a New York-based reporter for CBS MoneyWatch covering small business, workplace, health care, consumer spending and personal finance topics. She regularly appears on CBS News 24/7 to discuss her reporting.

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How to protect your pet during an in-flight emergency

Dogs and cats are not covered by standard safety rules on a plane.

A recent spate of in-flight emergencies — severe turbulence , a burning plane , a blown-out door panel — has underscored the importance of aviation safety protocols. The measures are clear, comprehensive and potentially lifesaving if you’re a human.

But the protocols are murkier for cabin pets and service animals.

The Federal Aviation Administration’s rules cover lifesaving gear and procedures designed for people, including seat belts, oxygen masks and life vests. During an emergency evacuation, flight attendants order passengers to leave all hand baggage behind; there is no asterisk for carriers containing pets.

Passengers with cabin pets or service animals hope to never find themselves in such a dire situation. Even so, Deborah Mandell , a professor of clinical emergency and critical care at the University of Pennsylvania’s School of Veterinary Medicine, encourages travelers to have a plan of action.

“Being prepared and thinking about all these things is really important,” said Mandell, who is also an American Red Cross pet care adviser.

Secure your pet during turbulence

Airlines require cabin pets to remain in their kennels at all times, though some carriers, such as Delta, allow passengers to hold their enclosed pet on their lap when the plane is not taking off, taxiing or landing. If the air turns choppy, owners should tuck the kennel under their seat — the safest spot for the animal and, by extension, any nearby passengers.

Liz Rozanski , a critical care veterinarian at Tufts University’s Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine, recommends traveling with a hard-shell pet case rather than a soft-sided bag. “The stiffer ones are more like a child’s seat,” she said. A hard case can also better repel rolling objects, such as water bottles.

Inside the enclosure, soft bedding will provide protective padding. Mandell suggests removing any objects that could turn into projectiles, such as toys or food.

The rules are different for service dogs, which are allowed to sit in the open, by their owner’s feet or on their lap. If you have a carrier, place your service dog inside as soon as the pilot switches on the seat-belt sign. If you don’t have one, Mandell said, seat the dog on the floor, cradle it between your legs, and wrap your arms around its chest in a safe and comforting hug, “as long as you’re not putting yourself at risk.”

Use a spare oxygen mask

Each airplane seat is equipped with an oxygen mask, plus extras intended for lap babies. Airlines do not specify whether passengers can use a spare mask for their pet, but it has happened before. In 2018, JetBlue flight attendants deployed an oxygen mask to help a French bulldog named Darcy that was struggling to breathe.

Similar to the rule for adults traveling with children, passengers should put on their mask first, then help their pet. Keep in mind that masking an animal may require some finessing, because the gear is not made for canine or feline faces. Mandell said the equipment might be a trickier fit for larger breeds, such as a German shepherd or Great Pyrenees.

“ Because of all the different conformations of dog heads, it may or may not stay on with just the elastic,” she said. “So you may just have to hold it.”

Based on her experience in animal hospitals, Mandell said some pets might object to having their snouts covered with a foreign object. The owner needs to position the cup so that the pet can inhale the oxygen. Don’t press it too tightly against their nose, which can impede their intake.

If a spare mask is not available, the passenger and pet would need to share. Rozanski said to trade off air every 15 seconds or so.

BYO life vest

By law, planes flying over or near large bodies of water must carry life vests for each passenger, including a few models for infants. Pets are not part of that equation, but Mandell said you can bring your own pet life jacket.

The gear might make sense if your trip includes family swims in the vacation rental pool or boat rides in the Pacific Ocean. It’s probably excessive if you’re carrying it solely for the plane ride. Fortunately, emergency water landings by commercial aircraft are very rare.

Evacuating with your pet

In the event of an evacuation, flight crew members will instruct passengers to proceed to the emergency exits and leave all carry-on items behind. Passengers must be able to deplane within 90 seconds, according to the FAA. Searching for or shouldering a bag can slow the process; luggage can also puncture the inflatable slide.

Pet carriers, which are considered carry-ons, are no exception.

Airlines such as Southwest say passengers should remove the dog or cat from its case and hold it in their arms. (Flight attendants will provide real-time guidance, since each crisis is unique.) Animal experts, however, said a freed pet comes with risks. The pet can become spooked and escape in the plane, for example, or its claws can pierce the slide.

Rozanski suggests exiting with the pet inside its carrier and dealing with the consequences later. “ If the plane is burning up, I would take the carrier with me,” she said. “If somebody says no, I would jump anyway.” Just be aware that ignoring or defying a flight attendant’s orders could be classified as unruly behavior.

For sliding down with a larger dog, Mandell said, try to hold the animal on your lap facing out, with its back to your chest and its feet up. That way, its nails won’t rip the material.

Service animals, meanwhile, are trained for emergency situations, Rozanski noted, citing the guide dogs that led their owners out of the World Trade Center to safety on Sept. 11, 2001.

Service dogs “are not going to have a problem,” she said, “because they are going to follow instructions.”

More on air travel

Leave flying to the pros: Think you could land a plane in an emergency? Experts say you’re wrong . Here’s what you should actually do if something goes awry during a flight .

Pet peeves: Why do “gate lice” line up early for a flight ? Psychologists explained for us. Another move that annoys airline workers: abusing the flight attendant call button . For more on how to behave on a flight, check out our 52 definitive rules of flying .

Plane mess: Stories about extremely disgusting airplanes have been grossing out travelers. The question of plane cleanups became the subject of a recent debate after a flight attendant allegedly told a pregnant passenger to pick up the popcorn spilled by her toddler.

Frequent flying: Airline status isn’t what it used to be, but at least there are some good movies and TV shows to watch in the air. And somewhere out there, experts are trying to make airline food taste good.