Living without their cuddly companions is a TASK for pet parents. So how can they leave them behind when going on a vacation by train Here's a look at all you need to know about travelling with your pet dog by train.
According to the official website of Indian Railways, a pet dog can be carried in a dog box in second-class luggage and a brake van (SLR). In addition, a dog can travel with the passenger in AC first class only if the whole coupe is reserved by the passenger or the group of passengers for sole use.
You will be charged a luggage rate of INR 30 per kilogram if you carry your furry friend in a dog box. If they are not inside the dog box, you will be levied INR 60 per kilogram in AC first class. Remember that they are not allowed in AC2 tier, AC3 tier, AC chair car, sleeper class and second class compartments.
You should also know that both first class and AC first class have respective cabins so that pets do not cause any kind of inconvenience to your fellow travellers. "Booking of dogs in dog boxes is not permitted in Rajdhani/Shatabdi trains as they do not have dog boxes. In other trains, one dog box is provided, and only one dog is booked per train on a first come, first served basis," the Indian Railways site reads.
Also, there is no advance booking for your pets. They can be booked at the counter one hour before your train departs. In the case of multiple dogs (up to 36 in case they are large), special horse boxes can also be arranged.
Here are some other tips that will help you travel with your dog.
Take printouts of your confirmed tickets and write an application, addressing it to the chief reservation officer of the boarding station.
Ensure your pet is fully vaccinated and keep the certificate ready. Also, get a fitness certification from a vet 24-48 hours before departure.
After you reach the station, go to the parcel office and show them the tickets, vaccination cards, and fitness certificate. They will book your pet, who will first be weighed, and the parcel cost will be levied.