Information for travelling with your Dog
Posted on 6th February 2021 at 14:19
Today I will be looking at the rules for travelling with you four legged friend.
This blog is more about providing information on how to get to your next adventure safely. Mum and dad mainly take me to new adventures by car however there has been the odd occasion we have been on a train or taken a trip by bus. All of the methods of transport have their own rules for our safety. Please note that this information is relevant at the time of posting and may vary depending on where you live.
Travelling by Train
National Rail have set some rules that must be followed if you want to travel with your furry friend on the train.
These are as follows:
Maximum of two dogs allowed per passenger
Dogs must be kept on lead at all times
Animals not on lead must be placed in enclosed pet carriers
Animals, even those in pet carriers, are not allowed on the seats. The train company can charge you for the occupied seat.
Animals aren’t allowed in restaurant cars except for assistance dogs
The train company has the right to refuse carriage or entry to any animal. This also applies if your dog or other animal is causing nuisance or inconvenience to other passengers.
Transport for London (TFL) allows dogs to travel on the Tube. It must be noted that we are to be carried on the escalators to avoid damaging our paws. If your pooch is too large to be carried then please make note of the Tube stations which are accessible by stairs or lifts.
Travelling by Bus
The situation with taking your dog on a bus is a little less clear-cut than it is with trains, and you’ll need to check with the individual bus operator to see what their rules are around taking your dog with you.
Arriva Bus company's guidelines are as follows:
One dog is permitted on buses at any one time and at the absolute discretion of the driver.
Dogs must be on a lead or in a carrier.
Guide Dogs and Assistance Dogs are permitted at all times.
There is no charge for dogs including Assistance Dogs.
They must not be allowed to block the gangway.
For the comfort of other passengers, dogs must not be allowed on the bus seats.
National Express Coaches unfortunately do not accept dogs travelling with them, of course any Assistance Dogs are allowed.
Travelling by Car
The Highway Code states motorists need to ensure dogs are “suitably restrained” while travelling in the car.
RAC advises on the Do's and Don'ts of travelling by car.
Do's
Invest in a good quality harness, cage or guard.
Ensure you bring water with you as cars can get very hot and we don't want your pooch getting dehydrated.
Make plenty of stops especially on long journeys. This allows us to stretch our legs, get some fresh air and go to the toilet.
Using window shades would help keep your dog cool.
Don'ts
Let your dog hang out the window.
Open the windows entirely, your four-legged friend may be tempted to jump out.
Feed your pooch before travelling, the last thing you or your dog needs is them being sick on the journey.
Leave your dog in the car. This may be obvious but even with leaving the window ajar a car can heat up quickly and your much loved pet can overheat.
Travelling in a Taxi
If you plan on travelling by taxi with your dog, call the cab company ahead of time to see if they allow dogs in their cars. Many different cab companies and drivers have various rules on bringing pets in the car. Providing information of your dog’s size will help with their decision and bring a towel, small blanket, or pad for your dog to sit on. The driver will appreciate you taking care to cover up his or her seats and not leave any fur behind.
The Transport for London (TFL) are happy for you to hail a black cab with your doggy friend. Carriage is at the driver’s discretion however a friend of mine has never had an issue.
Do you enjoying travelling by car or on Public Transport?
Until the next adventure.....
Love Titch
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