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From selecting the right class to managing your pet's travel anxiety, here's a guide to a safe, comfortable train journey with your furry companion.
Are you planning to travel with your dog or cat by train? If so, you are not alone. In fact, 60 per cent of the Indian population are proud pet owners. As a pet parent, you may often find it challenging to leave your furry friend behind while travelling. And pet boarding may not be an ideal option. Thankfully, the Indian Railways offer pet-friendly solutions for long-distance travel, with simplified pet travel regulations. This makes it convenient for pet parents to plan a trip with their cat or dog across the country. However, travelling long distances with your cat or dog can present some challenges. However, with some preparation beforehand, you can enjoy a safe and comfortable train journey with your four-legged companion.
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The Indian Railways offers three ways for pet travel with either a dog or a cat. You have the option to have them accompany you in cabins or coupes; puppies and kittens can be carried in a basket. Alternatively, larger pets can be transported in a dog box placed in the luggage-cum-Brake Van. Irrespective of the option, the pet parent remains fully responsible for their pet's care and feeding.
This is the most preferred choice among pet owners as it allows the pet to stay in the same space as the owner. To use this facility, you can book either an AC First-Class Cabin (four berths) or a Coupe (four berths). However, if another passenger objects to the presence of the pet, it will need to be relocated to the Guard Van, with no refund provided. Note that pets are not allowed in AC 2 Tier, AC 3 Tier, AC Chair Car, Sleeper Class, and Second-Class Compartments. Make sure to bring your pet to the luggage office three hours before the train's departure to be officially added to the booking. This applies to both PRS (Passenger Reservation System) and online tickets booked through IRCTC. Additionally, a fitness certificate from a veterinary doctor—assigned within 24 to 48 hours—is mandatory. You will need to submit your pet's vaccination card during the booking. A doctor's certificate, clearly stating the breed, gender, and colour, also needs to be provided at the time of booking.
When travelling with puppies and kittens or even small cats or dogs, it is suitable to use a basket to carry them. A confirmed ticket and valid ID proof will be required for your pet. Further, make sure you carry a doctor's certificate. Note that the prescribed luggage charges will apply to your booking.
If you decide to travel in any other class, your pet must be kept in a box placed in the train's luggage van. Here, the box is placed under the supervision of the Train Manager (the Guard). To avail this facility, it is necessary to carry a confirmed ticket and valid ID proof for the pet. You must take your pet to the luggage office three hours before the departure of the train. The receipt obtained will also need to be submitted at the first station and again at the final destination.
One of the most stressful aspects of pet travel is navigating through a crowded railway station before boarding. The large crowds can make your pet anxious and behave differently than usual. To minimise their anxiety in an unfamiliar setting, it is advisable to avoid arriving at the station during rush hour. If you are travelling with your pet dog, keeping them on a leash, while walking through the train station, is a good idea. Walk slowly with your pet to help them feel more at ease. Moreover, keep plenty of treats handy and shower them with praises as you guide them around. Treats can also serve as a distraction if your pet feels overwhelmed by the surroundings. Once you board the train, give your pet its favourite toy or a chew stick to keep them busy. Keep speaking to them in a calm, soothing voice throughout the journey. You could also play some soothing music to help calm their nerves.
If you are planning to take your cat or dog in a basket during the train journey, it's essential to provide them with prior training to build a positive association with the carrier. A few weeks before your trip, introduce your pet to the basket and help them associate it with things they enjoy, such as toys, food, or sleep. After your pet gets used to the basket, you can take them on short trips to get them accustomed to travelling in the carrier while in a moving vehicle. When you are all set for the train journey, prepare the basket for your pet's comfort. Layer the basket with a newspaper first, followed by a towel or a fleece blanket. Once on the train, place the basket on a soft pillow or a blanket to minimise vibration. Also, make sure that a little sunlight can enter the basket, as this can contribute to a sense of familiarity and reduce your pet's anxiety.
Finally, when preparing for pet travel, be sure to pack all the essentials to ensure a smooth journey. Remember to bring their harness, collar, leash, wet/dry food (packed separately), bedding, food and water bowls, litter box, as well as toys. These items will help create a familiar environment for them. Also, don't forget to carry a few newspapers and garbage bags for any necessary clean-up. By planning your train travel meticulously, you can ensure every aspect of the journey is pleasant and stress-free for your pet. Now, with these essential preparations, embark on a memorable train ride with your four-legged companion!
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