Imagine a breezy Sunday morning, you’re with your dog, strolling through the streets of Goa on a scooty, or playing around on the beach. Sounds cool, doesn’t it? Are you wondering if you can take your pet on a train trip? With Indian railways, it is entirely possible. This blog will help you ensure a smooth boarding of a train with your furry friend. All you have to do is follow a few steps mentioned below as recommended by IRCTC and approved by experienced pet owners who are living the dream.
Which Class To Travel?
This is a very frequent question among pet owners: in which class or compartment should they take their furry babies, or is it allowed to travel with a pet in a train or not? Well, all your queries and doubts will be cleared here today. As of now, Indian Railways does not allow pets to travel in any class or compartments other than AC 1st class. Therefore, the GOLDEN RULE is to travel in AC First Class (1A) or First Class (FC). To ensure privacy and comfort for your pet (and happy co-passengers!), aim to book an entire 2-berth coupe or a 4-berth cabin for your exclusive use. Now that you know that it is possible in India to travel by train with your pets then start preparing for your journey while following the important few steps given below for hassle-free travel with your dog.
Here are Your 5 Essential Steps to a Paw-some Journey!
Step 1: Book Your Ticket (Smartly!)
- Download the IRCTC app on your Android/ iOS and book your AC 1ST CLASS tickets, selecting either a coupe or a cabin as per your preference.
- Try to book all berths in a 2-berth coupe or a 4-berth cabin under one PNR. Note that only one pet is allowed under 1 PNR.
- Book Early! These private spaces go fast – 60 days out is ideal.
Pro Tip: How to Snag That Private Coupe!
You can’t always get what you add to your preference list while booking in IR. It’s better to play safe and ensure your seats for hassle-free travel. For this, you can now skip the DRM office and paperwork, just Request a coupe for AC first class online here.
Step 2: Gather Your Pet’s Papers
It is important to carry all the documents in hard copy beforehand for a smooth journey. Prepare a ‘’Fit-to-Travel’’ certificate from a vet, 24-28 hours before travel. This certificate will include all the details of your pet like breed, gender, color, and the vaccination records, which will include Rabies and DHLPPi, and include a certificate from a veterinary doctor confirming the dog is free from diseases and fit to travel. Don’t forget to carry a photocopy of a valid train ticket and your government ID proof, like Adhaar / DL, etc.
Step 3: Get Your Pet’s “Ticket” on Travel Day
This is done at the station:
- Head to the Parcel Office / Luggage Counter: Arrive at least 3 hours before departure. We must check where luggage counters are, especially in Tier 1 cities like Delhi, Bangalore, Hyderabad, and Chennai. Dropping a few parcel office locations to make it easy for you:
- Delhi: Look for the “Luggage/Parcel Booking Office” at New Delhi Railway Station (often Paharganj side).
- Mumbai: At CSMT or Mumbai Central, dedicated Parcel Offices are usually present.
- Bengaluru: Find it near the main building at KSR Bengaluru City Junction.
- Hyderabad: Look near the main entrance or goods shed area at Secunderabad Junction. (Always ask local railway staff for exact directions.)
- Weigh & Pay: Your pet will be weighed (charged typically at 60 kg luggage rates), and you’ll pay the fees.
- Get Your Receipt: This “pink slip” is your pet’s official travel pass. Keep it safe.
Step 4: Prep Your Pet & Their Gear
It’s important to check the comfort of your pet, especially when you are travelling. No pet parents will ever want to see their baby in an uncomfortable situation. For this, you need to carry a comfy Carrier to ensure it is large enough for them to stand, turn, and lie down. Before boarding, don’t forget to take a long potty break and offer them a light meal. Pack food, water, spill-proof bowls, waste bags, pee pads, a familiar blanket, meds, and don’t forget the leash/muzzle.
Step 5: Smooth Boarding & Journey
- Arrive Early: There will be a lot of formalities that you have to complete, so it’s better to arrive early to avoid any issues.
- Leash Up! Don’t forget to keep your pet on a leash at the station and on the train.
- Set Up Your Space: Make your private coupe cozy with pee pads and their comforts.
- Hydrate & Potty: Offer water frequently. Use long station stops for quick, supervised potty breaks.
Stay Calm: Your pet senses your mood. Be reassuring and clean up any messes immediately.
Quick Tips for a Happy Trip
- One Pet Per Booking:Generally, one pet per PNR
- No Refunds if Removed:If your pet causes issues and is moved to the guard’s van, you won’t get money back.
- Don’t Skip Booking:Fines are heavy for unbooked pets!
- Night Journeys Can Be Easier:Pets often sleep through them.
- Keep Calm & Clean:Your calm demeanor helps your pet, and always clean up promptly.
