Taking Fido on the Rails: A Guide to Traveling by Amtrak with Your Pet
For many pet owners, long-distance car travel with a furry companion can be an ordeal. But did you know there is actually an easier way to hit the open road with your pet – by train! Amtrak allows passengers to bring small pets onboard many trains, providing a stress-free rail experience for both you and your pet.
In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about taking your dog or cat on Amtrak, from booking pet-friendly sleeping accommodations to tips for keeping Fluffy happy and well-behaved during the journey. By the end, you’ll be a pro at traveling by train with pets.
What Pets Are Allowed?
- Dogs and cats: Amtrak allows up to two pets per passenger in carriers.
- Fish: Passengers may bring small freshwater fish in a secure, leak-proof container.
- Birds: Small caged birds are permitted.
All pets must remain in carriers that fit completely under the seat during the entire trip. No loose pets are allowed to roam freely on trains or in stations. Service animals like guide dogs are exempt from carrier requirements.
Booking Pet-Friendly Sleeping Arrangements
When making Amtrak reservations for travel with pets, be sure to book sleeping accommodations like a bedroom or roomette that allow pets. Pets are not permitted in regular coach seating overnight or on certain short-distance routes. Look for the “Pets Welcome” label when selecting sleeping quarters.
You’ll pay an additional $25 charge each way to bring your pet. Advance reservations are essential since spaces allowing pets book quickly. It’s a good idea to reserve 6 months out or more for busy travel periods like holidays.
Carrier Size Limits
The carrier your pet travels in must be able to fit completely under the seat in front of you. For most dogs, this means carriers no larger than approximately 20x14x11 inches.
Cats and smaller dogs may fly under the seat in soft-sided carriers. Larger dogs should use hard-sided carriers that meet the size limit. Make sure to check measurements before travelling! Oversized carriers cannot be accommodated.
Boarding Procedures
When checking-in for your Amtrak trip with pets, be prepared to show proof of vaccinations like rabies, distemper, and parvo. Pets must remain in their carriers throughout the boarding process for everyone’s safety.
Declare any pet(s) traveling with you before proceeding to the platform. Announce to the conductor that you have pets on board as you find your seats. Your carrier-bound furry companions are allowed in the dining car or cafe car, but not in the grill or lounge cars.
Pet Supplies to Pack
Don’t forget to bring along:
- Pet food and bowls
- Water bottles or canteen for hydration
- Newspaper, puppy pads or litter for accidents
- Leash and collar/harness
- Comfort items like toys or beds
- Medications if needed
- Proof of vaccinations
- Poop bags for cleaning up waste
You may also want to throw in calming aids like treats, pheromone sprays/wipes, music, or grooming to help keep pets relaxed during the journey. Having everything on-hand means you can properly care for your pet throughout the trip.
Tips for a Stress-Free Train Ride
To keep Fluffy happy on the rails, follow these tips:
Familiarize your pet before boarding: If it’s your pet’s first train experience, do short practice trips in the carrier before your big day.
Bring creature comforts: Favorite toys, treats, blankets, and other familiar smells can help your pet feel cozy and calm.
Exercise beforehand: Tire out your dog before boarding. Physical activity helps drain excess energy that could lead to anxious behavior later on.
Provide comfy bedding: Soft bedding gives your pet a warm place to nap instead of standing or pacing during the journey.
Stay positive: Calm, cheerful interaction helps reassure your pet. Avoid anxious behavior that could heighten their stress levels.
By properly preparing your furry friend and maintaining a stress-free environment, you’ll both cruise smoothly down the tracks. Let me know if any other Amtrak pet questions come up!
Real-Life Pet Travel Story
I still fondly recall the trip my wife and I took from Chicago to Seattle with our Australian Shepherd mix, Pepper. At first, Pepper was clearly skeptical of the carrier. But after walking her before boarding, she settled right in beneath our seats once we got rolling.
We made sure to bring all her favorite toys and chews, and stopped in the viewing car periodically so she could take in the scenery safely in our arms. Pepper even snoozed soundly through the Rocky Mountains! We were all thrilled with how smoothly the journey went. Seeing the awe on Pepper’s face riding through vast Western landscapes made any extra preparation feel worthwhile.
With the right care, training, and supplies, taking pets on Amtrak need not be overly stressful. The relaxed environment and room to move around between cars proved much better for Pepper than being cooped in a car for over two days straight. With a little preparation like we provided, the whole family can travel safely and enjoyably by train.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I leave my pet alone in the sleeping compartment overnight?
No, Amtrak requires someone to be in the room with the pet at all times, even overnight. Pets cannot be left unattended in rooms or baggage cars.
Q: What if my pet has an accident in the carrier?
Be prepared with towels or pads to quickly clean up any “accidents”. Amtrak may charge cleaning fees for soiled carriers or rooms not promptly cleaned after incidents.
Q: Can I bring more than two pets?
Unfortunately no, the limit is two pets per passenger regardless of size. Additional pets exceeding this number cannot travel with you.
Q: Are emotional support animals allowed?
ESAs traveling with owners who have proper documentation do not have to be in carriers, but all other pets still must travel in carriers under the seat.
Through careful preparation and observation of Amtrak’s pet policies, you and your furry family member can easily enjoy the journey together by rail. Please let me know if any other questions come up!
Transporting Pets By Amtrak
| Pet Type | Requirements | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Dog or cat | Must be kept in carrier under seat | $25 each way |
| Small pet (rabbit, bird, etc.) | Must remain in carrier and not exceed 50 lbs total with carrier | $25 each way |
| Emotional support or service animal | Must have documentation and remain under handler’s control | Travels for free |
| Snakes, lizards, other reptiles | Must be in clear plastic container or terrarium and not exceed 50 lbs total | $25 each way |
| Fish | Must be in leak-proof container and not exceed 50 lbs total | $25 each way |
FAQ
-
Can I bring my pet on Amtrak?
Most pets are allowed on Amtrak trains as long as they are kept in a kennel that can fit under the seat. Basically, if Fido fits in his carrier, you’re good to go. The only exception is that Emotional Support Animals and Service Animals do not require a carrier.
-
Do I need to buy a ticket for my pet?
For pets traveling in a kennel, you do not need to purchase them a separate ticket. However, at check-in you will need to show that you have the proper kennel and declare that you are traveling with a pet. But who would want to leave Fido at home, right?
-
Are there size and weight restrictions for pet kennels?
Yes, there are size limits for pet kennels on Amtrak. The kennel must fit completely under the seat and cannot take up your seat or block the aisle. Most carriers should not exceed 18x14x8 inches. I suppose they have to draw the line somewhere to keep the aisles clear.
-
What about food and water for my pet?
Pets must bring their own food, water and supplies for the journey. While you may be able to kind of get away with hand-feeding small snacks, bigger meals are a no-no. Pet parents also need to clean up after their pets in the bathroom areas. It’s all about being courteous to your fellow passengers.
-
Can I travel with an emotional support animal on Amtrak?
Amtrak allows ESAs (Emotional Support Animals) to accompany passengers free of charge. However, the animal must be trained to behave properly in a public setting. You may need paperwork from a medical professional as well. On the other hand, they may seem more lenient about carriers for ESAs.
-
What if my pet acts up on the train?
Pets must remain under the owner’s control at all times without disturbing other passengers. If an untrained pet becomes unruly or disruptive, you may be asked to take it off the train at the next station. But maybe it was just having an off day, you know? I’m sure Fido didn’t mean to upset anyone.
So in summary – as long as pets are well-behaved and meet Amtrak’s guidelines, they should enjoy the trip. But is it worth stressing out kitty or would she prefer to stay home? Perhaps a car ride is less traumatic for nervous fluff balls.