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So, you’re probably wondering can you bring a pet on Amtrak for your next Amtrak adventure, right? Well, here’s some good news: small dogs and cats are totally welcome on many Amtrak trains!

(Keep reading, though, because I also have some not-so-great news for you, depending on the type of dog you have.)

In this blog post

I’m going to break down all the deets on Amtrak’s pet policy, including booking steps and travel requirements to bring your dog on Amtrak trains.

I’ve made everything super simple to understand and even thrown in some handy dog travel tips for you. Trust me, you don’t want to miss this guide if you are wondering how to bring your dog on Amtrak!

What are the key points of the Amtrak dog policy?

  • Eligible Pets: Only small dogs and cats are allowed, with the total weight of the pet and carrier not exceeding 20 pounds.
  • Age and Health: Pets must be at least eight weeks old and have up-to-date vaccinations.
  • Carrier Requirements: Pets must be in an approved, leak-proof, and well-ventilated carrier that fits under the seat (no larger than 19″ x 14″ x 10.5″).
  • One-Pet Policy: Only one pet per passenger is allowed.
  • Travel Duration: Pets can only travel on trips up to seven hours.
  • Fees and Reservations: A fee ranging from $29 to $39 applies, and a reservation is required for the pet.
  • Seating Restrictions: Pets are only allowed in coach class and cannot enter food service or business class areas.

Who Can Travel: Understanding Amtrak’s Pet Eligibility

Your pet, like a tiny dog or a cute cat, is welcome to accompany you on an Amtrak journey.

how strict is Amtrak about dogs

To ensure they stay safe and cozy during the trip, they must stay snuggly and tuck into an approved carrier. This comfy space will give them a sense of security as they ride the rails with you.

Eligible Pets: Small Dogs and Cats Only

Amtrak welcomes those little furry friends on board, but there are a few rules to keep in mind.

One-Pet Policy

Amtrak has a one-pet-per-customer policy. So unfortunately, you can’t bring multiple pets or bigger animals on board.

If you’re planning to bring your fur babies, here’s what you need to know. Small dogs and cats weighing up to 20 pounds, carriers included, can come along for the ride.

Basically, the total weight of your pet, carrier included, can’t exceed 20 pounds. For example, if your pet weighs 15 pounds, their carrier can weigh up to 5 pounds.

Does Amtrak Allow Dogs?

Yes, Amtrak allows dogs on many of its trains, but there are specific guidelines to follow. Only small dogs, along with cats, are permitted, and they must travel in an approved carrier that fits under the seat.

Before you hop on that train, just make sure your pet is at least eight weeks old. It’s important for their health and safety! 

Oh, and don’t forget to check that their vaccinations are up to date. Your vet can give you all the info on what they need for travel.

As the Amtrak website says, “this rule is in place to make sure everyone, humans and animals alike, has a comfortable and safe journey.”

Travel Requirements: Approved Carriers Necessary

Can my dog ride with me on Amtrak

When it comes to bringing your pet on Amtrak trains, you gotta have a carrier that meets their rules.

According to Amtrak, the carrier needs to be leak-proof and well-ventilated so your pet stays comfortable and safe throughout the trip.

Amtrak-Approved Carriers

Size-wise, the carrier can’t be longer than 19 inches, wider than 14 inches, or taller than 10.5 inches. It’s gotta fit nicely under the train seat. And remember, the total weight of your pet and carrier can’t exceed 20 pounds.

While you’re on the train or at the stations, your pet’s gotta stay in their carrier. It’s super important for everyone’s safety, including your pet and the other passengers.

To make your journey easier, just slide that carrier under your seat. It should fit just fine!

Can my dog travel with me on Amtrak trains?

Yes, your dog can travel with you on Amtrak trains, provided it meets the eligibility criteria and is kept in an approved carrier.

Also, don’t forget to reserve a spot for your pet on the Amtrak train before you book your trip. There are fees for this service, so keep that in mind.

So, now that you’re all clued in on Amtrak’s pet policy, you’re ready to hit the rails with your furry pal. Have a paw-some trip!

The good news is that you can totally bring your furry buddy on Amtrak trips that are up to seven hours long.

And if you’re wondering, can pets travel in an RV, the answer is yes, making it another great option for pet-friendly adventures. You and your pet can have a blast exploring new places together.

Booking Your Pet on Amtrak: A Simple Guide

First, hop on amtrak.com or download the Amtrak app to add your pet to your reservation. Just pay the fee and make sure their carrier fits the size limits.

Is Amtrak dog friendly?

Amtrak is relatively dog friendly, with policies in place to ensure the comfort and safety of pets and other passengers during the journey.

Reservation Process for Pets

Check out these steps to book your fuzzy friend on an Amtrak train:

Check Pet Eligibility: Make sure your pet is a small pup or kitty weighing no more than 20 pounds.
Make Reservation Early: Book your ticket in advance, ’cause spots for pets are limited. Only five pets are allowed per train.
Total Travel Time: Keep your trip under seven hours. Your pet can’t travel longer than that.
Contact Amtrak: Give Amtrak a call or use their website to add your pet to the ticket.
Pet Fee: Pay the fee for bringing your pet aboard.
Approved Carrier: Use an approved pet carrier that fits under the seat in front of you. Carriers can’t be bigger than 19″ long x 14″ wide x 10″ high.
Sign Agreement: Read through and sign a Pet Release and Indemnification Agreement before you hit the road.
Check-In at the Station: Get to the station at least 30 minutes before departure to confirm your pet’s reservation.
Boarding Process: Carry your pet in their carrier when you hop on the train and keep them in there throughout the journey.
Seating Restrictions: Your pet needs to hang out in coach class and can’t wander into food service cars or business class areas.

Fees for Bringing Pets on Board

Bringing your pet on Amtrak can cost anywhere from $29 to $39 per pet. The actual fee depends on the train service and how far you’re going.

Bringing your dog or cat along is super-simple since every customer is allowed to bring one pet. Just like passengers, pets need reservations.

Amtrak’s pet policy is simple: plan ahead and follow the steps for an awesome trip.

Remember, multi-ride tickets and Thruway Connection Services don’t include pets. Oh, and unaccompanied minors can’t bring their pets along on the journey.

So, plan ahead and follow all the steps for a smooth trip with your furry friend on Amtrak!

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