Train Travel with Pets

Find pet policies for international and domestic trains, including commuter railroads and public transport in the U.S.

Traveling with pets by train can offer a safer and less stressful alternative to air travel. Unlike planes, trains pose fewer risks related to air quality, temperature, and cabin pressure—factors that can be harmful, especially for pets with respiratory issues. For instance, certain short-nosed breeds are restricted from flying on some airlines due to health risks, while Amtrak places no such restrictions on these breeds.

Another benefit is affordability. Train travel is often a cheaper option compared to flying or driving, and documentation requirements are generally minimal. Most trains require only that pets are in carriers small enough to fit on the owner’s lap or under the seat.

 

Train Travel in the United States with Amtrak

Amtrak, serving various U.S. cities and nine Canadian destinations, allows pets (dogs and cats) up to 20 pounds (combined pet and carrier weight) on trips of up to seven hours on most routes. Pets are limited to Coach Class and Acela Business Class and are not permitted in Acela First Class seating, private rooms, food service cars, or other accommodations. Reservations for pets are limited to seven hours total, accounting for any transfers between multiple trains.

Important Route Restrictions
Not all Amtrak services accommodate pets. For example:

  • Northeast Regional Trains (e.g., New York to Washington): Allow pets on all services.
  • Acela Express: Accepts pets only on weekends and holidays.
  • Certain routes, like Amtrak Cascades, Carl Sandburg, and Illinois Zephyr, offer a specific pet-friendly Coach car.

In Canada, pet travel is not allowed on Adirondack, Maple Leaf, and Amtrak Cascades, nor on specific U.S. routes like the Auto Train, Pennsylvanian, and others. Note that Amtrak does not transport pets as checked baggage; pets must always travel alongside their owners.

How to Travel on Amtrak Trains With a Dog in 2024
Find out everything you need to know about how to travel on Amtrak with a dog, from the rules for travelling with a pet on Amtrak to how much it costs and how to make a booking.

 

Train Travel in Canada with VIA Rail

VIA Rail Canada operates across eight provinces, excluding Newfoundland and Labrador and Prince Edward Island, with 475 weekly trains. Pets—limited to small dogs and cats—are allowed in passenger cars on Corridor trains (Québec City to Windsor) as long as they are in a carrier that meets VIA Rail standards. The carrier and pet together must weigh no more than 10 kilograms (22 lbs). Pets are not allowed on the Maple Leaf route (Toronto to New York) via Amtrak.

For other routes, pets can travel as checked baggage if they are on the same train as their owner, with immediate pickup required upon arrival. The checked baggage policy allows only dogs, cats, and small rodents, excluding birds. However, from June 1 to September 30, pets cannot be transported in baggage cars due to ventilation issues, although they may travel on the Ocean route (Montréal to Halifax) year-round, as it is fully air-conditioned. VIA Rail prohibits pitbulls system-wide due to regional breed restrictions.

 

Train Travel in Europe with Pets

European trains generally allow small pets to travel free in a carrier, while larger pets may need to be leashed, muzzled, and travel for a reduced fare. Policies vary across train companies and countries; some restrict large dogs from trains, only permitting small pets in containers. Eurostar, however, only allows guide and assistance dogs.

For cross-border train travel in Europe, dogs, cats, and ferrets require at least one up-to-date rabies vaccination post-microchip implantation, with a 21-day waiting period after the first vaccination. For pets with a series of vaccinations kept current, the waiting period after boosters is waived. An EU Pet Passport, obtainable from a veterinarian, is also required for travel across borders.

 

More Information

All Aboard: Tips for Traveling With Your Pet on a Train
Here’s what you need to know before and after you board.

Pups Onboard: Why Trains Are a Great Way to Travel With Your Dog(s)
The pugs Rufus and Hamilton have tried every mode of transportation but nothing beats a ride on the rails.

Can I Take Fido? Top Tips for Riding European Trains With Dogs
Trains are by far the best option for traveling with your dog in Europe and are relatively inexpensive.

Are Dogs Allowed on Trains in Europe?
Find out which trains in Europe allow dogs and what are the rules for dogs on trains.

Top 10 Pet-Friendly Trains in Europe & North America
Tips for taking your pet on trains in Europe and North America, including Amtrak and VIA Rail Canada.

Traveling in Italy with Pets
Find out the essentials of navigating Italy’s rail system with pets.

Dogs on Public Transport in Australia
Melbourne public transport is dog-friendly and Sydney allows small pets on light rail, buses and ferries inside a carrier. Brisbane allows dogs on board CityCats and ferries, but are banned on trains and buses.