How to take your pet dog on Indian trains, travel blogger shares step-by-step guide

Ever wondered or been flustered about how to bring along your pet dog on your train journey? Here's a detailed guide on how to carry your pet on the Indian Railways.

From filling out the necessary forms/applications to completing other pet-related formalities, travel blogger Umag Trivedi has shared his extensive experience. 

1. Book AC First class or first class: Pet dogs are only allowed to be carried in AC first class and first class, they cannot be carried in AC 2 tier, AC 3 tier, AC Chair car, Sleeper Class. And it's always advisable to book the tickets in advance so that you can get the ticket confirmation sooner. Also, at the time you are booking your ticket select the 'coupe' (a cabin for 2 passengers) option.

2. Fill out written application form for coupe allotment: since the seat allotment happens manually, to make sure you get the same cabin you can apply for the same by filling out a written application form at the Regional railway office.

3. Information needed in the application form: in the application form, you need to fill in the following details:

• Name of the people travelling
• Train details (train name and number)
• Passenger Name Record number
• The age of the dog
• Mobile number on which the seat allotment (coupe) information will be shared

It is in the application itself that you can ask for a coupe allotment.

Tip: You should complete this process of applying and submitting all the needful documents one day before your intended date of travel.

Documents needed to be submitted: You will also be required to submit printouts of certain documents including confirmed train tickets, Aadhar card copies of all those travelling, a pet travel fitness certification (should not be more than 48 hours old that the train departure time), a copy of dog vaccination. At the time of booking a doctor's certificate mentioning the breed, colour and gender of the pet dog is necessary.

 

4. Visit Luggage office 3 hours before departure: On the day of your travel, you should reach the luggage office (parcel office) along with your dog 3-4 hours before the train departure time. You need to buy a luggage/parcel ticket for your pet. 

The cost of the lugagge ticket is Rs 1,180 (you can take the help of an agent too if you want). To obtain the luggage ticket you will need the same documents that you submitted at the time of getting a coupe (cabin).

Once you get your coupe allotment confirmation and luggage ticket for your pet dog, you're all set for your train journey. (pheww at last!)

A few things you would want to keep in mind:

• As a passenger you are responsible for your dog's water and food.
• Carrying your dog without proper booking you will attract a penalty.
• Only one dog is allowed per PNR.