Dog on a train — how to transport a dog by train? | PolishTrains
Can a dog be transported by train?
Can a dog be transported by train? Of course, yes, but it is subject to a few formalities. First of all, before the planned trip, you should check the rules and regulations for traveling with a dog by train of the given carrier. These include elements such as the size of the dog, mandatory collar or muzzle. The dog on the train should also be vaccinated against rabies and you should have a booklet with a veterinary confirmation of this fact with you.
Other issues concern the transportation of a dog by train abroad from Poland. There are many rail connections that allow you to reach European capitals. In such a case, separate regulations may apply, which you should definitely familiarize yourself with.
You can always transport a dog that is an assistant to a disabled person. Such a dog also has access to the Wars dining car, where other animals cannot stay.
For the train journey, you should also prepare the dog itself. It is a good idea to bring a carrier (if the dog fits into it, of course), as well as a blanket for a comfortable lay on the ground, toys, a bowl for water and food. When necessary, it will be useful to have poo bags and wet wipes to quickly clean up after your pet.
During the trip, special attention should be paid to the behavior of the dog. Some animals may be stressed or uncertain in a new environment, so it’s important to ensure their sense of security. This can be achieved by providing a quiet and calm place to rest and regular doses of affection and support. In some cases, if the dog is nervous and the transportation of the dog by train is necessary, it is worth consulting with a vet who may prescribe appropriate calming agents.
During the journey, you should also observe the rules applicable in the train, such as maintaining cleanliness and keeping noise levels appropriate. Remember, not all passengers may be as thrilled about your pet, so strive to be a responsible owner and ensure that your dog does not cause inconvenience to other travelers. It should not bark or bother other people.
How much does a ticket for a dog cost on PKP?
A dog or other animal that travels in a carrier can be transported for free. In this case, the carrier should be placed on the luggage rack or on the owner’s lap. The case is different for larger dogs transported loosely. How much does a ticket for a dog on PKP cost? The fee is 15.20. It’s a flat fee, regardless of the length of the Intercity route. In the case of other train carriers, this amount is usually very similar, but you should check before the journey.
It is best to buy such a ticket online together with a ticket for yourself. It is linked to the guardian’s ticket, who can only be an adult. The ticket can also be purchased at the station and from the conductor, although in this case a fee of 20 zlotys can be expected.
In the case of assistance dogs for a disabled person, the animal is entitled to a statutory discount of 95%. In practice, however, many carriers completely waive the fee.
A good choice for buying a ticket for a train journey for yourself and your four-legged friend is to use the EuroTravels search engine. Not only will you choose the right connection, but you will also buy a ticket. You can pay for it with Blik, a payment card, or a transfer — conveniently and safely. You don’t have to print the ticket, you will receive it by email and text message. You can also choose all applicable discounts and special tickets, such as those for a dog.
Transporting a dog by train can be stressful enough, so it’s not worth putting off buying a ticket at the last minute. Choose a place that suits you, whether you prefer an open carriage or compartment. In the case of a classic compartment, a good option is a place under the window, where the dog can lie down and will not bother passengers passing over it.
Dog on a train without a muzzle – should the dog have a muzzle on the train?
Passengers traveling with a four-legged friend are only required to have a valid ticket for its transport and to ask fellow passengers if the presence of a dog in the compartment does not bother them. This is important because, for example, someone may be allergic to animal hair. If someone objects, the conductor should find a suitable place for the dog and its guardian, where they can calmly make the trip.
Should a dog have a muzzle on the train? As a rule, yes. The four-legged friend should wear a muzzle all the time. However, it often happens that the animal is not aggressive and does not bother other passengers. In this case, a dog on a train without a muzzle can certainly travel. However, you should have a muzzle with you to put on at the request of the conductor or fellow passengers.
Other rules regarding a dog on a train state that a dog transported in a carrier should not stick its head out. If a dog is transported loosely, it must occupy a place that does not disturb other passengers. It cannot lie on the seats and enter the dining car. Transporting a dog in a car with sleeping places is possible if the traveler buys all the places in a given compartment. This is the best option for a long, night route.
Obviously, in case of necessity, the dog’s guardian is responsible for cleaning up after him. Therefore, it is worth stocking up on poop bags, paper towels or wet wipes, which make it easier to control the mess. It’s better to prevent and prepare well because a four-legged friend can react differently in a stressful situation.
Also, more and more stations are adapted for traveling with dogs. For example, publicly available water bowls are being set up. It’s no wonder that PKP transports more and more four-legged friends every year and this form of traveling enjoys great interest. Just in the last half-year, over 100,000 dogs have used this form of transport.
Especially on longer routes, it can be more convenient than driving a car. Of course, provided that the dog copes well with being around many people and can sleep for several hours despite the presence of strangers.
In the case of really long routes, a solution may be to use a several-minute transfer, allowing for a walk and stretching the legs. Rarely any four-legged friend is able to last longer without a toilet. It’s a bad idea to leave the train at the station for a quick toilet break during a stop. First, a dog should not defecate in such places, and second, it is very easy to miss the departure and the train will leave without you.
Traveling by train with a dog could not only be convenient, but also a very enjoyable form of travel. For many animal owners, this is an excellent opportunity to spend time with their beloved pet and explore new places together. All you need to do is prepare well and remember the rules for traveling with a dog so that the journey goes smoothly and comfortably for everyone. The most important thing is knowing your dog and understanding his reactions. Before a long journey, it’s a good idea to test this by taking your dog on a shorter route, or even taking him with you on public transport. You’ll see if your dog is relaxed, or if he reacts nervously.