We have often seen on road, at traffic signals, these goofy faces covered in fur popping out of the car windows, rickshaws or even in two wheelers with ears flapping, tongues flying in the air happily. Travelling with your pet within the locality is not an uncommon sight, for instance, to the vet or to a pet-friendly restaurant/café. Imagine, how much fun it would be to make an out-of-town trip with your furry BFF!
If you are planning a trip with your four-legged child for the first time, then the Indian Railways is the best mode of transport in terms of convenience, safety and affordability. However, there are certain protocols that need to be followed to enjoy a hassle-free journey with your munchkin.
Simple steps to follow to fulfil the rules and regulations of the Indian Railways.
Pet parents will have to reserve tickets in AC First Class two-berth coupe or four-berth cabin while travelling with their pets. The pets are not allowed in any other compartment other than first class and AC-first class.
An application has to be written to the Chief Reservation Officer of the station from which you will be boarding the train, explaining that you are travelling with a pet. This will ensure that you are allotted a coupe/cabin and not any random berth.
No advance bookings can be made for the pets. The bookings for pets are made one hour before the departure of the train so the owners will have to reach the station accordingly with all the valid documents.
Only one dog per passenger can register for a travel ticket. Six times the usual fine will be levied if the dog is taken by train without registration.
As per the Indian Railways’ terminology, pets are categorised as ‘luggage.’ The dog has to be brought to the luggage/parcel office three hours before the departure of the train for booking. Charges, as prescribed in luggage rates, will be applicable for pet dogs.
A fitness certificate from a Veterinary Doctor needs to be obtained 24 to 48 hours before the journey, stating that the dog is not suffering from any contagious diseases. This is mandatory and needs to be submitted along with vaccination cards at the time of booking.
Pet parents will be solely responsible for the safety of their dog-child and will have to make arrangements for their food and water during the journey. Due to the change of place, your dog may eat less than what they eat at home. Make sure you carry along their favourite things like toys, treats and chew sticks to make them feel comfortable.
If fellow passengers object to the presence of a dog in the train compartment, the pets will have to be kept within the specially designed box in the luggage van.
Source:irctc