Saying goodbye to your dog is always tough, but did you know that you can actually take your furry friend along on a train journey in India? Learn all about the rules and guidelines for traveling with your pet dog on Indian Railways. For many of us, pets are more than just animals—they are cherished members of our families. However, when travel beckons, we often find ourselves in a dilemma, having to leave our pets behind with friends, neighbors, or pet care centers. But with Indian Railways, there is an option to bring your pet dog along. Unfortunately, this provision is not widely known, and many are unaware of the rules and regulations involved in taking a pet dog on a train in India. Whether you're planning a trip post-lockdown or need to travel urgently during these uncertain times, here's a helpful guide on dos and don'ts for traveling with your pet dog on an Indian train.
Essential Guidelines for Traveling with Your Pet Dog on an Indian Train
Before we dive into the specifics, it's important to note that there are two ways to transport your dog. If you find it hard to be separated from your pet, consider traveling in AC First Class (Code: 1A). Dogs are only allowed in AC First Class or First Class. Passengers in lower classes (2A, 3A, SL, etc.) can book their dog as luggage from the originating station and arrange for its travel in the Luggage or Brake Van, which has specially designed dog boxes. However, this service may not be available on all long-distance trains, so it's advisable to check in advance. Let's now explore the dos and don'ts of traveling with your dog on a train in India.
Dos
- Contact the Parcel Office well in advance to make arrangements for booking.
- Carry your own food and water for your dog, as the Indian Railways does not provide meals for pets.
- If you're traveling with just one or two people, try to book the AC First Class Coupe for more privacy. If you end up sharing an AC First Class Cabin with strangers, seek their permission before bringing your dog. If they decline, your dog should travel in the brake van.
- If your dog seems uncomfortable with strangers in the AC First Class Cabin, decide whether to keep it in your cabin or send it to the brake van, informing the TTE accordingly. Distressed dogs may become aggressive, and you'll be responsible for any harm they cause to co-passengers.
Don'ts
- Never travel with an unbooked dog; this is equivalent to traveling without a valid ticket and can result in penalties.
- Avoid breaking any rules, even unintentionally. If you or your pet violate any rules, your pet will be transferred to the luggage van, and a penalty six times the fare will be charged.
Traveling with your dog can be a delightful experience, but it's important to adhere to the rules and ensure your furry friend's comfort and safety throughout the journey.
Conclusion: Considerations for Traveling with Your Pet Dog on an Indian Train
While the idea of traveling with your pet dog on an Indian train may seem appealing, it's important to consider several factors before making this decision. The availability of AC First Class coaches, where pets are allowed, is limited on most trains. The chances of successfully booking a coupe for you and your pet are slim due to the limited number of coupes per train.
If you're unable to secure a spot in the AC First Class, your dog will be required to travel in the luggage or brake van. These compartments can be uncomfortable for pets, as they lack air conditioning and can become extremely hot, leading to dehydration. Additionally, the confined spaces in these compartments may cause fear and anxiety in your dog.
It's crucial to consider your pet's well-being and comfort before deciding to travel with them on an Indian train. Only opt for this option if it is absolutely necessary, such as when permanently shifting your residence and no other transportation method is available. Your pet's safety and comfort should always be the top priority when making travel arrangements.
Opmerkingen