Are Dogs Allowed on Amtrak? Everything You Need to Know Before Traveling

Yes, dogs are allowed on Amtrak, but with specific restrictions. Small pets, including cats and dogs, can travel on certain Amtrak routes. However, understanding Amtrak’s pet policy is crucial to ensure a hassle-free experience. If you’re asking “Can you bring dogs on Amtrak?” The answer largely depends on the size of your dog and the train route.

Amtrak only allows dogs weighing up to 20 pounds, including the carrier weight. The pets must remain in their carriers throughout the journey and stored under the passenger seat. For trips over seven hours or routes that don’t allow pets, alternative arrangements need to be made. Planning ahead is essential.

Additional Considerations for Dogs on Amtrak

• Vaccination records: Ensure your dog is up-to-date on vaccinations. Carrying proof can save you from potential boarding issues.
• Behavior expectations: Your dog must remain quiet and well-behaved during the journey. Excessive barking can lead to removal from the train.
• Travel gear: A sturdy, comfortable carrier is essential to comply with Amtrak’s requirements. It should be well-ventilated, leak-proof, and large enough for your dog to turn around comfortably.

Amtrak’s dog policy and animal policy are designed to accommodate small pets while ensuring the comfort of all passengers. Here’s a more in-depth breakdown:

• Small dogs and cats: Pets must weigh under 20 pounds with their carrier. This includes small-breed dogs and average-sized cats.
• Travel duration: The total travel time, including stops, should not exceed seven hours. Longer journeys might require alternative options for pet owners.
• Fees and reservations: A non-refundable pet fee applies, and reservations for pets are mandatory. It’s recommended to book as early as possible since pet spaces are limited.
• Restrictions: Not all trains and routes accept pets. For instance, some routes with dining or sleeper cars may exclude pets, apart from service animals.

Absolutely, service dogs are allowed on Amtrak trains. In accordance with the Amtrak service dog policy, these animals play a vital role in assisting individuals with disabilities and are therefore granted special accommodations.

Key Features of the Amtrak Service Animal Policy

• No fees: Unlike regular pets, service animals travel free of charge.
• Size flexibility: Service animals are not bound by the 20-pound weight limit imposed on pets.
• No carrier requirement: Service animals can sit or lie next to their owner without the need for confinement in a carrier.

Note: Service animals must be well-behaved and under the handler’s control at all times.

Emotional support dogs fall under a different category than service dogs. According to Amtrak’s emotional support animal policy, these animals do not meet the legal qualifications of service animals and must travel as pets under the standard guidelines.

Travel Tips for Emotional Support Animals

• Treat them like pets under Amtrak’s rules—a carrier is required.
• Make sure to confirm your reservation early, as limited pet spaces are available.
• Plan bathroom breaks at station stops where allowed.

Amtrak also prohibits pets in premium services like first class and sleeper cars, meaning passengers must find other ways to accommodate their pets during long trips.

Traveling with a dog requires thoughtful preparation. Follow these steps to make your journey stress-free:

• Check route availability: Some routes do not allow pets.
• Book early: Pet reservations fill up fast, especially during peak travel times.
• Use an approved carrier: Confirm the dimensions fit under your seat, and ensure your dog is comfortable with the carrier beforehand.
• Pack pet essentials: Food, water, waste bags, and a leash for quick bathroom breaks are necessary.
• Confirm Amtrak’s animal policy: Ensure you have all paperwork and meet vaccination requirements.

Extra Preparation Tips

• Get your pet accustomed to traveling in a carrier ahead of time.
• Bring toys or treats to keep them calm during the ride.
• Plan for emergency stops or bathroom breaks where feasible.