How to Travel with Your Dog on Indian Railways: A Step-by-Step Guide

Indian Railways has made traveling with pets more convenient by introducing an online booking system for dogs and cats.

Pet owners can now enjoy stress-free vacations with their furry companions in AC First Class, eliminating the need for long queues at parcel offices.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you plan your next train journey with your pet.

Step 1: Book Your Train Ticket

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Start by booking your own first-class cabin or coupe ticket online. Keep in mind that only one dog can be added to a single PNR number.

If you’re traveling with multiple dogs, make sure to book tickets for additional passengers so that each dog gets its own PNR.

After securing your ticket, go to the IRCTC homepage and find the “Dogs/Cats Booking” option under the “Trains” menu.

Log in again using your phone number and OTP if required. Enter your PNR number, choose the appropriate ID option, and complete the booking for your pet.

Reserve your ticket through the official IRCTC website. Ensure you have a printed copy of the ticket for verification during the journey.

Step 2: Ensure Your Pet is Vaccinated

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Your pet must be fully vaccinated. Keep the vaccination records handy, as they are required during the booking process.

Step 3: Obtain a Veterinary Certificate

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Visit a veterinarian to get a certificate specifying the breed, color, and gender of your pet. This document is essential for booking your pet’s travel.

Step 4: Complete the Booking Process

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Take your pet to the luggage office at least three hours before the train’s departure for booking.

This applies whether you hold a PRS ticket or an online ticket booked via IRCTC. Note that only one pet is permitted per PNR.

Step 5: Choose the Right Accommodation

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Pets are allowed to travel only in AC First Class if you book an entire four-berth cabin or two-berth coupe under a single PNR.

Pets are not permitted in other compartments, such as AC 2-tier, AC 3-tier, AC Chair Car, Sleeper Class, or Second-Class.

Step 6: Special Cabin Requests

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For passengers who wish to book cabins for their pets, requests can be made to the divisional railway manager or the general manager’s office.

These requests are prioritized, ensuring a smooth experience for pet owners.

Important Note

As per reports by India Today, train staff may request that you relocate your pet from the cabin if it causes discomfort or disturbance to other passengers.

It’s essential to ensure your pet is well-behaved and comfortable during the journey to avoid such situations.

Additional Tips

Small pets, such as puppies and kittens that fit in a basket, can travel in any class after booking.

Larger dogs can be accommodated in designated dog boxes on certain trains. Check availability at the parcel office.

By following these steps and guidelines, you can ensure a safe and comfortable journey for you and your pet on Indian Railways. Bon voyage!