Many times pet owners and lovers are at a loss as to how to travel long distance with their furry kids. While flying is an option and some airlines do fly pets, it is quite expensive and not affordable for all. But, unbeknownst to many, even Indian Railways carry allow pets with their owners subject to some some simple procedures.
IRAS officer Ananth Rupanagudi recently posted on social media platform X about the procedures to be followed to take our pets along with us son the train journey. And the best part is, they will travel with you in your cabin, by your side, and not in cargo section, as in most airlines.
Here are the procedures to be followed:
- Passengers should have 1 AC ticket with Coupe or full Cabin.
- Necessary vaccination certificate and fit to travel certificate issued by government veterinary doctor to be produced while booking.
- The passenger has to approach the luggage office at least 2 hours before the scheduled departure of the train for booking.
- The pet will be booked as ICP for 60 kg. ICP means ‘in the charge of the passenger’.
So next time you decide to relocate within the country, do not entertain thoughts of abandoning or leaving behind your pet. Instead travel together and enjoy the train ride!
Here is the IRAS officer’s tweet to dispel all your doubts:
I do get some queries regarding the carriage of pets along with the passengers on trains. This is the traditional checklist ✔️ for carrying pets along. Here ICP means "in the charge of passenger". Please spread the word around to all pet parents. #IndianRailways #pets pic.twitter.com/nS0H8Dje7K
— Ananth Rupanagudi (@Ananth_IRAS) November 15, 2023