At present, there has been a rise in passengers carrying puppies and kittens in general coaches.
Travelling with pets such as cats and dogs on trains without proper documents can lead to legal issues, and such cases have been increasing recently. Railway authorities insist that vaccination certificates are mandatory for carrying pets on trains, but many passengers are unaware of the rule. Without the required certificates, pets may be removed from the train, and passengers can face fines.
At present, there has been a rise in passengers carrying puppies and kittens in general coaches. In many cases, railway officials are forced to ask them to get off due to lack of proper documentation.
Dogs are not allowed in ordinary passenger coaches, except in First AC compartments. They can be carried in First AC two-berth coupes and four-berth cabins, provided all tickets are booked under a single PNR number. Dogs can also be transported in the designated “dog box” available near the guard’s compartment. In such cases, the passenger who booked the ticket must travel on the same train.
Owners are responsible for feeding the dog during the journey. Whether travelling in First AC or in the dog box, passengers must carry all required documents, including a copy of the owner’s identity card, vaccination certificate, and a “fit-to-travel” certificate issued within 24 hours before departure.
If travelling in First AC, tickets can be booked online. For booking in the dog box, passengers must visit the railway office directly.
Cats can be carried in any class, but they must be safely kept in baskets and should not disturb fellow passengers. The same documentation required for dogs must also be produced for cats.
Passengers are advised to contact the concerned railway station before travel to confirm details such as luggage charges and reporting time.
Horses are also transported by rail in special luggage vans as per railway rules. Small birds, such as lovebirds, may be carried in secure cages.
Published: 10 May 2026, 08:59 am IST
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