We all know that our dogs are part of the family, and that means they often accompany us on our outings at home and on holiday. But travelling with your pet can be stressful, especially when it comes to public transport. That’s why we’ve done some research and come up with some advice to help you navigate the UK’s pet policies on buses and trains.
Bus Travel: Know Before You Go
While many UK bus companies welcome dogs, there are some things you need to know before you hop on board as pet policies and fares vary:
- Unfortunately, there isn’t a one-size-fits-all rule for bus travel with dogs. Some companies allow dogs for free, while others charge a fare.
- Luckily, there are many places in the UK where dogs can travel free of charge. These include Buckinghamshire, London, Hampshire, the City of Edinburgh and Swansea.
- They also include major dog-friendly holiday destinations such as Devon, Cornwall, Dorset, Isle of Wight, Norfolk, Scottish Borders and Pembrokeshire.
- However, others, like Merseyside, have some bus operators with pet fares as high as £2 per dog!
- Some areas, such as the Shetland Islands, don’t allow dogs at all! While in other counties, such as Conwy, only a small proportion of bus services permit pets.
- It’s always best to check the policy of the specific bus company you’ll be using in advance.
Plan Ahead: If you’re travelling to a new area, do some research on the local bus companies and their pet policies. This will help you avoid any surprises or delays.
Train Travel: Smooth Sailing (Usually)
Good news for train travellers! The UK rail network is generally very dog-friendly. You can usually bring up to two pets with you on most trains.
- Watch Out for Rail Replacements: The one exception to the dog-friendly train travel rule is rail replacement bus services. These services often have different pet policies, and some may not allow dogs at all. If your train is cancelled and you’re offered a rail replacement bus, be sure to ask about their pet policy before you board.
Please use this handy infographic, for an overview of the best, worst, cheapest and most expensive places to travel by bus with a dog. Or download the infographic.
Top Tips for Stress-Free Travel with Your Dog
- Check Pet Policies in Advance: Whether you’re travelling by bus or train, always check the pet policy of the specific company you’ll be using. This will help you avoid any unexpected fees or restrictions.
- Be Prepared for Rail Replacements: If you’re travelling by train, be aware that rail replacement bus services may have different pet policies. Have a backup plan in case your dog isn’t allowed on the bus.
- Pack the Essentials: Bring along everything your dog will need for the journey, including food, water, a leash, and any necessary medications.
- Be Considerate of Other Passengers: Not everyone is a dog lover. Keep your dog under control and be respectful of other passengers’ space.
Remember, a little planning goes a long way when it comes to travelling with your pet. By following these tips, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey for both you and your furry friend. Safe travels!
