This time the travel companion will be a beloved pet, know these important rules before buying train-plane tickets

Gone are the days of leaving your beloved pet at home and traveling. Whether by rail or air, traveling with a four-legged companion is now much easier. But if you don’t know the right rules, happiness can be ruined. Following certain rules of Indian Railways and various airlines will make traveling with your pet comfortable. Be sure to keep these rules in mind when traveling with your beloved pet.

Rail Travel: AC First Class is the best

As per Indian Railways rules, you need to book AC First Class (1A) or First Class Coupe to travel with a pet dog in a cabin. The pet can stay with you only if the entire 2 or 4 berth coupe or cabin is booked in your name. In this case written permission has to be obtained by applying to the Chief Parcel Officer at least two days before the journey. It is mandatory to reach the station at least three hours before the departure time of the train and collect the ‘Luggage Booking’ receipt by paying the fee according to the weight. Anti-rabies and fit-to-travel certificates for pets are essential. Remember, the railway authorities will remove the pet in the ‘break van’ if fellow passengers object. It falls within their purview. In this case, you have to pay the specific charges by booking in advance at the parcel office. In the case of cats or small birds, it is important to know the conditions, although it is allowed to carry them in cages.

Flying by air: different policies of airlines

Air India offers the most facilities when it comes to taking pets on board. Generally a pet weighing 5 to 7 kg (with cage) is allowed in the cabin at the owner’s feet. If the weight exceeds this, the pet must be sent to the cargo hold or as ‘checked baggage’. IndiGo or other companies usually transport pets in cargo. But remember, every airline has a certain number or quota of pets on the flight. So it is necessary to inform the airline about this at the time of booking the ticket.

Required documents and precautions

Carry the fitness certificate and anti-rabies vaccination card issued by the registered veterinarian before the visit. The cage must be ‘IATA’ approved for air travel. Do not feed the pet heavy food at least four hours before the visit. Accustoming them to stay in the cage before the journey reduces their anxiety. It is best to avoid long rail journeys during summer. With the right planning, your beloved pet or cat can also be your best travel companion.