Travelling with Pets in India: Train, Flight and Road Trip Rules

Moving with your furry or feline friend is both exciting and challenging. Whether you are undertaking a domestic or global trip, ensuring their safety and comfort is always your priority. So, you need proper planning when travelling with pets in India.

Keep reading to explore the pet travel rules you have to follow, such as checking the IRCTC pet policy and paying the pet travel fees when travelling in a train or booking early and carrying vital documents when travelling by flight.

3 Rules to Follow When Travelling in Trains with Your Pet

Though IRCTC allows pet owners to travel with their dogs or cats, you have to follow the rules mentioned below:

1.     Carry Essential Documents

Some essential documents you have to carry when travelling with pets in India are:

1. Updated vaccination records with the last vaccination given 3 weeks before the trip.
2. A fit-to-travel certificate issued by a vet around 7 days before the trip.
3. Carry photocopies of both the above documents. Also, carry your ID proof.

2.     Book the Right Compartment

Pet owners can travel with their pets in an AC First Class coupe or 4-berth cabin (if allotted to a single PNR). You can also carry puppies and kittens in a basket in any class. Staying updated with the latest IRCTC pet policy is advisable so you can plan accordingly.

For example, when travelling with dogs in India, try to book a train coupe. You have to request the Divisional Railway Manager to allot accordingly 2-3 days prior to your trip.

3.     Pay the Pet Travel Fees

If you are wondering, “Do I have to pay pet travel fees when travelling with my dog? Yes, you have to pay a nominal fee depending on the distance and your pet’s size. The table mentions the chargeable rate and penalties:

Note: You can protect yourself financially when travelling with your pet on a train with a pet insurance policy from Bajaj General Insurance.

3 Rules to Follow When Travelling on a Flight with Your Pet

Some of the basic pet travel rules in India when travelling by air are mentioned below:

1.     Book Early

Booking early is mandatory when travelling with pets as almost every air carrier has limited space for pets. Not only should you book your flight early when travelling with pets in India, but also do proper planning to make the journey stress-free. For example, when travelling globally with your pet, book direct flights or connecting flights with minimum waiting or layover time.

2.     Know the Pets Allowed

Whether you are travelling with cats in India or your dog is accompanying you, they are allowed to travel by air in the cargo or cabin. Some air carriers even allow domesticated animals like guinea pigs, birds or hamsters. Two common options for pet travel are:

1. Cabin: Small pets up to 10 kgs put in an airline-approved carrier can travel in the economy cabin.
2. Cargo Hold: Larger pets are transported in temperature-controlled cargo facilities.

3.     Check the Documents Required

Some paperwork is necessary for pet parents when travelling internationally. Some of the vital documents you should carry are mentioned below:

Note: You can travel stress-free without worrying about emergency veterinary treatment costs or third-party liabilities with pet insurance.

Some Safety Rules to Follow During a Road Trip with Your Pet

Just packing sufficient dog food and filling the fuel tank is not sufficient when travelling with pets in India, especially if you are planning a long road trip. Some of the safety rules you have to follow are:

1.     Keep Them Away from Airbags

It is advisable to keep your pets away from the airbags, as they are designed to protect people in case of an accident. If the airbag deploys suddenly, your pet might get injured. A safe seating option for pets is the rear seating area in a suitable carrier or with an appropriate restraint.

2.     Take Regular Breaks

Spending long hours in a car can become a bit tiring for both you and your pet. They need short breaks for the following:

1. Hydrate themselves
2. Use the washroom
3. Get some fresh air
4. Calm down

Final Thoughts

Travel companies understand that pets are not just animals for you but a part of your family. So, they often make special arrangements so you can travel with your pets with the least hassle.

If you want to stay stress-free when travelling with pets in India, follow the simple pet travel rules. Additionally, a suitable pet insurance policy from a reputable insurer like Bajaj General Insurance will keep you financially protected against sudden vet fees or surgery expenses.

Frequently Asked Questions

1.     Should I feed my pet before travelling?

It is advisable not to feed your pet right before a trip, as a full stomach can make them uncomfortable. However, you should always keep them hydrated.

2.     Is visiting the vet mandatory before a trip?

Yes, you have to visit a vet at least a week before the trip to get a fitness certificate. If you require visiting the vet often, a suitable pet insurance policy can help lower your vet fees.

3.     Is my pet old enough to travel by air?

Your pet can travel by air if it is eight weeks old and fully weaned. However, it is advisable to contact the airline to check if they have any specific pet travel rules.

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***Disclaimer: The content on this page is generic and shared only for informational and explanatory purposes. It is based on several secondary sources on the internet and is subject to change. Please consult an expert before making any related decisions.