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We love our pets, and we love traveling with them. And taking the train can be an affordable and easy way to travel around the country. But boarding with your furry friend requires a good

amount of planning and preparation. Here’s what you need to know about traveling with your pet on a train. Note: These rules do not apply to service animals. BEFORE YOU BOOK YOUR TRAIN TRIP

First, not all trains allow pets. While some local, regional or scenic trains do, the fees and rules vary. For example, some trains limit pets to specific animals, have weight limits or

require that pets travel in a carrier.  So, it’s important to do your homework.  Amtrak offers the most routes across the United States, and pets are welcome on many of the trains. You can

travel with one dog or cat (sorry birds, bunnies, gerbils and ferrets) weighing a maximum of 20 pounds, including the carrier. Your pet will also have to stay in that carrier under your seat

(more on that later).   You can travel up to seven hours with your pet, but that includes transfer time if changing trains. If it’s just you and your pet, you may want to pack some snacks

for both of you because pets can’t go in a café or dining car and you can’t leave your pet alone under your seat. Pets also are not allowed in first class, sleeper cars and non-Acela

business class. You will have to fill out an online pet release and indemnification agreement before traveling. Among the requirements: Your pet must be at least 8 weeks old and up to date

on vaccinations, as well as odorless, harmless and nondisruptive during travel.    If these requirements sound too strict for your furry companion, keep in mind that Amtrak has the right to

refuse or remove your pet from the train if any policies are violated. PREPARE YOUR PET FOR THE TRAIN RIDE If your pet checks all the boxes, the next step is to make sure you have everything

you need to board the train. Amtrak requires that your pet can sit and lie down without touching the sides of a leak-proof and well-ventilated carrier that doesn’t exceed 19 inches long by

14 inches wide by 10.5 inches high.