Pet travel on Amtrak
The fact that our pets can travel on airplanes with us is huge.. but now your pet can also go on the Amtrak train with you! Amtrak now welcomes dogs and cats that weigh up to 20 pounds for trips of up to 7 hrs. on most routes. Making a reservation for you and your pet is very simple; either call 1-800-USA-RAIL or you can visit a staffed Amtrak Station. There is a $25.00 pet fee that must be paid when the reservation is made.
Pet’s must reside in a pet carrier (that you provide). The carrier can be no bigger than 19″ long x 14″ wide x 10.5″ high; it can be either soft or hard sided and completely leak proof and well ventilated. For the safety and comfort of your pet, it must be able to sit and lie down without touching the sides of the carrier. Please note: Your pet carrier counts as one piece of carry-on baggage.
Keep in mind that much like an airline, pet reservations on Amtrak are on a first-come, first-served basis and may sell out quickly depending on the route. There is a maximum of 5 pets per train; so if you know your pet will be traveling with you, contact Amtrak as soon as possible.
Pet’s are only permitted in Coach class; pets are not allowed in sleeping cars, business class, or any other class. Your dog or cat MUST remain inside of their carrier while in stations or on the train; please do not leave your pet unattended!
Some train routes have designated specific coach cars for pets. Below is information on those routes:
- Amtrak Cascades
- Carl Sandburg
- Illinois Zephyr
- Illini
- Saluki
- Pere Marquette
- Blue Water
- Hiawatha
- Missouri River Runner
**Remember: these rules do not apply to service animals. Service animals that are trained to perform a specific task for the benefit of a person with a disability, are permitted in all areas where passengers are allowed. Amtrak personnel may ask what task(s) the service animal performs.
Below is a list of all pet-friendly Amtrak routes:
EastCapitol Limited WestAmtrak Cascades |
MidwestCalifornia Zephyr |
NortheastAcela Express |