Animals on the train - Conditions and regulations

🚨 Need information about travelling with pets on trains?

We've gathered all the information you need about travelling with pets on trains.

You'll find the conditions for transporting animals, the steps to follow to book a ticket for your four-legged companion, as well as tips for ensuring an enjoyable journey for all passengers.

Our goal is to make your train travel experience as comfortable and enjoyable as possible, for you and your pet.

Before buying a train ticket, it's essential to know how to book a train ticket, to know the train timetables, the price of train tickets as well as the departure and arrival stations.

If you still have questions before setting off on your train journey, we certainly have the answers:

• Not sure what luggage to bring on the train?
  Here's the full train luggage policy.
• What train ticket refunds are you entitled to?
  See our page on train ticket refunds.
• Is your train delayed?
  Find out about the refund policy for train delays.
• Want to pay less for your train tickets?
  Discover loyalty and season ticket programmes for trains!.
• Need to cancel your train ticket?
  Check out the page on train ticket cancellations.
• Got a bike?
  Visit the page to find out everything about the conditions for taking bikes on trains.
• How does travelling work for children on trains?
  Check the fares and conditions on our children's train ticket page.
• Not sure what luggage to bring on the train?
  Here's the full train luggage policy.

Travelling with your pet can be a rewarding experience, but it's essential to know the specific rules and conditions to ensure a stress-free journey.

Types of animals allowed on trains

• Small dogs: Generally allowed to travel free of charge if carried in a bag or carrier of specific dimensions.
• Large dogs: Often subject to a reduced fare and must be kept on a lead and muzzled.
• Cats and other small animals: Allowed in suitable carrier bags.

Specific rules by company

• SNCF (France): Small animals (under 6 kg) travel in a carrier bag and large dogs with a reduced-fare ticket, muzzled and on a lead.
• Thalys: Animals under 6 kg travel free of charge in a carrier bag, larger ones must have a special ticket.
• Eurostar: Only guide dogs are allowed.

Ticketing and extra charges

• Tickets for animals: Most companies require the purchase of a ticket for animals over 6 kg. Fares vary.
• Advance booking: It is recommended to check the booking policy for animals. Some companies require advance booking for large animals.

Required documents

• Pet passport: Mandatory for international travel, showing the animal's vaccinations.
• Health certificate: May be required by certain companies or countries, confirming the animal is in good health.

Tips for travelling with pets by train

• Getting used to it: Get your pet used to the carrier a few weeks before the trip.
• Food and water: Bring water and food for long journeys.
• Safety: Use a safe, comfortable carrier for your pet.

Recommended types of carriers or bags

• For small animals: Use well-ventilated carrier bags that meet the dimensions required by the company.
• For large dogs: Use sturdy leads and muzzles if necessary.

Expected behaviour of the animal during the journey

• Calm and quiet: Your pet must remain calm so as not to disturb other passengers.
• Safety: Make sure the animal is always under control, either in its carrier or on a lead.

Special areas or restrictions on the train

• Reserved areas: Some companies offer specific areas for travellers with pets.
• Restrictions: Follow the specific carriage rules (for example, do not let animals onto seats).