More than 10,000 pets and their human companions have traveled around the country since the program launched on the Northeast Corridor in October 2015. Record ridership was achieved for the month of July with more than 2,000 pets and owners traveling onboard. The program has also generated more than $1 million in revenue since its inception.

New York State Department of Transportation Commissioner Matthew J. Driscoll said, “Rail service is an extremely important part of the transportation system in New York State and by allowing small pets on trains, we are making it easier for more people to travel via rail. Governor Cuomo has always maintained that government should work for the people, and allowing pets on Amtrak trains is one more way to do just that.”

“VTrans is pleased that Amtrak Ethan Allen riders will now be allowed to bring carry on pets onto the train,” said VTrans Rail Director, Dan Delabruere. “Our customers were asking for this and VTrans agrees that this will make it a much more enjoyable trip for the entire family”.

Dogs and cats travel requirements include:

  • Pet reservations are available for Coach Class accommodations for trips up to seven hours.
  • The maximum weight of pet including the carrier is 20 pounds.
  • Owners can reserve a space for their pet for $25; one pet per passenger.
  • Pets must remain in a carrier at all times and carriers should remain under their seat.
  • Five pet spots are allotted per train and are booked on a first-come, first-served basis.
  • Pets are not allowed on trips to/from Canada at this time.