by InTrieste
Trenitalia has launched an initiative to address the growing concern of pets being abandoned during the summer holiday season. This summer, until September 15, dogs can travel for free with their owners on Italy’s Frecce and Intercity long-distance trains, the national rail operator announced on Wednesday.
This move is part of Trenitalia’s broader efforts to combat the distressing trend of pet abandonment. The summer months often see a spike in the number of dogs left behind as families embark on vacations, a phenomenon Trenitalia hopes to mitigate by making travel with pets easier and more affordable.
To take advantage of this offer, pet owners must ensure they carry their dog’s certificate of registration and health booklet. For travelers from abroad, a pet passport will suffice. Additionally, dogs must be kept on a leash and equipped with a muzzle while on the train.
Booking the service is straightforward: when purchasing a ticket on the Trenitalia website or app, travelers should select the “Viaggia con il tuo cane” option before completing the payment. This service ensures that pets are accounted for and accommodated appropriately during the journey.
Guide dogs for the visually impaired will continue to travel free of charge on all Trenitalia services, as will small dogs and cats that fit in pet carriers up to a maximum size of 70x30x50 cm.
This initiative underscores Trenitalia’s commitment to both animal welfare and customer convenience, providing a practical solution for pet owners who might otherwise face the difficult choice of leaving their pets behind.
For more information on traveling with pets on Trenitalia trains this summer, travelers are encouraged to visit the official Trenitalia website.
