China Launches Pet Transport on High-Speed Trains

China has launched its first-ever service for transporting pets on high-speed trains between Beijing and Shanghai, marking a major step for pet-owning passengers. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Dogs and cats weighing up to 15 kg and standing no more than 40 cm tall can now travel in special containers placed in the train’s baggage compartment. These containers are equipped with ventilation, odor filtration, noise reduction, and humidity sensors.

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Train staff check on the animals every two hours and provide drinking water if needed. After each journey, both the containers and compartments are thoroughly cleaned and disinfected.

Owners are not allowed to access or feed the animals during travel. Reservations must be made through a mobile app at least 48 hours before departure.

The service currently operates on ten train routes and includes stops at Beijing South, Jinan West, Nanjing South, Shanghai Hongqiao, and Hangzhou East stations. Before boarding, passengers must present ID, a veterinary certificate, and the pet itself.

China Expands Services for Pet Owners

Upon arrival, passengers receive an SMS or phone notification and have one hour to collect their pets. The animal must travel on the same train as its owner.

Pricing depends on travel distance. For trips under 1,000 km, the regular fee is $76, but a trial discount reduces it to $49. For journeys over 2,000 km, the fare drops from $172 to $118.

The fee includes standard insurance coverage of up to $275. These prices are comparable to a second-class passenger ticket.

China Responds to Growing Passenger Demand

The national railway launched this project in response to passenger feedback, social media discussions, and survey results. Authorities aim to improve service and make pet travel more convenient.

By adapting to evolving passenger needs, China sets a new standard in rail travel with its innovative pet transport service.

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