However, the process is still not widely understood. Unlike regular ticket booking, carrying a pet involves offline procedures, documentation, and specific rules. Knowing these in advance can help avoid confusion at the station and ensure a smoother journey.
What is the pet box facility?
The pet box facility is a designated arrangement provided for transporting animals, primarily dogs, on trains.
Instead of traveling inside passenger coaches, pets are kept in secure metal enclosures (pet boxes) that are attached at either end of the train, near the locomotive section. These boxes are designed to ensure safety and separate accommodation for animals during the journey.
How to book the facility
Booking for the pet box facility is not available online.
Passengers must visit the parcel or luggage office at the departure station to complete the process. It is recommended to arrive at least three hours before departure to allow sufficient time for verification and booking.
Who is eligible?
Only passengers with a confirmed train ticket are eligible to book the pet box facility.
Passengers holding RAC or waitlisted tickets are not permitted to use this service. Therefore, confirming your seat status in advance is essential before planning pet travel.
Required documents
To complete the booking, passengers must submit the following:
A veterinary fitness certificate issued within 24–48 hours before travel
Valid vaccination records of the pet
Without these documents, the booking request will not be accepted.
Charges for pet travel
The cost of transporting a pet is calculated based on its weight.
The general rate is approximately ₹30 per kilogram. After payment, passengers receive a luggage ticket, which serves as official confirmation of the booking.
Where pets are kept during travel
Pets are not allowed inside passenger coaches under this facility.
They are placed in metal enclosures (pet boxes) located at both ends of the train. These compartments are specifically designed for animal transport and are separated from passenger seating areas.
Important rules to know
Passengers should be aware of the following conditions:
Payments made for pet transport are non-refundable
No refund is provided even if the train is delayed or cancelled
Generally, only one pet per PNR is allowed
Because of these rules, careful planning is necessary before booking.
Availability may vary
The pet box facility is not available on all routes or trains, including Vande Bharat sleeper services. Availability can differ depending on the railway zone and operational decisions.
Passengers are advised to confirm details with railway authorities or station officials before finalizing their travel plans.
Conclusion
The introduction of pet-friendly arrangements like the pet box facility reflects a gradual shift toward more inclusive travel options in India. However, the process still requires offline steps, documentation, and advance planning. For pet owners, understanding these requirements in detail can make train travel significantly smoother and more predictable.
Disclaimer: The information provided is based on publicly available details and current Indian Railways guidelines. Facilities, rules, charges, and availability for pet travel on Vande Bharat sleeper trains may vary by route and are subject to change. Passengers are advised to confirm details with the respective railway station or official authorities before planning their journey.
